More Brass More Recoil

Published on November 27, 2025
Duration: 1:56

This video debunks the myth that higher brass on a 12 gauge shotgun shell directly equates to more recoil and power. The instructor demonstrates that projectile weight and powder charge are the primary factors influencing recoil. While higher brass can sometimes indicate a maxed-out load, it's not a universal rule, and the actual loading by the manufacturer is key.

Quick Summary

The amount of brass on a 12 gauge shotgun shell is a myth regarding its correlation to recoil and power. The actual factors determining recoil are the projectile's weight and the powder charge. A heavier projectile or more powder will result in greater felt recoil, regardless of the brass height.

Chapters

  1. 00:00The Brass Myth
  2. 00:05Shell Examples
  3. 00:17Testing Low Brass
  4. 00:35Testing Higher Brass
  5. 00:48Paper Shell Test
  6. 00:57Why Recoil Varies
  7. 01:01Projectile Weight & Powder
  8. 01:10The 'Meat Hammer' Shell
  9. 01:16Testing Max Load
  10. 01:27Felt Recoil
  11. 01:31The Truth About Brass

Frequently Asked Questions

Does more brass on a 12 gauge shotgun shell mean more recoil?

No, the amount of brass on a 12 gauge shotgun shell does not directly determine its recoil or power. The primary factors are the weight of the projectile and the amount of powder inside the shell. While higher brass can sometimes indicate a maxed-out load, it's not a universal rule.

What factors actually determine recoil in a shotgun shell?

The main factors influencing recoil in a 12 gauge shotgun shell are the weight of the projectile (shot or slug) and the quantity of gunpowder loaded within the shell. A heavier projectile or a larger powder charge will generally result in more felt recoil.

Can a lower brass shotgun shell have more recoil than a higher brass one?

Yes, it is possible. A lower brass shell might have more recoil if it is loaded with a heavier projectile or a significantly larger powder charge compared to a higher brass shell that uses a lighter projectile or less powder.

What is the 'Meat Hammer' shell mentioned in the video?

The 'Meat Hammer' is a high brass 12 gauge shell from Ballistic Machinist, described as having the maximum amount of powder and a heavy projectile load. It is designed to produce significant recoil and is available from retailers like Hickory Flatbs.

Related News

All News →

More Training & Techniques Videos You Might Like

More from Civilian Tactical

View all →