Lindcott Armory Compare / 12 Gauge vs 20 Gauge
Cartridge comparison
12 Gauge vs 20 Gauge
20 Gauge is faster (1,700 vs 1,600 fps); 12 Gauge carries more energy (4,000 vs 2,500 ft·lb); 20 Gauge recoils less.
12 Gauge →Representative trajectory · 100 yd zero0–500 yd Open in Ballistic Compare ↗
20 Gauge →Representative trajectory · 100 yd zero0–500 yd Open in Ballistic Compare ↗
| 12 Gauge | 20 Gauge | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Shotgun | Shotgun |
| Introduced | 1870 | 1870 |
| Bullet ⌀ | 0.729″ | 0.615″ |
| Case length | 2.75″ | 2.75″ |
| Velocity | 1,150–1,600 fps | 1,100–1,700 fps |
| Energy | 2,000–4,000 ft·lb | 1,200–2,500 ft·lb |
| Max pressure | 11,500 psi | 12,000 psi |
| Recoil | 22–35 ft·lb | 15–22 ft·lb |
| Eff. range | 50 yd | 40 yd |
FAQs
- Is 12 Gauge faster than 20 Gauge?
- 20 Gauge is faster — up to 1,700 fps versus 1,600 fps.
- Does 12 Gauge hit harder than 20 Gauge?
- 12 Gauge carries more muzzle energy (4,000 vs 2,500 ft·lb).