12 Gauge vs 16 Gauge: Which is Better?

[@PaulHarrell]

Again, remember that you have not won a prize. It's a scam. Also, I did NOT place that ad for the LL Bean coat. That's not the coat I wear and I'm not endorsing it.

[@covid-19ispsychologicalwar10]

Daaaaang

[@tommycarotenuti3901]

Just bought a model 15! Like it lots!

[@johnladd9885]

Well shit I love pop tarts...

[@jacobcochran51]

I would love for you to do a video on American tactical alpha 15 rifle

[@mothman841]

We win knowledge every time you post. But that is my opinion and I’m not a so called “expert”

[@mtthwpnn]

I've been watching Paul's channel for over 5 years, and I've still yet to see any boring or tedious parts he keeps promising

[@mrpibb7781]

It's become a running theme that we actually look forward to the "boring and tedious" parts of Paul's presentations 😀

[@Kadranos]

I know! I want my money back.

[@warrenharrison9490]

IKR!

[@308dad8]

Well I usually skip past the chronograph shooting because it’s tedious and I skipped through the 12ga shooting skeet in this video because it was tedious enough watching him fire 12 shots and you can’t see the clays burst so there’s no reward in watching it for me. But I like his videos and usually his conclusions are reasonable.

[@robertfrapples2472]

The promises ARE the tedious parts.

[@mattcolumbia7948]

I have to say, it is extremely respectable that you do not edit out misses or malfunctions.

[@Amberlynn_Reid]

Thanks

[@curte7739]

That is why he has the best gun channel on KZbin, No BS.

[@meatpuppet5036]

All part of the data really.

[@Jack-mn7ln]

A truly dangerous man will show you his short comings as well

[@mattcolumbia7948]

@@Jack-mn7ln I like that. Well said.

[@HALWG51]

I started hunting in 1963 with a 16 gauge single shot, and then graduated to a 16 gauge pump. When ammo became really scarce, I switched to a 12 gauge and a 20 gauge, but still kept my 16 gauge guns. Today at 71 years old, I'm back to hunting birds with a 16 gauge Ithaca pump and a 16 gauge O/U. Yes, ammo is tough to find, but if you pay the price it's available. I probably only shoot 1 to 2 boxes a year. For Sporting clays I use a 12 gauge, but sometimes for fun I'll bring out the 16 and shoot a box or 2. I'm still very much a fan of the 16.

[@glentharp716]

Curious as to what pump you used. Was it a stevens 520 by any chance?? That is what mine is, got it from my grandfather and absolutely love it!

[@7Lynes]

Nice to see the 16 gauge being discussed by a professional. Too bad trap/skeet never picked it up.

[@andyd2960]

It's been underrated for many years.

[@chaimafaghet7343]

Trap and skeet is what killed it. A lightweight 16 bore double gun is pretty much the ideal do-all gun in the real world.

[@toddwebb7521]

Back when break action single barrel and double barrel used to be the most common 16 was on the smaller 20 sized frame in most brands of guns, and the motto was "it carries like a 20 but hits like a 12" When pumps and semi autos came along they put 16s on the heavier 12 ga frame size and there's not much point to it when it's not in the lighter 20 ga frame like it was in break actions. If pump 16s we're in 20 ga frame size it would have still been popular with hunters regardless of what trap and skeet did.

[@falsekings-p9z]

Here used 16 cal is about 60 -80 € or dollar. It is decent option for student to get hunting with it.

[@NotALot-xm6gz]

Some skeet shooters have tubes to shoot 20 gauge, 28 gauge and .410 from their skeet guns. I guess 16 gauge is too close to 12 in dimensions and ballistics to be shot that way.

[@samb8996]

Such a pleasure to watch Paul seamlessly shoot and reload while presenting. So smooth and so effortless but that’s what professionals do.

[@lexwaldez]

Paul's voice acting continues to improve. Big fan here.

[@2aisabsoluteTim]

Lmao ikr Just curious how he gets all those guns and ammo in the jacket pockets 🤣 Paul is the man

[@dipinmylip1171]

Its like butter

[@markh.6687]

@@2aisabsoluteTim I thought he should have a tweed shooting jacket on for shooting clays today.

[@michalsoukup1021]

@@2aisabsoluteTim Paul's usual shooting jacket has the ability to manifest any gun or ammo Paul needs, but it only works when he wears it...

[@2aisabsoluteTim]

@@michalsoukup1021 lmao right

[@hawkins1103]

I watched this video probably 10 times before I bought my 16. Very informative. I am definitely going to miss him.

[@txhuntsman]

".....It's not because I am not competent in shooting this model", I am sure that statement was necessary or Paul would not have felt the need to include it but that thought literally would have not entered my mind. As always a good comparison.

[@HVACKABOOM]

My father gifted me a 16g sxs before he passed. I think he was transitioning me away from 12g for a reason. He advanced to 20g in his later years. I get it now. Easier to carry, gun and ammo, cheaper to shoot. Also, I can't ethically shoot anything out 75 yds let alone 100! With proper loads, which usually you have to do on your own, 25 to 50yds is my post 60 effective range. Also, the fact you are rolling up with a 16g in your case is the equivalent of displaying a 1 iron in your bag. I miss this man's presentations. We are lucky to have the technology and ability to save these presentations. RIP.

[@WildLastFrontier]

Love the addition of shooting clays! Really brings home the real world application for shotguns. Paper targets give you a theory (pattern), moving targets test the theory.

[@8d4o0c4]

Reloading makes that ammo issue all but disappear - you just need the 16g hulls and they are available! I am an American living and working in Europe and I absolutely love the 16g. The old adage of "Shoots like a twenty, hits like a twelve" has always resonated with me and it is nice to see it reflected somewhat in these results. Thanks, Paul!

[@BD.1996]

Would you say 16 is more popular over in Europe than in the states? That had been my impression though I might be thinking of the 28 gauge.

[@8d4o0c4]

More than in the US, yes, but it still lags far behind 12g.

[@markusknorr6497]

16 used to be very popular in the German drilling. It is just a nicer package, a drilling with 12 bore gets very bulky. As the popularity of the drilling has declined in recent years the 12 is by far more popular now. But 16 has still its friends over here.

[@patrickhenry236]

The 16 is awesome. Handloaders do benefit. It can launch a 1oz load to over 1500 fps in a strong modern shotgun. Perfect for wild and wary Pheasant. The 12 gets a benefit if someone is a waterfowl hunter. For upland or small game the 16 is a more sensible option. For deer, the 12 only has an edge in states where buckshot is required. Handloadin shots helps does more for performance than most people realize. You can make close range spread loads, to tight holding long range loads.

[@davidcudlip6587]

I reload for my 16 gauge guns, but have a sporting goods/hunting store that always has a good selection of 16 gauge ammo and even 16 gauge steel loads in stock. I do reload Bismuth shot for hunting federal and state wildlife areas.

[@DANO-4899]

Great video Paul. I have both 12 and 16 gauge shotguns. I prefer the 12, but the 16 gauge is no joke.

[@niadhf]

I too have both. I prefer my 16s for birds. Fast and light, handle like a 20! But the Ithaca Featherweight ALSO kicks like a mule.

[@dotar9586]

Just make sure you grab the right ammo when you head out. Ask me how I know.🙄

[@sim.frischh9781]

I live in Austria, you don´t even can buy 16 gauge here, at least i have never seen it in any shop. Europeans are not as fond of shotguns as Americans and thus have focused on only a minor few calibers.

[@davidcudlip6587]

@@niadhf Word. Always go for the 16 when hunting over the dog for grouse or pheasant. Woodcock and quail goes without saying. Early waterfowl is doable with the right chokes and loads.

[@gabrielgomez6898]

@@niadhfthe m37 indeed kicks hard

[@karlreinke]

Took my first whitetail with a Remington Sportsman 48 16 gauge with rifled slugs and multiple deer after that. Some at near or at 100 yards. For rifled slugs the 16 seemed to have a flatter trajectory than a similar 12 gauge. I also find that little 16 gauge is the perfect size and weight for upland bird like grouse. Partly for sentimental, partly for anecdotal, I simply LOVE 16.

[@Trumplican]

I had the predecessor to the 48 a model 11 sportsman its pretty much a browning auto 5 or more specifically a browning sweet sixteen. the 11 and 48 are both excellent guns.

[@mot0rhe4d40]

A gunsmithing friend gave me a chance to pick up either an Remington 11-48 in 16ga or 20ga. I went with the 20 because ammo was always a limiting factor with the 16's I had in the past. Still a fine guage. But no ammo is no ammo

[@johnfowler6189]

True, great ringneck gun 👍

[@robertfrapples2472]

Not if you shoot the same weight slug in the 12ga. You could push it faster and flatter than a 16ga. Also, when you take the oddball route, you pay much higher prices for ammo and have a very hard time even finding it. Same for reloading supplies for 16ga.

[@einzelfeuer_2855]

Yes. I personally never cared about "carries like a 20 hits like a 12" or upland game bird doubles much. I like 16 because the slugs and buck work very well on medium game and with the heavier framed 16s they seem to recoil less than a light and small 20 does which is nice in an autoloading shotgun. Also the #6 "magnum" Remington shot is sworn by with good reason by old guys in my area for squirrel and rabbit use.

[@palmaurian]

I love how you're mocking the "what If Brigade" , Paul. By far the best gun expert/instructor on YT.

[@wesleygay8918]

Marvin would approve 👍

[@Trumplican]

@@wesleygay8918 who is Marvin?

[@wesleygay8918]

@@Trumplican someone the what if brigade is always asking about

[@robertthomas5906]

I think he's right. That's how they sound LOL.

[@Trumplican]

@@wesleygay8918 oh yeah i get it now lol

[@darrellfilyaw7255]

Wow, just looking for a comparison video and Paul come up. He was the first one on the list on KZbin Godspeed.

[@PaulHarrell]

Thank you for watching.

[@niadhf]

Ooh, Definitely one for me. I love my 16s!

[@lanedexter6303]

Interesting comparison. Going back a couple of generations to when there was no 20 gauge 3” magnum, I think 16 and 12 both did the job, but many chose the 16 for its trimmer dimensions and lighter handling. In my low budget family, cheap single barrel 16’s were common. In modern times, it sort of got over shadowed by the 20. I hope the 16 makes a comeback.👍

[@airbornesoldieramerica7125]

@Lane Dexter Heard they did come back with some gun companies for a short while some years back, Just looked it up on google. Looks like they are making more of a comeback now. And guess now some of the gun companies are making them to chamber in the 3 inch shells. Remington has 16 gauge back on its model 870, Ithaca 37 think it is, Browning, CZ, Mossberg 940, Beretta A300,Tristar Bristol side by side. But seems like very high priced on most of them now like $800.00 on up. If 16 gauge makes more of a comeback and hopefully more people buy them guessing price would go down and get better.

[@mathewgoebel4078]

You are correct on the 20ga The 3 inch 20 ga equals a 12ga 2 3/4" The 16ga Never did a 3" nor 28 ga.

[@purtnearperkins]

@@mathewgoebel4078more pellets doesn’t always equal a better option. Generally speaking if you pattern your gun, packing more pellets in can lead to more pellet deformation which leads to poor patterns. So, a 16 ga 2-3/4 round will likely pattern much better than a 3” 20 ga. Pattern, pattern, pattern. So many folks miss the mark and cannot talk intelligently until you pattern.

[@tomwoodrow5494]

I have said for years that the difference between 16 and 12 is a choice of "run whatcha brung". Thanks Paul for validating that! Love the 16 ga shotties, its what Grampa shot.

[@Farlomous]

My late brother would have loved this video. Before he died he was always at pigeon range trying out his different guns with different ammos. Thanks for the video to remind of the good times shooting we had.

[@maiyannah]

The last time I was this early, Paul was still toasting the poptarts.

[@gordonhamilton5576]

Beautiful.

[@dass1333]

Notice that between chronograph test no shells on the ground at the beginning of each test. Great example of how you keep the range open. Thanks for your example Paul.

[@materiaparticulata]

As someone in Europe who has no other possibilities than relying on what you have, it’s really nice to see this demonstration. Thank you team Harrel ❤

[@GhettoInsane]

where are you from? your Name Sounds germanlike.

[@materiaparticulata]

@@GhettoInsane Yeah I´m german. True ;)

[@GhettoInsane]

@@materiaparticulata du kannst als Privatperson in ein Schießkino gehen und die Erfahrung selbst machen. Bin auch deutsch und jäger spoetschütze exsoldat

[@NoThisIsPatrick_]

as a german hunter and sport shooter I can tell you that have the possibilities. Even if you not interested in getting a hunting or sport shooter license you still can shoot on shooting ranges as long as there is a supervisor

[@materiaparticulata]

@@NoThisIsPatrick_ True!

[@jacobrodesh9019]

Another great presentation, Paul. I’m stuck in the nursing home with my grandfather after he had a bad fall and binge watching old & new videos is helping me get through his restless nights. I appreciate your consistent hard work.

[@chadperry4021]

Hopefully he recovers so you guys can get out.

[@latigomorgan]

Good on you for not leaving him in there alone.

[@Salieri47]

Positive thoughts & healing mojo sent your way. Been there done that, more than once.

[@ragnarlothbrok9133]

You’re a good son. Hats off to you. And best wishes to your dad.

[@user-uo9qj1lc6p]

YOU WON🔝✅✅....

[@independentthinker8930]

I miss my 16, I loaded my own. A lot of memories with that gun. I found lower velocity with shot gave a much better pattern in mine

[@Gunners_Mate_Guns]

Yep, dedicated reloaders who stock up on the appropriate components and equipment can make the ammo issue a non-issue. You're also quite right about how it's often true that lower velocity can make better patterns. Also, a lighter shot charge can (this may surprise many people) improve patterns by shortening the shot column and reducing pellet deformation for the pellets at the bottom of the shot wad, which is also one of the reasons why lower velocity can often help the patterning. It would be interesting to see what the effects of lower velocity and lower shot charge would be with shot materials other than lead, e.g. steel, bismuth, tungsten, etc.

[@davidcudlip6587]

@@Gunners_Mate_Guns Agreed. My best loads are kept in the 1 ounce range and at 1150 to 1200 fps.. Never had issues with crippling birds. I like nickel plated #5 shot for pheasant, #7.5 for Grouse, Woodock, and Quail.

[@Gunners_Mate_Guns]

@@davidcudlip6587 Thanks for confirming much of what I believed. Another nice thing about lighter shot and powder charges is significantly less recoil. I'm not intimidated by the recoil of my 12 gauge, but it's still interesting to see just how sore my shoulder will be the day after 50-100 rounds of high-velocity game loads busting clays throwing 1 1/8 oz or 1 1/4 oz of shot. By contrast, when I rolled my own with 1 oz of shot and a lower middle range charge of 700-X, I had no soreness at all. I also broke nearly all of the clays even though I had to trip the spring-loaded thrower by putting my right foot in the loop of the release rope and rocking back on my left foot to swing the right foot up and outward. btw...you are very fortunate that you live in a part of the country where you can still hunt pheasant and quail. Where I am, east central Indiana, Believe it or not, the winter of 1977 was so harsh that to this day, there are so few quail and pheasant that my dad had to give up on it when he had to give up in frustration several years running after that particularly harsh winter. In my opinion, Bobwhite quail is the finest wild game that a person can eat, and pheasant is right behind it for taste.

[@davidcudlip6587]

@@Gunners_Mate_Guns I've been using Universal Clays for my 16 and 20 gauge loads but will soon be switching over to Longshot because of the scarcity of Universal powder. Latest memo from Hodgdon Powder said it wouldn't be available til 2024 at the earliest. I really like Ruffed Grouse as far as game bird meat. But Pheasant and Quail are tied for a close second. I make a mean Pheasant ala King and Sweet & Sour Pheasant over rice.

[@Joakim-j7h]

Revisiting Pauls older Videos, again! Am I the only one?

[@HankScorpio64]

I will say my Dad always (RIP) prefered the 16 gauge over the 12 for hunting but he had to give up using the 16 in favor of 12 cause ammo was so hard to find before the advent of the internet sales. He always told me it was the best general purpose gauge you could have. Could take out small game like rabbits squirrels whatever and 16 gauge slugs still had enough knock down power to hunt deer with. About the only he told me wasn't as good for as self-defense. It works but okay but my dad grew up in the 70's when paint huffing was big thing and there was stories floating around that some rural cops and there 16 gauge guns just couldn't cut it on taking down one these crazed huffing nutters. Keep in mind this is what my Dad said and passed on me to. Dunno how true it is or not. (well the ammo thing is true. I've never seen 16 gauge ammo in stores) so this might be considered FUDD lore but my Dad was a bit of a old school dude.

[@ElGeecho]

Thanks for sharing; I find these kinds of anecdotes interesting to read. I think your dad's personal experience is probably quite a bit more reliable than the rumors he picked up, though. I have trouble imagining that a few less pellets of buckshot would make a big difference between a 16 and 12 gauge, but maybe I'm naïve.

[@Kai-ky6tf]

Your dad sounds based

[@arthurchadwell9267]

Your dad was a wise man...

[@ubcroel4022]

those cops probably missed their shots

[@HankScorpio64]

@@ubcroel4022 Could of been. Like i said 1970's so give that as you will and a lot of this was urban legend pre-internet things.

[@armyofshea7941]

Paul, of probably 1500-2000 rounds of shotgun rounds fired in my life, 16 gauge represents 2. Thank you for shedding some light on a gauge most people (myself included) don’t know much about.

[@MyKonaRC]

up to 2000 rounds fired? So a year or two? I shoot about that amount in one year for trap/skeet.

[@TRIIGGAVELLI]

@@MyKonaRC You're my hero.

[@john-paulsilke893]

@@MyKonaRC for me that’s about 1/2 year and in round count 2-2 1/2 months of pistol. However this year I’ve fired exactly 6 rifle cartridges and killed 3 coyotes and dispatched on mauled calf. We all shoot different brother. Some more and some less. Up until 2 years ago I never fired a .38 or .357 but I owned many revolvers including 2 guns that shot those calibers.

[@woahdudeitsme9742]

R.I.P. legend. I will still be coming to you for my gun knowledge and advice!

[@DullPoints]

I'm really blown away at the amount of work that goes into these videos. I had to learn a bit about video production lately and just wow. Not just the technical side, but didn't Paul gloss offer the fact that he had to find a comparable gun? That's a lot more work than we have any right to expect from anyone.

[@rogermorrill4700]

The 16 ga was called “ The Gentleman’s Gun”. I grew up with a Stevens 94c 16 still have it 64 years later

[@TheKentuckyPatriot]

I love them both but the 16ga is near and dear to my heart. I have the one my grandfather had for years. I have a lot of great memories and sentimental value with that old gun! :-)

[@dumond3198]

Great video. One aspect that wasn't explored was the role that different length shot columns might play. When I was a teenager, I toted a 20 gauge with 1 1/4 oz loads in 3" magnum shells. I was quite confident that I was getting the same performance that my 12 gauge-toting friends were with their 1 1/4 oz loads. But then I read Bob Brister's "Shotgunning: the Art and the Science" and he was able to demonstrate that while both loads appeared similar on a patterning board, the 20 gauge was actually much worse because the shot column was so much longer. This can only be seen with a moving target and a big piece of paper, but the results were plain as day: because the 20 gauge load was more strung out, it was unable to put as many shot in a crossing shot. I wouldn't expect as much variation between a 16 gauge and a 12, and you weren't using identical payloads anyway, but I've always had that discovery in the back of my mind when comparing across gauges. Thanks again.

[@hitech98]

Thanks for counting all the hits to compare. Very informative! Even more thanks for not recording yourself while counting each of them!

[@donnyarmstrong9559]

Having both 16 & 12 ga, and doing a fair amount of dove hunting since the early 70's, I can confirm & validate your test results. Both are great for small game hunting, especially in the dove & quail hunting trips I have done. The argument presented by those espousing that 12 is better, obviously have very little (if any) time with a 16. Enjoy the seasons all! Living my la vida loco here in south eastern Arizona

[@iceonthesun8880]

I'm headed to the coffee shop to live la Vida mocha(sorry, couldn't resist)

[@unknowuser1843]

First shotgun I ever got is a 16 Guage. H&r model 1915. Love that gun

[@aberj]

Does anyone else realize Paul is accurate he was not even hitting the cardboard. He was just on target! The man is the best.

[@parrisgeorge9708]

Thanks for the video Paul. The main disadvantage to the 16 is ammunition availability. There just isn't the selection for the 16 as there is the 12 or 20. If someone reloads the 16 then is a very solid choice for many types of hunting. One of the big advantages of the 16 is when it's built on a gauge specific action. Winchester model 12, Ithaca model 37, I think the Winchester model 97 were built on smaller frames than the 12 gauge models of the gun. Same goes for many of the classic sxs shotguns of the day. A Fox, Parker, LC Smith, etc in 16 are great to carry and hunt with when there's a lot of walking involved. Your patterning actually shows just how good Winchester with their barrel/choke work. They put a lot of effort into getting their shotguns to perform well on game and clays depending on model.

[@davewinter2688]

Paul, Good Video. Here are some FYI's for young shooters who may not have experience with more than one shotgun gauge. I'm almost 70 years old. I've been shooting and hunting for a little over 60 years and hand loading for shotguns, hand guns and center fire rifles for about 50 years. The only common shotgun I do not have any experience with is the 10 gauge. I've reloaded for 410, 20, 16 and 12. Factory only with the 28. Only recently became aware there is a 24. As a general rule when comparing one gauge to another, when you step down one gauge, i.e 12 to 16, with a safe powder charge, you can duplicate the velocity of the larger gauge when stepping down a notch in the size of the shot charge. Example reducing from 1&1/8oz in 12 gauge to 1oz in a 16. You can match shot weights i.e 1&1/8oz in both 12 and 16 gauge but it will be difficult to match the velocity without a dangerous over pressure powder charge in the smaller gauge. Shell chamber length must be taken into account too. You can have a 1&1/4 oz shot charge in a 2&3/4 inch 12 gauge and the same in a 3 inch magnum 20 gauge that might match the muzzle velocity of the 12 gauge but for reasons I will explain next, the 20 will not exactly duplicate the performance of the 12. Even when a given shot charge is duplicated in a smaller qauge, the pattern density will seldom be duplicated because of what is known as the shot string. Because of bore diameter difference, a given shot charge of equal weight cannot exit the barrel with the same beginning pattern density in the smaller qauge compared to the larger. The result in the smaller qauge is a longer shot string, which is the longitudinal spread of the shot charge after it leaves the barrel because not all of the shot can leave the barrel at the same time. All gauges have a shot string but with a given shot charge the length of the shot string will always be shorter in a larger gauge which results in more of the shot charge getting a to a target at the same time. The last part of the shot charge to to leave the barrel cannot catch up with that which exited first. That fact is not reflected in standard pattern test which is a one dimensional piece of paper with a circle drawn on it. The pattern test will not tell you how many of the pellets struck the paper at the same time. To be a fair comparison both gauges must use the same choke, shot size and shot type. The standard laws of physics regarding mass, velocity and resulting energy, penetration and killing power apply to multiple shotgun pellets just the same as single projectile rifle or handgun loads The result of all this is that the larger the gauge, the longer the maximum range will be for a clean quick kill no matter what the gauge, but the shot string thing and time to target only really matters on moving targets. Stationary can't move past the number of pellets it takes to make a clean kill. One phenomenon that I and I'm sure others have observed is for certain manufacturers to make some relatively inexpensive so-called "game" loads that use a little larger inexpensive powder charge to achieve a somewhat higher velocity in a relatively light weight shot charge. I won't name a manufacturer but a common example is a so-called 3 and one quarter dram equivalent powder charge behind a 1 oz shot charge in 12 gauge. I won't take time here to explain the history of the dram equivalent powder measurement. The result of such a load is often a hole in the middle of the shot pattern. That could be because of the quality of some of the components of the shell, but I think it is more likely because the extra volume of hot gases exiting the barrel with the shot is blowing the pattern apart. As to the 16 gauge, it's the great all around shotgun. Not quite as much effective range as a 12 but definitely more than a 20 and weight in between the two. If you're in a shotgun only with slugs state for deer it will do just fine. It's great for a day of combination pheasant and quail hunting. You won't be as tired at the end of the day with a gun that's usually going to weigh less than the same action and barrel length 12 gauge. It's obviously not as good for high flying pass shooting on geese as a 3" magnum 12 but with a properly choked gun using modern high velocity steel or other non-toxic shot over decoys it will do just fine. The ammo will be more expensive than the more common 12 gauge but more effective than a 20 and when you're not shooting a lot of rounds like you might for doves the cost won't be that much in the grand scheme of things. If you can only afford one gun and want to step up from a 20 but don't want the extra weight and recoil of a 12 there are some great buys available now on new 16 gauge guns in over/unders and autoloaders. A few pumps and side by sides too. Thanks again for the video Paul. Happy hunting boys and girls! 😄

[@Lugnut64052]

Great video. I love Model 97s. Mine was made in 1912 and runs like a dream. Probably my favorite firearm.

[@thealarmclock9307]

I like em alot too.. such a timeless classic . I wish I had one , I'd be just fine if It was my only shotgun

[@ScottKenny1978]

And these days a 97 is no more expensive than the Norinco clones...

[@Giovanni_Litterini]

@@ScottKenny1978 bu!!shit

[@ScottKenny1978]

@@Giovanni_Litterini I'm seeing them for $650-850, after a gunsmith has checked them over and tuned them up for cowboy action shooting. The Norincos are going for $850+ because they're unobtanium.

[@clukinvar]

Thanks for making the 12 gauge vs 16 gauge video.

[@gregphillips1998]

I love my 16 gauges. I have two, a Winchester Model 12 with a 30” barrel and full choke and the other a Remington Sportsman 48 with a 30” barrel and full choke. I want to send my Remington out to have Bailey chokes put in it to make it more universal for me and I will use it more. As far as ammo availability, it is hard to find in S. Fla. as well. I usually buy it when I see it just to have plenty on hand.

[@randr10]

My father had an old Winchester 16-gauge and he was an avid deer hunter. Where we lived, it was illegal to hunt deer with a rifle, so he had to hunt them with shotgun slugs. He swore after a couple of bad experiences in which he shot deer with that gun, that the 16-gauge slugs were simply not powerful enough in the 50-100 yard range to properly bring down an adult deer. He switched exclusively to his double barrel 12-gauge after the second lost animal and never had an issue after that. I've heard similar anecdotes from other hunters. Even more interesting, none complained about the same issue with 20-gauge. Anyone I knew who hunted deer with a 20-gauge never complained about them. I'd be interested to see a comparison between all 3 slugs to see if there's something about the 16-gauge that just doesn't get the job done. Also, thanks for the informative video. I was surprised to see that the 16-gauge actually edged out the performance of the 12-gauge with standard 2-3/4 birdshot.

[@stumpyhigginbottom3466]

20 and 28 have always been my favorite shotgun gauges. Obviously have a 12 as well, but its nice to see the 16 getting some love, too. Thanks for the great video, as always!

[@jacklowe3788]

I have several models & actions of both- Can't say I like one better than the other - Would have yo say I have an old Ithaca Double barrel in 16ga. That's exceptional for birds- Thanks for video!

[@krockpotbroccoli65]

I like the concept of 16 gauge, and 10 for that matter, but I can see why the industry has standardized on 12 and 20.

[@Drgunzo616]

My first 16 gauge I found at a local shop. It was a 1970 Remington 870 Wingmaster with poly choke that had been poorly stored. Barrel, action, stock were flawless but the receiver had horrible pitted rust. Sandblasted it at work and cold blued it. Paid $180 for it. Then I saw a Winchester model 12 in 16 and had to have that too. It was made in 1941 and still had the original wood magazine plug inside. Stock had a nasty leather cuff on it which had left a line on the wood. Lyman polychoke on it as well. Trying to buy a Remington model 31 in 16 a friend of mine inherited. I had a 31 in 12, sold it for a 20, but would love a 16.

[@bpri9880]

This was very interesting! I have shot 12,16 and 20 gauge for years and what I have noticed is that for shooting birds on the wing 12 and 16 gauge really doesn’t matter but the big difference is when hunting for rabbits Id rather use a 20 gauge. I’m not sure why 16 gauge went out of popularity, my assumption has to do with marketing. The “bigger is always better” won out in my opinion.

[@vpenkov4908]

Take a look at this video and channel. It give you a background on why: kzbin.info/www/bejne/g2fXo5apjZ1nZ7M

[@colinl5951]

Rest in peace sir. I inherited my grandpa's/dads...both passed. 16g remington 3 shot bird gun from 1950s. I also got grandpas single shot 16g. I hold both very speacial in my heart.

[@Eralen00]

Love those 1897s. Those are some beautiful tools

[@one-of-us9939]

The prize IS your show bro! Thanks!

[@toddschutter6535]

I've always had a soft spot for the 16ga. An old single shot Stephens 16 was my first "big" shotgun when dad felt I was ready to move up from a .410. Wish I still had it. I also inherited my father-in-law's side-by-side in 16ga. Although he had it out in the field a lot, it is still in really good shape with a nice case hardened receiver.

[@liljimitwofeatherz9735]

Stevens Springfield 16gauge 94b and 94c

[@leftyo9589]

what we have learned is that when you miss clay targets, its neither cartridges fault. merely the nut behind the trigger. when you connect, nice solid hits from both.

[@user-uo9qj1lc6p]

YOU WON🔝✅✅

[@stephenkidder8876]

I'm 69 years old and grew up in an era when the 16 guage was very popular. One of the big gun companies (Browning, I think), marketed a gun called "The sweet 16." My First shooting experiences were with 16 ga. single shots when shotshells were still made from cardboard, and plastic shot cups didn't exist yet, and different loads were plentiful. I think it fell out of favor because it was in between the 20 guage and the 12 guage, much as the .22 long, was between the .22 short and the .22 long rifle. As a young shooter the 16 put a lot of rabbits and squirrels in my belly. Great video Paul.

[@rickm4295]

Paul is the coolest man.....He knows and understands more about guns and ammo than most ever will. Oh , and shooting jackets !!!

[@gregb6469]

I'd say 12g, because 12g is less expensive, more readily available, and there is greater variety of rounds to choose from on the typical store shelf. NOTE: I wrote this before watching the video, so I was pleased to see that I am just echoing Paul.

[@markchapman2585]

My favorite gun channel on KZbin thanks Paul keep up the great content. Cheers from Canada 🍻

[@myfavoritemartian1]

I have a pair of model 12's I got from my Granddad. The 16 was made in 1913 and the 12 was made in 1927. Once I cleaned out the debris from paper shells, they functioned like new.

[@BPS10-Ga]

I like that the 10ga is making a comeback, ammo is more available. By far my favorite.

[@maxpinson5002]

I loved mine, but after having it gather dust for so long I let it go down the road. I no longer had access to the places where it was a good choice. Nothing wrong with it at all, but I don't want to have expensive spider condos sitting around. My 10 and several others had to go down the road

[@chuckster243]

@@maxpinson5002 After putting 3 decades behind my Ithaca Mag ten, a much older man unable to swing it like I once could, mine looks much better in the hands of my son, however, marksmanship being the key, a new A-5, 3 1/2 12 gauge with an awesome pattern firing BB's is sooo close it's undetectable to me. Now the recoil with that lightweight Browning, that's a whole nother story. But I'm really fast, again. 😊

[@maxpinson5002]

Yeah, I never had any problems, but the real estate situation isn't what it used to be. Not that long ago, it wasn't any problem at all finding places to hunt the various species at reasonable or no cost. More and more subdivisions now on formerly accessible lands. I have the tools to hunt everything I'll be able to hunt until I'm no longer able, or get priced out of it one of the two. Hopefully those that still have the places to go and persue their hobby will take full advantage while they can. Good Luck to all

[@BPS10-Ga]

@@maxpinson5002 I hunt our 20 acres we bought years ago when land was affordable. Lots of 🦃 🦃 not many deer so I don't hunt them.

[@BPS10-Ga]

@@chuckster243 Nothing like the power of a 10ga.

[@jameswrobinson]

Thank you, Paul.

[@jayztoob]

Dad gave me his old (at the time) 16 gauge Winchester about 60 years ago. I really like that old shotgun - it's served me flawlessly all these years. I think it's time to pass it along to my son. Yeah, the ammo is difficult to find, but not impossible. Interestingly enough, at one point during the "pamdemic", it was the ONLY shotgun ammo I could find.

[@user-uo9qj1lc6p]

YOU WON🔝🔝🔝....

[@nickma71]

I have a testament to the content our host delivers. I started watching some years back. Maybe 5. Paul had about 55k subscribers. My memory could be wrong. Now it's 3/4 of a million.

[@user-uo9qj1lc6p]

YOU WON🔝✅✅

[@richardscott8186]

Got a sweet sixteen from my Grandfather and really nice shot gun made in Belgium. He broke his shoulder so he picked it up.

[@northwards2218]

I live and hunt in WI. 16 Ga is almost always available at Dunham’s, Fleet Farm, and Farm and Fleet. I love mine for grouse hunting. 16 is great for scrambling through the Northwoods for that delicious bird. Also, it works great on timberdoodles.

[@JLSnOrLaX]

I love 16ga shotguns. I carry my great granddad's 16ga my first few rabbit hunts of the season.

[@mikek8089]

My 16 is my go to pheasant gun. Yeah, ammo can be a little tough to aquire, but I still love that gauge.

[@lynnkramer1211]

I've been using a 28 gauge shotgun for trap shooting games since HS in 1972. It is much more comfortable to shoot 100 or more rounds in a day or even a three day weekend. I reload so I can usually make any kind of ammo I want to use.

[@workingguy-OU812]

You very well may be a better shooter than Americans who rely on larger caliber shotguns to do the same. Which 28 gauge shotgun(s) do you use?

[@Predalien195]

One thing I've always said and believe, whoever makes factory loaded 28 gauge buck and slug offerings would be a millionaire overnight in the shotgun world. It could replace .410 entirely if it was an option and would give 20 gauge a run for it's money too.

[@patmancrowley8509]

Always interesting. Thanks, Paul and crew!

[@kirkboswell2575]

Proposal - The 28 guage seems to be really popular in my region. After my initial surprise, I started paying attention and I keep hearing how it's a great gun, light to carry, and performs as well as a 20. Any chance you can put something together on these two?

[@donttreadonmemes]

I've honestly never heard of 28 Gauge. Is that like a compromise on a compromise kind of deal since 20 Gauge is a less powerful alternative to 12? This is a open question.

[@PaulHarrell]

@@donttreadonmemes Check out our presentation on bird shot in your home defense shotgun. It includes a demo of 28 gauge. In my opinion, good for squirrels, and great for shooting pigeons out of the barn.

[@kirkboswell2575]

@@donttreadonmemes - Don't have exact figures, but the 28 guage is somewhere around 54 caliber and the 20 guage is something like 60 caliber. Could check a data table for exact numbers. As for hearing of it, I had actually heard of it in reference to a European gun, so it wasn't a complete surprise to me, but hearing how well accepted it was in my region was a definite surprise. I've also heard of 28 guage hulls being used to reload the 577 snider cartridge, although properly done, that should be with 24 guage hulls to get an exact match. Since that first noticing, I find that it is used in multi-gun skeet and trap meets, is somewhat fairly often part of a multi barrel set in doubles, and shoots a 3/4 oz load as a standard load, but can go as high as 1&1/8. Comparison with the 20 is with both using a 1 oz load. The guns are also significantly lighter per reports. Haven't held one personally, but I hear 6 pounds (approx) fully loaded. While I don't see myself getting one, I find that what I hear about the 28 interesting enough to want to hear more.

[@SLOCLMBR]

28 seems to be favored by trap/clay shooters and not hunters in my area. Much like 16 gauge, it's nearly impossible to find locally. I have a thing against guns that I have trouble getting ammunition for. My cousin has a browning sweet 16, it's a beautiful gun, shoots great. It's more expensive than my 12 or 20

[@exothermal.sprocket]

As a lighter alternative to 20 gauge, I'd rather use a 28 gauge than drop all the way to .410 bore.

[@Embattled5211]

6:25 for the advanced number crunchers: 16ga Winchester: μ = 1317 σ = 14.584fps 12ga Winchester: μ = 1303 σ = 11.546fps 16ga Remington: μ = 1241 σ = 18.822fps 12ga Remington: μ = 1230 σ = 7.960fps Winchester ammo was within 3 standard deviations of itself across the two gauges and within 3 standard deviations of the rated numbers. Remington was within 3 standard deviations of itself across the two gauges but SIGNIFICANTLY (p < 0.00205, 1.69x10^-36 respectively) below their rated velocity. That 12ga number, by the way, is so low that Paul would have better guessing the right powerball numbers four times in a row than getting a couple of "bad rounds" out of the box. Either Paul's testing method needs revising or (more likely) Remington might want to double check their numbers.

[@markadams7597]

Great review, Ty. Haven't seen 16g here in west Houston (TX) in a very long time. I like your presentation here; but I'm stick'n with my 870 20g.

[@nicksacco6024]

Thank you, Paul. Great video as always

[@halfdollar86]

I choose 12 because of the market support in ammo and guns. 16s are known to Pack like a 20, shoot like a 12. Browning is making a Wicked Wing version of the A5 Sweet 16. I wish someone would make a 3 inch chamber option and then someone like Apex or Boss make 3 inch 16 gauge loads. If someone would tackle this it would really help the 16 gauge overall. The 16 gauge is an awesome option for upland bird hunting. If you get waterfowl hunters on board with it then more guns would be sold and more ammo would be produced. Waterfowl hunters are now using smaller gauges now that Shell Technology has improved. Coated Steel, bismuth and TSS has opened the door to make sub gauges a legit option now. If you are a reloader you can really make the 16 shine. One of my fav 12 gauge loads is 1-1/8 oz at 1200-1250 FPS. The 16s can do this exact load easily. You can buy these loads in factory ammo. They are just hard to find at times and very costly because they market them as field loads for a premium.

[@johnshields9110]

The pack like a 20 shoot like a 12 is true of the 16 guage. My oldest brother out his Rem Sportsman Model 58 hunting quail, then sent it to Remington to be rebuilt, and continued on. Its lesser weight, plus hit like a 12, he mentiond all the time. He also shot a double 20 guage in the back half of every season, plus use of a 28 double too, under ideal field condition. Even from 40 years ago we/he would order two caes of special heavy shot loaded shells with 1 1/8 oz loads due the brushy areas we hunted in. Quail became real bushhogs with the adent of row crop farming as they could feed quickly and get back into the edge and beyond. All this shotgun talk is flooding me with nastaliga: I eventually had my own pair of English Setters, and hunted with a classic Fox B 20 guage double. Old Freckles and Bandit, if such exists, I'll see you over that Rainbow Bridge.

[@ronaldannas1935]

I have a 16-gauge bolt action shotgun, a Mossberg 190. Since it was my grandfather's shotgun, it does not get much use right now. Glad to see someone show that 16-gauge is about the same as 12.

[@user-uo9qj1lc6p]

YOU WON🔝✅✅

[@roustabout4458]

I'm very fond of the 16ga due largely to nostalgia, it's the gun I started on. Ammo is harder to find, less diverse and, more expensive. I'm glad that I'm happy with 12's and 20's. Matching the frame size to the gauge is very important. Matching a shotgun, it's frame, choke, ammo and shot size is a rabbit hole that would make a finicky .22lr blush with envy.

[@molonlabeiv9721]

16ga ammo is tough to find. Have both and prefer 16 but the ammo scarcity is a factor

[@airbornesoldieramerica7125]

Guess every area now its harder to find then 12 or 20, but in my area most gun stores have 16 as well as 12 and 20, but if not they for sure can get it. But I don't see the 410 ammo like I used to.

[@roustabout4458]

@@airbornesoldieramerica7125 from your name I might believe that you are in, our from, the South East. That region has historically considered the 16 as a heavy quail round, whereas being from South Dakota, in my area, it's considered a weak pheasant/duck round. In my travels I have always found the South Eastern states more welcoming to the 16ga. Or anywhere that quail/partridge are the game is choice

[@airbornesoldieramerica7125]

@@roustabout4458 Not really, but at times, since I got older, I live in Florida for part of the winter. I am in 1 of the mid westerns states but prefer not to say. I am not a duck hunter so idk about that, on how good 16 gauge works on ducks. But many duck hunters told me they also like using 10 gauge on ducks and geese. But most of the pheasants I got was actually from a 20 gauge. Don't know what it is with that model 1200 Winchester 20-gauge pump it is, but its good luck to me for pheasants, and got way more pheasants with that shotgun then I ever did with the 12 and 16 gauges. Been through South Dakota 1 time. That time counted and seen like 85 to 100 pheasants just driving through. You are lucky to live in pheasant hunting heaven there. Out of all the hunting sports I done, pheasant hunting is my favorite one. Was actually looking into planning a pheasant hunting trip there a few years ago, then covid19 lockdowns happened.

[@roustabout4458]

@@airbornesoldieramerica7125 there is a lot of public land in SD to hunt if you want to avoid the cost of a guide. Additionally, we have some of the best waterfowling you could hope for. I encourage a trip here. I'm in the glacial lakes region and am glad of it. I drove a truck for 30 years and have seen every inch of the country and wouldn't trade home for any of it. The real truth behind the lack of popularity of the 16 stems from shooting sports. Trap and skeet. Those sports adopted the 12 and 20 but shunned the 16 as not being a great enough change from the 12 to consider it a handicap compared to the 20. Come for a visit, if be glad to meet ya!

[@DDH_dabz710]

He has a good point. Most gun stores around me don’t even carry anymore then 2 brands or verities of 16 gauge. Might not be the same everywhere in the US but my experience does match.

[@Ericthered21]

I always go 12 for everything as it’s just so available. I also take into consideration what my friends shoot so we have commonality of ammunition. Paul I really like that old duck hunter patter.

[@wayneparker9331]

This was another in a long line of excellent videos. I own two 12 gauge side-by-side shotguns and one side-by-side 16 gauge shotgun, all of which have forged chokes on 24-26 inch barrels. I've used all three for hunting upland game bird and usually visit the skeet and trap ranges at least a dozen times before the hunting season. My experience is that all three shotguns are perfectly suitable for hunting upland game bird but I shoot the 16 gauge best on trap and skeet ranges. I'm not sure why that is but I suspect it's because it does feel handier even though it has the longest barrel of the three shotguns (go figure). I live in the Sierras near the California-Nevada state line. If I know I'm hunting chukar in rough terrain that requires lots of climbing and elevation changes over the course of the day, the 16 gauge is the best choice hands down. It's noticeably lighter; also, one barrel has a tight choke and other is modified choke and I've yet to see a chukar at ranges of less than 40 yards. When it's a quail hunt (mountain or California quail), I go with either of the two 12 gauge shotguns because the wider chokes help with shots at the more likely shorter ranges I'll find quail at if I'm lucky enough to find a covey.

[@user-uo9qj1lc6p]

YOU WON🔝✅✅

[@thegutterpunk00]

I inherited my grandfather's 16 ga. Fox side by side and 2 or 3 boxes of shells that have to be older than I am. They still went bang (I only shot one box) but I have yet to be able to find more locally stocked. Fingers crossed it does get a bit popular and some local shop starts carrying it; I'd love to take that old thing out to the clays course more often. Thanks for the comparison, Paul.

[@KENKENNIFF]

Shout out to the marketing men trying to figure out why everyone loves these videos and how channel that themselves

[@user-uo9qj1lc6p]

YOU WON🔝✅✅

[@johnladd9885]

16g is definitely harder to get not saying it's bad cause it's not but.. 20g and 12g is the most popular.. even .410 has gotten outrageous in price and availability..

[@krockpotbroccoli65]

Everything that's not common calibers is very scarce and expensive these days be it niche shotgun, rifle or handgun ammo. Even components and equipment for reloading oddball stuff is absurd right now, and the more niche it is, the worse the situation is.

[@johnladd9885]

@@krockpotbroccoli65 I couldn't agree with you more my friend... These days we gotta take what we can get ... I just remember not even that long ago even wal mart didn't lock up shotgun shells ..

[@markworden9169]

Thanks, Paul. I'd much rather watch a 16 vs 12 video than the news.

[@Ghiaccio-x1j]

I’d be interested in a 16 gauge, but it’s virtually impossible to find ammo in my town unless you order online.

[@arthurchadwell9267]

My local Walmart carries 16ga. Not a lot, but it is there.

[@theshotgunscientists]

@@arthurchadwell9267 mine does too. A few variations on loads.

[@nobody8717]

18:59 You're welcome. Thanks for providing the 16 gauge vs 12 gauge video.

[@PonderosaSoundStudio]

Thank you, Paul! Interesting! Would love to see a similar comparison between a 12-gauge and a 20-gauge (thinking primarily around upland bird hunting - and grouse, in particular). And, for that matter, a similarly-oriented comparison between a 20-gauge vs .410. Thanks again!

[@dwayne7356]

I second that. I have both a 12 & 20-gauge shotguns. I find that the recoil doesn't feel any less between the two. I like the concept of extra pellets but I think that you may have proven it to be not such an advantage. I'll agree that the 20 gauge is a smaller overall gun so it might be easier to maneuver than the 12-gauge. I am wondering if the 16 gauge is giving a tighter pattern just because of it's diameter, kind of acting like a full choke would in a 12-gauge. One would think the same effect would improve on a 20-gauge or a .410. I wonder if a 20 gauge pattern would hold at a longer distance than a 12 gauge. I don't know if it can be proven in the field over a paper target. I never thought to test it. I always blamed the shooter (me) for a bad shot or misjudging the distance on a bird in flight.

[@williamcrane8236]

Inherited a 16 gauge recently. Went around to the local shops in Northern KC. I found no.7 shot in 2 3/4 inch shells. That's it. Granted I only called and visited five places. It's a Winchester red letter 37 that was well used when my FIL stopped hunting with it 50 years ago, but it was maintained well and it was kind of fun to give it a shot, open the breech and watch the shell go shooting over my right shoulder. It's the only break action weapon I've fired. But I've seen Other content providers giggle as the shells go shooting by them so I don't feel too silly with my inexperience.

[@killer15202]

love the content and thanks for providing it.

[@tedcollins4684]

Yep

[@markh.6687]

Didn't realize 16 gauge was even still out there anymore. Thanks, Mr. Harrell.

[@pjoffrion]

Good video. 410, 28, 20, and 16 are looked at differently now because of advancements in ammo that mimic or better lead. Shot like bismuth and tungsten. Who would of thought people would be turkey hunting with small and light 410's loaded with tungsten?

[@Predalien195]

Indeed, newer shot materials and advancements in wads as well as chokes have really changed shotguns a lot. Smaller and lighter gauges are more viable as a result. I'd love to see things like buckshot and slug loads developed for the 28 Gauge personally, it could easily replace the .410 as a go to smaller shotgun and could give the 20 a run for it's money too.

[@rex116]

You are the best , Mr Harrell 👍

[@BUZZKILLJRJR]

Paul operates a broken shotgun, like a fully functioning weapon system with no problem robotically and precise.

[@TC-bz9dz]

I love this man...great video as always!

[@colindegrow1475]

I love it when he does voices. Always underrated.

[@Coltbreath]

Thanks Paul! Always wondered about the differences between these two cartridges

[@joeybabybaby5843]

Love it. How about .410 vs 28 gauge ? (At this point 28 is much more available than 410.) Keep up the good work.

[@parrisgeorge9708]

Having shot and own both .410 and 28 I and a good number of shooters I know well MUCH prefer the 28. It patterns the 3/4 ounce load beautifully and is very effective on a good number of species that we have in the Northeast. The slightly greater gun weight also helps in the handling department. Shells are $$$ for both.

[@GliderBane]

In my part of Indiana I rarely see 28 gauge ammo for sale but .410 ammo usually has a small selection on the shelf.

[@RichardZbranek]

I would totally watch a movie of a group of people with 16ga shotguns pursuing Paul Harrell through wilderness in order to give him their shotguns for review, and Paul sneaking and running through forest and explaining orientation, cooking, emergency camping and similar stuff while trying to avoid them. Or trapping them one by one and watching as their shotguns commit suicide in shame.

[@jacobcochran51]

I love your channel

[@1977Yakko]

12 and 20 gauge is all I ever see on the shelf. I sometimes wondered why there wasn't something in the middle but now I know there is. For the same reasons mentioned, I'll stick with my 12 gauge as it's commonly available and affordable (sometimes).

[@FoulPet]

You don't see 410? That was one of the last rounds to leave the shelves here.

[@1977Yakko]

@@FoulPet oh yeah, there's some of that too but I think I just overlook that one as it's not what I'm looking for. 12 and 20 gauge are right next to each other generally and I stop looking further down the shelf at that point.

[@Schismarch]

I shoot 20 gauge and love it. I don’t enjoy getting beat up by 12 gauge and for five stand and sporting clays 20 does everything I need it to do. Thanks for the cool vid!

[@Trumplican]

Paul, I LOVE how you try using ammo that compares to each other! So many on YT use totally different ammo and try acting like the results can be compared similarly. I was surprised with these results for sure! I love the 16 gauge. Those are some really nice 1897's!