Danger, Danger, Danger!!! Shotgun Destructive Test

[@Me2Lancer]

Thank you Mike. Like you, I expected the barrel to erupt but by comparison that would have been much less severe. This devastation is incredible. It's almost beyond imagination. People need to see this and take heed.

[@jakeoutdoors9600]

All new 20 gauge shotgun shells are supposed to be yellow. Other gauges are not supposed to be yellow. Care is still needed, I have old 20 gauge shells that are green. There are a few unsafe shotgun combos, and many unsafe rifle combos. However the 20 in the 12 is the most notorious. Whenever your gun does something wrong like a click or a pop or the action feels funny stop and evaluate. Its worth the time to make sure you are not about to have an accident. Great video, and happy safe shooting everyone!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks Jake - wise words - the safe shooting part.

[@john-paulsilke893]

I had a 500 S&W crack it’s forcing cone and it also had a micro fracture in one of the cylinders as a result. As I was pulling the trigger it felt gritty so I stopped and opened the action. It felt gritty so I shined a light on it and it looked odd so I stopped shooting and brought it to my smith.

[@jakeoutdoors9600]

@@john-paulsilke893 Wow. That's scary. Theses a lot of pressure in a 500 mag. What caused the fracture? Only asking because I shoot and reload for a 500 smith.

[@john-paulsilke893]

Not sure exactly. I watch Jerry shoot five rounds in under a second and tried multiple times to duplicate his antics. However in theory that shouldn’t have done it but perhaps bigger the timing. Timing was still true so this wasn’t the cause. Perhaps a micro fracture during manufacturing? Again they didn’t say but simply replaced the defective gun. However before they replaced it my gunsmith who also had a store told them to replace it from his stock, and they approved. Then eleven months later a new replacement showed up in my post. I had two new guns! I immediately called and tried to return the second gun, but since it was already registered to me, (I live in Canada) they said it was more hassle then it was worth because the gun was now “used”. The person I felt with simply asked that I relay my excellent experience in lieu of sending it back! 😊

[@vpenkov4908]

I thought it was only Federal's color scheme

[@Phoenix88.]

I thought the locking was stronger than the barrel too! Usually the barrel deforms significantly before the locking lugs fail. Demolition ranch blew up a rotating bolt winchester shotgun by filling the entire barrel with lead shot and the bolt remained intact. Perhaps you could try things like double charges of powder and 3.5 inch shells in shorter chambers to see what it takes to damage a seemingly strong and robust pump shotgun. These videos are extremely informative and entertaining thank you so much for making them!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Phoenix - I'll look that video up - thanks for mentioning. Rotating bolt - could be a Winchester 1300 - I don't think that would have failed with the 20 in the bore - but one never knows. Thanks for the good words and thank you for watching and writing.

[@Phoenix88.]

Modern shotguns are very strong and safe. Fabbri, an italian Over-Under shotgun maker, tests their guns by firing a proof load behind a 20 gauge shell in both barrels at the same time! Pressures exceed 50,000 psi in those tests and the guns don't blow up!

[@evanmarks7912]

Phoenix AF why

[@BilgePump]

Phoenix AF; If correct, that’s some sexy shit right there. I’d like to see it in slow mo.

[@Southernguitar74]

Wow...I have heard of this several times over the years but had never actually seen it. You wanted my undivided attention? You got it.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

I still can't believe the damage - glad no one's face was involved.

[@pseudopetrus]

Thank you so much for bringing this safety concern up. I have been warned about this before, but your video drives this safety concern home! I think if there was a shooter behind the gun in your test, it would have been a very sad closed casket funeral.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Gulp...I can't imagine that injury and you're right - could well have been fatal. I actually had to watch the video several times as the bolt velocity is so high - at first it is as if it just seemed like it just disappeared. We don't want any funerals - at least not this way - no 20s with 12s around would be ideal.

[@rdek99]

Great video, sir! I just did my firearms safety course (compulsory in Canada for licensing) before Christmas, and this scenario was explained by the instructor when we were covering the shotgun section of the material. Thanks for this demonstration - it really drove the lesson home, to say the least!!! I'm pretty new to the channel, by the way, and I wanted to chime in to say that I'm loving the content. Cheers!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thank you rdek99! I'm glad you're here. Huge firearms community worldwide!

[@prevost8686]

Thanks for the video. Very informative and I have heard of this happening but I never expected it to be that catastrophic.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

I was surprised as well Wayne - I thought the barrel would burst.

[@SmokeDogNY420]

Well there's something not easily forgettable.....cool video, well done

[@boogalooblues3931]

Excellent new opening! Your channel has grown and matured very well

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks! Still primitive but it works at some level. : )

[@zh3401]

Excellent presentation sir, truly. I have used this in firearms safety classes many times to demonstrate how easy it could be to create a potentially deadly situation from simple lack of attention to detail. While you may not have state of the art camera gear to film high speed events the results speak volumes. I was told a similar tale as a young hunter. My father insisted on only two gauges of shotgun in the blind, 410 or 12 gauge. That mitigated some risk I suppose. Assumption is that you have some facilities to contain such a destructive testing. Be safe sir, we cannot afford to lose such a knowledgeable and humble man as yourself.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thank you ZH!

[@normanmallory2055]

This is good in fact very good that you show us this dangerous mixup /mistake between gauges .. I did the same test oh 45 years ago but used an old double barrel shotgun.. I dropped a 20 gauge in each barrels, loaded 12 gauge shells in on top closed the action , roped the barrel of the old tire, butt stock inside the tire. Rigged up the trip wire , cocked both hammers and hid behind a barricade pulled the trip wire.. The result was both barrels ruptured wide open 10" forward of the 12 gauge shells.. The action stayed closed on that old 12 gauge shotgun .. ( Years ago I was given the old double barrel shotgun and I just hung onto it) When the barrels ruptured it blew the for end off.. I showed it to two different gunsmith and fellow hunters. It was a campfire conversation piece when we camped out hunting for a number of years. It was a classic and what the old timers told me would happen did..

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks for sending this! Based on the letters I've received I have a hunch this sort of thing happens more often than I thought. I hope everyone reads your post.

[@raydavies7328]

Frightening, (a wild guess be me), 20 grains or so of propellant translates into such distruction. Your excellent video of the dangers are much appreciated! Thank you.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Ray - wish I fully understood what happened - I may try to cut the barrel in half length wise.

[@lukedog7028]

My folks that trained me to shoot and hunt said to never fear asking any questions about shells or safety issues with a gun. Made it clear that I wouldn’t get in trouble for asking or telling them what had happened with Guns or ammo. I think this was a very good practice

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

You had the best people; hopefully still do. I was told the only stupid question about anything is the question not asked.

[@willypp13]

Amazing video, USOG knows his stuff and saving lives

[@paulsimmons5726]

I've got a pair of 20ga double barrels so all of my shells are 20's. My grandfather's old Stevens is a 12ga that's been retired to the back of the gun safe, no 12ga shells in the house. Swapping rifle rounds is something I've seen happen also and the rifle is usually trashed, same thing with 9mm and 40's/45's handguns. Glad you made this video, it may make someone double check their firearm before they have a really bad day. My condolences to the 12ga's family!

[@roeng1368]

One reason i prefer a break action gun, over a magazine fed shotgun, you can check the barrels at a glance for obstructions.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Me too - and now even more so.

[@RickNethery]

Excellent job on this video. Thank You for taking the initiative to make this important safety message, and for reinforcing it with a demonstration of what could happen. Excellent job.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks Rick!

[@RickNethery]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns You're Welcome

[@rickpaul9565]

Thanks for putting up this video ! I've heard of the 20/12 danger before but, as others have mentioned, there aren't any other videos on KZbin showing this. The locking lugs failing ..... bolt coming back through the back of the receiver ..... WHEW ! One of the dangers with .22 LR's are squib loads. One of the things I greatly emphasize with my sons is that if something doesn't sound or feel right when shooting to STOP and figure out what is wrong, no exceptions. A squib load in a .22 LR. is bad. A basically a squib load in a 12 gauge shotgun is BAAAAAAAAD ON STEROIDS. (20/12 squib difference being, of course, the "squib" is charged and hot) Again, THANKS for this very important video !

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thank you Rick! What a horrible injury that bolt would have caused or even worse. You're saving not just your sons - but all the people they tell and now the video can help everyone understand how bad things can get - over something that seems not so serious. I learned a lot myself. Pressure kills.

[@blackirish781]

Iraqveteran8888 did the test years ago, but it wasn't this catastrophic, not even close.

[@wiregrassga]

In a similar situation, at our gun club years ago. A man had a nice custom '03 Springfield rebarreled to .25-06. He mistakenly placed a .308 Win in the magazine and being a controlled round feed, the cartridge was held against the bolt face when he fired the rifle. The barrel was split and bulged ahead of the receiver and the forearm blown away. He was lucky to escape with only minor injury.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Amazing what the rifles can endure. Great that nothing too tragic happened - and the 03 held : )

[@wtcausby]

Good demonstration. Very informative!!

[@krookpd01]

Man,I have that same Steven's 12 ga.... 1st gun I ever bought, was 15 and my brother had to sign for it....still got it today

[@MegaBoilermaker]

A very instructive video for those new to shotgunning. On the subject of accidents/stupidity a person of my aqaintance many years ago used to let his children play with his (unloaded) Ithaca slide action shotgun, this involved repeatedly "dry firing" it. My Father advised him against this irresponsible behaviour but he refused to listen One day on the clay range the gun detonated whilst the slide was closing because the firing pin had fatigued/broken and jammed across the end of the slide/breech block hitting the cartridge primer before the breech block locking lugs had time to engage. You are probably aware of the consequences. This is why I do not allow any of my offspring to "Dry Fire" ANY GUN.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi George - I hope everyone reads your note. The "jammed in place" broken firing pin is serious. I've heard of it - but not in the Ithaca.

[@aaronbuckmaster7063]

Gosh, that barrel held. I’m surprised. I have a 12 ga with a barrel pealed open like a banana that I used to use for hunter safety classes. Excellent demonstration. That will get peoples attention, I hope. That kind of failure is deadly in a field situation.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Aaron - I still wonder how that barrel made it. I would bet on barrel failure every time - except this time. The firer would have been in bad shape.

[@joeesposito5101]

The 20ga. primer may have bulged out as it had no bolt face to back it up. Great video!

[@Beesa10]

An excellent demonstration of the potential danger if a 20 gauge cartridge is put in to a 12 gauge gun. The way the gun failed in this case in all probability would have been fatal.

[@John1911]

Some theories on the 20 gauge in your test: The 20 is not in a supported chamber. So if you did get a sympathetic detonation of the 20, the plastic hull would split where it’s powder sits. Thus separation front and back. Now...the hull left behind was never designed to flow down a barrel. Especially a 12 gauge barrel. The plastic can flow under heat and pressure. Expanding into the barrel. Combining with the wad most likely. Acting like a giant, yellow and white minie’-ball until it stops like a speed brake somewhere down the line. That plastic mass and barrel were eating pressure until the back end opened up first. Thus dropping pressure in barrel. Like you, I would have thought the barrel gives first. But I’m not familiar with the lock on that shotgun design. Interesting video. Regards, Marky

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Very helpful Marky - everything went wrong. I thought the barrel would burst or the shell would exit the muzzle - instead everything went the other way. Never saw that coming. Thanks for taking the time to explain.

[@John1911]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns "I be a collage grad-you-it". ;-) -Marky

[@worddunlap]

I had never thought of that scenario and I suppose I should have. I like a 20 gauge and if the ammo were cheaper I'd have one. Great video, I don't think anyone else has done that on YT. If so I've not seen it. My spine is damaged and the recoil of a full power 12 gauge is out of the question but today with the Internet I can buy 12 gauge shells downloaded to lower power. Cheek to jowl is an idiom meaning from the side of the mouth to the neck or a very bad injury in the way it is used. I was at the local range and in the lane next to me I noticed the guy putting on a welding mask (armor for his face), thick gloves and a leather jacket. I asked him what he was preparing to do and he advised me he had a squib and was going to attempt to fire it out. The range is unattended but more importantly up winding mountain roads from the nearest hospital. Even by helicopter the trip would take more than half an hour if the weather was ideal. I do carry a full first aid kit capable of handling gunshot wounds, bleeding etc but I don't know if I would have used it on such a stupid person. I told him to hold on a minute and I loaded up my guns and left. I was curious but didn't want to get blood splattered all over me and my stuff. A friend that did stay told me the guy lost a good bit of his hand. Darwinism is a valid theory for some things.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

My goodness....some people...all that to fire a squib load. Thanks for the explanation of the expression!

[@john-paulsilke893]

That’s insane! Gunsmiths aren’t actually that expensive and only cost a couple boxes of ammo for such a fix.

[@aaronwilcox5673]

Thanks for creating this content of video. I really enjoy your channel, as in it's my favorite 3-5 channels I actually watch. The content isn't over the top and your a good presenter.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks Aaron - I try and appreciate that you are here.

[@johncherry2205]

So glad that was not a Winny model 12, I was nearly crying until you said it was nit a Winchester.

[@Hickory4848]

If one goes to your "Settings" gear icon at the bottom of the screen, you can choose a slower playback speed. But, there's only so many frames per second recorded so that even at .25 speed, starting at 2:50 into the video, one still won't see too much more detail. My theory as to why the 20 ga ignited is that even though we all know that smokeless or even black powders don't really explode but rather burn very fast, they will explode, or detonate, under very high pressures, such as in a pipe bomb. I'm still amazed the barrel didn't blow out. Excellent training video. You join Hickok 45 and GunBlue 490 as top shelf firearm experts. And of course Miculec. My hats off to the (probably NRA) instructors that mentioned this issue, lo many decades ago when I was a teen taking my New York State hunter safety course,

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thank you for your supportive words and I agree - an unusual failure - I thought the barrel would fail as well. Maybe the 20 in a 12 won't happen much or at all. All the best.

[@andrewbobro3374]

At my hunter safety course, the only thing i teally recall was the 12-20 syndrome, and how to navigate a fence. Fast forward after almost 40 years of hunting, and i get the 12-20. I was shooting dove at dusk with my 12, and i felt a shell that felt "skinny" when i dropped it in. It was just about dark. I stopped, and then realized that i dropped a 20 into my Beretta 693 12 gauge. If i wasnt so aware of what a 12 feels like vs a 20......who knows. What happened is that i was using my Filson vest that i hunted quail with the week before, and had accidentally left a single 20 in one of the pouches. Yikes

[@plumbandsquare1]

I will keep an eye out for this! Thank you for the experiment.

[@RobFlesher]

I would surmise that the incredible pressure( generated from having a 20 gauge shell in the forcing cone, " pipe bomb") and heat from the 12 gauge shell being fired instantly melted the plastic of the 20 gauge shell. Thus, allowing the powder charge of that shell to ignite, and BOOM! The results are clear! Great test!

[@markjones3985]

Excellent video as always. Would like to see more of these “different” style videos, as long as you can do them safely!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Mark - me too; sorry I can't do more variety for now; so little time - but I have many ideas and things to share : ) Thanks for writing.

[@453421abcdefg12345]

I think that if the blockage was further down the barrel it would have burst the barrel, but being so close to the chamber the pressure has gone out the back, I have seen a Ruger No1 where a similar blow up occurred, the shooter was shooting two calibres on the day, and had cartridges for both calibres in his pocket, in the heat of the moment, (driven Boar),a smaller diameter cartridge was dropped in, (no sure what the two calibres were, but it did the same as your experiment), it dropped in far enough to allow the correct round to be chambered, on firing the whole barrel and action was destroyed, the shooter receiving only repairable damage. Stay safe! Chris B.

[@ulflyng]

Thx for sharing. Knowledge is costly. In so many ways

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Wise words.

[@gregwalker4236]

excellent warning. i have no doubt you're saving lives here. hunting with partners using different gauges is almost a given in murphy's law. familiarity with your firearm is necessary for safety, but we all know famialarity can breed contempt or inattention. a little group prayer for safety before hitting the field or range, and knowing your partners skill level and susceptibility to advice goes a long way. my dad said on driving--keep your eyes out of the cockpit and assume you're going to have an accident--stay alert...

[@thesheepman220]

I did see a 12 gauge over and under shotgun with front of the barrels blow open , the story was he was hunting in the snow and somehow the barrels filled up with compacted snow a few inches that’s all , that was enough for it to blow up , I think it was a Lincoln shotgun he had the shotgun hanging up in my local gunshop, but I don’t actually agree with leaving my 20 gauge behind because everybody else has 12 gauge , that could be said for 28 , 16 ,410 a accident could happen with any of these mixed gauges, be more aware of what shells you are putting in your shotgun, and like someone said 20 gauge are yellow now , I think different gauges should have their own colour shells I think that would help , like 410 - red , 28 - blue , 20 - yellow , 16 - green , 12 - clear , 10 - black , something like that would be a better in more instance identification of gauge

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Ouch! Now it must be a "coach" gun ; )

[@stephensmith4480]

I also was expecting the Barrel to rupture. That was incredible and I certainly would not like to be holding a gun,when that happens. As you said,that particular Shotgun has a stout steel receiver. I would not like to see the result on a modern alloy one. I can imagine the whole action just bursting apart.

[@dangerousfreedom4965]

Great vid

[@trapdoorspringfieldmodel1888]

I remember learning about this in hunter's education, but there are no words that can describe the brutality that your demonstration conveys of such an incident. Another shotgun danger that people routinely engage in is the resting of the muzzle end on their foot. That is an extremely bad habit that can easily result in a nasty foot injury. The biggest firearms safety fail that I ever encountered happened at an end of summer party I attended only a few years ago. The party was for Forest Service employees and their families and the host of the party wanted to show off their brand new derringer. Now most if not all the guests were gun people so they are interested in seeing the firearm. So, the host came out with it and started waving it around like it was a squirt gun. That immediately drew my concern, but my fellow guests didn't speak up because they were afraid of offending the host. This went on for a few minutes as the host went up to various people showing them the firearm and waving it all over the place. Then the host came up to me with the firearm and the first thing I specifically asked was if the gun was actually loaded (I assume all guns are loaded unless I have personally checked that they aren't). While I am asking the question the derringer in .22 LR is pointed at my stomach with a finger on the trigger. The host answered that the gun was indeed loaded, but that is okay as the safety was on. I explained that such devices can and do fail and that every gun manual says so. At that point instead of just simply unloading the firearm the host threw a temper tantrum and put the gun away. While the host was putting the gun away I was thanked by various guests for standing up to such blatant disregard for safe gun handling. I thought to myself while they were doing that why didn't they say something before I did. Also of interest is that the nearest hospital was 40 miles away from the party so if the safety failed I or someone else would have likely been killed. Of note is that the host wasn't a novice or new to firearms, but had been around them their entire life. A firearm safety issue can happen with a momentary lapse in concentration, the shirking of speaking up when one is evident, etc. Your safety demonstration is not only appreciated, but reinforces that such lapses can indeed result in serious injury or death. The gentleman with the 1897 freely shared information not knowing whether you knew it or not. I do the same as I don't mind if someone tells me they already know what I am saying because the one time I don't is the one time that it will be a person who doesn't. Your safety demonstration is certainly appreciated and that shotgun is indeed nobel.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Trapdoor! What a chilling story and that dynamic you describe so well - where no one wants to offend is so difficult. You had the courage and I wish everyone was like you. We should speak up. Those derringers and short barreled weapons are so difficult to track and control - in terms of muzzle and where a shot would go (or two). Thanks for sharing and I hope many people read what you have to say. We must intervene. I had to make a video on the 20/12 risk - to let people know - I had no idea things would go so wrong though.

[@john-paulsilke893]

Very important separate rule set we forget to spout off like the standard firearms safety rules are the firearm range rules. Rule #1 is EVERYONE is a range safety officer with the most senior officer being the first person on the range regardless of qualifications or age. This is a classic example of avoiding discomfort even at the expense of safety. Clearly the right decision but not everyone is capable hence the range rules that run parallel to our universal safety rules. Remember we break those rules every time we clean our guns, but only one at a time and it’s perfectly safe to do so. But breaking even one “range” rule can result in fatalities. This may make an excellent future video since not all new shooters even go to ranges.

[@ryannelson2162]

Excellent educational video old boy. It may save some poor soles life.

[@tasunko7672]

"surprising things happen". LOL Excellent video. Thank you.

[@Hill_Billy_Without_A_Hill]

I remember seeing a 870 12 gauge shotgun, that someone (I think was my cousin, but not sure) reloaded some shotshells to hot years ago, and the receiver and barrel had bulged. It was ruined for sure.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

I've seen a few guns lost to overloads - pressure can do remarkable things to steel - as I learned.

[@russellmiller212]

Fantastic and essential footage!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks Russell - I was surprised at how much went wrong.

[@maxscholz7734]

Very interesting Video about gun safety! In germany we use in most cases break barrel shotguns for hunting. Other kinds of shotguns are used too but rare. It's not seen so often. So it was not on my personal list that an accident could happen in that way! I learned something new how to handle such a shotgun more aware! Thank you for that!😊🙋‍♂️🇩🇪🇺🇸

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thank you Max!

[@michaelbarret1147]

Killer video!!!! Well don sir. Best you tube gun vid ive ever seen!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thank you Michael!

[@mattefinnish8411]

Interesting. Reminds me of when I tried to load a round nose .308 Winchester cartridge into a Marlin 30-30 magazine. Thankfully, it wouldn't enter and I caught my mistake. Lesson learned.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Matte - I should make a video of all the things people sent me that went wrong. Plenty of easy to make errors.

[@wizardofahhhs759]

I'm not sure if it's possible because I've never checked but I have to constantly double check myself to make certain I don't stick a 3.5" shell in my guns chambered for 2.75 - 3". Sometimes when you have two guns that look the same it's easy to mix up ammo. For example an 870 Mag and SuperMag.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Great point - sometimes things go not too badly but if things go really wrong - as in this test - my goodness the injuries can be severe or worse.

[@John1911]

If we are being honest, I tell the story from 20 years ago where I loaded a 45 1911 with 40S&W. Pulled the trigger 3 times. 3 different holes WAY off bullseye. And 3 different malfunctions. It was the 3rd time that I said, “hey? Maybe tap-rack isn’t the remedy here?”. I was SHOCKED white as a ghost when I realized my error. It. Can. Happen. Regards, Marky

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Wow! I had no idea that could happen. Thanks for sharing. We can learn from one another.

[@john-paulsilke893]

I never saw that particular incident but I did see piles of brass that was clearly wrong caliber fired and distorted. Easily a dozen or more cases on the ground with the perpetrator no where in sight. Probably not too dangerous for the shooter but I imagine the amount of unburied powder pouring out of the ejection port must have been significant and could have hurt the person to his right.

[@michaelfiaschetti772]

Thanks very informative

[@commonconservative7551]

is that Nobel a slam-fire type?.........was the trigger still compressed as if to slamfire the next round?

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

I think so.

[@bback74]

I've heard of this before (also in rifles) but a reminder is always good. Thank you!

[@edwardweiszbeck1649]

Your videos are great

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks Edward!

[@mrparlanejxtra]

Newtons laws were all right there. Especially the third law, that every action has an equal and opposite reaction. This scenario was shown in the British TV drama 'Midsomer Murders where someone deliberately left a 20g she'll up the spout so that another person would kill themselves by "accident" however inspector Banaby solved it by knowing of the issue. The question may come up, which has greater recoil, A 20g. one oz load or a 12g. one ounce load? According to Newton, who is right, if it is one ounce each, the kick is the same.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Amazing James - I'll have to find that show - smart production; I didn't expect everything to go wrong the way it did.

[@johnkendall6962]

Maybe not, the weight of the powder is also in the equation and 12 guages usually use more powder and felt recoil depends on the weight of the gun and stock design. but really you are right accelerate the same weight to the same speed in the same time it doesn't matter 20g or 12g or even 28g the recoil is the same

[@mrparlanejxtra]

If the charge is designed to make the load do the same speed, and is of equal weight, the recoil will be equal, assuming the guns are the same weight. the weight of the powder will have some bearing but things are improving all the time. Steel shot has been made to go faster over the years to try and make go further or hit harder.

[@jimf1964]

I'm not familiar with this gun, as much as I want to buy one, but modern shotgun barrels are basically held on by a thread. Like it's literally a plastic screw holding the barrel on my pump. Do you think it is different with this gun, or as you said, something like a shape charge? I'd love to see the inside if you're ever able to disassemble it. Very sobering either way. Thanks so much.

[@shawnwells5719]

One of the reasons I don't own a 20 gauge shotgun, in addition to not having a need for one.

[@stevedouglas5443]

Seems like the only part left that can be used is the slide handle. The rest of the gun is.destroyed. I've never heard of this before. I have read that a squib load resulting in a bullet lodged in the barrel can do similar things. Thank you for this.

[@despereau]

an excellent and superb video!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thank you despereau!

[@mikek8089]

Also be cautious with reloaded ammo! As a young man many moons ago, I worked at a trap shooting club. Anyway...an older gentleman was shooting a Remington 1100, and shooting reloads. One load that he had was primed but had no power charge, so the plastic wadd lodged in the barrel. Why he didn't check the bore is beyond me! I was working on the range one over from where this happened, so I didn't see the gun blow up. Had this "misfire" happened on my range, I would've cleared the line and had him check the firearm! Long story short....the left side of the receiver blew off and caught him in his left cheek, peeling his cheek all the way back to his ear! So we know, bad things can happen with ANY barrel obstruction! Let's be careful out there fellow shooters!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hey Mike K - I felt that one - ouch - clear description of a ghastly injury! Those stuck wads are a pain - and you're right - one must check the bore. I knew several trap shooters who reloaded and they told me that if you reload you just about have to use a break open single or double - you can so easily look down the bore. I thought that was good advice. Your last sentence is golden. Thanks for writing.

[@jamestranquilli600]

The primer did fire it doesn't have to be hit directly it cooked off from pressure and heat thats why it's backed out

[@dagsabot5589]

The xylophone in the background, used to good dramatic effect.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Dag - : ) I'll listen for it.

[@ruzzellp]

Thanks

[@wiregrassga]

A recent English detective story used this as part of a murder plot. By placing a 20 ga. shell in the chamber of a double 12 ga.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Now that is interesting.

[@simonsms410]

Maybe side by side shotguns have a stronger action? I have done a similar test with two spanish 12/70 shotguns from the 60's. Both held up (without visible damage, but very tight action) with a 20 ga round in the forcing cone and a high velocity 12 ga steel shot behind. I was suppressed that both guns survived, pressure must have been at least 3x regular pressure.

[@Me2Lancer]

Thanks for sharing a word for the wise.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

You're welcome!

[@asimseth1927]

Very informative video. In fact you should also do a video on shotguns which are old and functional, not rusted to an obvious extent. how can we tell we need to go to a gunsmith for bluing fixing of pitting or tightening of actions

[@camshaftshaft2711]

Also if you purchase a old shot gun get the barrels checked I was at the range the other day the fella beside me had a old side by side shotgun he had just purchased from a old fella at the auction ! The first round he put in it blew the side of the barrel apart taking some skin off the side of his head he was very lucky if that metal hit him dead on I don’t think he would be here still needless to say we found the piece of the barrel over 25 feet away scary stuff ! If they are old no matter how great they look get them checked ! I could tell from metal discoloured in different spots in the crack that this had been about to fail for awhile and it could have been prevented if it was checked by a smith !

[@deviantsid18]

Had a buddy put a 270 into a 7mm rifle and blew the gun up sending wooden fragments of his stock into my boot. Always check your ammo and segregate.

[@martyadams3915]

Had that happen in an old jc higgins bolt 12 ga. I had some green 20 ga shells and green 12 ga shells and had gotten a 20 mixed into my bag of 12's. It was just befor last shooting light and the leaves were still on the trees making it harder to see. I got into three or 4 squirells and shot my mag empty and was feeding them by hand. The gun didnt fire so i bolted that shell out while not taking my eyes off the running squirell and tossed in another shell. This time it fired i was blinded by the flash and it scared me pretty bad. Once i settled down i saw that my bolt was open and first thought was the single lug had failed to lock. I went home and looked in the barrel and there was a blockage. I used my brass ram rod from my kentucky rifle and pushed it out. A green melted chunk of plastic from a 20 ga. Shell. All said the gun was fine i figgured the lock up must have been so weak it opened so easy it relieved the presure fast enough to save me. I knew i was lucky and never told my parents. I was 13 years old at the time that happened.

[@jonathanmays2600]

RIP shotgun, sacrifice for science. Jowls are the cut of meat from the cheek of a pig, but commonly used as southern slang for anyones cheek or jaw, especially when referring to an injury.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks Jonathan - I knew what the old fellow meant but didn't really know the expression. Bad injury. I often wondered - years later - whether he put that shell in his Dad's gun.

[@jonathanmays2600]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns be a guilty thing to live with. Easy way to assassinate your hunting partner and get away with it though...

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hey Jonathan - one of the comments here is about a show or movie where that is exactly what happens. Someone murders someone with a 20 in 12 barrel. Interesting world.

[@litoneup]

Hey Johnny jowls is the loose skin under the chin, similar to turkey hangings.

[@vanillagorilla6845]

Is there any other dangerous combinations? Like maybe 410 in a 20 gauge? Or rifle cartridges? Interesting video. Thanks

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hey Vanilla - nothing quite like the 20 in a 12. The 410 slides through any other gauge. The 16 won't fit in the forcing cone of a 12. The 12 in a 10 I'll have to check - I think I did already but don't remember. I

[@jakeoutdoors9600]

Look up 300 blackout in 223 or 308 in 270. There are many bad combos. That's why we need to be sure of our ammunition.

[@vanillagorilla6845]

Jake Outdoors yeah haven’t thought of those. I always check the box of ammo I grab but I think I’ll be checking headstamps too from now on

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks Jake!

[@justacentrist4147]

Stoger made a double Barrel with a 12 and a 20 barrel. That just seemed like a recipe for this vary accident

[@RolandImfeld]

Thank You Mike for this Video and for your sacrifice your Shotgun for it. What I am always skocked about is the total UN-AWARENESS of Hunters when it comes to handle and loading their Rifle or Gun.. Of Course we are all Human and Fails can happen - technically or human - BUT its the ROUTINE which is the Poison .. As a Shooter or Hunter with the Permission to move and shoot in Public Areas you have to be and to train your Awareness every Day... theres no Excuse to not to check and control your Equipment several Times bevore leaving the House and go for hunting. Theres no excuse to not to make sure, that you know the local Situation, which Animal you are pretending to hunt, which Weapon you might wanna use for and which Ammo is for this Hunt to use... Theres no Excuse to not to clear all your Bags on Clothes and your Huntingbag to make sure that there's ONLY the Tools and the Ammo chosen for THIS specific Local type of Hunt . The Reason Accidents like this happens is ROUTINE and forgotten AWARENESS.. I can not shout it out loud enough.. even the 20Gauge Cartridge is YELLOW - no other Cartridge - at least I know - in 12Gauge is Yellow - so if you are a responsible Hunter an Shooter or Gunmen... Be aware, know your Tools and check them 3Times if necessary.

[@99corncob]

I fully expected the barrel to burst in these conditions, as well, and it is a testament to the strength of the steel in the barrel that it did not. i witnessed this sort of catastrophic barrel burst, and it did not end well or the shooter. The barrel was split over its entire length like the peel of a banana and the shooter went to the hospital. He recovered, but then had to face his wife's wrath when he returned home. The barrel failure was due to him stupidly overcharging his 12 ga reloads, and his wife forbade him from reloading anything in the future.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Sorry about what happened to the shooter. These things happen though and most of the time, the folks that have an accident or make a mistake are the safest people of all afterwards...just my humble perspective. You're right - I also thought the barrel would fail. Anyway, sure is tricky carrying both shells.

[@Dylan-on2gh]

I think the 20g shell travel down the barrel till the pressure was high enough to set off all the powder in the 20g at once. No progressive burn just an explosion of pressure maybe 400k psi . I wonder if you put the powder charge and shot for the 2 shells combined would the result be the same? I doubt it. An explosion to set of an even bigger explosion.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Dylan - You're likely right and anyway - when pressures get this high it's not easy to predict what happens. I thought the barrel would burst. Thanks for the note.

[@bosstube9046]

This is why I always try to take the same Gauge as whatever my partener is using or vise versa and NEVER take a 20 gauge when I know 12s will be present

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi bosstube - I'm the same; so easy for anyone to make a mistake in the excitement of hunting.

[@bosstube9046]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns the way I see it always better to be safe than sorry

[@chrisfangeat6651]

I would like to see the same test with an 870. It's receiver is closed at the rear. I have a feeling that would blow the barrel

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

I think so too.

[@walliehart2055]

good video. once saw a 7mm barrel peal like a banana. the boy had a bore sighter stuck in it and decided to shoot it out. smh

[@averagejoe5130]

For sale: Slightly used Nobel 12 gauge pump action shotgun. Very smooth action. May need a new stock.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

: ) : ) hahahahah - "and low round count" hahahaha - great sense of humor AJ - thanks!

[@roadrunner7828]

I'm surprised the action gave up instead of the barrel blowing out.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Me too. The physics people tell me how it all happened - but I still can't believe how it all came undone.

[@mikebeddingfield2144]

Hunting is a long b movie capped off by panic.

[@normanmallory2055]

Hi, this comment is directed to your adventure with your .30 caliber smooth bore rifle .. I gave your adventure some more thought and have additional information that you may find helpful .. Oregon Trail Bullets who is famous for their silver bullets and bullet hardness ( i have used them for years ).. In their line of TruShot rifle and handgun bullets is two bullets in .30 caliber, first bullet is 170 grain and (.309 diameter) and 200 grain also (.309 diameter ) both are gas checked and the BH is 26 that's very hard.. For a very small investment for 1 box of .309 diameter bullets it's possible you would have a better bore to bullet fit or tighter to the bore .. Just might be the correct fit ratio.. Just one more idea as it came to me that perhaps the bullet does not need to be a jacketed bullet to find out the results you want . ..

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thank you Norman! I will contact them.

[@mattyv7499]

Explosive gasses are like water and take the path of least resistance. The barrel would have been completely sealed so tight that it had no other way to go other than through the action and shearing the locking surfaces sending that bolt out. You probably would have been seriously maimed or killed there.

[@regsparkes6507]

"A picture is worth a thousand words." as the quote goes,...this is proof of that! Some others might well say," 'nuff said."

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

So true Reg - things went so wrong, so fast; didn't expect the outcome.

[@bobquigley1957]

This is why I don't have a 300 blackout. All it takes is to mix up one into your 223/5.56 ammo and the results are catastrophic. Just one.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Bob - That's a post I hope everyone reads!

[@zayacz123]

If anyone wants to slow the video down, there are 3 dots in the top right of the screen on KZbin videos, at least on an iPad. If you touch it, you can reduce or increase the speed of the video.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks Ed - I didn't know that. Very helpful.

[@stephanematis]

nice intro

[@bradd7423]

I think if your 20 gauge shell had been lead shot it might of pushed through but beings it was steel it couldn't squeeze through the barrel

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Could be Brad D - so many things went on and went wrong.

[@daryltrawick7793]

If they have you demonetized they are running ads every few minutes on your videos.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

I'll have a look - thanks again.

[@Twistedspeedo]

Great!

[@b0rd3n]

Thats the exact reason why all 20g shells are yellow

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Good point and the many and varied colors of older 20 Gauge shells are marked "20 Gauge" - but it is easy to get confused. I have some old 20 Gauge shells that are red, others purple - but you're right - they're less and less common as time goes by.

[@resolute123]

Makes me have second guess getting 20 gauge adapters for 12 gauge.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

That's a thought I didn't have. Thank you for the caution.

[@buckshot4428]

The bolt gave way first and most of the pressure went backwards, otherwise the barrel would have burst.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

That sounds right - thank you.

[@LUVDOGS1954]

If you do more similar testing I may have to cancel my monthly Patreon donation as I am not paying for the firearms that you are destroying! Just kidding....very informative, thank you sir.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hahaha! I'll cut back : )

[@DonaldRussell-g9t]

I always look down my barrel before I load my gun.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Good idea - although with some firearms one has to look from the muzzle; which can lead to other problems in the field. I guess what happens is in the excitement of the hunt, people are actively shooting and don't notice that they dropped the wrong shell in. If they were cleaning or thinking - they might check the bore. Probably the best is to run a cleaning rod if the bore can't be examined from the chamber end. Yet few would do this in the seconds or minutes between in coming flights of birds. Still - you're right. Many say if you're shooting a 12 don't carry any other gauge of shell with you. All the best.

[@christinamoneyhan5688]

Respect? That was then . No days you are lucky to have someone hold the door for you.

[@jeffleblanc8850]

Very good video your videos are great quality you have one of the best gun channels on you tube I can imagine what happened to the poor mans face not good good for you on making this great video may save someone from dying or getting hurt real bad

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thank you Jeff - I thought maybe someone seeing it might not get hurt. We'll never know - which is whole idea : )

[@davidlotti5407]

Never mix different shells be it rifle or shotgun !

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

100% David

[@danfaller1089]

Must always wear saftey glasses, 270 in 7mag danger

[@teppokuusisto144]

If you are lucky and shoot/hunt for years and decades you will see lots of accidents on the range or in the nature. If your luck holds, you will only see them, not experience them yourself. Knock-knock

[@chrischiampo7647]

😮😲😮🤕😳 From Cheek To Jaw 😲😮🤕🤕🤕

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

That would be a terrible ripping wound; hope no one loads a 20 near a 12 ever.

[@chrischiampo7647]

USOG Agree Would a 28 Gauge Do The Same in a 20 Gauge I’m Thinking it’s Possible I Don’t Own Either So Cant Say That Must Have Been Horrible To That Guys Father 🤕