Shotgun Capacity: From 1 to 50 Rounds

When it comes to the number of shells a shotgun can hold, the capacity can vary significantly depending on the specific model and design. From the traditional pump shotgun that holds a handful of rounds to the modern drum magazines that can accommodate an impressive 50 rounds, shotguns offer a wide range of capacities and versatility. In this article, we will explore different shotgun types and their ammunition capacities, focusing on models available in the market and their unique features.

Shotgun Capacity Overview

The capacity of a shotgun is not solely dependent on the make and model; it also takes into consideration the type of ammunition and the specific design of the firearm. With so many types of shotguns on the market, ranging from basic pump shotguns to advanced models with multiple magazines and drum magazines, the number of shells a shotgun can hold can vary widely from just a couple of rounds to as many as 50.

Exploring Various Shotguns and Their Capacities

Basic Pump Shotguns

Traditional pump shotguns are simple and reliable, with a capacity that typically ranges from 4 to 8 standard rounds. These shotguns have a single barrel and a single magazine, with one round in the chamber and the rest stored in the tube. The KSG Kel-Tec Shotgun, for example, is a pump shotgun that holds 15 standard rounds or 25 mini shells with one in the chamber, making a total of 14 or 24 in the twin internal magazines. This versatility allows for multiple rounds to be loaded, providing a significant advantage in close-range scenarios.

Double Barrel Shotguns

Double barrel shotguns, while older in design, still hold a place in the market. Models like the DP-12 by Standard Manufacturing, for instance, are a side-by-side double barrel version that holds 16 standard rounds. By modifying it to accept mini shells, the total capacity can increase to 26 rounds. Despite being an ancient design, these shotguns continue to be used in trick shooting and hunting due to their reliability and unique look.

Modern Drum Magazines

Some modern shotgun models come with drum magazines, which can significantly increase the ammunition capacity. The AA-12, for example, has a 20-round magazine, a 20-round drum, and a 32-round drum. If legally allowed, a single user can own all three versions of the AA-12 shotgun. However, as stated, shooting 50 rounds straight without malfunctions is a challenge, and no more than a box of shells is typically loaded due to repeated malfunctions.

Shotgun Pistols and Other Variants

Shotgun pistols, such as those using revolver or crank barrel platforms, can hold a limited number of rounds. They typically come in 5 or 6-shot revolver models or single or double crack barrels, with a single round per barrel. These are ideal for close-range encounters and provide a more compact solution for carrying multiple rounds without the bulk of a full-sized shotgun.

Kel-Tec Shotgun Line Variations

The Kel-Tec KSG line offers different variations of the KSG pump shotgun. The KS-7, which lacks the second magazine, can hold a maximum of 8 rounds. On the other end of the spectrum, the KSG-25 is a full-length version that increases the capacity to 25 standard rounds or 41 mini shells. This variety in design and capacity makes the KSG line a popular choice for users who need different levels of ammunition capacity depending on their needs.

Conclusion

As we have seen, the capacity of a shotgun can range from just a couple of rounds to over 50, depending on the model, design, and type of ammunition used. Shotguns offer a wide range of versatility, from basic pump shotguns to advanced drum magazines and even updated versions of obsolete double barrel shotguns. The choice of capacity depends on the specific requirements of the user, such as the intended use, budget, and personal preferences.

In summary, the number of shells a shotgun can hold is not a one-size-fits-all answer and varies greatly depending on the specific model and design. From the traditional pump shotguns to modern drum magazines and shotgun pistols, shotguns provide a diverse range of options for users to choose from.