20 GAUGE AND BULK 20 GAUGE AMMO

About 20 Gauge Ammo

20 gauge shotgun ammunition is known for offering a lighter recoil and versatile performance, making it a popular choice for new shooters, younger hunters, and those seeking a more comfortable shooting experience without sacrificing effectiveness.

From hunting to home defense, 20 gauge shells provide a solid balance of power and control.

20 gauge shotgun shells are slightly smaller in diameter than 12 gauge, but they still deliver impressive ballistic performance.

They are often used in lighter shotguns, which can make them easier to carry and handle in the field.

Though not as powerful as 12 gauge, 20 gauge ammo is more than capable in a variety of shooting applications.

Common Names for Shotgun Ammo

Shotgun ammunition, including 20 gauge, is often referred to by several names depending on the context:

• Shells: The most common term for shotgun cartridges.
• Shotshells: Refers to shells loaded with multiple pellets (birdshot or buckshot).
• Slugs: Single-projectile rounds used for more precise or longer-range shots.

Understanding these terms can help shooters choose the right load for their needs.

Components of a Shotgun Shell

A 20 gauge shotshell typically consists of the following components:

• Hull (Shell Case): Usually made of plastic with a metal base, this holds all internal components.
• Primer: Located at the base; it ignites the powder charge when struck.
• Powder: Burns to create the gas pressure that propels the projectile(s).
• Wad: Sits between the powder and shot; helps contain and direct the shot pattern.
• Shot or Slug: The actual projectiles, either in pellet form (birdshot/buckshot) or a single solid slug.

Features of 20 Gauge Shotgun Shells

• Gauge: Smaller than 12 gauge but still powerful enough for many applications.
• Recoil: Milder than 12 gauge, making it ideal for recoil-sensitive shooters.
• Versatility: Available in a wide range of shot sizes and loads.
• Shell Lengths: Commonly found in 2 ¾” and 3” lengths, compatible with most modern 20 gauge shotguns.
• Applications: Suitable for hunting, sport shooting, and personal defense.

Common 20 Gauge Ammo Uses

Hunting
20 gauge is widely used for hunting small game and birds, including dove, quail, pheasant, and rabbit. With heavier loads or slugs, it can also be effective for deer hunting, especially in states with shotgun-only zones.

Home Defense
With appropriate buckshot or slug loads, 20 gauge shotguns offer sufficient stopping power for home defense situations while generating less recoil than a 12 gauge.

Youth and Beginner Shooters
Because of its reduced recoil and lighter firearm platforms, 20 gauge ammo is often recommended for youth shooters or those new to shotguns.

Sport Shooting
20 gauge is commonly used in clay target sports such as skeet, trap, and sporting clays, especially in sub-gauge events where shooters seek a challenge with smaller gauges.