Medium Gauge Giant: The Handy 20 Gauge

AmSJ ^ | E Nestor

[w1n1]

While smaller than it’s big brother the 12 gauge, this game hammer shell is ready to hunt. Let’s take a look at why the 20 gauge is only number two in comparison to the larger 12 gauge shotshell.

When you hear “20 gauge shotgun” what comes to your mind? For me it means a well balanced shotgun that is also quite a bit lighter than it’s big brother the 12 gauge shotgun. What also comes to mind is small game hunting. From squirrels to pheasants the 20 gauge works great and allows even less kick for recoil sensitive shooters.

The iconic 20 gauge shotshells were historically solid brass or the more common and cheaper priced cardboard hull version. Have you ever wondered why on some 20 gauge shotshells it is written “20 GA ONLY”? It is because if the shells are loaded into a larger bore 12 gauge they will lodge in the barrel. This is forward of the actual chamber and then this would allow a 12 gauge shotshell to be chambered. Guess what happens next when that trigger is pulled? Oh yes a catastrophic kaboom!

So what payload weights are available? On average a one ounce load is what you find in lead shot. There has been heavier loads but that is where the larger 3″ magnum shell reigns supreme. How about a two ounce load? Well shotshells marketed to turkey hunters sure pack some payload! Read the rest of the 20 gauges here.

[762X51]

If you’re interested in 20 gauge, just be aware that not all manufacturers use a dedicated 20 gauge receiver.

YES! Unless the entire shotgun is scaled for the smaller shell then I have NO interest in it.

[9422WMR]

I used my wife’s 870 in 20 ga last Wednesday to decapitate a 56” rattlesnake. At 15’ using 7 1/2 shot it was perfect. Payback for the expensive calf that got snake bit last week. Yes, spring is here!!

[Roadrunner383]

I know folks who have had issues with recoil from a 12ga, and traded down to a 20. Problem is most 20s weigh less, much less in some cases, and you can still have a lot of recoil. I had a Beretta 687L 20ga for a short while. Beautiful gun, but kicked like a mule with 7/8oz loads. I was happy when I bought it, happier when I sold it.

[Retain Mike]

I’m not sure. Did you lose the wife or the shogun?

[Mr. Lucky]

Could you take my wife for a boat ride some time?

[struggle]

Oh, sometimes....

[Paal Gulli]

Any thread title mentioning “guns” invariably turns into a confirmation bias festival.