Midnight Raver
Active Member
I used to do a bit of shotgun shooting in the past. At some shooting contests the standard fare was 12 gauge slugs for Turkey Shoots(V targets) and Clay Pigeons with various 12 gauge bird shot sizes. However, my personal shooting and hunting excursions were with 16 gauge shotguns. A loaner for my first time pheasant hunting was a fine Ithaca pump shotgun. Not too long after, I bought a used Stevens 16 gauge double barrel and fell in love with it. Unfortunately I sold it to an uncle of mine years down the road- regretted it ever since.
I noticed during the last couple of years that the 16 gauge shotgun is a scarce critter indeed. Why is this so? They make a great midway point between the 12s and 20s, packing a hefty wallop without being overwhelming to the average person. 410 gauge seems even more popular lately, and it is the same size shell as a .45 Long Colt- both being used in the Taurus Judge revolvers! I think I have noticed maybe only 2 firearms manufacturers that still make shotguns in 16 gauge. This may have changed by now, as I was specifically looking into this about two years ago. If I start to search again, I wonder if any are still being made at all?
Please share your thoughts, comments and experiences with 16 gauge shotguns. I look forward to hearing from any and all of you out there!
I noticed during the last couple of years that the 16 gauge shotgun is a scarce critter indeed. Why is this so? They make a great midway point between the 12s and 20s, packing a hefty wallop without being overwhelming to the average person. 410 gauge seems even more popular lately, and it is the same size shell as a .45 Long Colt- both being used in the Taurus Judge revolvers! I think I have noticed maybe only 2 firearms manufacturers that still make shotguns in 16 gauge. This may have changed by now, as I was specifically looking into this about two years ago. If I start to search again, I wonder if any are still being made at all?
Please share your thoughts, comments and experiences with 16 gauge shotguns. I look forward to hearing from any and all of you out there!