Lindcott Armory Compare / 10 Gauge vs 12 Gauge
Cartridge comparison
10 Gauge vs 12 Gauge
12 Gauge is faster (1,600 vs 1,280 fps); 12 Gauge carries more energy (4,000 vs 2,600 ft·lb); 12 Gauge recoils less.
10 Gauge →Representative trajectory · 25 yd zero0–200 yd Open in Ballistic Compare ↗
12 Gauge →Representative trajectory · 100 yd zero0–500 yd Open in Ballistic Compare ↗
| 10 Gauge | 12 Gauge | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Shotgun | Shotgun |
| Introduced | 1866 | 1870 |
| Bullet ⌀ | 0.775″ | 0.729″ |
| Case length | 3.5″ | 2.75″ |
| Velocity | 1,050–1,280 fps | 1,150–1,600 fps |
| Energy | 1,700–2,600 ft·lb | 2,000–4,000 ft·lb |
| Max pressure | 11,000 psi | 11,500 psi |
| Recoil | 28–45 ft·lb | 22–35 ft·lb |
| Eff. range | 60 yd | 50 yd |
FAQs
- Is 10 Gauge faster than 12 Gauge?
- 12 Gauge is faster — up to 1,600 fps versus 1,280 fps.
- Does 10 Gauge hit harder than 12 Gauge?
- 12 Gauge carries more muzzle energy (4,000 vs 2,600 ft·lb).