The double barrel 20 gauge shotgun holds a special place in the hearts of many shooters. Its classic design, coupled with the manageable recoil of the 20 gauge, makes it a versatile firearm suitable for a range of applications, from hunting upland birds to clay pigeon shooting. This guide will delve into the world of double barrel 20 gauges, exploring their history, advantages, disadvantages, and considerations for choosing the right one for you.
A Rich History: The Legacy of the Double Barrel
Double barrel shotguns have a long and storied history, dating back centuries. Their simple, reliable mechanism made them popular hunting companions long before the advent of more technologically advanced designs. The 20 gauge, a smaller gauge than the more common 12 gauge, offers a lighter, more manageable recoil, making it an excellent choice for smaller framed shooters or those who prefer a less punishing shooting experience. This combination of classic design and manageable recoil has cemented the double barrel 20 gauge's position as a beloved firearm.
Advantages of a Double Barrel 20 Gauge
Several compelling reasons contribute to the continued popularity of the double barrel 20 gauge:
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Reliability: Double barrel shotguns are known for their simple, robust mechanisms. Fewer moving parts mean fewer things to go wrong, resulting in a highly reliable firearm that's less prone to malfunctions. This is especially important in hunting situations where a firearm malfunction can have serious consequences.
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Manageable Recoil: The 20 gauge shell produces significantly less recoil than its 12 gauge counterpart. This makes it a more comfortable gun to shoot, particularly for extended periods or for less experienced shooters. This reduced recoil also contributes to improved accuracy.
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Versatility: While excelling in upland bird hunting, the double barrel 20 gauge is also suitable for various other applications, including clay target shooting, small game hunting, and even home defense (though other options might be preferable for the latter).
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Classic Design and Aesthetics: Many shooters appreciate the elegant, traditional design of a double barrel shotgun. The craftsmanship and often beautiful wood and metalwork make it a prized possession for many enthusiasts.
Disadvantages of a Double Barrel 20 Gauge
While offering many advantages, double barrel 20 gauges also have some limitations:
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Limited Capacity: The most significant drawback is the limited ammunition capacity—typically only two shots. This necessitates accurate shot placement and can be a disadvantage in situations requiring multiple shots.
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Slower Reloading: Reloading a double barrel is slower than reloading a pump-action or semi-automatic shotgun. This can be a disadvantage in situations where rapid follow-up shots are necessary.
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Cost: High-quality double barrel shotguns can be considerably more expensive than other shotgun types.
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Weight: While lighter than a 12 gauge, some double barrel 20 gauges can still be relatively heavy, especially those with heavier barrels or more elaborate engravings.
Choosing the Right Double Barrel 20 Gauge: Key Considerations
Selecting the right double barrel 20 gauge requires careful consideration of several factors:
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Intended Use: Your primary use (e.g., upland bird hunting, clay shooting) will influence your choice of barrel length, choke, and overall gun design.
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Fit and Handling: Properly fitting a shotgun is crucial for comfort and accuracy. Handle the shotgun and ensure it feels comfortable and balanced in your hands.
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Budget: Double barrel shotguns range significantly in price, depending on the manufacturer, materials, and level of craftsmanship.
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Choke Selection: Different chokes (cylinder, modified, full) will impact shot pattern and are crucial for specific hunting applications.
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Barrel Length: Barrel length influences swing characteristics and shot patterns.
Conclusion: A Timeless Classic
The double barrel 20 gauge shotgun remains a popular choice for shooters who appreciate a classic design, manageable recoil, and reliable performance. While it has limitations compared to modern shotgun designs, its advantages, particularly in hunting, make it a timeless classic that continues to attract enthusiasts. Careful consideration of the factors outlined above will help you select a double barrel 20 gauge that perfectly fits your needs and shooting style.
