12 gauge vs 20 gauge Penetration Test with 7 1/2 shot - TheFireArmGuy

Published on April 14, 2012
Duration: 6:48

This test compares the penetration of 12 gauge and 20 gauge shotguns using Federal 7 1/2 shot at various distances. Both gauges effectively penetrate targets at 10 and 20 yards. At 25 and 30 yards, the 12 gauge shows a larger spread and more power. By 50 yards, the 20 gauge pellets begin to fail penetration, while the 12 gauge still achieves it, indicating 50 yards is the practical limit for reliable penetration with this load.

Quick Summary

For 7 1/2 shot, 50 yards is the practical limit for reliable penetration, especially with a 20 gauge shotgun. While a 12 gauge may still penetrate at this distance, the 20 gauge often shows pellets bouncing off targets.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Gear
  2. 00:4510 & 20 Yard Tests
  3. 02:0325 & 30 Yard Tests
  4. 03:5940 & 50 Yard Tests
  5. 06:26Conclusion

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the effective range for 12 gauge and 20 gauge shotguns with 7 1/2 shot based on penetration?

Based on this test using 7 1/2 shot and plastic bottle targets, 50 yards appears to be the limit for reliable penetration. While the 12 gauge still penetrates at this distance, the 20 gauge begins to fail, with pellets bouncing off.

How do 12 gauge and 20 gauge shotguns compare in penetration at 25 yards with 7 1/2 shot?

At 25 yards, the 12 gauge shotgun demonstrated a noticeably larger shot spread and more significant energy transfer compared to the 20 gauge when using Federal 7 1/2 shot ammunition.

Can 20 gauge shotguns with 7 1/2 shot penetrate targets at 50 yards?

In this specific test, 20 gauge shotguns firing 7 1/2 shot struggled to penetrate plastic bottles at 50 yards, with pellets often bouncing off and leaving only indentations. The 12 gauge showed better penetration at this range.

What type of ammunition was used in the 12 gauge vs 20 gauge penetration test?

The test utilized Federal Field & Target ammunition loaded with 7 1/2 shot size for both the 12 gauge and 20 gauge shotguns. This is a common target load.

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