What is a 12 Bore Shotgun?
For many firearms enthusiasts, the term "12 bore" is a familiar phrase. However, for those new to the world of shotguns, understanding what a 12 bore shotgun is and what it means can be overwhelming. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of shotguns and provide a comprehensive guide on what a 12 bore shotgun is, its history, and its applications.
What is a 12 Bore Shotgun?
In simple terms, a 12 bore shotgun is a type of shotgun that has a bore diameter of .729 inches (.0186 meters). This diameter is measured from the inside of the barrel and is used to determine the caliber of the shotgun.
To put this into perspective, a 12 bore shotgun is larger than a 20 bore shotgun (.724 inches /.0184 meters), but smaller than a 10 bore shotgun (.775 inches /.0197 meters). The term "bore" refers to the diameter of the shotgun’s barrel, and the number that follows refers to the diameter of the barrel in inches.
Types of 12 Bore Shotguns
While the term "12 bore" refers to the bore diameter of the shotgun, there are different types of 12 bore shotguns that vary in terms of their length, gauge, and chamber length. Some of the most common types of 12 bore shotguns include:
• Full-size shotguns: These are the most common type of 12 bore shotgun and are designed for hunting and sport shooting. They typically have a length of 47-49 inches (119-124 cm) and a chamber length of 3 inches (76 mm).
• Pump-action shotguns: These shotguns use a pump-action mechanism to load and eject shells. They are popular among tactical shooters and hunters.
• Break-action shotguns: These shotguns use a break-action mechanism to load and eject shells. They are popular among recreational shooters and collectors.
• Semi-automatic shotguns: These shotguns use a semi-automatic mechanism to load and eject shells. They are popular among competitive shooters and hunters.
History of 12 Bore Shotguns
The history of 12 bore shotguns dates back to the 18th century, when they were first used for hunting game birds. During this time, shotguns were chambered for blackpowder and used loose shot, which was relatively inaccurate.
In the 19th century, shotguns began to be chambered for smokeless powder, which made them more accurate and efficient. This led to a rise in popularity among shooters and hunters, and 12 bore shotguns became a staple in many firearms collections.
Advantages of 12 Bore Shotguns
So, what makes 12 bore shotguns so popular? Here are some of the advantages of owning a 12 bore shotgun:
• Accuracy: 12 bore shotguns are known for their accuracy, particularly at longer ranges.
• Power: 12 bore shotguns have the power to take down large game, such as waterfowl and upland game birds.
• Versatility: 12 bore shotguns can be used for a variety of applications, including hunting, sport shooting, and defensive purposes.
• Durability: 12 bore shotguns are built to last and can withstand harsh weather conditions and heavy use.
Applications of 12 Bore Shotguns
12 bore shotguns have a wide range of applications, including:
• Hunting: 12 bore shotguns are popular among hunters for their ability to take down a variety of game birds, including waterfowl, upland game birds, and turkeys.
• Sport shooting: 12 bore shotguns are popular among competitive shooters for their accuracy and power.
• Defensive purposes: 12 bore shotguns are sometimes used for defensive purposes, although their use for this purpose is controversial.
• Clay target shooting: 12 bore shotguns are popular among clay target shooters for their ability to shoot at high speeds and hit small targets.
Comparison to Other Calibers
When comparing 12 bore shotguns to other calibers, there are a few key things to consider:
• Range: 12 bore shotguns have a shorter effective range than some other calibers, such as 20 gauge.
• Penetration: 12 bore shotguns have more penetration than smaller calibers, but less than larger calibers.
• Load capacity: 12 bore shotguns can hold more shot than smaller calibers, but less than larger calibers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a 12 bore shotgun is a type of shotgun that has a bore diameter of .729 inches (.0186 meters). They are popular among shooters and hunters due to their accuracy, power, and versatility. While they have a wide range of applications, including hunting, sport shooting, and defensive purposes, their use for these purposes is not without controversy. By understanding the history, advantages, and applications of 12 bore shotguns, readers can make informed decisions about their own firearms purchases.
