12 Gauge Shotguns
Cheap 12 Gauge Shotguns For Sale
When it comes to shotguns, a 12 gauge shotgun is the do it all, everything in one option, perfect for home defense, sport shooting, and hunting waterfowl, upland birds, small game, and even some bigger game. The name “12 gauge” means that 12 lead balls of the bore’s diameter weight exactly one pound. They shoot 12 gauge shotgun ammo coming in sizes 2 ¾ inches up to 3 ½ inches made of either lead and steel based on whatever your shooting purpose is, usually either coming in pellets or slugs.
12 Gauge Shotguns are going to have more power and recoil than a 20 gauge shotgun or other smaller options. While the smaller gauges are great for children, beginner shooters, women, or anyone who doesn’t want to deal with all the recoil, there is a time and place for 12 gauge shotguns, and that time and place is everywhere and everything. Their heavier shot makes them perfect for reaching out and taking down ducks at longer ranges, firing slugs or buckshot at larger game where legal, and plenty of stopping power when it comes to home defense. There are also great options for cheap 12 gauge shotguns for sale, our selection offers high quality shotguns at incredible prices allowing you to get what you need without breaking the bank.
Types of 12 Gauge Shotgun
| 12 Gauge Shotgun Type | Common Shell Sizes | Best Uses | Popular 12 Gauge Model |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pump Action 12 Gauge | 2 3/4", 3", and many models accept 3 1/2" | Deer Hunting, Turkey Hunting, Home Defense, Waterfowl Hunting, General Purpose Shooting | Winchester SXP Defender |
| Semi-Automatic 12 Gauge | 2 3/4", 3", and select models handle 3 1/2" | Duck Hunting, Goose Hunting, Sporting Clays, Trap Shooting, High-Volume Shooting | Beretta A300 Ultima |
| Over-Under 12 Gauge | Typically 2 3/4" and 3" | Skeet Shooting, Trap Shooting, Sporting Clays, Pheasant Hunting, Upland Bird Hunting | Weatherby Orion |
| Side-by-Side 12 Gauge | Usually 2 3/4" and some 3" | Traditional Hunting, Cowboy Action Shooting, Upland Hunting, Recreational Shooting | CZ Bobwhite G2 |
12 Gauge Shotgun FAQs
What is a 12 gauge shotgun?
- A 12 gauge shotgun is the most popular shotgun size in the United States. The term “12 gauge” refers to the diameter of the barrel, based on an old measurement system where 12 lead balls of the bore diameter equal one pound. It’s widely used for hunting, home defense, sport shooting, and tactical applications because of its versatility and power.
What is a 12 gauge shotgun used for?
- A 12 gauge can be used for nearly everything: hunting ducks, deer, turkey, pheasants, home defense, clay shooting, and even competitive shooting sports. Different shell types like birdshot, buckshot, and slugs make it adaptable for many situations.
Is a 12 gauge good for home defense?
- Yes. A 12 gauge is considered one of the best home defense firearms because of its stopping power and wide availability of defensive ammunition like 00 buckshot. Many experts recommend shorter-barreled pump or semi-auto 12 gauge shotguns for defensive use.
What shells can a 12 gauge shotgun shoot?
- A 12 gauge shotgun can only shoot 12 gauge shells, but the shell length must also match the chamber size. Common lengths are 2¾", 3", and 3½". A shotgun chambered for 3" shells can also shoot 2¾" shells, but not all guns can safely fire 3½" magnum shells.
What is the effective range of a 12 gauge shotgun?
- The effective range depends on the ammunition type. Birdshot is generally effective at short ranges, buckshot is commonly effective within 30–50 yards, and slugs can be accurate out to 100 yards or more with the right setup.
Sportsman Fulfillment 12 Gauge Promise
At Sportsman Fulfillment we pride ourselves on offering you the best prices on cheap 12 gauge shotguns for sale without sacrificing quality. We believe you shouldn’t have to break the bank to take down some ducks, shoot some clays, or defend your home, that is why we promise to bring you the best deals we can on 12 gauge shotguns for whatever you need them for. If you have any questions, our gun counter has decades of experience and is happy to help.
