16 Gauge Shotgun Shells icon

16 Gauge Shotgun Shells For Sale

Live Inventory
The 16 gauge cartridge is an excellent compromise between the heavier weighted and recoiling shotguns in 12 gauge and the lighter 20 gauge with less recoil. It carries payloads similar to 12 gauge shells and is a respected upland game gauge. Learn More
per page
  1. Federal 16 Gauge Ammo - 25 Rounds of 1 oz. #7-1/2 Shot (Lead) Ammunition

    $20.99

    1 In stock now

    1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 +10
    Bullet type #7-1/2 Shot
    Condition New
    Muzzle Velocity 1165 FPS
    • 25 Rounds
    • 84¢ per round
    • Made by Federal

History of 16 Gauge Shotgun Shells

Known among many shooters as the "Sweet Sixteen," the 16 gauge shotgun cartridge has dedicated followers who appreciate its versatility. The recoil is manageable, and the payload is reasonable – two features contribute to the appeal of the 16 gauge compared to 12 gauge and 20 gauge shotguns. And while people say the gauge is dying, they’ve been saying that for the last 50 years – and it ain’t dead yet.

Indeed, this has been called “the most logical of all gauges” by Gun Digest. The bore is almost exactly two-thirds of an inch. The lead balls inside weigh precisely an ounce. And the shot column’s dimensions border on the perfect pattern. There was a time when the gauge was advertised as “Carries like a 20, shoots like a 12.” Adherents of this gauge would agree that it provides the best of both worlds.

How Does The 16 Gauge Compare To Other Shotgun Gauges?

Gauge Recoil Pros Cons
12 Gauge 16 Gauge has less 16 Gauge has lighter recoil with similar performance 16 Gauge has less abundant ammo and more expensive

16 Gauge Ballistics: Chart of Average 16 Gauge Ballistics

Note: This information comes from the manufacturer and is for informational purposes only. The actual ballistics obtained with your firearm can vary considerably from the advertised ballistics. Also, ballistics can vary from lot to lot with the same brand and type load.

Shell Length Shot Ozs. Shot Sizes Load Style Dram Equivalent Velocity (fps)
2-3/4" 1-1/4 4, 6, 7-1/2 Magnum 3-1/4 1295
  1-1/8 6, 7-1/2, 8 High Velocity 3-1/4 1185
  1-1/8 6, 7-1/2, 8, 9 Standard Velocity 2-3/4 1165
  1 6, 7-1/2, 8 Dove 2-1/2 1200
  1 4, 6 n/a 2-3/4 1200
  1 2, 4 Bismuth Max 1300
  7/8 1 Buck Steel Max 1225
  4/5 n/a Slug, Rifled Max n/a
Sam Jacobs
Written by
Sam Jacobs

Customer Reviews

  • killer said:

    this ammo is great

  • broke said:

    excellent rabbit shot, great pattern.