Which 12 gauge ammo is the best choice - manufacturers and specifications

One of the most sought-after ammunition for hunting is 12-gauge cartridges. This is due to their versatility and wide range. The latter is a kind of obstacle - not every novice hunter can choose the right twelfth-gauge ammunition from the entire range. Which manufacturer is better to give preference to - domestic or foreign?

Classification of hunting ammunition

The choice is determined by two main parameters - the type of game and the characteristics of the gun. The cost is affected by the material of manufacture and the manufacturer. Most domestic cartridges meet international quality standards, but some hunters still prefer foreign counterparts.

The following classification of these ammunition has been adopted:

  • According to the type of gunpowder: smoky or smokeless. The first ones are practically not produced due to the worst performance.
  • Sleeve material: plastic, paper or metal. Cartridges with a plastic case have proven themselves well.
  • Type of charge: buckshot, shot or bullet. The choice depends on the characteristics of the future prey and shooting conditions. For hunting birds, ammunition with shot is used , less often with buckshot.
  • Fraction classification. It can be steel or lead, the size varies from 1.5 mm to 5 mm.
  • Sleeve length. Shot - 65, 70, 76 and 89 mm, buckshot - 65, 70, 76 mm.

Magnum cartridges with increased pressure of powder gases during a shot are used less frequently. Not all hunting rifles are designed for such conditions.

about self-loading ammo here .

How to choose a good cartridge

It is important to consider the characteristics of the gun. Depending on the standards of the country of manufacture, there may be different barrel diameter tolerances. So, for Russia, this value varies from 18.2 to 18.7 mm. For French weapons - 18.1-18.5 mm. You can decide on a specific cartridge only after shooting.

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The following indicators are taken into account:

  • By changing the distance to the target, analyze the sharpness - the depth of entry of the shot (buckshot) into a dry wooden board. The optimal indicator is 4 charge diameters.
  • The accuracy value must correspond to the declared one.
  • The sleeve is removed without jamming and extra effort.

The ratio of the mass of the charge to the weight of the gun is about 1/100. The pressure during the shot should not be higher than normalized. Of particular note is the possibility of using Magnum charges. The pressure of powder gases for them can exceed 1040 bar, which is unacceptable for standard hunting rifles.

The best compatibility is the same country of origin of the gun and ammunition. When choosing a cartridge for beginners, it is recommended to take the advice of professional hunters. They will help you choose ammunition based on the actual characteristics of the gun.

Analysis of popular manufacturers

The best indicator of reliability, declared characteristics and quality are the real reviews of hunters. Often you have to change several brands and manufacturers to determine the optimal type of ammunition. It largely depends on the personal preferences of the hunter.

Among the most popular and proven manufacturers of 12 gauge cartridges, the following companies can be distinguished:

  • Glavpatron. The production is located in Tula, they are distinguished by proven quality and reliability.
  • Nitrogen. It is also a domestic manufacturer, the production line is located in Krasnozavodsk, Moscow Region. It is recommended to choose ammunition from the Practitioner series - with buckshot, bullet or shot. Length - 70 or 76.
  • Fetter. Russian production, it is distinguished by a wide range of hunting and sporting ammunition. Types of cartridges 12 caliber Fetter - standard, Magnum (up to 1040 bar), semi-magnum, specialized for buckshot or bullet. Also offered test for smoothbore weapons.
  • Dduplers . The Latvian company appeared on the domestic market relatively recently. The body is made of steel with anti-corrosion coating. Color marking of the sleeve, which is convenient during hunting. Only steel is used as a charge.
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The cost of 12 gauge cartridges ranges from 35 to 200 rubles. The high price is typical for the products of Western manufacturers, their purchase is not always appropriate. Most hunters prefer domestically produced ammunition.

The video shows the actual characteristics of the cartridges. Further choice depends on the type of gun and the requirements of the hunter:

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