Shotguns are used for various purposes, including hunting, sport shooting, and home defense. The capacity—the number of shells it can hold—depends on its make and model. Typically, shotguns have a standard capacity, but this can vary. In this guide, we'll explore the common capacities of shotguns and what factors influence them.
What Are Shotgun Shells?
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Shotgun shells are the ammunition used in shotguns. They consist of a plastic or paper casing filled with multiple small pellets, known as shot, or a single projectile, called a slug. The shell also contains gunpowder and a primer.
These shells come in multiple sizes, known as gauges, with 12-gauge being the most popular. The gauge number indicates the diameter of the shell; the lower the number, the larger the shell. In addition, shells are also categorized by their length. Standard lengths include 2.75 inches, 3 inches, and 3.5 inches.
How Many Shells Can a Shotgun Actually Hold?
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Most standard shotguns have a capacity of 4 to 5 shells in the magazine tube, plus one additional shell in the chamber, making the total capacity 5 to 6 shells. However, this can change depending on the type of shotgun:
Pump-Action Shotguns: The standard capacity of a pump shotgun is 4 to 6 shells in the magazine, plus one in the chamber. Extended models can accommodate 7 to 9 shells.
Semi-Automatic Shotguns or Bolt-Action Shotguns: Typically, semi-auto shotguns hold 4 to 5 shells in the magazine, plus one in the chamber. Extended models can accommodate 8 to 9 shells.
Break-Action Shotguns: Break-action shotguns include single-shot, double-barrel (side-by-side or over-under), and triple-barrel models. Single-shot models hold one shell. Double-barrel shotguns hold two shells (one in each barrel). Triple shotgun barrel guns hold three shells.
Legal Limitations on Shotgun Capacity
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It's important to be aware of legal restrictions on shotgun capacity, which vary by country and state. These regulations are designed to promote safety and prevent misuse of firearms:
United States
In the United States, law enforcement limits the capacity of shotguns used for hunting migratory birds to three shells (including the chamber). This is known as the "three-shot rule" and is enforced by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. However, for home defense or sports shooting, there are generally no federal limits on shotgun capacity.
Canada
In Canada, the legal limit for the capacity of hunting shotguns is also three shells. For other purposes, the maximum capacity is typically five shells, though there are exceptions for certain models and uses.
United Kingdom
In the United Kingdom, shotguns used for hunting are limited to a capacity of two shells in the magazine and one in the chamber. For other types of shooting, shotguns with a higher capacity require a specific license.
FAQs
Are there different types of shots within shotgun shells?
Yes, there are various types of shots, including birdshot, buckshot, and shotgun slugs. Birdshot contains small pellets for hunting birds and small hunting game. Buckshot contains larger pellets for bigger game and home defense. Slugs are single, solid projectiles used for hunting large game and requiring greater accuracy.
How do I know what type of shotgun shell to use?
It depends on what you need to use your shotgun for. For hunting waterfowl and other birds, use birdshot. For larger game or home defense, use buckshot or slugs.
Can I use different lengths of shotgun shells in the same shotgun?
Check the shotgun’s specifications. Using a shell that is too long for the chamber can be dangerous. Standard lengths are 2.75 inches, 3 inches, and 3.5 inches.
How do I safely store shotgun shells?
Store shotgun shells in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep them in their original packaging if possible, and make sure they are out of reach of children and unauthorized persons.
Summary
Shotguns are versatile firearms used for waterfowl hunting, turkey hunting, sport shooting, and home defense. The standard capacity is 4 to 6 shells but it can go to 8 to 9 shells.
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