As a lifelong upland hunter and outdoor writer, I’ve always been fascinated by the nuances of shotgun selection. While 12 and 20 gauge shotguns dominate the fields, there’s a growing appreciation – and a rich history – surrounding sub gauge shotguns. These smaller gauges, ranging from the classic 16 gauge to the increasingly rare 8 gauge, offer a unique shooting experience and can be incredibly effective for pursuing game birds. This guide will delve into the world of these often-overlooked firearms, exploring their history, legality, shell availability, and why you might choose a sub gauge shotgun for your next hunt. We’ll cover everything from the beloved A5 Sweet Sixteen upland favorite to the historical context of larger gauges like the 5 gauge and 6 gauge.
Why Choose a Sub Gauge Shotgun for Upland Hunting?
The appeal of a sub gauge isn’t always about raw power. It’s often about the challenge, the finesse, and the connection to hunting traditions. Here’s a breakdown of the benefits:
- Reduced Recoil: Smaller gauges inherently produce less recoil, making them more comfortable to shoot, especially for smaller-framed hunters or those sensitive to recoil.
- Increased Challenge: Demanding more precise wing shooting and pattern density, sub gauges force hunters to hone their skills.
- Historical Significance: Many sub gauges, like the 16 and 28, have a long and storied history in American hunting.
- Unique Shooting Experience: The different ballistics and handling characteristics offer a refreshing change from the more common gauges.
A Look at Popular Sub Gauge Options
Let's explore some of the most common and historically significant sub gauges available to American hunters.
The 16 Gauge: The "Sweet Sixteen" and its Upland Appeal
The 16 gauge, often called the “Sweet Sixteen,” is arguably the most popular sub gauge. It strikes a balance between the power of a 12 gauge and the lighter recoil of a 20 gauge. The Browning A5 Sweet Sixteen is a particularly iconic shotgun, renowned for its reliability and smooth action. Browning continues to produce models, though they are often sought after on the used market. It’s incredibly versatile, capable of taking down pheasant, grouse, and quail with appropriate shot selection. Finding 16 gauge shotgun hulls for reloading is generally easier than with some of the more obscure gauges.
The 28 Gauge: A Refined Upland Choice
The 28 gauge is a step down in power from the 16, offering even less recoil and demanding even greater shooting skill. It’s a favorite among those who appreciate a truly challenging and refined upland experience. It excels at close-range shooting, making it ideal for quail and grouse. While shell availability isn’t as widespread as 12 or 20 gauge, it’s steadily improving.
The 20 Gauge: Bridging the Gap
While often considered a standard gauge, the 20 gauge can also be viewed as a sub gauge relative to the 12. It’s a popular choice for youth hunters and those seeking a lighter, more manageable shotgun. It’s incredibly versatile and effective for a wide range of upland game birds.
The 5 Gauge Shotgun: A Rare Breed
The 5 gauge is a fascinating piece of hunting history. Larger than an 8 gauge, it was primarily used for market hunting in the 19th century, capable of taking down multiple birds with a single shot. Today, it’s incredibly rare and subject to strict regulations. Finding 5 gauge shotgun shells is extremely difficult, and owning one often requires special permits. Its historical significance is undeniable, but its practicality for modern upland hunting is limited.
The 8 Gauge: A Legacy of Power
The 8 gauge, like the 5 gauge, is a relic of the market hunting era. It was known for its immense stopping power, but its size and weight made it cumbersome to carry. While not completely extinct, 8 gauge shotguns are exceedingly rare, and 8 gauge shells banned in many areas due to their potential for overharvesting. Its historical context is important, but it’s not a viable option for contemporary upland hunting.
The 32 Gauge Shotshell: A Niche Offering
The 32 gauge is a relatively uncommon gauge, offering a unique shooting experience. It falls between the 28 and 16 gauge in terms of power and recoil. Shell availability can be limited, but it’s gaining a small following among dedicated sub gauge enthusiasts.
Legality and Regulations
Understanding the legal landscape surrounding sub gauge shotguns is crucial. Regulations vary by state and even by local jurisdiction. Here are some key considerations:
- Federal Regulations: The National Firearms Act (NFA) doesn’t typically regulate sub gauge shotguns unless they have specific features (e.g., short barrels) that classify them as shotguns requiring registration. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) provides detailed information on federal firearms regulations.
- State Regulations: Many states have specific regulations regarding shotgun gauge, barrel length, and magazine capacity. Always check your state’s hunting regulations before purchasing or using a sub gauge shotgun.
- Migratory Bird Hunting: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) sets regulations for migratory bird hunting, including restrictions on the types of shot that can be used. Ensure your chosen shells comply with these regulations.
- Historical Gauges (5 & 8): As mentioned previously, the 5 and 8 gauge are often subject to stricter regulations due to their historical association with market hunting.
Shell Availability and Reloading
One of the biggest challenges with sub gauge shotguns is shell availability. While 16 and 28 gauge shells are becoming more readily available, finding shells for less common gauges like the 5 and 8 can be extremely difficult. Reloading is often the best option for these gauges.
- Commercial Availability: Major ammunition manufacturers like Federal, Remington, and Winchester offer limited selections of 16 and 28 gauge shells.
- Reloading: Reloading allows you to customize your loads and ensure a consistent supply of ammunition. However, it requires specialized equipment and knowledge. Resources like the Reloaders Network can provide valuable information.
- Component Availability: Finding 16 gauge shotgun hulls, primers, and powder can be easier than finding complete shells, making reloading a viable option even for the more common sub gauges.
Practical Considerations for Upland Hunting with Sub Gauges
Successfully hunting upland birds with a sub gauge requires careful planning and execution.
- Shot Selection: Use appropriate shot size for the game you’re pursuing. Smaller gauges require denser patterns, so consider using heavier shot loads.
- Choke Selection: Experiment with different chokes to find the optimal pattern for your shotgun and the type of hunting you’re doing.
- Practice: Spend time at the shooting range to hone your skills and become proficient with your sub gauge shotgun.
- Range Estimation: Accurate range estimation is crucial with sub gauges, as their effective range is typically shorter than that of 12 or 20 gauge shotguns.
- Ethical Hunting: Always prioritize ethical hunting practices and ensure a clean, quick kill.
Resources for Further Exploration
- National Park Service: https://www.nps.gov/ (For park-specific hunting regulations)
- Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics: https://lnt.org/ (For responsible outdoor practices)
- USDA Forest Service: https://www.fs.usda.gov/ (For forest-specific hunting regulations)
- REI Expert Advice: https://www.rei.com/learn/ (For general outdoor knowledge and gear reviews)
In conclusion, the world of sub gauge shotguns offers a unique and rewarding experience for upland hunters. Whether you’re drawn to the historical significance of the 8 gauge, the versatility of the 16 gauge, or the challenge of the 28 gauge, these firearms can add a new dimension to your hunts. Remember to prioritize safety, legality, and ethical hunting practices, and enjoy the journey!