How shotguns work: gauges, actions, chokes, shot sizes and loads for hunting and clay sports.
3 pages
Guide · Shotguns
A shotgun choke is the constriction at the muzzle that controls how widely pellets spread. Choke choice depends mainly on distance, but actual patterns vary by gun, load, shot material and choke system, so use manufacturer guidance and pattern your shotgun.
Guide · Shotguns
Buckshot is a category of large lead shotshell pellets, from No. 4 buck at .240 inch to No. 000 buck at .360 inch in SAAMI tables. Pellet counts vary by load, so use the size name for pellet diameter and the ammunition maker’s listing for the actual pellet count.
Comparison · Shotguns
12 gauge has the larger bore and offers heavier buckshot and slug options in the listed SAAMI data. 20 gauge has a smaller bore and has listed lighter 2¾ inch lead shot charges, which can make it attractive when lighter loads matter.