· top picks · 6 min read
Rock Solid: 6 Best 16 Gauge Shells for Dependable Performance
Find the right 16 gauge shell for your shotgun with our comparison of popular brands and shell options, including details on shot size and load weight.
Choosing the right 16 gauge shells is crucial for both new and experienced shooters. Our comprehensive guide evaluates top-performing shells, comparing key factors like shot size, load consistency, and performance across various shooting disciplines.
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Reviews
Shall 16 Gauge Finish Nails
These reliable 16-gauge nails feature premium galvanized construction for lasting performance, with an ultimate tensile strength of 160,000 PSI. The chisel-point design reduces jams and improves drive consistency in most 16-gauge nail guns. Each order arrives safely wrapped in EPE pearl cotton and protected by three layers of corrugated boxing, ensuring your nails reach you in perfect condition.
16GA 316L Surgical Steel Hinged Segment Ring
When you’re looking for something to hang from your face, you want quality - which is why this surgical steel ring caught my attention. With its I. P. coating and 316L steel construction, it promised durability and color retention in four stylish options: black, blue, multicolor, and silver.
16g Steel Hinged Segment Ring
This unassuming cartilage pierce is anything but basic – the 8mm 316L stainless steel ring’s secret weapon is its forward-facing synthetic opal segment. It’s a subtle design that lets your piercing do the talking, with the added practical bonus of a hinged segment that makes wear and removal super easy. Whether you’ve got a single piercing or multiple piercings to deck out, this stylish ring has you covered.
16g Titanium Cartilage Earrings
These titanium hoops come in three sizes with a secure clasp that’s resistant to loosening, though a few users noted the claps can be a bit loose. The 16g bar measures 1.2mm thick, with an inner diameter of 6mm, 8mm, or 10mm. The clear CZ paving gives them a sparkly charm that’s hard to resist, though a few reviewers mentioned they might be a bit too lightweight for daily wear. Every pair comes with a bonus gift, making them an especially thoughtful addition to any jewelry collection.
16g 3-Round Bezel CZ Titanium Earings
These stylish 16-gauge jewelry ends feature three bezel-set black cubic zirconia stones in a sleek titanium setting. The high-polish finish and durable titanium construction make them a great choice for body piercing jewelry.
National Hardware 16 Gauge Dark Annealed Wire N267-005
This dark annealed wire wraps around itself and forms secure knots, making it a practical choice for craft and home improvement projects. The 16-gauge steel wire is available in multiple sizes and gauges, offering flexibility for various applications. The polished round rod measures 9.6 inches in length.
Buyer’s Guide
16 gauge shotgun shells provide excellent balance between performance and versatility, making them suitable for various hunting and shooting applications. Understanding their components and specifications will help you select the right shells for your needs.
Shot Type and Size
16 gauge shells typically offer a wide range of shot sizes from 2 to 9, with each offering distinct characteristics. Smaller shot sizes (2-4) excel in waterfowl hunting, while larger sizes (5-9) are effective for upland birds and small game. Consider your target species when selecting shot type.
Shotshell Length
Standard 16 gauge shells come in 2 3/4”, 3”, and 3 1/2” lengths. The longer the shell, the more weight behind the shot pattern, increasing effective range and pattern density at longer distances. However, longer shells may not fit in all shotguns.
Wad Style
Shotshell wads are crucial for proper shot dispersion. Modern plastic wads are standard, offering reliable performance and consistent_shot patterns. For competitive shooting or extreme range shooting, consider sabot wadding systems designed to reduce fouling and increase velocity.
Magnum vs. Standard
Magnum shells deliver higher velocity and energy through the use of heavier, brass-cased shells. These are ideal for hunting larger game or shooting at extended ranges. Standard shells are more economical and widely compatible with shotguns, making them suitable for general use and smaller-game hunting.
FAQ
What caliber are 16 gauge shells?
16 gauge shells are shotgun cartridges measuring approximately 16.5 millimeters in diameter. This makes them slightly smaller than 12 gauge shells, the most common shotgun caliber.
The “16 gauge” designation refers to the diameter of the bore, which is the interior of the shotgun barrel. This measurement is taken just before the choke, where the barrel narrows to focus the shot pattern.
What types of loads are available for 16 gauge shells?
16 gauge shells come in various load options, including lead, steel, and tungsten alloys. Common loads include birdshot for hunting waterfowl and hunted for small game, as well as target loads for practicing at the range.
Modern 16 gauge shells also feature improved wadding designs and hull materials for better performance and reliability in shotguns.
What’s the difference between 16 and 12 gauge shells?
16 gauge shells are slightly smaller in diameter (16.5mm vs 18mm) and typically lighter in weight. This makes them easier to handle for shooters with smaller hands, while still providing adequate performance.
16 gauge shells often offer longer magazine capacities and are more common in modern sporting and hunting shotguns.
How much recoil can I expect from 16 gauge shells?
Recoil from 16 gauge shells is generally more manageable than from larger calibers like 20 gauge or 12 gauge. This makes them a good choice for new shooters or those who prefer less recoil.
Magazine capacity and the type of load (birdshot vs hunted) can significantly impact felt recoil, so it’s important to match the load to your shooting preference and ability.
What’s the maximum effective range for 16 gauge shells?
Effective range for 16 gauge shells varies depending on the load and target. For hunting birds, a typical effective range is 30-40 yards, while hunted for small game often extends to 50-60 yards.
At longer ranges, wind conditions and shot pattern dispersion become more significant factors affecting accuracy.
How do 16 gauge shells compare to 20 gauge in terms of performance?
16 gauge shells generally perform better than 20 gauge in most shotguns due to their larger diameter bore and higher pressure capacity. This results in improved pattern coverage and more consistent shot placement.
For hunting and recreational shooting, 16 gauge offers a balanced combination of performance and versatility compared to the smaller 20 gauge.
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