The KS-23 Russian 4 GAUGE Shotgun !!!

Published on December 9, 2025
Duration: 17:53

This expert-level review from Kentucky Ballistics delves into the rare Russian KS-23 4-gauge shotgun. Scott provides detailed historical context, discusses its unique development from aircraft barrels, and showcases its impressive capabilities through live-fire testing. The review highlights its original intended use for riot control with less-lethal rounds, its breaching potential with slugs, and the extreme terminal performance of its heavy projectiles.

Quick Summary

The Russian KS-23 4-gauge shotgun, developed from rejected 23mm aircraft barrels, was designed for riot control and law enforcement. It fires powerful 4-gauge rounds, including 1,000-grain slugs, and demonstrates significant breaching capabilities, making it a formidable firearm.

Chapters

  1. 00:53Introduction to the KS-23
  2. 02:01Variants and US Imports
  3. 02:52Ammunition Comparison
  4. 05:03Live Fire Testing
  5. 06:29Less-Lethal Capabilities
  6. 09:18Breaching and Slugs
  7. 14:17Ballistic Terminal Performance

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the origin and unique development of the Russian KS-23 4-gauge shotgun?

The KS-23 was developed in the Soviet Union between 1970-1980, ingeniously utilizing rejected 23mm aircraft barrels. These barrels, deemed unsuitable for high-pressure aircraft applications, proved perfect for the lower pressures required by shotgun shells, leading to this unique firearm.

What kind of ammunition can the KS-23 4-gauge shotgun fire?

The massive 4-gauge rounds for the KS-23 are capable of firing substantial payloads. This includes heavy shot loads of up to 2.5 ounces or powerful 1,000-grain lead slugs, demonstrating its significant ballistic potential.

What were the original intended uses for the KS-23 shotgun?

The KS-23 was originally designed for riot control and law enforcement applications. This is demonstrated through its capability to fire specialized less-lethal rounds, such as double rubber balls and nylon buckshot, as well as its breaching capabilities.

How does the KS-23 compare to a standard 12-gauge shotgun in terms of ammunition?

Visually, the 4-gauge shells for the KS-23 are dramatically larger than standard 12-gauge shells. This size difference signifies a much larger payload capacity, allowing for heavier shot loads or slugs, and consequently, greater kinetic energy.

More Reviews Videos You Might Like

More from Kentucky Ballistics

View all →