Lindcott Armory Compare / 20 Gauge vs 28 Gauge
Cartridge comparison
20 Gauge vs 28 Gauge
20 Gauge is faster (1,700 vs 1,350 fps); 20 Gauge carries more energy (2,500 vs 800 ft·lb); 28 Gauge recoils less.
20 Gauge →Representative trajectory · 100 yd zero0–500 yd Open in Ballistic Compare ↗
28 Gauge →Representative trajectory · 25 yd zero0–200 yd Open in Ballistic Compare ↗
| 20 Gauge | 28 Gauge | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Shotgun | Shotgun |
| Introduced | 1870 | 1900 |
| Bullet ⌀ | 0.615″ | 0.55″ |
| Case length | 2.75″ | 2.75″ |
| Velocity | 1,100–1,700 fps | 1,150–1,350 fps |
| Energy | 1,200–2,500 ft·lb | 500–800 ft·lb |
| Max pressure | 12,000 psi | 12,500 psi |
| Recoil | 15–22 ft·lb | 10–16 ft·lb |
| Eff. range | 40 yd | 35 yd |
FAQs
- Is 20 Gauge faster than 28 Gauge?
- 20 Gauge is faster — up to 1,700 fps versus 1,350 fps.
- Does 20 Gauge hit harder than 28 Gauge?
- 20 Gauge carries more muzzle energy (2,500 vs 800 ft·lb).