12-Gauge vs. 20-Gauge Shotguns: Which One Should You Buy?

When it comes to selecting a shotgun, the debate between choosing a 12-gauge or a 20-gauge has been a longstanding one among enthusiasts. Each gauge offers unique benefits and caters to different shooting needs, preferences, and physical builds. In this guide, we’ll dive into the key differences between the 12-gauge and 20-gauge shotguns, helping you make an informed decision that aligns with your shooting goals, whether you’re into hunting, sport shooting, or home defense.

Understanding Gauge

Before diving into specifics, let’s clarify what "gauge" means in the context of shotguns. Unlike calibers for rifles and handguns, which are measured in inches or millimeters, a shotgun's gauge is determined by the weight of a solid sphere of lead that fits the barrel's diameter. A 12-gauge means that a lead ball that fits the barrel weighs 1/12th of a pound, while a 20-gauge means the lead ball weighs 1/20th of a pound. Hence, the smaller the gauge number, the larger the barrel's diameter.

12-Gauge Shotguns: The Versatile Powerhouses

12-gauge shotguns are the most popular choice among shooters due to their versatility and power. They can accommodate a wide range of shell sizes, including 2¾-inch, 3-inch, and even 3½-inch magnum shells, allowing for significant variation in payload and shot patterns. This versatility makes 12-gauges suitable for virtually any type of shooting, from hunting waterfowl, turkeys, and deer, to participating in competitive shooting sports like trap, skeet, and sporting clays, to serving as an effective tool for home defense.

Pros:

• Versatility: Can handle a wide variety of game and targets due to the broad range of shell sizes and payloads.
• Stopping Power: Offers more firepower and stopping power, advantageous for hunting larger game and home defense scenarios.
• Availability: Ammunition and accessories for 12-gauge shotguns are widely available, making them a convenient choice.

Cons:

• Recoil: The main drawback is significant recoil, which can be challenging for smaller shooters or those sensitive to kick.
• Weight: Generally heavier, which might be a factor for those who carry their shotguns for extended periods.

Top 12-Gauge Shotgun Recommendations:

• Remington 870 Express: Known for its reliability and versatility, ideal for both hunting and home defense.
• Mossberg 500: Another classic choice, offering durability and a variety of configurations.
• Benelli Super Black Eagle III: Excellent for hunting waterfowl with its ability to handle magnum loads smoothly.

20-Gauge Shotguns: Lightweight and User-Friendly

20-gauge shotguns are lighter and have less recoil than their 12-gauge counterparts, making them an excellent choice for younger shooters, smaller-framed individuals, and those who are recoil-sensitive. Despite being smaller, 20-gauges are still highly effective for a wide range of shooting activities, particularly upland bird hunting (like quails, pheasants, and grouse) and shooting sports. They offer a good balance of power and manageability, with enough versatility for most hunting needs.

Pros:

• Recoil: Significantly less recoil, making them more comfortable for extended shooting sessions.
• Weight: Lighter, making them easier to handle and carry, especially important for hunting trips involving a lot of walking.
• Suitability: Ideal for upland bird hunting and an excellent choice for beginners and younger shooters due to their user-friendly nature.

Cons:

• Power: Less stopping power than 12-gauges, which might be a consideration for hunting larger game or for home defense.
• Ammunition Selection: Although widely available, the range of ammunition types and payloads is somewhat more limited than for 12-gauges.

Top 20-Gauge Shotgun Recommendations:

1. Browning BPS Field: A high-quality pump-action shotgun perfect for upland game hunting.
2. Beretta A400 Xplor Action: A versatile semi-automatic shotgun that’s easy to handle and great for both hunting and sport shooting.
3. Savage Arms 555 E: An affordable and reliable over/under shotgun ideal for beginners and experienced shooters alike.

Making Your Choice

When deciding between a 12-gauge and a 20-gauge shotgun, consider the following factors:

• Intended Use: If you anticipate a variety of shooting activities, including larger game hunting or home defense, a 12-gauge might be the better option. For upland bird hunting, target shooting, or if you prefer a shotgun that's easier to handle, consider a 20-gauge.
• Physical Comfort: If you are particularly sensitive to recoil or will be carrying your shotgun for long periods, a 20-gauge could be more suitable.
• Experience Level: Beginners might find the 20-gauge more approachable due to its manageable recoil and lighter weight.

Conclusion

Both 12-gauge and 20-gauge shotguns have their place in the shooting sports world, each with unique advantages. Your choice should be influenced by your intended use, physical comfort, and personal preference. Regardless of which gauge you choose, practice is key to becoming proficient and safe with your shotgun.

For those ready to make a purchase or looking for more shotgun options, visit Guns.com. Whether you're a first-time buyer or looking to add to your collection, we have a wide variety of models to fit your shooting needs and preferences.

Remember, the best shotgun is the one that feels right in your hands and meets your shooting requirements. Happy shooting!