How many shells does a shotgun hold?

How Many Shells Does a Shotgun Hold?

Shotguns are a type of firearms that are designed to shoot a large number of shotgun shells, which are used to propel a spread pattern of pellets or other payloads. The number of shells that a shotgun can hold depends on various factors such as the type of shotgun, its gauge, and its length of pull. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive answer to this question and explore the factors that affect the capacity of a shotgun.

Capacity of Shotguns

Standard Capacity

Shotguns are designed to hold a certain number of shells in their magazine and chamber. The standard capacity of most shotguns is typically:

• 12-gauge: 2-3 rounds in the magazine, depending on the length of the shotgun and the type of shells used.
• 20-gauge: 2-2.5 rounds in the magazine.
• 28-gauge: 1-2 rounds in the magazine.

This means that a standard shotgun can hold 2 to 3 shells, with some shotguns capable of holding more or less. The capacity of a shotgun can vary depending on its length, gauge, and type of shells used.

Magazine Extension Options

Some shotguns, especially those designed for tactical or competitive shooting, can have magazine extension options available. These extensions allow you to increase the capacity of your shotgun by adding extra shells to the magazine.

• 12-gauge: 4-8 rounds with magazine extensions (dependent on the extension capacity).
• 20-gauge: 3-5 rounds with magazine extensions.
• 28-gauge: 2-3 rounds with magazine extensions.

These extensions can add an extra 1-4 rounds to your shotgun’s capacity, depending on the gauge and type of extension used.

Removable Choke Tubes and Interchangeable Muzzle Devices

Some shotguns come with removable choke tubes or interchangeable muzzle devices, which can affect the shotgun’s capacity. For example:

• Choke tubes: Some shotguns have removable choke tubes, which can be changed out to suit different shooting tasks. This can affect the shotgun’s capacity, especially if the choke tube reduces the internal diameter of the barrel.
• Muzzle devices: Some shotguns have interchangeable muzzle devices, such as muzzle brakes or flash suppressors. These devices can reduce the internal diameter of the barrel, affecting the shotgun’s capacity.

Other Factors Affecting Capacity

In addition to gauge and magazine extension options, several other factors can affect a shotgun’s capacity:

• Length of pull: A longer shotgun may be able to hold more rounds due to its longer length.
• Barrel length: A shorter shotgun may have a lower capacity due to its shorter length.
• Type of shells: The type and size of shells used in the shotgun can also affect its capacity. Larger or longer shells may reduce the capacity of the shotgun.

Conclusion

In summary, the number of shells a shotgun can hold varies depending on its gauge, length, and type of shells used. The standard capacity of most shotguns is typically 2 to 3 rounds, but with magazine extensions and other upgrades, some shotguns can hold up to 4-8 rounds. Removable choke tubes and interchangeable muzzle devices can also affect the shotgun’s capacity.

Table: Shotgun Capacities

Note: The table above provides a general idea of shotgun capacities and is not a definitive guide. The capacity of a shotgun can vary depending on the specific shotgun model and manufacturer. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications for the exact capacity of your shotgun.