A pump shotgun, also known as a slide-action shotgun, is a popular firearm choice for various applications, including hunting, sport shooting, and self-defense. The shell capacity of a pump shotgun can vary depending on the specific make and model. However, the most common shell capacity for pump shotguns is typically five shells. This includes four shells in the magazine tube located beneath the barrel and one shell in the chamber ready to be fired.

The five-shell capacity provides shooters with a reasonable balance between firepower and weight. It ensures that multiple rounds are readily available for follow-up shots without significantly increasing the overall weight of the firearm. This capacity makes pump shotguns versatile and suitable for a wide range of scenarios, whether it's engaging multiple targets or handling situations that require rapid and efficient shot placement. It's important to note that the shell capacity of a pump shotgun may also depend on legal regulations and restrictions in different jurisdictions.

What Is The Most Common Shotgun Shell Gauge?

Shotgun shells come in various gauges, which refer to the diameter of the shell's bore or the inner diameter of the shotgun barrel. The most common shotgun shell gauge is the 12 gauge. It is widely popular and frequently used for various applications, including hunting, sport shooting, and self-defense. The 12 gauge offers a good balance between power, versatility, and availability of ammunition.

The 12-gauge shotgun is favored by many due to its effectiveness in delivering a significant payload to the target. The gauge provides a good spread of shot, making it suitable for hunting small game, upland birds, waterfowl, and even larger game animals. Additionally, the 12-gauge ammunition is commonly found in most firearm stores and is available in a wide range of loads, making it easily accessible to shotgun owners. The popularity of the 12 gauge also translates into a wide selection of shotgun models and accessories designed specifically for this gauge, further enhancing its appeal to shooters.

What’s The Smallest Gauge Shotgun?

The smallest gauge shotgun commonly available is the .410 bore. It is often referred to as the ".410" and is unique among shotgun gauges as it is measured in caliber rather than gauge. The .410 bore is smaller in diameter compared to other shotgun gauges, making it suitable for specific purposes. While it may not have the same payload and range as larger gauges, it still has its advantages.

The .410 bore shotgun is known for its low recoil, which makes it more manageable for shooters who are sensitive to heavy recoil or beginners who are still developing their shooting skills. It is often favored for small game hunting, such as rabbits and squirrels, as well as for pest control and sport shooting activities like skeet shooting. Additionally, the .410 bore can be an excellent choice for introducing younger or smaller-framed individuals to shotgun shooting due to its lighter weight and reduced recoil.

What Is A Pump Shotgun Called?

A pump shotgun is also commonly referred to as a slide-action shotgun. This name is derived from the pump-action mechanism employed by these firearms. In a pump shotgun, the shooter manually operates a sliding forend, which cycles the action and loads a new shell into the chamber after each shot. The repetitive back-and-forth motion of the forend resembles the sliding or pumping action, hence the name "pump shotgun."

The term "slide-action shotgun" is often used interchangeably with "pump shotgun" and both accurately describe the same type of firearm. The sliding forend allows for quick and reliable cycling of the action, making pump shotguns popular among shooters for their durability, simplicity, and ease of use. They have been widely used for decades and continue to be a staple in various shooting applications, including hunting, law enforcement, and competitive shooting.

Conclusion

Pump shotguns, with their varying shell capacities, provide shooters with a reliable and versatile firearm option for hunting, sport shooting, and self-defense. The most common shell capacity for pump shotguns is typically five shells, striking a balance between firepower and weight. The 12 gauge is the most popular shotgun shell gauge, known for its power, versatility, and wide availability of ammunition.

On the other end of the spectrum, the .410 bore offers a smaller gauge option with reduced recoil, making it suitable for specific purposes such as small game hunting and sport shooting. Whether you call it a pump shotgun or a slide-action shotgun, these firearms continue to be favored for their durability, simplicity, and ease of use in various shooting applications.