A QUICK PRIMER ON 20 GAUGE SHOTGUN AMMO 2 3/4"
The 20 gauge shotgun shell, particularly in the 2 3/4" length, is a highly versatile load used by hunters, sport shooters, and home defenders alike. As a lighter-recoiling alternative to 12 gauge, 20 gauge shotgun ammo 2 3/4" delivers enough energy for small game, upland birds, deer (with slugs), and even defensive use, while remaining manageable for younger or smaller-framed shooters.
Standard 2.75-inch 20 gauge shells are offered in a wide variety of configurations. Bird shot loads (often in #6, #7.5, or #8 shot) are ideal for upland game and clays. Buckshot, such as #3 or #2 buck, is more commonly used in self-defense and predator control scenarios. For larger game like deer, slug shot or rifled slugs provide powerful terminal performance and reliable accuracy, especially when paired with a rifled barrel or slug gun. You’ll also find options in lead shot and steel shot, the latter being necessary for waterfowl hunting in non-toxic zones.
The 20 gauge 2 3/4-inch round delivers excellent ballistic performance in a compact, efficient package. Its mild recoil makes it ideal for high-volume shooting, youth shooters, or anyone looking for a lighter alternative to full-power 12 gauge loads, without giving up on effectiveness.
At Target Sports USA, we carry a comprehensive selection of 20 gauge shotgun shells from trusted manufacturers including Federal, Winchester, Remington, Fiocchi, HEVI-Shot, Hornady, Norma, and Stars and Stripes. Whether you need bulk 20ga ammo, specialty hunting loads, or home defense rounds, our lineup has you covered.
TOP CONSIDERATIONS WHEN BUYING 20 GAUGE SHOTGUN AMMO 2 3/4"
When selecting 20 gauge shotgun ammo 2 3/4", it’s essential to match the load type and performance characteristics to your intended use. Here’s what to keep in mind when browsing our selection of 20 gauge shotgun shells.
Purpose: Are you hunting upland birds, defending your home, or shooting clays? For hunting small game or birds, choose lead shot in #6, #7.5, or #8. For home defense or predator control, buckshot like #3 or #2 buck provides deeper penetration. If you're hunting deer or need a powerful impact, go with slug shot, either rifled slugs or sabot slugs, depending on your shotgun barrel.
Shot Material: If you’re waterfowl hunting or shooting in areas with non-toxic shot requirements, steel shot is a must. For general-purpose or upland game, lead shot is the traditional and most commonly used choice. Many premium loads also feature plated or buffered shot for better pattern consistency and terminal performance.
Shell Length Compatibility: While 2 3/4" 20ga ammo is the most common and widely accepted chambering, it’s crucial to confirm your shotgun is chambered to safely shoot it. Never attempt to shoot longer shells (like 3") in a gun marked for 2 3/4", as doing so can damage your firearm and be hazardous to the shooter.
Recoil Sensitivity: One of the biggest advantages of 20 gauge ammo is its reduced recoil compared to 12 gauge. This makes it ideal for youth shooters, smaller-framed individuals, and anyone who prefers a softer shooting experience without compromising on effectiveness.
Brand Reliability: Stick with proven names like Federal, Winchester, Remington, Fiocchi, Hornady, Norma, Stars and Stripes, and HEVI-Shot. These manufacturers consistently deliver high-quality 20 gauge shotgun ammunition, whether you're shooting clay targets or filling your freezer with game.
20 GAUGE SHOTGUN AMMO 2 3/4" FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
- What happens if a 20-gauge shell is placed in a 12-gauge shotgun?
- This is a serious safety hazard. A 20 gauge shell can fall deep into the chamber or barrel of a 12 gauge shotgun and become lodged. If a 12 gauge shell is then loaded and fired, the obstruction can cause the barrel to burst, potentially injuring or killing the shooter. Always store and load your 20ga ammo separately from other gauges to avoid dangerous mix-ups.
- Can I use 3" 20 gauge shells in a 2 3/4" chamber?
- No. Only use 20 gauge shotgun shells that match your firearm’s chamber length. Firing a 3" shell in a 2 3/4" chamber can generate excessive pressure and damage your gun or harm the shooter. Always verify the shell length stamped on your barrel.
- Is 20 gauge good for home defense?
- Yes. 20 gauge shotgun ammo 2 3/4", especially buckshot loads, is an effective and manageable option for home defense. It delivers significant stopping power with reduced recoil compared to 12 gauge, making it a preferred choice for women, smaller-framed shooters, and those seeking faster follow-up shots.
- What is the difference between bird shot, buckshot, and slug shot?
- Bird shot uses many small pellets (like #6–#8) and is ideal for hunting birds and clay shooting. Buckshot uses larger pellets (like #3 or #2 buck) for defense or larger game. Slug shot fires a single heavy projectile, perfect for deer hunting or stopping threats at short to medium range with improved accuracy.
- Can I hunt deer with 20 gauge shotgun ammo 2 3/4"?
- Yes. When paired with rifled slugs, a 20 gauge can ethically take down deer within 100–125 yards. Look for rifled slug loads from brands like Hornady or Federal for best performance in smoothbore barrels, or use sabot slugs in rifled barrels for increased accuracy.
- What are the advantages of 20 gauge over 12 gauge?
- 20ga ammo offers lighter recoil, making it easier to shoot accurately and for extended periods. While 12 gauge provides more power and shot volume, many shooters prefer 20 gauge for its balance of comfort and capability—especially in upland hunting, small game, and youth training.
- What types of shot materials are available in 20 gauge shells?
- You’ll find both lead shot and steel shot options. Lead is commonly used for upland game and target shooting, while steel shot is mandatory in many areas for waterfowl hunting due to non-toxic shot regulations. HEVI-Shot and bismuth loads are also available for added performance in non-toxic zones.
- What are common shot sizes in 20 gauge shotgun ammo 2 3/4"?
- #8 or #7.5 for clays and dove | #6 or #5 for rabbits and pheasant | #3 or #2 buck for defense or coyotes | Rifled slugs for deer hunting | Choosing the right shot size depends on your quarry and shooting application.
- Can I reload 20 gauge 2 3/4" shotgun shells?
- Yes, reloading 20 gauge shells is a common practice among experienced shotgun shooters. It allows for cost savings and load customization. Just be sure to use proper components, follow published load data, and never mix hulls or primers between different load recipes.
- What brands make the best 20 gauge shotgun shells?
- Top brands for 20 gauge shotgun ammo 2 3/4" include Federal, Remington, Winchester, Fiocchi, HEVI-Shot, Hornady, Stars and Stripes, and Norma. Whether you’re shopping for bird shot, buckshot, or slug shot, these manufacturers offer reliable, high-performance loads trusted by hunters and competitive shooters alike.
OUR TOP 20 GAUGE SHOTGUN AMMO 2 3/4" RECOMMENDATIONS
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Remington Slugger 20 Gauge Ammunition 2-3/4" 5/8 oz. Rifled Slug - SP20RS: The slightly oversized 383-grain lead slug ensures better sealing against the barrel wall, resulting in more consistent shot-to-shot velocities and improved accuracy. With a muzzle velocity of 1,580 feet per second and energy of 1,513 foot-pounds, this ammunition delivers hard-hitting performance suitable for medium game hunting and personal defense scenarios.
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Federal Premium 20 Gauge Ammunition 275 Grain 2-3/4" Copper Tipped Sabot Slug - P208 TC: This lead-free ammunition features a copper-tipped slug designed to provide excellent penetration and rapid expansion, achieving a muzzle velocity of 1700 fps and a muzzle energy of 1765 ft-lbs, which offers powerful knockdown capability.
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Hornady SST 20 Gauge Ammunition 250 Grain 2-3/4" FTX Sabot Slug - 86232: The FTX (Flex Tip eXpanding) technology in this slug provides exceptional expansion and deep penetration, making it perfect for deer hunting. With a muzzle velocity of 1,800 feet per second and a muzzle energy of 1,798 foot-pounds, it delivers powerful performance for effective game hunting.
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Use Cases for 20 Gauge Shotgun 2 3/4" Ammunition
- Upland Hunting
- Waterfowl Hunting
- Clay Target Sports (Trap, Skeet, Sporting Clays)
- Small Game Hunting
- Home Defense
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Popular 20 gauge Shotgun Ammo Brands
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Common 20 Gauge Shotgun Ammo 2 3/4" Caliber Name Variations
- 20ga
- 20 Gauge
- 20 Gauge 2 3/4"
- 20 Gauge Shotgun Shells
THE 20 GAUGE SHOTGUN AMMO 2 3/4" ROUND UP
Whether you're targeting upland game, breaking clays, or securing your home, 20 gauge shotgun ammo 2 3/4" offers the versatility and performance today's shooters demand. Its lighter recoil and wide range of available loads, from bird shot to buckshot to slug shot, make it a standout choice for hunters, sport shooters, and home defenders alike.
At Target Sports USA, we stock a comprehensive selection of 20ga ammo from trusted brands like Federal, Winchester, Remington, Hornady, Fiocchi, Norma, HEVI-Shot, and Stars and Stripes. Whether you're buying by the box or looking for bulk 20 gauge ammo with free shipping, our goal is to help you shoot with confidence, comfort, and consistency, no matter the application.