12 Gauge Ammo For Sale

Types of 12-Gauge Ammo

• Birdshot: Contains small pellets, ideal for hunting birds and small game. Common sizes include #7.5, #8, and #9.
• Buckshot: Larger pellets designed for bigger games or self-defense. Common loads include 00 Buck (double-aught) and #4 Buck.
• Slug: A single large projectile, offering more range and penetration than shot. Rifled slugs are used in smoothbore barrels, while sabot slugs are designed for rifled barrels.

Related Article: Shotgun Shot Size Chart

Common Uses of 12-Gauge Ammo

• Ideal for larger games like deer hunting with slugs or buckshot and bird hunting (e.g., ducks, geese, pheasants).
• Sport Shooting: Used in clay pigeon shooting (skeet, trap, and sporting clays).
• Home Defense: Known for its stopping power and versatility.

Components of a 12-gauge Shell

• Case: Typically made of plastic, though some older shells were made of paper or metal.
• Primer: Ignites the gunpowder when struck by the firing pin.
• Powder Charge: The propellant that generates the gas pressure to expel the projectile.
• Wad: A plastic or fiber component that separates the powder from the shot and helps seal the gases.
• Projectile: These can be pellets (birdshot/buckshot), a slug, or speciality projectiles.

12-Gauge Ammo Performance Factors

• Velocity: Measured in feet per second (fps), higher velocities generally improve range and energy but may increase recoil.
• Recoil: The backward momentum experienced when firing. Heavier loads produce more recoil.
• Energy: Measured in foot-pounds (ft-lbs), determines the stopping power of the round.

Best 12-Gauge Ammo Brands

• Federal Premium— Known for high-quality hunting and tactical ammunition.
• Remington—Offers a wide range of 12-gauge shells, including Express Buckshot and Wingmaster HD.
• Winchester — Famous for Super-X and PDX1 Defender rounds.
• Hornady—Specializes in precision slugs and defensive rounds like Critical Defense.
• Fiocchi—Italian manufacturer offering affordable yet reliable options.

Choosing the Right Ammo

12 Gauge For Hunting

• Use birdshot for small game and waterfowl.
• Opt for buckshot or slugs for larger game like deer.

12 Gauge For Home Defense

• Buckshot (e.g., 00 Buck) is preferred for its balance of stopping power and manageable spread.
• Slugs offer maximum penetration but may over-penetrate walls.

12 Gauge For Sport Shooting

• Lighter birdshot loads are ideal for clay targets to minimize recoil and preserve the target.

FAQs About 12-Gauge Ammo

Q: What is the difference between 12-gauge and 20-gauge ammo?

A: 12-gauge ammo is larger, more powerful, and produces more recoil compared to 20-gauge, which is smaller, lighter, and better suited for shooters seeking less recoil.

Q: What is the effective range of a 12-gauge birdshot?

A: Typically 20-40 yards, depending on the choke and shot size.

Q: Can I use 12-gauge slugs in a smoothbore barrel?

A: Yes, but rifled slugs perform better in smoothbores, while sabot slugs require rifled barrels.

Q: Is 12-gauge suitable for beginners?

A: While powerful, lighter loads and proper training make it manageable for new shooters.