Complete Shotgun Guide: History, Ammunition Types & Hunting Applications

From the Bench: Exploring the remarkable world of shotguns

By Hootey Cline, Blue Coat Arms Company

Originally published June 17, 2019 | Updated July 2, 2025

After nearly a decade working with shotguns of every vintage and configuration, I continue to be amazed by just how versatile these platforms truly are – more so than most people realize. From their humble beginnings centuries ago to the specialized ammunition available today, shotguns represent one of the most adaptable firearm designs ever created.

Let me share what I've learned about shotguns through my work at the bench, always keeping in mind that there's still so much more to discover about these remarkable tools.

Shotgun History: From 1400s Origin to Modern Firearms

Ancient Origins

Shotguns have been around since the 1400s-1500s, making them one of the oldest firearm designs still in common use today.

The earliest development:

• Match-lock actions were first to be adapted for shotgun use

• Smooth-bore design allowed for multiple projectile loading

• Simple construction made them accessible to common people

• Versatile loading capabilities made them practical for various uses

Development of the American West

More people were armed with shotguns during the development of the West than many realize – they were simply more practical than rifles for most settlers.

Why shotguns dominated the frontier:

• More readily available than precision rifles

• Used for both hunting and defense applications

• Best option for close-quarter defense situations

• Every farmer had a shotgun for practical reasons

What made them so practical: Any muzzle-loading shotgun could be loaded with anything – shot, slugs, or even improvised projectiles like roofing nails when proper ammunition wasn't available.

Historical Ammunition Innovations

Early shotgun versatility led to creative ammunition solutions:

• "Pumpkin balls": Huge solid chunks of lead for big game

• Improvised loads: Nails, stones, or whatever was available

• Multi-purpose capability: One gun for all needs

The Iconic Pump Shotgun

World War I and the "Trench Gun"

The pump shotgun became the most iconic shotgun design, particularly after its use in World War I.

What made it legendary:

• Heavily used as a "Trench Gun" in WWI

• Germans were terrified of American shotgun-armed troops

• German complaints that shotguns were "criminal against humanity"

• Ironic considering German use of chemical warfare

What I find fascinating: The effectiveness of pump shotguns in close-quarters combat was so devastating that it prompted international diplomatic complaints – yet the same forces using poison gas considered shotguns inhumane.

Wells Fargo and the Sawed-Off

Wells Fargo became famous for their 20-gauge sawed-off double-barrel shotguns – compact, devastating, and perfectly suited for stagecoach defense.

Why this configuration worked:

• Compact size for confined spaces

• Devastating close-range power for deterrent effect

• Quick deployment in emergency situations

• Reliable function under harsh conditions

Shotgun Basics: Gauge Selection and Ammunition Types

Multiple Projectiles vs. Single Slugs

Shotguns shoot multiple projectiles at a time – or can fire a single slug when needed. This dual capability is what makes them so versatile.

What this means practically:

• Shot loads for birds, clay targets, and small game

• Slug loads for deer hunting and precision applications

• Specialty loads for specific applications

• One platform handles multiple roles

Modern Gauge Options

Understanding gauge selection helps optimize performance for specific applications.

Small Gauge Shotguns: Misunderstood Performers

The 28 Gauge Renaissance

The 28 gauge is very misunderstood but has been gaining popularity among knowledgeable shooters.

What I've learned about 28 gauge:

• Will do anything a 20 gauge will do with proper loads

• Available up to 3-inch shells for serious performance

• Very light and won't beat you up during extended shooting

• Excellent choice for recoil-sensitive shooters

The .410 Reality

The .410 SHOULD NOT be used by kids or beginners – this is a common misconception that needs correction.

Why .410 is an expert's gauge:

• More suited for experienced shooters who understand its limitations

• Very difficult to hit things due to limited shot payload

• Requires precise shooting and proper load selection

• Better options exist for new shooters

The Underappreciated 16 Gauge

European Popularity vs. American Perception

16 gauge is still very popular in Europe but underappreciated in America.

What makes 16 gauge special:

• Will do anything a 12 gauge can do with proper loads

• Built on a 20 gauge frame, making it lighter than 12 gauge

• Excellent balance of power and handling

• Only reason it's not popular in the USA is the iconic status of 12 gauge

My observation: The 16 gauge represents an excellent compromise between power and handling that more American shooters should consider.

Specialized Ammunition: Beyond Traditional Loads

Law Enforcement and Military Applications

Modern shotgun ammunition goes far beyond traditional hunting loads:

Breaching rounds:

• Cindered rounds: Encapsulated powdered metal that disintegrates on impact

• Pressurized to hold together until hitting the target

• Very popular with LEOs and military for door breaching

• Effective on hinges and locks without over-penetration

Less-lethal options:

• Bean-bag rounds: Military/LEO riot control applications

• Non-lethal but will put you down – still dangerous

• Tear gas rounds: Available in 12 gauge canisters

• Dye-marker rounds: Popular with special operations units

Specialized Military Rounds

Historical and current military applications showcase shotgun versatility:

Flechette rounds:

• Uses steel-dart projectiles designed by the French

• Originally used in cannons and tank ammunition

• Also manufactured for shotguns for specific applications

Sabot rounds:

• Another French innovation adapted for shotguns

• Rifled slug design for improved accuracy

• Modern versions offer excellent long-range performance

Exotic and Specialized Loads

Some ammunition types demonstrate the extreme versatility of shotgun platforms:

Utility rounds:

• Line-throwing rounds: Military/LEO/search-and-rescue applications

• Can propel lines up to 300 feet using special blanks

• Also effective for deploying nets in various applications

Pyrotechnic rounds:

• Can be formulated for various distances and effects

• Usually contains phosphorus or powdered magnesium (burns at 5,000°F)

• Good distraction rounds that defeat night vision

• ILLEGAL IN ILLINOIS – important legal consideration

Signal and training rounds:

• Flare rounds: Noise or light signals

• Blank rounds: Dog training, practice, theater applications

• Smoke rounds: Tactical concealment applications

Dangerous and Restricted Ammunition

Some ammunition types are extremely dangerous or illegal:

Guraught rounds:

• Lead balls connected by piano wire – extremely dangerous

• Capable of decapitation/amputation – nicknamed "Bolo from Hell"

• Highly restricted and dangerous to use

Chemical rounds:

• Acid encapsulated in glass capsules for specialized applications

• Pesticide delivery systems for agricultural use

• Respiratory assault agents for military applications

Hunting Applications

Traditional Hunting Loads

Standard hunting ammunition remains the most common shotgun application:

Shot types:

• Steel shot: Required for waterfowl hunting

• Lead shot: Where legal, for upland game

• Bismuth and tungsten: Premium non-toxic alternatives

Slug types:

• Foster slugs: Traditional rifled slugs for smooth bores

• Sabot slugs: High-performance slugs for rifled barrels

• Specialty slugs: Designed for specific hunting applications

Illinois Hunting Context

With approximately 70% of Illinois hunting done with shotguns, understanding ammunition selection is crucial for success.

What this means for Illinois hunters:

• Waterfowl hunting: Steel shot requirements and choke selection

• Deer hunting: Slug selection and accuracy considerations

• Upland bird hunting: Shot size and choke optimization

• Turkey hunting: Specialized loads and tight chokes

Modern Developments Since 2019

Ammunition Technology

Shotgun ammunition has continued advancing:

• Improved wad designs: Better patterns and reduced fouling

• Advanced shot materials: Better performance and environmental compliance

• Specialized hunting loads: Optimized for specific game and conditions

• Enhanced slug designs: Better accuracy and terminal performance

Platform Improvements

Modern shotguns offer enhanced features:

• Better manufacturing quality: More consistent performance

• Improved ergonomics: Enhanced handling and comfort

• Advanced choke systems: Better pattern control

• Specialized configurations: Purpose-built for specific applications

Legal and Regulatory Changes

Ammunition regulations continue evolving:

• Non-toxic shot requirements: Expanding beyond waterfowl hunting

• Specialty ammunition restrictions: Varying by state and application

• Import/export regulations: Affecting availability of certain types

• Safety standards: Improved manufacturing and testing requirements

Choosing the Right Shotgun Setup

Gauge Selection Guidelines

Consider your primary applications when selecting gauge:

12 gauge: Maximum versatility and power 16 gauge: Excellent balance of power and handling (if you can find ammunition) 20 gauge: Good compromise for most applications 28 gauge: Excellent for experienced shooters wanting less recoil .410: Expert's gauge for specialized applications only

Action Type Considerations

Different actions suit different needs:

• Semi-automatic: Fast follow-up shots, reduced felt recoil

• Pump-action: Reliable, affordable, versatile

• Break-action: Simple, accurate, traditional

• Bolt-action: Specialized for slug shooting accuracy

Safety Considerations

Ammunition Safety

With such diverse ammunition available, safety becomes paramount:

• Know your local laws regarding ammunition types

• Understand your gun's capabilities and limitations

• Proper storage of different ammunition types

• Never experiment with handloaded exotic ammunition

Legal Compliance

Many specialized rounds are restricted:

• Check federal regulations before purchasing

• Understand state restrictions (like Illinois pyrotechnic bans)

• Know local ordinances that may apply

• Professional consultation for unusual applications

Final Thoughts

After years of working with shotguns and studying their incredible versatility, I'm more convinced than ever that shotguns represent the most adaptable firearm platform ever developed. From their origins in the 1400s to today's specialized ammunition, they continue to evolve and find new applications.

What continues to amaze me is how one basic design can be adapted for everything from harvesting game birds to military applications, from sporting clays to home defense. The variety of available ammunition types demonstrates just how versatile this platform truly is.

Key takeaways about shotgun versatility:

• Historical significance spans centuries of development

• Ammunition variety exceeds any other firearm type

• Application range covers hunting, sport, defense, and specialized uses

• Gauge options provide choices for every shooter and application

• Modern developments continue expanding capabilities

For new shotgun owners: Start with understanding the basics before exploring specialized applications. The fundamentals of safe handling, proper gun fit, and appropriate ammunition selection remain constant regardless of how exotic the ammunition becomes.

Remember: With great versatility comes great responsibility. Understanding your equipment, knowing your local laws, and respecting the power of these tools is essential for safe and effective use.

No matter your era, we got your six – whether you're interested in traditional hunting applications or exploring the full range of shotgun capabilities, understanding the platform's versatility will make you a more knowledgeable and effective shooter.

Questions about shotgun selection, ammunition types, or specialized applications? Blue Coat Arms Company provides comprehensive shotgun services including performance optimization, ammunition consultation, and specialized modifications. Contact us at 217-416-5962 or BlueCoatArms@gmail.com.