GUNTALK S5: Ballistic Battle, Pt 2

Published on August 21, 2015
Duration: 4:49

This video compares 20 gauge and 12 gauge shotguns for bird hunting, focusing on pattern density and pellet count. It demonstrates that while choke tubes affect pattern spread, the 12 gauge, with its higher pellet count (1 1/4 oz vs. 7/8 oz), maintains pattern density better at longer distances, making it more effective for consistently breaking targets. The 20 gauge is suggested for closer range applications like home defense or quail hunting.

Quick Summary

The key difference between 20 gauge and 12 gauge shotguns for bird hunting is pellet count. A 12 gauge with a heavier load (e.g., 1 1/4 oz) carries more pellets than a 20 gauge (e.g., 7/8 oz), resulting in denser patterns, especially at longer distances. Choke tubes also play a role, with tighter chokes concentrating pellets for more effective long-range shooting.

Chapters

  1. 00:01Introduction & Sponsors
  2. 00:1020 Gauge vs 12 Gauge Debate
  3. 00:16Shotgun Setup: 20 Gauge vs 12 Gauge
  4. 00:20Shot Load Comparison: 7/8 oz vs 1 1/4 oz
  5. 00:3420 Gauge Advantages & Observations
  6. 00:44Pattern Testing Plan: 20 Yards
  7. 00:55Pattern Consistency: Choke vs Pellet Count
  8. 01:17First Shots at 20 Yards
  9. 01:34Analyzing 20 Yard Patterns: 12 Gauge
  10. 01:51Analyzing 20 Yard Patterns: 20 Gauge
  11. 02:13Choke Discussion: Cylinder Bore
  12. 02:19Pattern Testing Plan: Increased Distance
  13. 02:33Pattern Testing at 30 Yards
  14. 03:36Analyzing 30 Yard Patterns: 12 Gauge
  15. 03:30Analyzing 30 Yard Patterns: 20 Gauge
  16. 04:01Pellet Count Impact on Pattern
  17. 04:21Choke Adjustment for 20 Gauge
  18. 04:38Conclusion: 20 Gauge vs 12 Gauge

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between 20 gauge and 12 gauge shotguns for bird hunting?

The primary difference lies in pellet count. A 12 gauge shotgun, especially with heavier loads like 1 1/4 ounces of shot, carries significantly more pellets than a 20 gauge loaded with lighter loads such as 7/8 ounces, leading to denser patterns.

How does choke affect shotgun patterns?

Choke tubes constrict the shot column as it leaves the barrel. An open choke (like cylinder bore) results in a wider, less dense pattern, while a tighter choke (like full or extra-full) creates a narrower, more concentrated pattern with a higher percentage of hits.

At what distance is pattern density most important?

Pattern density becomes increasingly important as the distance to the target increases. At longer ranges, a denser pattern from a 12 gauge ensures more pellets strike the target, increasing the likelihood of a clean kill compared to a sparser pattern from a 20 gauge.

When is a 20 gauge shotgun preferable to a 12 gauge?

A 20 gauge is often preferred for its lighter weight and reduced recoil, making it suitable for younger or smaller-framed shooters. It's also effective for close-range hunting or applications like home defense where extreme range and maximum pellet count are less critical.

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