The 12 gauge shotgun cartridge is one of the most widely used and preferred ammunition types in hunting. Frequently used by both amateur and professional hunters in Türkiye, these cartridges are configured for different game types to deliver strong performance. This article covers technical specifications, application areas, advantages and selection criteria; for general calibre background, see the What Is a 12 Gauge Shotgun Cartridge? page.
What Is a 12 Gauge Shotgun Cartridge?
The 12 gauge shotgun cartridge is a standard ammunition type with an 18.5 mm bore diameter, used in shotguns. These cartridges are typically produced in 65 mm, 70 mm or 76 mm lengths and may contain shot or a single slug. They have a wide range of applications in hunting and sport shooting.
Characteristics of a 12 Gauge Shotgun Cartridge
- Calibre: 12 gauge is the most common shotgun cartridge diameter, standardised at 18.5 mm.
- Length: cartridge lengths range from 65 mm up to 76 mm, selected according to the firearm's mechanism and power.
- Shot size: ranges from small shot sizes such as No. 7 or No. 8 for smaller game up to larger shot sizes such as No. 0 or No. 1.
- Load type: available as shot cartridges and single-slug options.
- Pressure and power: produced at different power levels, selected according to the hunter's needs.
Areas of Use
- Small bird hunting: fine shot cartridges are preferred for small birds such as quail and partridge.
- Larger birds and game: coarser shot or slug cartridges are used for larger birds such as duck and goose.
- Large game: high-energy slug cartridges are preferred for wild boar and similar large game.
- Sport shooting: different 12 gauge cartridge specifications are used in trap, skeet and other shooting disciplines.
Product Catalogue — Codex Series
The Ozkursan Codex Series is another core product group of 12 gauge shot cartridges. The table below sets out catalogue references by shot weight; all products use the 12/16/70 case type, transparent colour and Bior wad. For Classic Series references, see the table on the What Is a 12 Gauge Shotgun Cartridge? page.
| Product Code | Shot Weight (g) | Shot Size | Muzzle Velocity (m/s) | Pressure (bar) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CDX.28 | 28 | 7,8,9,10 | 410 | 570 |
| CDX.30 | 30 | 3,4,5,6 / 7,8,9,10 | 410 | 580 |
| CDX.32 | 32 | 1,2,3,4,5 / 6,7,8,9,10 | 400 | 630 |
| CDX.34 | 34 | 05,04,03,02 / 01,1,2,3,4,5 / 6,7,8,9 | 400 | 660 |
| CDX.36 | 36 | 1,2,3,4,5,6,7 | 400 | 675 |
Choosing a 12 Gauge Shotgun Cartridge
- Firearm compatibility: every firearm is compatible with specific cartridge lengths and calibres; select a cartridge that matches the owner's manual.
- Shot size for the target species: the size and characteristics of the intended game determine cartridge selection.
- Quality and brand: choose cartridges from certified, tested and reliable manufacturers.
- Legal compliance: cartridge use must comply with hunting season, regional and usage regulations.
- Performance and experience: factors such as shooting distance, accuracy and recoil should be taken into account.
Safety
Using a cartridge that is fully compatible with the shotgun's mechanical specifications, of good quality and of an appropriate power level, directly affects both hunting success and safety. Controlling the surrounding area during shooting, using suitable protective equipment and full compliance with applicable regulations are all required. Observing rules on hunting seasons, permitted game species and ammunition types helps safeguard both nature conservation and the long-term continuity of hunting activity. For other smoothbore calibres, see the 20 Gauge, 32 Gauge and 36 Gauge shotgun cartridge guides.
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