How Long is a 12 Gauge Shotgun?
When it comes to shotguns, size and length can be misleading. A 12-gauge shotgun, in particular, can vary significantly in length depending on the make, model, and type. In this article, we’ll explore the typical lengths of 12-gauge shotguns, taking into account various factors such as gauge, barrel length, and overall length.
What is a 12-Gauge Shotgun?
Before we dive into the length of a 12-gauge shotgun, it’s essential to understand what a 12-gauge shotgun is. A shotgun is a type of firearm that uses a smooth barrel and is designed to shoot shells containing multiple pellets. The gauge of a shotgun refers to the diameter of the barrel, measured in terms of the number of balls of a specific weight that can pass through the barrel.
A 12-gauge shotgun, therefore, has a barrel diameter of approximately 0.729 inches (18.5 mm). This gauge is popular among hunters and clay target shooters due to its balance of power, recoil, and handling.
Factors Affecting Shotgun Length
Several factors influence the length of a 12-gauge shotgun:
• Barrel length: The length of the barrel, which can vary from 18 to 30 inches (46 cm to 76 cm).
• Overall length: The total length of the shotgun, including the stock and receiver.
• Choke type: The choke affects the shot pattern and can influence the overall length of the shotgun.
• Stock type: The type of stock, such as a fixed or collapsible stock, can impact the length.
Typical Lengths of 12-Gauge Shotguns
Here are some typical lengths for 12-gauge shotguns:
| Length (inches) | Shotgun Type |
|---|---|
| 24-26 | Trap and skeet shotguns, often with 26-inch (66 cm) barrels |
| 26-28 | Hunting shotguns, suitable for upland game birds and waterfowl, often with 28-inch (71 cm) barrels |
| 28-30 | Turkey shotguns, designed for hunting wild turkeys, often with 30-inch (76 cm) barrels |
| 30-32 | Long-range shotguns, used for hunting larger game at longer distances, often with 32-inch (81 cm) barrels |
| 34-36 | Very long-range shotguns, used for extreme long-range shooting, often with 36-inch (91 cm) barrels |
Comparison of Shotguns
Here’s a comparison of different 12-gauge shotgun lengths:
- Fixed stock, 26-inch barrel: Overall length: 47 inches (119 cm)
- Collapsible stock, 28-inch barrel: Overall length: 41 inches (104 cm)
- Pump-action, 30-inch barrel: Overall length: 43 inches (109 cm)
- Side-by-side, 28-inch barrel: Overall length: 42 inches (107 cm)
Consequences of Shotgun Length
The length of a 12-gauge shotgun has implications for:
• Handling: Shorter shotguns are more manageable, while longer shotguns can be more cumbersome.
• Accuracy: Longer shotguns can be more accurate, as they allow for better sight alignment and tracking.
• Storage: Longer shotguns may not fit in smaller storage compartments, such as gun safes or vehicles.
• Portability: Shorter shotguns are often more portable, making them easier to transport.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the length of a 12-gauge shotgun is influenced by various factors, including barrel length, overall length, choke type, and stock type. The typical lengths of 12-gauge shotguns range from 24 to 36 inches (61 cm to 91 cm), depending on the intended use. Understanding the factors that affect shotgun length can help hunters, clay target shooters, and collectors make informed decisions when selecting or purchasing a 12-gauge shotgun.
