The 12 gauge is a cartridge used as ammunition for semi-automatic, tilting (over-and-under and double) and pumped smooth barrel shotguns. Used by many for the first hunting shotguns for versatility and simplicity, the 12 gauge is an advantageous choice for many. Why is that? We'll explain it to you right away:
- availability of custom shotguns, both new and used;
- dissemination of ammunition of various types, grammage and numbering of pellets;
- perfect ballistic suitability for all different forms of hunting, from the simplest to the most difficult and demanding;
- ease of use in the shooting ranges in the different disciplines, where you can train with the availability of cartridges of all kinds.
Experts define this gauge as the ideal choice for those who are approaching the world of shotguns for the first time. Power, precision and generous cones of fire help to hit the target. However, in the face of this, the main disadvantage is the heaviness of the shotguns.
THE RANGE OF THE 12 GAUGE
The range for the 12 is certainly important: we go from 30 meters to 50 meters. An important factor that affects the result is the choke of the barrels, which can have a decisive influence on the thickening and regularity of the cones of fire.
GO HUNTING WITH THE 12 GAUGE
For those who do not know how to choose, the 12 gauge is the one if you want to hunt because you will always have a sufficient lead reserve for all hunts.
Speaking of stalking hunting and thinking of the multitudes of possible species, such as sky larks or wood pigeons, the 12 is able to perform the best service on deplorable days when the decoys do not attract them. When it comes to the small migratory game in a traking form, the shot must be fast or very fast: a good 12 gauge cartridge is considered sufficient. For point hunting or air-scent dog lovers, the 12th is exuberant. If, on the other hand, the dog is a scent dog, the 12 is the chosen one given the charge of the big balls necessary for the hunting of wild animals such as the hare and the fox.
THE 12 GAUGE IN SPORT
In sport the 12 is the main gauge used on the various shooting ranges, in the different competitions and specialties. Despite the appearance of the cadet gauge (to be clear, the 20), the heaviest gauge has maintained the prevalence in many shooters, thanks to its performance skills even using reduced loads.
Chokes, long barrels and magnum doses make the 12 an excellent use, especially in the Olympic pit and in shooting, where it allows you to reach the ideal distances to crush the clay pigeon.
The 12 gauge is a top gauge. Those who choose it must be aware of the importance of such a decision, as well as of any difficulties in the next move to smaller calibres.