12 Gauge vs 20 Gauge Shotguns: Which is Better for Waterfowl

When it comes to waterfowl hunting, selecting the right shotgun is essential for both performance and comfort. Two of the most popular choices for waterfowl hunters are the 12-gauge and the 20-gauge shotguns. Each has its own set of advantages and considerations, and the right choice often depends on the hunter’s experience, hunting style, and preferences. In this article, we’ll break down the differences between the 12-gauge and 20-gauge shotguns, and help you determine which is the better option for your waterfowl hunting needs.

Understanding the Basics

Before diving into the specifics of which gauge is better for waterfowl hunting, it’s important to understand what the gauge of a shotgun means. The gauge refers to the size of the shotgun’s bore, and the lower the gauge number, the larger the bore. The gauge is based on the weight of lead balls that fit the bore; for example, a 12-gauge shotgun has a larger bore than a 20-gauge because it takes fewer lead balls to equal a pound.

• 12-Gauge Shotgun: The 12-gauge is the most common shotgun used for waterfowl hunting, especially for larger birds like geese and ducks. It offers a larger shell and more power, which translates to longer shooting distances and better penetration. The larger 12-gauge can hold more lead shot, enhancing its power and effectiveness in hunting scenarios.

• 20-Gauge Shotgun: The 20-gauge is smaller and lighter, making it a good choice for hunters who want less recoil and a more manageable shooting experience. While it has a smaller shot charge than the 12-gauge, it can still be effective for smaller waterfowl and shorter ranges.

What Are Shotgun Gauges?

When it comes to understanding shotguns, one of the fundamental concepts is the shotgun gauge. Unlike the caliber of a rifle, which measures the diameter of the bullet, the gauge of a shotgun refers to the bore diameter. This measurement is based on the weight of a solid lead ball that fits perfectly in the bore, expressed as a fraction of a pound. For instance, a 12-gauge shotgun has a bore diameter that can accommodate a lead ball weighing 1/12th of a pound. This system harks back to the days of cannons, where the size of the cannon was described by the weight of the lead ball it could fire.

Interestingly, the .410 bore is an exception to this rule. Instead of being measured by gauge, it is named for its bore diameter of 0.41 inches, which corresponds to a lead ball weight of about 1/67th of a pound. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for selecting the right shotgun for your needs, whether you’re hunting upland birds or decoying ducks.

Shotgun Gauge Options

When choosing a shotgun, you’ll encounter several gauge options, each with its own set of characteristics and applications. The most common gauges are 12, 20, 28, .410, 16, and 10. Among these, the 12-gauge and 20-gauge are the most popular, offering a wide range of uses from hunting and target shooting to home defense.

The 12-gauge is renowned for its versatility and power, making it a favorite among waterfowl hunters. With 487 different ammunition options available, it can be tailored to suit various hunting scenarios, from taking down big ducks to shooting over long distances. On the other hand, the 20-gauge, with 157 options, is prized for its lighter weight and lower recoil, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy shooting for extended periods or prefer a more manageable gun weight.

While the historical reasons for the dominance of these two gauges are complex, their widespread availability and adaptability make them the go-to choices for many hunters. Whether you’re in a duck blind or navigating dense brush, understanding your shotgun gauge options will help you select the best waterfowl gun for your specific needs.

The Pros and Cons of 12 Gauge Shotguns

Pros of the 12 Gauge

• Power and Range: One of the biggest advantages of the 12-gauge is its power. The larger bore allows for a bigger shot charge, which provides more pellets and greater energy behind each shot. This makes the 12-gauge an excellent choice for long-range shots and for taking down larger waterfowl like geese.

• Versatility: The 12-gauge is incredibly versatile. It can be loaded with a wide variety of shells, from light target loads to heavy-duty magnum loads. This versatility makes it an ideal choice for different types of waterfowl hunting, whether you’re hunting in wide-open fields or tight, marshy areas.

• More Ammunition Options: Because the 12-gauge is more common, you have a broader range of ammunition options to choose from. You can find shells with various shot sizes, powder loads, and other specifications suited for different waterfowl species. The 12-gauge can accommodate most loads due to its larger capacity, making it easier to find the right ammunition for your needs.

Cons of the 12 Gauge

• Heavier Recoil: The 12-gauge’s increased power comes with more recoil compared to shotguns designed for low recoil. For hunters who are sensitive to recoil, or for those who don’t have the body mass to absorb the force comfortably, this can be a significant drawback.

• Heavier Weight: Typically, 12-gauge shotguns are heavier than their 20-gauge counterparts. This can make the gun feel cumbersome over long days of hunting, particularly if you’re walking or carrying it for extended periods.

The Pros and Cons of 20 Gauge Shotguns

Pros of the 20 Gauge

• Lighter and More Maneuverable: The 20-gauge is typically lighter than the 12-gauge, making it easier to handle, especially for smaller hunters or those who prefer a lighter firearm. A 20-gauge shotgun can be lighter and more comfortable to handle than a 12-gauge version of the same gun. This makes it easier to carry and swing in the field, which is ideal when hunting in dense brush or for long walks.

• Lower Recoil: A 20-gauge shotgun offers much less recoil than a 12-gauge, making it more comfortable to shoot, especially for beginners or those who have trouble handling the heavier kick of a 12-gauge. This can lead to more accurate shots and less fatigue over time.

• Ideal for Smaller Waterfowl: The 20-gauge is perfect for hunting smaller waterfowl like teal or pintails, especially when hunting in closer ranges. It provides enough power to take down smaller ducks without excessive shot size, giving you a better chance of clean kills.

Cons of the 20 Gauge

• Reduced Range and Power: Because the 20-gauge uses smaller shells with fewer pellets, it generally doesn’t have the same range or power as the 12-gauge. Using one-ounce loads of non-toxic options like Hevi-Shot can enhance the effectiveness of a 20-gauge in duck hunting situations. This can make it less effective for larger waterfowl like geese, especially at longer distances.

• Limited Ammunition Options: While the 20-gauge is versatile, it doesn’t have as many ammo options as the 12-gauge. The shells are more specialized, and you may have fewer choices for magnum loads or different shot sizes when compared to the more commonly used 12-gauge.

Choosing the Right Waterfowl Gun for Hunting

When deciding between a 12-gauge and 20-gauge shotgun for waterfowl hunting, the decision often comes down to the type of duck hunting you do and your personal preferences.

For Hunters Who Prioritize Power and Long Range

• If you regularly hunt larger waterfowl, such as Canada geese or bigger ducks like mallards, or if you plan to take long-range shots over open water, the 12-gauge is likely your best option. The 12-gauge provides more power and better performance at greater distances, ensuring you can take down larger birds with confidence.

For Hunters Who Prefer a Lighter, More Maneuverable Gun

• If you prefer a lighter firearm that’s easier to carry and more comfortable to shoot, the 20-gauge might be a better fit. The lower recoil and smaller frame make it ideal for hunters who value comfort, especially for extended hunts or those targeting smaller waterfowl like teal. The 20-gauge also works well for hunters in close-range shooting situations where maneuverability is key.

For Versatility and General Waterfowl Hunting

The 12-gauge is the go-to choice for most waterfowl hunters because of its versatility. Its power allows for more responsible shot selection, minimizing the suffering of wounded birds. Whether you’re hunting large geese or small ducks, the 12-gauge has the flexibility to handle a variety of waterfowl species and hunting conditions. The sheer number of ammunition options available makes it adaptable for any situation.

What Shot Size Should You Use?

Regardless of whether you choose a 12-gauge or a 20-gauge, the right shot size is essential for successful waterfowl hunting. The transition from traditional lead shot to steel shot, mandated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for non-toxic shots in waterfowling, has significantly impacted shotgun ammunition choices. In general, larger shot sizes (like #2 or #4) are ideal for larger ducks and geese, while smaller shot sizes (like #6 or #7) work well for smaller ducks like teal.

• 12 Gauge: The 12-gauge shotgun is suitable for larger shot sizes like #2 or #4 for geese, while smaller sizes like #6 or #7 work well for ducks.

• 20 Gauge: The 20-gauge is more commonly paired with shot sizes like #3 or #4 for ducks and smaller shot like #5 or #6 for teal.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the decision between a 12-gauge and 20-gauge shotgun comes down to your individual hunting style, comfort level, and the type of waterfowl you plan to hunt. If you’re targeting larger geese or prefer the flexibility of long-range shots, the 12-gauge will likely be the better choice. On the other hand, if you’re after smaller ducks or prefer a lighter, less recoil-heavy firearm, the 20-gauge might be more suitable for your needs.

Both shotguns are effective tools for waterfowl hunting, and each offers distinct advantages. The key is understanding your hunting conditions and choosing the gun that will provide you with the best overall experience in the field.

FAQs

Which is better for waterfowl hunting, 12-gauge or 20-gauge?

The best choice depends on your hunting needs. The 12-gauge is ideal for larger birds like geese and for long-range shots, while the 20-gauge is better for smaller ducks and hunters who prefer a lighter, more manageable gun with less recoil.

Can I use a 20-gauge for larger ducks or geese?

While a 20-gauge can be used for larger ducks, it may lack the power needed for geese, especially at longer distances. A 12-gauge is generally recommended for geese or when shooting at longer ranges.

What is the advantage of a 12-gauge over a 20-gauge?

The 12-gauge offers more power, a larger shot charge, and greater range, making it more versatile for hunting various waterfowl species and larger birds like geese.

Does the 20-gauge have less recoil than the 12-gauge?

Yes, the 20-gauge has significantly less recoil than the 12-gauge, making it a more comfortable choice for hunters who are sensitive to recoil or who prefer a lighter firearm.

Which gauge is better for beginners?

The 20-gauge is often a better choice for beginners because of its lighter weight and lower recoil, making it easier to handle and shoot.