20 Gauge Ammo & Shotgun Shells.
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20 gauge is the lighter, softer-shooting shotgun shell that covers most of what a 12 gauge does with noticeably less recoil. It is a favorite for upland birds, doves, youth hunters and deer hunters using slugs, and its lighter guns carry easily on long days in the field. At Gunners Outlet we carry 20 gauge ammunition including rifled slugs, sabot slugs, birdshot and target loads from Winchester, Remington, HEVI-Shot and Stars and Stripes. Compare loads with the price per round shown on every listing, and we ship fast from our New Hampshire warehouse.
Choosing 20 Gauge Shotgun Shells
Start by matching shell length to your chamber. Most 20 gauge shotguns accept 2 3/4 inch shells, and many also handle 3 inch magnums for more payload. Never use a shell longer than the marking on your barrel.
For upland birds and doves, birdshot in sizes #6 to #8 with 7/8 to 1 ounce of shot is the classic choice. Target loads with #7 1/2 or #8 shot keep recoil low for clays. For turkey, heavy 3 inch loads of #5 or #6 shot, including tungsten options like HEVI-Shot, extend effective range.
For deer, choose rifled slugs for smooth-bore barrels and sabot slugs such as Remington Premier for rifled barrels, which give tighter groups at longer range. A 20 gauge slug gun is a comfortable option for shotgun-only zones and younger hunters.
20 Gauge for Home Defense
Many shooters choose 20 gauge buckshot for home defense because its lower recoil makes follow-up shots faster, especially for smaller or recoil-sensitive shooters. Pattern your shotgun with the exact load you plan to use at indoor distances.
Frequently Asked Questions
12 gauge vs 20 gauge: which is better?
12 gauge carries a heavier payload and is more versatile, while 20 gauge recoils less and its shotguns are lighter. For waterfowl, turkey and maximum power, 12 gauge has the edge. For upland birds, doves and recoil-sensitive shooters, 20 gauge is often the better choice.
Is 20 gauge good for deer?
Yes, a 20 gauge slug is effective on deer at typical shotgun ranges. Use sabot slugs in rifled barrels for the best accuracy, or rifled slugs in smooth bores, and keep shots within about 100 yards.
Is 20 gauge good for home defense?
Yes, 20 gauge buckshot is a solid home defense choice with less recoil than 12 gauge, which helps faster, more accurate follow-up shots.
Can you shoot 3 inch shells in a 2 3/4 inch 20 gauge?
No. Only use shells the same length as or shorter than your chamber. A 3 inch shell in a 2 3/4 inch chamber can raise pressure dangerously.