Shotguns are some of the most versatile firearms available.
Whether you’re hunting small game, shooting clay targets, defending your home, or competing in multi-gun events, shotguns can do it all. One major reason for this versatility is the wide variety of shotgun ammunition available.
In this article, we’ll break down the basics of shotgun shells, their types, gauges, and how to safely choose the right ammo for your shotgun.
Shotgun Shell Components
1. Hull (Shell Case)
The hull is the outer casing of the shotgun shell. Most modern hulls are made of plastic with a metal base, although older shells were often made entirely of paper. The plastic body holds the internal components, while the metal base contains the primer and supports the shell during firing.
2. Primer
Located at the center of the shell’s base, the primer is a small metal cap that ignites the gunpowder when struck by the firing pin. This spark initiates the entire firing process.
3. Powder Charge
Inside the hull is a measured amount of gunpowder (also called propellant). When ignited by the primer, it rapidly burns to produce high-pressure gas, which propels the shot or slug out of the barrel.
4. Wad
The wad is a plastic or fiber barrier between the powder and the shot. It serves multiple purposes:
- It seals the gases behind the shot to ensure consistent velocity.
- It cushions the shot to protect the pellets from deformation.
- It separates the shot from the powder, keeping components in place until firing.
Wads often have petal-like sections that open up after exiting the barrel to allow the shot to spread evenly.
5. Shot or Slug
This is the actual projectile. A shotgun shell can contain:
- Birdshot – multiple small pellets used for small game or target shooting.
- Buckshot – larger pellets used for larger game or home defense.
- Slugs – a single solid projectile used for hunting big game or in tactical situations.
Each type offers different spread patterns, penetration levels, and effective ranges.
Basic Types of Shotgun Shells
Most shotgun ammunition falls into three main categories: birdshot, buckshot, and slugs. While there are specialty and novelty rounds out there, these three types cover the majority of uses.
Birdshot
- Filled with dozens or hundreds of small metal pellets, used mainly for hunting birds and small game or for clay target shooting.
- Pellet sizes range from T shot (about 0.20") to #12 shot (around 0.05").
- The smaller the number, the larger the pellet (e.g., #5 is larger than #7½).
- Best used with a smoothbore shotgun barrel. Rifled barrels spread the shot unevenly.
Buckshot
- Similar to birdshot but uses much larger pellets.
- 00 buckshot typically contains 8 or 9 pellets, each about .33 inches in diameter.
- Ideal for hunting deer, home defense, and tactical use.
Slugs
- A single large projectile.
- Used for big game hunting and offers massive stopping power.
- Rifled barrels improve range and accuracy with slugs.
- Not recommended to shoot birdshot or buckshot through rifled barrels.
What is Shotgun Gauge?
“Gauge” refers to the bore diameter of a shotgun. Unlike calibers, gauge is based on the number of lead balls of bore diameter that equal one pound.
Examples:
- 12 gauge: 12 lead balls = 1 pound
- 20 gauge: 20 lead balls = 1 pound
Smaller gauge number = larger bore. Common gauges include:
Smaller gauges like 28 or 20 are used for upland birds and target shooting, while 12 and 10 gauge are preferred for waterfowl, deer, and defense.
What is Shot?
“Shot” refers to the pellets inside a shotgun shell. Materials include lead, steel, bismuth, tungsten, or copper-coated alloys.
Sizes range from small birdshot (#9, #7½) to large buckshot (00, 000).
- Small shot (Nos. 9–7½): Best for clay targets and small birds.
- Medium shot (Nos. 6–4): Great for pheasants, ducks, and rabbits.
- Large shot (Nos. 3–T): Used for waterfowl at longer distances.
- Buckshot (No. 4 Buck to 000 Buck): Ideal for deer, coyotes, and home defense.
General rule: the smaller the shot number, the larger the pellet.
Understanding Shotgun Slugs
Unlike shot, slugs are single solid projectiles designed for big game like deer and bear. They offer better range and accuracy, especially when used in a rifled shotgun barrel.
Shotshell Lengths and Safety
Shotgun shells come in various lengths that affect powder and shot capacity. Common 12-gauge shell lengths:
- 2½"
- 2¾"
- 3"
- 3½"
Important: Never use a shell longer than your shotgun is rated for.
For example, if your shotgun is marked “12 GA 2¾,” you can safely use 2½" and 2¾" shells, but not 3" or 3½". Always check markings and manuals.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the fundamentals of shotgun shells—shot types, gauges, and lengths—is essential for safe and effective shooting.
With a wide variety available, choosing the right shell depends on your purpose: hunting, sport shooting, or home defense.
Here’s a visual breakdown of common shell sizes and their uses:
By selecting the correct shotshell for your activity, you'll enhance both performance and safety—whether in the field, at the range, or protecting your home.