Everyone loves shotguns whether its for hunting or home defense, shotgun usually comes up first as the most preferred to have. Then, theres the talk of either having a 12 gauge or a 20 gauge, which is the better? Posted on 04/30/2019 5:40:51 AM PDT by w1n1
Everyone loves shotguns whether its for hunting or home defense, shotgun usually comes up first as the most preferred to have. Then, theres the talk of either having a 12 gauge or a 20 gauge, which is the better?
Probably the best answer will always be that "depends". The 12 gauge will have more kick than the 20 gauge. To some folks they don’t mind or like the harder recoil.
12 Gauge
For hunters that prefer the larger shot size (4 shot) and heavier loads, go with the Mossberg 500 12 gauge. Good for the gobblers and turkeys that don’t move as fast as ducks. There are some hunters that shoot with buckshot loads for the longer ranges.
20 Gauge
The 20 gauge is becoming more popular of the two, due to its versatility. The younger generation and new hunters seems to take to the 20 gauge because its a lighter gun. The shotgun shells are a little smaller, lighter and shoots higher density which is good for the quicker birds. Read the complete comparisons of 12 gauge vs 20 gauge.
Form follows function. Why do you own one? How will you use it? How ‘big’/sturdy a person are you?
My wife can handle a 12 gauge pump shotgun just fine, except maybe not the Hornady Zombie MAX loads ...
Prefer 12 gauge with 00 Buck. Has a specific purpose.
At omne point, I owned four Browning A-5 shotguns.
Almost bought a sweet 16 gage but it was in an Illinois gun shop...
20ga. shoots higher density..? Since when...?
10 gauge.
I have an old bolt action 16 gauge that my granddad gave me before he passed. For years shells were very difficult to find. Then it made a comeback for Clays shooters.
Nice old gun, a JC Riggins, with an integral variable choke. I haven’t fired it in years. It weighs about 12 pounds or so. LOL.
L
I like 4 buck.. It's a real crowd pleaser.. :)
Socket wrench and box wrench: Which one is better?
A better article title would be, “Which tool is better for your needs?”
I have one of each...Mossberg 500 12ga. tactical and a Mossberg 500a 20ga. tactical pistol grip. They have different uses.
Each has its own advantages and disadvantages. A good comparison I found in an article put out by Ammo To Go:
https://www.ammunitiontogo.com/lodge/12-gauge-vs-20-gauge/
rwood
Since 'Am Shooting Journal' became knowlegeable authorities on firearms. Which is never. They're a bunch of 8th graders who have never shot anything more than Airsoft.
In fact, here is exclusive video of 'w1n1' testing the latest technology for his next 'article'.
My Brother-in-law had one of those... Ugly thing, with a big nob on the end of the barrel called a poly choke.. :) It was JC Higgins from Sears or Western Auto..(?)
I used to do a lot of dove hunting. Using a 12 gauge would leave a bruise on my shoulder after 30 rounds or so. Not so with the 20. After a certain proficiency if you miss with the 20 you’ll likely miss with the 12 also. For home defense either.
lol
Because it’s a big f’n deal!
Because it’s a big f’n deal!
Both are good for a lot of things.
I once had a Ruger O/U in 20 gauge. It seemed to fit me as well as any gun ever. I traded it for a BC Miroku side by side 20 gauge plus $300. Not a big difference, I loved the Miroku too and $300 came in handy.
Obviously if you need a really heavy load then the 12 is the answer.
12 gauge or 20? The correct and only answer is.........several of each.
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