16 Gauge Shotgun Shells For Sale
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 |
Customer Reviews
-
killer said:
this ammo is great
-
broke said:
excellent rabbit shot, great pattern.