Craig Boddington was the senior contributing editor of our modern gun and ammunition caliber dictionary. Craig was involved in the development and testing of many of these and writes from first hand experience. This dictionary was written exclusively for Wholesale Hunter with unique information found nowhere else.
GUN CALIBER DICTIONARY
Shotgun Ammo
20 Gauge
The 20-gauge follows the 12-gauge as America's second-most popular shotgun gauge. And, with modern shotshells, continues to gain ground. The 20-gauge has a bore diameter of .615-inch, with modern shells in either 2 3/4 "standard" or 3-inch "magnum" length. Most modern shotguns are chambered to handle both. Payloads vary from light-recoiling 5/8-ounce loads all the way to heavy turkey loads carrying 1 5/16 ounces of shot. Standard 2 3/4" loads for targets and upland birds are normally 7/8 or one ounce. At its very best the 20-gauge does not have the capability of a 12-gauge...but with modern shot, wad columns, and chokes it doesn't give up much, and it can be built into a much lighter shotgun developing less recoil. Virtually all manufacturers offer 20-gauge guns, and they are available in all action types and for virtually all shotgunning sports. The 20-gauge joins the 12, 28, and .410 as one of four events in skeet competition, and is becoming increasingly popular for sporting clays. — Craig Boddington
