12 gauge for Sale

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12 Gauge Firearms Overview

The 12 gauge shotgun originated in the late 19th century as a versatile hunting and defense firearm. Its design focuses on delivering powerful, effective shots for various uses, from sport to protection. Today, 12 gauge shotguns remain among the most popular and widely used shotguns for home defense, hunting, and law enforcement.

Why It's a Top Choice

High versatility for hunting, self-defense, and sport
Wide ammo availability including birdshot, buckshot, and slugs
Proven reliability across pump, semi-auto, and break-action designs
Strong aftermarket support for customization and upgrades
Effective stopping power at close to medium ranges

Key Variants

Pump Action 12 Gauge

Ideal for reliability and ease of use in tactical and hunting scenarios.

Semi-Automatic 12 Gauge

Preferred for faster follow-up shots and competitive shooting.

Break-Action 12 Gauge

Simple and traditional design commonly used for hunting and sport.

Competitor Comparison Table

Feature	12 Gauge	20 Gauge	.410 Bore
Typical MSRP	$400 - $1,200	$350 - $900	$300 - $800
Capacity/Size	4 to 8 rounds	4 to 7 rounds	2 to 5 rounds
Weight	6 to 8.5 lbs	5 to 7 lbs	4 to 6 lbs
Optics-Ready	Available on select models	Limited options	Rare
Trigger Type	Varies: single/double action	Single action predominantly	Single action
Notable Pro	Most powerful common shotgun gauge	Lighter recoil, easier handling	Compact size, minimal recoil
Notable Con	Heavier recoil, larger ammunition	Less stopping power	Limited ammo capacity

Best Use Cases

Home and self-defense
Bird and small to medium game hunting
Sport shooting and clay target competitions
Law enforcement and tactical applications
Training and range practice

FAQs

Can I use any 12 gauge shell in all 12 gauge shotguns?

Most 12 gauge shotguns accept standard shells, but always check your firearm's chamber length and pressure rating before use.

What is the effective range of a 12 gauge shotgun?

Typically, effective range varies from 30 to 50 yards depending on ammunition type and choke design.

How does a 12 gauge compare to other shotgun gauges?

The 12 gauge offers a balance of power and versatility, surpassing smaller gauges in stopping power but with more recoil.

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