Originally Posted By: BrentD
Why so many gauges period?


Brent I have wondered the same thing. I think it is because of the gunpowder - black or nitro. As you know you can now load 12 gauge from 3/4oz loads up through 2 oz I suppose, all at less than 1250 fps, but certainly you would have to change powder as you changed the shot weight. I think that 120 years ago when it was desired to shoot a 3/4 oz. shot load (2-1/2" 20 gauge) the available powders would not burn in such a way that is could be done in 12 gauge.

That is speculation on my part but I did read that when the early English 2" shells came out they had considerable trouble making the shells work consistenly because the powder wasn't compatible with the inertia of such a short shot column.

Best,

Mike

Last edited by AmarilloMike; 09/19/08 10:49 AM.

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