How Many Boxes of Shotgun Shells in a Case?
When it comes to shotgun shells, questions often arise about the amount of ammunition contained in a single case. The number of boxes of shotgun shells in a case can be crucial information for hunters, target shooters, and homeowners looking to stock up for self-defense. In this article, we’ll address the question directly and delve into the details.
Contents
What is a Shotgun Shell Case?
Before we jump into the answer, it’s essential to understand what a shotgun shell case typically contains. A shotgun shell case is a standardized measure of ammunition, usually designated by the manufacturer. Standard cases typically hold 1,000 to 100,000 rounds of 12-gauge shotgun ammunition, depending on the desired quantity and type of use.
Traditional Shotgun Shell Cases
Traditionally, shotgun shell cases come with 25, 40, or 50 boxed rounds of ammunition. However, this can vary significantly depending on the manufacturer, type of shotgun, and intended use. Here is a breakdown of the more common traditional cases:
| Boxes per Case | Number of Rounds |
|---|---|
| 20-25 | 12-15 gauge, < 1,000 yard range |
| 36-40 | 3" 12-gauge, 1,000-1,500 yards |
| 50-60 | 2" 12-gauge, 1,500+ yards |
Variations and Exceptions
Some shooters may encounter variations in packaging, especially when dealing with specialty or high-end ammunitions. These special cases can contain fewer boxes, such as:
| Boxes per Case | Type of Ammunition |
|---|---|
| 10-12 | Premium, high-end performance |
| 5 | Limited edition, collectibles |
| 1 | Single box, for specialty firearms |
Target Shooting and Competition Cases
Target shooting and competition shooters often work with smaller quantities, aiming for precision and consistency over quantity. These cases frequently contain fewer boxes, focused on specific gauges or shell types:
| Boxes per Case | Gauge/Diameter |
|---|---|
| 8-10 | 13-15 gauge, international competitions |
| 20-25 | 17-18 gauge, FITASC, and skeet shooting |
| 12 | 20-gauge, American skeet, FITASC, and international biathlon |
What Does a Case of Shotgun Shells Cost?
The cost per case of shotgun shells widely varies depending on factors like manufacturer, quality, capacity, and intended use:
| Case Size | Starting Price (approx.) | Average Price (approx.) | High-End (approx.) |
| 25 | $15 – $30 | $40 – $60 | $80+ |
| 36 | $30 – $70 | $60 – $100 | $120-150 |
| 40 | $40 – $100 | $80-150 | $200 |
Keep in mind that premium, high-end, and specialty cases often carry the highest prices.
Conclusion
In conclusion, finding the answer to "how many boxes of shotgun shells in a case?" lies in understanding the type, gauge, and intended use of the ammunition. Boxed rounds, cases with fewer boxes, and large quantities are all common permutations. When purchasing shotgun ammunition, consider the following guidelines:
- Traditional cases:
- 20-25 boxes for casual targets and hunting
- 36-40 boxes for serious hunting and large gatherings
- 50-60 boxes for heavy-duty hunting and precision shooting
- Variations and exceptions:
- Specialty cases for premium shells, collectibles, and single-box purchases
- Target shooting and competition:
- Smaller-case sizes for precision and cost-effectiveness
Keep your needs and budget in mind when selecting the perfect ammo case for your needs!
Additional Tips and Trivia:
- Cases are often sold with shells already loaded, making preparation and storage easier.
- When purchasing in bulk, consider the storage capacity needed for your collection.
- Check local laws and regulations regarding shotgun shell capacity storage and transportation.
- It’s essential to choose top-quality shells for reliable reliability and performance.
Now go ahead and stock up or upgrade your shotgun ammunition library with confidence!
