Manufacturing strength, quality discipline and corporate reliability since 1987
What Is a 36 Gauge Shotgun Cartridge?
Information Centre

What Is a 36 Gauge Shotgun Cartridge?

The 36 gauge, internationally known as .410, is a compact smoothbore shotshell used for hunting and sport shooting. This guide reviews its bore diameter, ballistic data and catalog specifications.

Information Centre2024-07-103 min read

A 36 gauge shotgun cartridge has a bore diameter of approximately 9 mm and is typically used in lightweight hunting shotguns and target shooting. It suits small to medium game and is available in slug and other specialised loads. This guide covers its technical characteristics, typical uses, catalog data and safe-handling guidance.

Gauge Numbering and the 36 Gauge / .410

In smoothbore shotguns, gauge is a traditional unit of measurement corresponding to bore diameter: the smaller the number, the larger the bore. The 36 gauge is internationally known as .410 and is listed in catalogs as "36 CAL. / 410 CAL." Compared with larger-bore shotshells such as 12 gauge and 20 gauge, it forms a lighter, more compact ammunition class that is easier to carry and handle.

Key Characteristics of the 36 Gauge Cartridge

  • Calibre: approximately 9 mm bore diameter, suitable for small and medium game.
  • Effective range: sufficient range for accurate, controlled shot placement.
  • Load types: available as slug (single projectile) and other specialised loads.
  • Recoil: low recoil, particularly in lightweight and medium-weight shotguns.
  • Applications: hunting, target shooting and sport shooting.

Typical Uses

  • Hunting: effective performance on small and medium game.
  • Sport shooting: used in target and clay disciplines that reward accuracy and manageable recoil.
  • Training: suited to firearm safety instruction and marksmanship training.

Ozkursan 36 Gauge (.410) Product Catalog

The table below lists the catalog specifications of Ozkursan's 36 gauge (410 CAL.) slug series.

ProductSeriesCase TypeColourWadShot Weight (g)Muzzle Velocity (m/s)Pressure (bar)
Ozkursan 36 Cal. SlugSlug (Single Projectile)36 16 63PurplePlastic8430680

For other smoothbore gauges, see what is a 12 gauge shotgun cartridge, what is a 20 gauge shotgun cartridge and what is a 32 gauge shotgun cartridge.

Safe and Responsible Use

Shotgun cartridges must always be used safely and with appropriate training. Key points to observe include:

  • Firearm compatibility: use only shotguns suited to the 36 gauge cartridge.
  • Safety rules: follow all firearm safety rules strictly at all times.
  • Protective equipment: wear appropriate eye and hearing protection while shooting.
  • Training: adequate firearm training protects both the shooter and those nearby.
Explore related products

Review product categories, the catalog and corporate inquiry options for current Ozkursan information.

View products
TopProductDealerCatalog