On the other hand, 12 gauge offer smooth-swing and comfort of use and therefore, a great gun for defense as well as upland shooting. Personally speaking, as the 12 gauge is more common, then there are plenty of places that sell the ammunition, and associated gear. Therefore, the 12 gauge shotguns do the trick for turkey, waterfowl, and the big game animals, though the sizable 3-inch magnum shells do better in hunting those species. The gauge number represents the number of spheres of the same diameter as that of the inner part of the barrel that can be made from one pound of lead. 12 Gauge vs. 20 Gauge: Our Take on the Great Shotgun Debate. The choke is simply a constriction on the rifle’s muzzle. Gauge Shell Length Projectile 12 2.75 00 Buckshot 12 2.75 High Velocity Steel (BBB) 12 2.75 ITX-10 Duck #4 12 3.0 Nickel Plated Lead #5 12 2.75 1 ounce Thug Slug 12 3.0 ITX-13 Goose #2 20 2.75 7/8 ounce Thug Slug 410 2.5 125gr Thug Slug The test site was configured as below: Velocit 7 feet 10 … Recent research on popular guns showed that a hunter equipped with a Mossberg 500 pump-action or Remington 870 could take down almost every game animal in the US woodlands. However, its insane recoil and substantial weight of most 10 gauge shotguns make most hunters fear using them. Find the cube root of the gauge, and then divide it by 1.67. Also, most shotguns have a limit to the amount of weight each shot should have. Apart from the versatility and availability of 12 gauge shotguns and shells, they offer manageable recoil as compared to the 10 gauge shells. The ten -gauge in 3-1/2″ is .775″ gauge 10, and the 12 gauge is .729″~.742″ 12 gauge. The .410 bore is relatively diminutive and offers mild recoil making it ideal for kids. Which gauge shotgun should you default to? It has the potential to cause a lot of damage to the human body, especially at close range. Shotguns pellets are designed to spread after you fire limited by the choke size. But there is always that point where the shot becomes too spread out to offer a nice hit on the target passing through the shot column. Both the 10 gauge and 16 gauge, while less commonplace, are still available in the United States. 12 Gauge vs. 10 Gauge – What Is Each Used For? This makes it ideal for shooting tasks that need a comfortable position and less mobility. The relative anonymity of the 10 gauge would make me pick the 12 gauge any day of the week. If you searching to evaluate Shotgun 10 Gauge Vs 12 Gauge And Shotgun 26 Vs 28 price. More turkey loads can be found for the 12-gauge than all others combined. 36 years old, been hunting and fishing my entire life – love the outdoors, family, and all kinds of hunting and fishing! Basically nothing. This gives you 20% more pellets at only 10% less density at 50% of the recoil. Would this be a good weapon/ammunition choice for bears? The 12 gauge and 20 gauge shells are very competitive in terms of popularity, and it can be easy to confuse the two. These 12 gauge chambered in 3.5 accepts a wide variety of affordable and lighter loads. The two are practical for home defense, but the 12 gauge guns have become more popular due to their shell compatibility. However, there are shells, such as the 3.5″ shells, designed to work in both the 10 gauge and 12 gauges. The 10 gauge and 16 gauge aren’t rare but are relatively less common than the others we’ve mentioned. In this video, I put the 12 gauge and the 20 gauge up against each other and compare a few different loads against meat & bone. To counter this, the hunters use large diameters of steel shots; this is particularly true with turkey and geese hunting. The 12 gauge shows little or no range difference over the 3.5″ 12 gauge. Additionally, the 20 gauge shells are yellow, making it easy to distinguish them from their 12 gauge counterparts. Back when fixed chokes were the norm, a 12 gauge was a bit much for small game in close, so the 16, 20, 28, and .410 were used instead. This feature gives it an edge over the 12 gauge, especially during waterfowl hunting. I may be moving to Montana soon, where there are known to be large bears. The reason the recoil may feel softer is that the shotgun weight offsets it. Much better for a home defense gun is a 20 gauge. It is available in almost every shot size, starting from number 9 to 000 buck shots and slugs. Holding all things constant, the 3.5 inches in the smaller 12 gauge won’t hold an equal amount of lead and powder as the 3.5 inches in the larger 10 gauge bore. Most waterfowl hunters prefer 3 1/2″ 12 gauge shells. The invention of the 3″ and 3.5″ are the reason why you may not need the 10 gauge. Both 10 gauge and 12 gauge shotguns chambered in the 3.5 are popular among shooters. Is the 10 (3.5) more powerful than the 12 gauge (3.5) Can you shoot at longer ranges with the 10 instead of the 12,… I agree with my fellow Okie that 10 shells are higher, but that is why I have started saving my hulls. If you’re wondering about the proper length shell your shotgun can use, you need to check the barrel or chamber. Especially with a magnum cartridge. So as you would expect, heavier pellets retain considerable velocity at longer ranges. It was responsible for more spectacular kills than you would have thought possible given the physical limitations of our universe. But that's not the case. 0 0. This shotgun gauge is probably the most versatile as you can use it for the big game, waterfowl, turkey, upland, and small game hunting. These are usually provided in shot size, 4, 5, or 6 toxic free ammo for ducks and geese, including BB, BBB, or T size shot, which make up the vast 10 gauge ammo being currently manufactured. But if you’re looking for the most versatile, it would be great if you choose a 12 gauge shotgun featuring a 3-inch chamber. But increasing the size of the pellets will minimize the shot number, minimizing the chance of hitting the target. Besides, the 12 gauge feature longer shot column and shot deformation. Eventually got out of the 10s due to weight. The 10 gauge is the less popular shotgun gauge. I have shot more duck and goose with my 10 gauge the last 10 years than any gun and love it. Does anyone use 10 gauge shotguns anymore? But there is this thing about overkill and killing a small game with a heavy and powerful cartridge, causing extreme damage and loss of meat. Steel is lighter than lead, and you would have to increase the size of the pellets to achieve better results. But, which one is a better performer than the other. Leupold FREEDOM Red Dot Sight (RDS) – Review, Vortex SPARC II Red Dot Sight Review: A Good Budget Friendly RDS, 12 Gauge vs 10 Gauge - A Comparative Guide. There’s a lot of variables but the 10 gauge might just edge it in terms of power, but not by a great deal. Are 10 Gauge Shotguns Better Than The 12 Gauge? But nothing is ever perfect, right? It is followed by 20 gauge, 28 gauge coming third, and .410 bore. Therefore, a lead ball that can fit in a 12 gauge barrel means that it weighs 1`/12 of a pound. Joe. Recoil is the force back at you from the thrust of the explosion and forward momentum of the slug. It can accommodate 2-3/4″ and 3″ shells. For example, the Federal Premium’s 2.75-inch shells loaded with sabot slugs in 12-gauge and 20-gauge … A few years ago I had the Federal engineers compare a 10 vs a … Bore sizing for shotguns is based on a somewhat esoteric measurement; the gauge number is the number of spheres of the same diameter as the interior of the barrel that can be made from one pound of lead. Most North American waterfowl hunters prefer steel shots to lead shots, yet the latter is heavier than the former. For a long time, the 20 gauge has been classified on the lighter side for deer, turkey, and waterfowl hunting. However, you risk ruining the meat of these small-game animals when hunting with a 12-gauge. Most shell packages will have an indicator showing shell length after being fired. eval(ez_write_tag([[300,250],'huntingheart_com-large-mobile-banner-2','ezslot_7',169,'0','0']));With the arrival of a 3 -1/2 inch 12 gauge load, people thought that the 10- gauge had become obsolete, which wasn’t the case. But considering we are in a world where marketing forces control physics, you’ll see that 12 gauge chambered in 3-1/2″ has become a hotcake in most gun markets. There’s no need to cause excessive damage while you can still incapacitate the assailant with a smaller shotgun like the 12 gauge. Apart from the gauge, shotgun shells feature varying lengths. A larger gauge number means a smaller barrel diameter and hence a less powerful shotgun compared to the 12 gauge. Source(s): 10 gauge pump shotgun single shot 12 gauge recoil: https://shortly.im/HAYUz. Both of these shotguns come in the standard shotgun barrel lengths. But don’t forget you can only increase the shot weight to a certain degree because the gauge and shell length are vital considerations. The 1959 invention of screw-in choke tubes likely exacerbated the decline, as it furthered the 12-gauge's versatility. Some still do and I still would if not for the damage to my shoulder and spine which prevents me from firing anything with substantial recoil. Bore size and ammunition availability. Library. From our article, there are different shotgun gauges. Very thankful for your business. This bore size remains popular in Europe but not as much in North America. Even though the weight minimizes the recoil, it has a strong kick that would disadvantage a soldier during battle. huntingheart.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. The difference between the two isn't pellet size but bore size. This day and age, a 20-gauge shotgun may be considered the more popular and widely-used of the two, if nothing else because of its versatility. There is no doubt that 12 gauge shells are the most popular in the USA. The heavier loads maintain the velocity for a longer time, that’s why the 10 gauge is thought to be more powerful. The 10 gauge has a larger bore size, is heavier, and more potent than the 12 gauge. The 12 gauge has less recoil, but you may still feel it because it’s lighter. The 10 gauge magnum, always a bit player, was ready for its star turn . As mentioned earlier, its ability to shoot heavier loads makes it ideal for goose hunting. But currently, the 10 gauge is the largest shotgun. It’s fair to say that these two shotguns have the same stopping power. There was a time when you could buy a 2 gauge, 4 gauge, and even 8 gauge. I agree with everyone, but if the 12 ga. is wood stock on your shoulder, and no pad as you mentioned, it might not recoil as much, but it could just as easily feel worse. 10 Gauge Vs 12 Gauge Vs 20 Gauge Vs 410 (Common Shotgun Comparison Video) Splattoasted. The 12 gauge is the most common with around 50% of shotgun sales accounting for it. Log in. Let’s take a walk through and find the true differences and what might be the best option for any individual shooter. If the chamber is longer, it is safe to use smaller shells, and the other way round is not correct. Heavier pellets achieve better results since they don’t quickly lose velocity. The 12 gauge, on the other hand, allows you to move around with it a lot, and it may achieve ballistics similar to the 10 gauge. eval(ez_write_tag([[300,250],'huntingheart_com-mobile-leaderboard-2','ezslot_18',156,'0','0']));The 28 gauge and .410 bore are less popular, and the smallest shotgun bore in everyday use. You would think that the "12" in a 12-gauge shotgun corresponds to some linear measurement -- maybe inches or centimeters. Many people described the recoil as half of that of a 12 gauge. The 10 gauge is also known to have more power, more recoil, and larger shells. Over the years, the 16 and 28 gauge have lost a lot in popularity, … The 12 gauge is currently the most popular shotgun in the U.S. with 50% of shotgun owners owning a 12GA. My ammunition would most likely be 3" 000 buckshot. Shoot your 12 gauge pump or O/U shotgun from a bench rest some day and you will see what I mean. But, for turkey hunting, there are lots of loads that are being offered as 10 gauge. A different way of saying the same thing would be to describe shotgun gauges in terms of the number of lead balls of a certain diameter necessary to weigh 1 pound. It shoots more shots at the same speed as the 12 gauge. That’s why hunters may prefer them since they give them a better chance of hitting the target. Secondly, it’s very heavy. The best for you will depend on the intended use and other aspects. Price is heavily dependent on where you buy, how you buy, and (obviously) what you buy, but in general you will find that 12-gauge ammunition is usually more affordable than 16-gauge when the two products are similar. Traditional shot measurement involves shooting at the center of a 30 inches circle at about 40 yards and determining the number that hit inside. The 12-gauge is simply too large for the 20-gauge to stand a chance in … 6 years ago | 244 views. Also, if so, I'm looking for a shotgun with these specs, and can't seem to find the right one. 12 Gauge vs 10 Gauge – What’s The Difference? Some still do and I still would if not for the damage to my shoulder and spine which prevents me from firing anything with substantial recoil. Anybody have thoughts on which of these two you think is a better gun, 10 gauge or 3.5" 12 gauge. Dear Technoid, I am looking at purchasing a 10 or 12 gauge shotgun both chambered in the 3 1/2 and wondered which one ACTUALLY has the best bang for the buck. eval(ez_write_tag([[300,250],'huntingheart_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_5',140,'0','0'])); It is fully understandable because the shotgun gauge classification is somewhat counterintuitive. As mentioned previously, now the 12 gauge can achieve similar ballistic results in some cases. The 12-gauge is simply too large for the 20-gauge to stand a chance in this area, as the 12-gauge delivers more speed and power to the target. However, by 1900, the lighter 12-gauge had cemented its role as the every-purpose shotgun, and the 10-gauge was typecast as a niche, waterfowler's gun. But it also has nearly twice the recoil. I agree with everyone, but if the 12 ga. is wood stock on your shoulder, and no pad as you mentioned, it might not recoil as much, but it could just as easily feel worse. 10 Gauge Vs 12 Gauge Vs 20 Gauge Vs 410 (Common Shotgun Comparison Video) … Recoil is no worse in my SP-10 than my auto 12 gauge 3". For instance, the cube root of 12 is 2.29, and the cube root of 10 is 2.1544. Therefore, increasing the shot weight is a simple way of getting a dense pattern. (18.42mm), 10 gauge – 1.67/2.1544 = 0.775 inches (19.69mm). On the other hand, 12 gauge is indeed the most popular shotgun size in North America. . The 10 gauge offers impressive ballistics, especially if you use it with a non-toxic load. 12 Gauge vs 16 Gauge: Comparing Two Shotgun Loads. For example, when this article was written, the cheapest per-round 12-gauge shell was $0.24 per round, while the cheapest 16-gauge shell was $0.40 per round. It’s mainly used in law enforcement and as a home defense weapon. A 12 gauge shotgun load is heavier and delivers more power than 20 gauge ammo does. Quite frankly, there are many opinions on the matter. This is why a 10 gauge shotgun has a larger diameter than a 12 gauge shotgun, which has a larger diameter than a 20 gauge shotgun, etc. Are The Glock 17 and the Glock 22 The Same Size? The one that offers the best bang for the buck will depend on the intended purpose among other factors. Joe. What makes the 10ga great? eval(ez_write_tag([[300,250],'huntingheart_com-leader-2','ezslot_9',151,'0','0'])); You will find that the 20 gauge shells are mostly available in 2 3/4″ and 3″ lengths. Quick answer, Yes and yes. If you are stuck between the 10 gauges vs. the 12 gauge, well this is the article for you. But not all shotguns pattern their shots the same way. The 12 gauge is also known to have enough stopping power even when using the 3″ shells. You do sacrifice some things for that power 12 gauge shotguns have more recoil than 20 gauge and the firearm itself is more of a burden to carry. Similarly, people will use a 12-gauge for small-game hunting like rabbits and squirrels. Thirdly, this gun is overkill. They end up causing more damage than the lighter and smaller rounds. When it comes to overall power, including velocity and energy, the 12-gauge wins virtually any fair comparison. This helps in countering the effect of large caliber recoil. eval(ez_write_tag([[250,250],'huntingheart_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_4',166,'0','0']));Most 10-gauge shotguns weigh over 10 pounds. As a result, a 12 gauge is typically better equipped to take larger game. They are available at affordable prices not to scare any aspiring hunter. They also possess different loads of powder, shot size, weight, and composition. Lv 6. Dagger Defense DDHB Review: Does Quality Come With A Budget? That’s why you’ll find specific 10-gauge non-toxic ammo for hunting ducks, turkey, and geese. Does A 10 Gauge Shotgun Have More Stopping Power Than A 12 Gauge? eval(ez_write_tag([[300,250],'huntingheart_com-leader-4','ezslot_16',170,'0','0']));The Standard 2 3/4″ 12 gauge shells are excellent for small species and upland game. 12 Gauge vs 20 Gauge. Both the 12 gauge and 10 gauge are shotgun gauges. The fact that the 10 gauge shotgun has softer recoil is debatable, but it seems to be one of the main reasons people choose it for certain occasions. But most hunters have improved the art and mostly use chokes to tighten the shot pattern to a certain extent. The difference between any gauge of a shotgun is normally the charge behind the pellets. For steel shots, both 12 gauge and 10 gauge show relatively the same pattern. The main differences between these two gauges are the bore sizes, weight and the slightly increased power from the larger bore. I read someplace that the 12 gauge with 3,5 inch shells was very close to a 10 gauge but I don't think so . It is a major reason why the 20 gauge shells have become extremely popular and available. However, the shot pattern becomes thinner as you increase the pellet size since it reduces the individual pellets. If you searching to evaluate Shotgun 10 Gauge Vs 12 Gauge And Shotgun 26 Vs 28 price. The true difference is that the 10 gauge will send much more of it. That’s why most hunters prefer 12 gauges and not the 10 gauge. But with lead, even a small pellet can still weigh enough to cause more damage. than the 10 gauge which weighs around 10 pounds. Sign up. There are a lot of more misconceptions concerning shotgun gauges than any other ammunition and firarms related subjects. Most shotgun cartridges are measured in terms of shotgun gauge. The longer shells will usually feature a combination of more shot or more powder for more incredible speed or a heavier shot load. Lv 6. The one that offers the best bang for the buck will depend on the intended purpose among other factors. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. There are several accessories and ammo for the 12 gauge, making it an easy option for most people. It’s also light enough to carry on your back when going deep into the woods. 12 gauge is such a popular shotgun shell that most of the time, when people are talking about their “pump action” or “semi auto” shotgun, the gauge is completely left out. Shooting the exact same load, the heavier the gun, the lower the recoil energy; a gun that weighs twice as much, kicks half as hard. Another way is to measure the weight of the lead ball that can fit in the bore. The 12-gauge is obviously the most common turkey gun. December 21, 2020. Price. Right off the bat, the 10 gauge shotgun has a larger bore than the 12 gauge. With the right ammo and excellent shot placement, the 12 gauge will match the 10-gauge when using the 3.5 shells. Theoretically, the 10-gauge is better than the 12 gauge. As you may have noted, the pattern of shotgun increases with range. Gauge is also known as bore and caliber for other weapons. Most people prefer it for its versatility, less recoil, and the availability of accessories. Re: 10 GAUGE VS 3 1/2″ 12 GAUGE. Also, most of these shotgun shells are readily available at affordable rates. 8 years ago. They will require more tweaking for the better pattern at a distance. The 20-gauge shotgun is the next most popular size being favored by shooters uncomfortable with the weight and recoil of a 12-gauge gun, and is popular for upland game hunting. Carrying the weapon, its shells, and ammo, and other gear can be detrimental even for a highly trained soldier. The only legal gauge larger than the 12 to be used in the U.S is the 10 gauge. For instance, with the 3.5″ shells, the 12 gauge ammo has 15 pellets while the 10 gauge ammo has 18 pellets. Thus, you can safely fire the 2 3/4″ shells in a 20 gauge gun that features 2 3/4″ or a 3″ chamber. The difference is that .410-bore might only send 5 pellets to the target, whereas the 12-gauge could fire up to 15. Also, some shotgun patterns work best with certain loads. The 10 gauge is popular in waterfowl hunting. As earlier mentioned, the larger bore and longer shell length increases the ballistics of the shot. Amazingly, the 12-gauge shell is more advantageous over the smaller gauges because it possesses a shorter column that reduces deformation as it gushes out of the barrel. 10 Gauge vs. 12 Gauge Shotguns: A Detailed Comparison 10 Gauge vs. 12 Gauge 3.5 Ballistics. One that fits the 10 gauge weighs 1/10 of a pound. Theoretically, the 3.5 inches 10 gauges have more potential than the 3.5 inches in the 12 gauge. Please give us feedback on our articles and contact us if you have any questions. The versatility and manageable recoil of the 12-gauge make it ideal for hunting other types of big game. But, its functionality can go hand in hand with that of 12 gauge only that it offers less recoil. Since the 10 gauge is currently the largest shotgun, it’s the best for waterfowl hunting since it can fire the heaviest shots. There is nothing more catastrophic than loading any shell of a different gauge into any shotgun. Who on here owns a 10 gauge for Goose? For instance, the cube root of 12 is 2.29, and the cube root of 10 is 2.1544. Quite frankly, there are many opinions on the matter. I'm thinking about buying a 10-gauge shotgun for defense against them. While gauge size typically the bore diameter, there are other crucial shell characteristics you need to know. Shotgun sizes have always been measured in a somewhat roundabout way. Who makes an affordable 10 gauge? To fully appreciate the 12-gauge shotgun and shells, you must not overlook the 16 gauge. Recoil Winner: 20-gauge. This is where things can get kinda confusing. Bruce Buck Shotgun Report’s Technoid. 12 gauge is such a popular shotgun shell that most of the time, when people are talking about their “pump action” or “semi auto” shotgun, the gauge is completely left out. The 12 gauge also works with the 2.75″ and 3″ shells. The 3.5″ 12 gauge is still very far to outdo the performance of 10 gauge. I own a 3 1/2 12GA now but rarely use 3 1/2s, mostly 3" for waterfowl and many times 2 3/4 for turkey with good loads (maybe a … Besides the recoil, the more powerful and more shots are the reasons why waterfowl hunters purchase it, and indeed many hunters. A 12 gauge shotgun is easier to find a wider variety of ammo for than the somewhat rare 16 gauge shotgun. It’s surprising that such a powerful gun is not widely used, but there are good reasons for that. A 7-pound 20 gauge loaded with that ¾-ounce slug produces 12.2 ft.-lbs. Shells will be half-inch shorter when loaded. 6 years ago | 244 views. hit me up with an email in the contact form if you have any questions. Follow. Source(s): 10 gauge pump shotgun single shot 12 gauge recoil: https://shortly.im/HAYUz. These shells are also easy to use and affordable. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc, or its affiliates. It is still a capable shotgun gauge though, in North America, it is popularly used for small game hunting such as pheasant, rabbit, and squirrel. Moreover, individual pellets reduce speed as they leave the muzzle. The 20 gauge with #13 shot throws out 10 .30 caliber pellets versus a 12 gauge with 00 buckshot with 8 pellets of .33 caliber. However, 12 gauge is the most common, widely used, and versatile gauge of them all. Thus ensued a decades-long dip in popularity. The 10 versus 12 gauge is simply a function of ballistics. The 10 gauge is a larger bore shotgun capable of more powder charge and more shot than a 12 gauge. The only legal gauge larger than the 12 to be used in the U.S is the 10 gauge. It is produced in almost every shotgun, ranging from semi-autos to pump-action or any kind in between. 10 Gauge vs. 12 Gauge Shotguns: A Detailed Comparison, 10 Gauge vs. 12 Gauge Pellet Size and Shell Length, Shotgun Gauges and their Recommended Uses. More recoil, and.410 bore is relatively diminutive and offers mild making. The hunters use large diameters of steel shots, yet the latter is heavier and more. Produce more debate, even with experienced shotgun owners legal gauge larger than the 12 gauge a during... 12 is 2.29, and that ’ s mainly used in the of! Could fire up to 15 would expect, heavier pellets retain considerable velocity at longer ranges than auto! = 0.775 inches ( 19.69mm ) depends. hands of goose hunters great shotgun debate to 15 packages will an. It rather depends upon What you want from a larger bore that fits the 10 gauge the last 10 than. 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