The 12 gauge shotgun cartridge is the most common ammunition type used in shotguns, with a bore diameter of approximately 18.5 mm. It is popular among both amateur and professional hunters and covers a wide range of applications, known for its strong stopping power and broad shot spread. For product-focused details, see the 12 Gauge Shotgun Cartridge page.
What Is 12 Gauge?
"Gauge" is a traditional unit of measure for the bore diameter of smoothbore shotguns, in which the bore diameter increases as the number decreases. 12 gauge is the most widely used size in this system, corresponding to a bore diameter of approximately 18.5 mm, and is manufactured with 65 mm, 70 mm or 76 mm case lengths. Compared with other sizes such as 16, 20, 32 and 36 gauge, it offers a wider shot spread and greater stopping power.
Characteristics of a 12 Gauge Shotgun Cartridge
- Calibre: 12 gauge has a bore diameter of approximately 18.5 mm, making it suitable for medium and large game.
- High stopping power: 12 gauge cartridges create a significant stopping effect on target, an important advantage in hunting.
- Wide spread: 12 gauge cartridges cover a wide spread area, increasing the probability of hitting the target.
- Various load types: available with shot, single-projectile (slug) and specialised loads.
- Versatility: 12 gauge shotguns can be used with different cartridge types, meeting a range of hunters' and shooters' needs.
Effects of a 12 Gauge Shotgun Cartridge
- High stopping power: 12 gauge cartridges create significant impact on target and deliver a fast stopping effect.
- Wide spread pattern: shot cartridges spread over a wide area, increasing the likelihood of hitting the target; this is especially useful against moving targets.
- Penetration: slug cartridges provide high penetration on target.
- Versatility: usable with different types of ammunition, giving effective results across various hunting and shooting scenarios.
- Recoil: 12 gauge cartridges produce significant recoil, so prior experience with the firearm is recommended.
Areas of Use
- Hunting: 12 gauge cartridges are well suited to game such as birds, rabbits and deer-sized quarry, giving effective results across both larger and smaller game.
- Sport shooting: 12 gauge cartridges are widely used in trap and skeet shooting disciplines.
- Property defence: the wide spread pattern and stopping power make 12 gauge shotguns an effective option for property defence.
- Professional use: security and law-enforcement units use 12 gauge cartridges across various operational contexts.
Product Catalogue — Classic Series
The Ozkursan Classic Series is the core product group for 12 gauge shot cartridges. The table below sets out catalogue references by shot weight; all products use the 12/16/70 case type, red colour and Power wad.
| Product Code | Shot Weight (g) | Shot Size | Muzzle Velocity (m/s) | Pressure (bar) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OZK.28 | 28 | 6,7,8,9,10 | 410 | 570 |
| OZK.30 | 30 | 6,7,8,9,10 | 410 | 580 |
| OZK.32 | 32 | 1,2,3,4,5 / 6,7,8,9,10 | 400 | 630 |
| OZK.34 | 34 | 05,04,03,02 / 01,1,2,3,4,5 / 6,7,8,9 | 400 | 660 |
| OZK.36 | 36 | 05,04,03,02 / 01,1,2,3,4,5 / 6,7,8,9 | 400 | 675 |
For product-focused cartridge details, see the 12 Gauge Shotgun Cartridge page; for other gauges, see the 20 Gauge, 32 Gauge and 36 Gauge shotgun cartridge guides.
Safe Use
Shotgun cartridges must be used correctly and safely. Points to keep in mind include:
- Correct equipment: use a firearm that is properly matched to 12 gauge cartridges.
- Safety compliance: follow all applicable firearm safety rules.
- Protective equipment: wear suitable eye and ear protection when shooting.
- Training: adequate firearm training helps prevent accidents.
Review product categories, the catalog and corporate inquiry options for current Ozkursan information.
