About 28 Gauge Ammo
Created by the Parker Brothers in the early 1900s, 28 gauge ammo was introduced as a response to the growing need for a shotgun with a smaller bore that could be used when shooting small game and upland birds.
Initially, 28 gauge shells were not very popular and were overshadowed by other popular shotgun gauges, such as the 12 and 20 gauge shotguns.
However, in recent years, it has gained popularity among shooters and hunters for its lightweight and low recoil, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a lighter shotgun.
Despite its smaller size, the 28 gauge shotgun shell was still powerful and effective, easily capable of quickly taking down small game and birds. Today, the ammunition is often used by experienced hunters who prefer a lighter, more agile shotgun for their hunts.
Common Names for 28 Gauge Ammo
Since its initial release in the early 1900s, 28 gauge shells have had many different name variations. Some of the most common include:
- 28 gauge
- 28 bore
- 28 gauge shotgun shells
- 28 gauge shotshells
- 28 gauge ammunition
- 28 gauge rounds
- 28 gauge loads
- 28 gauge cartridges
Regardless of your preferred nomenclature, 28 gauge ammo has maintained its popularity over the years and is available in the lineup of every significant American ammo manufacturer.
Common Types of 28 Gauge Shells
While purchasing 28 gauge ammunition is usually an easy process, owners should know that there are several variations of 28 gauge shells used for specific hunting or shooting types. These types include:
- Birdshot - Used for hunting birds and small game, typically loaded with small pellets (#6 to #9).
- Buckshot - Used for self-defense and hunting larger game, typically loaded with larger pellets (#1 to #4).
- Slug - Used for hunting larger game and deer, a single large projectile.
Target load - Used for shooting clay pigeons, typically loaded with smaller pellets (#7 1/2 to #9). - Game Load - Used for hunting upland birds and small game, typically loaded with a mix of small and medium-sized pellets (#5 to #8).
- Steel Shot - Used for waterfowl hunting, as lead shot is illegal in many areas, typically loaded with smaller steel pellets (#4 to #6).
- Heavy Shot - Used for waterfowl hunting, an alternative to steel shot, typically loaded with larger tungsten pellets.
28 Gauge Ammo Features
LIGHTWEIGHT
The 28 gauge is one of the smallest and lightest shotgun gauges available, making it easier to carry and shoot for extended periods. Additionally, because of its lightweight compared to other gauges, shooters often comment on how 28 gauge shotguns feel like an extension of the body and help them to naturally find their target.
LOW RECOIL
The 28 gauge shell has less recoil compared to larger shotgun gauges, making it an excellent choice for new and experienced shooters who prefer less felt recoil. The 28 gauge's 12 pounds of force is minimal compared to the 12 gauge – which kicks like a mule at 54 pounds.
STOPPING POWER
Although it is smaller than other shotgun gauges, 28 gauge ammo is still a powerful and effective gauge, capable of taking down small and medium-sized game with ease.
ACCURATE
The 28 gauge shotgun is known for its accuracy, making it a popular choice for clay shooting and other shooting sports. This is especially true for competitive shooting. For example, skeet shooters often consider 28 gauge shells to be consistent and accurate compared to similar shotgun gauges.
VERSATILE
28 gauge shells can be used for a wide range of hunting and shooting activities, including upland bird hunting, small game hunting, and clay shooting. There is also a wide variety of 28 gauge ammunition available, including birdshot, buckshot, slugs, and target loads, making it easy to find the right ammo for the task at hand.
ENVIRONMENTAL
Due to strict regulations in some areas, lead shot ammunition is prohibited for hunting waterfowl or other similar bird species. Lead shot alternatives are necessary for effective conservation, and 28 gauge steel shot is often considered a great substitution.
28 Gauge Shells FAQ
QUESTION: Is 28 gauge ammo common?
ANSWER: Although not as common as the 12 gauge, the 28 gauge shotgun cartridge is still a popular round among some demographics. It’s often used by skeet shooters in the small bore class, who appreciate it’s low recoil and easy manageability. It’s also used by upland hunters for hunting quail, pheasant, and grouse, among other ground-dwelling game birds.
QUESTION: How many pellets are in 28 gauge shotgun shells?
ANSWER: The number of pellets found in 28 gauge shotgun shells depends on the shot size the shooter opts for. The 28 gauge always holds three-quarter ounce of shot, regardless of the size of pellets. In 28 gauge, shot size No. 6 has 169 pellets. Shot size No. 7.5 has 262. Shot size No. 8 features 307 pellets and shot size No. 9 has 439. Slugs have one projectile.
QUESTION: What can you use a 28 gauge shotgun for?
ANSWER: The 28 gauge shotgun shell is most popular among skeet shooters in the small bore class. These shooters like the light recoil and easy manageability of the 28 gauge, which can still hit and explore clay pigeons. It’s also a popular round among upland game bird hunters and those who harvest geese, mallards, and dove.
QUESTION: What is the difference between 28 gauge and .410 bore?
ANSWER: While the 28 gauge and .410 bore have a similar bore diameter, the 28 gauge has a longer shell and typically has a larger powder charge, resulting in higher velocities and more effective shot patterns.
QUESTION: What is the effective range of 28 gauge ammo?
ANSWER: The effective range of 28 gauge ammo depends on several factors, including the shot size, choke, and barrel length, but it's generally considered effective out to around 30-35 yards
QUESTION: What is the recoil like on 28 gauge ammo?
ANSWER: The recoil on 28 gauge ammo is generally low, making it an excellent choice for shooters who prefer less felt recoil.
QUESTION: What are the typical shot sizes for 28 gauge ammo?
ANSWER: The shot sizes for 28 gauge ammo typically range from #4 to #9, with #6 and #7 1/2 being the most popular for upland bird hunting.
QUESTION: Which is bigger 12 gauge, 20 gauge, 28 gauge, or .410 ammo?
ANSWER: When comparing different sized shotgun shells, the 12 gauge is the biggest, followed by the 16 gauge, then the 20 gauge, the 28 gauge, and lastly, the .410 bore. There is a 10 gauge shotgun cartridge, although it is not as popular as the 12 gauge.