The Best 20 Gauge Shells for Waterfowl Hunting: A Guide

Small game hunting requires specialized ammunition that balances power and control. In this article, we’ll examine popular 20-gauge shotgun shells, comparing shell lengths, loads, and performance characteristics to help you choose the right ammunition for your hunting needs.

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Reviews

Millican Pecan Shells

These pecan shells add a natural, hickory-infused flavor to your BBQ or smoker, while the 20-pound box provides plenty of shells for multiple cookouts. In the garden, they enrich soil and support herb growth. Perfect for both cooking and gardening enthusiasts.

Ook 100’ Galvanized Steel Hobby Wire

Made from durable galvanized steel, these soft wires have a clever self-tying feature that lets them wrap around themselves and stay firmly in place – no more fiddling with knots or loose ends. The flexibility of the wire means you can bend and twist it easily for your project, while the protective coating keeps your hands clean and prevents cuts when you’re cutting the wire to size.

Stainless Steel Seamless 20-Gauge Hoop Ring

These seamless hoop nose rings combine a. 8mm 316L stainless steel construction with pink cubic zirconia stones, offering a stylish alternative to traditional nose jewelry. The 5/16” diameter ring features twist-open ends for easy insertion, making it a practical choice for both new and experienced piercings. While some customers note the stones are taller than expected, the overall design and durable construction have won praise from many who appreciate the ring’s sleek profile and comfortable fit.

Quality Gold Scallop Shell Nose Ring & Ear Cuff

These gold ear cuffs and nose rings bring a touch of traditional style to your jewelry collection. The polished 14K yellow gold pieces, measuring just over 5 millimeters in width, add a subtle sparkle to your ears. The shell-shaped design and casted finish give these solid gold accessories a distinctive look that pairs well with both casual and dressy occasions.

175’ Galvanized Steel Wire

This 20-gauge galvanized wire is a staple for any DIY project, with its self-tying properties making it exceptionally easy to work with. The soft, flexible strands protect your hands while ensuring clean, secure connections. At 175 feet long, it’s perfect for everything from art projects to fence repairs.

Hillman 123106 Galvanized Wire

This galvanized wire has earned high praise from satisfied customers who put it to work in a variety of projects. From hanging heavy items like bird feeders and Halloween decorations to supporting delicate craft projects and reinforcing garden fencing, this wire proves its versatility and strength. The 175-foot length and 20-gauge thickness make it ideal for both small-scale crafting and larger installations where visibility is a concern.

Buyer’s Guide

20 gauge shotgun shells represent an intermediate step between smaller gauges like 28 and 410 bore and larger gauges such as 12 gauge and. 410 caliber. Understanding the key aspects of 20 gauge shells helps in selecting the right ammunition for various hunting and shooting scenarios.

Shell Specifications

Average 20 gauge shells measure about 3 inches in overall length and contain between 1.3 and 1.7 ounces of shot. The shot size ranges from 6 to 9, with smaller numbers indicating larger pellet diameters. These shells typically cost between $0.40 and $0.60 per round, making them more affordable than 12 gauge options while still offering good performance.

Performance Factors

The effective range for 20 gauge shotguns usually falls between 30 and 50 yards, making them suitable for turkey and small game hunting. Shot pattern dispersal at 40 yards typically covers a 30-inch diameter circle for standard loads. Heavier shot sizes improve penetration but reduce scatter pattern coverage, affecting bird drop times and wounding potential.

Chamber Compatibility

Most 20 gauge shotguns use the same 3-inch chamber length as 12 gauge models, with compatibility between the gauges up to 3 inch projectiles. However, some older or specialized shotguns may require specific adapters or have limited chamber length compatibility. Always verify barrel length compatibility before purchasing ammunition.

Cost Considerations

Store-brand or generic 20 gauge shells usually offer better value than premium brands while maintaining reliable performance. Bulk buying or buying in-season often results in the best pricing. Consider the total cost of ownership, including ammunition and proper firearm maintenance, when budgeting for 20 gauge shooting.

FAQ

What is a 20 gauge shell?

A 20-gauge shell is a type of shotgun ammunition characterized by a specific diameter. The “20” refers to the gauge, which is inversely related to the shell’s diameter - a smaller gauge number means a larger diameter.

These shells typically contain 1.3 ounces of shot, making them intermediate in size between smaller-gauge shells (like 28 gauge) and larger ones (like 12 gauge).

What types of 20 gauge shells are available?

The most common types are hulls for shot, but 20 gauge offers several specialized options including: - Steel shot for waterfowl hunting

• Copper or lead-core bullets for small game

• Frangible projectiles for live-fire training

Specialty loads include: - Full choke shells for precision shooting

• Modified or improved cylinder for various ranges

• Buffer wads for extending shot range

What’s the typical price range for 20 gauge shells?

Costs vary based on shot size and brand quality, but basic rounds usually range from $5-10 per box (typically 25 rounds). Name-brand premium loads can cost $12-20 per box.

High-performance or specialized rounds may cost $25-40 per box, while limited-edition or exotic loads can exceed $50 per box.

How do 20 gauge shells perform compared to other gauges?

20 gauge offers balanced performance, combining decent range with manageable recoil. It’s suitable for: - Waterfowl hunting, particularly in legal-sized limits

• Small-game hunting, especially in regulated areas

• Skeet and trap shooting

Compared to 12 gauge, it’s less powerful but more versatile for various shooting applications. Compared to 410/. 410 caliber, it provides significantly more energy and range.

What maintenance requirements are there for 20 gauge firearms?

Regular cleaning is essential, focusing on the chamber, barrel, and bolt. Use appropriate cleaning patches and solvents specific to shotshell components.

Check action parts for wear, including bolt lugs, firing pin, and ejector. Proper lubrication of these parts helps maintain function and prolongs firearm life.

What legal considerations apply to 20 gauge shells?

Check local regulations regarding minimum size requirements for shot and hunting seasons. Some areas may only allow certain types of ammunition.

Transportation laws vary - ensure compliance with federal restrictions on ammunition shipping and storage. Always verify legal requirements based on your specific location and intended use.

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