While they are not as powerful as their 12 gauge brethren, the humble 20 gauge shotgun still holds a very useful place in the shotgun world.
Less power does not mean less utility and there are plenty of areas where a 20 gauge shotgun is the preferred option.
Keep reading to learn more about how to choose the best 20 gauge shotgun for your needs.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for 20 Gauge Shotguns
- OUR TOP PICK: Weatherby SA-08 Synthetic Compact
- RUNNER-UP: Beretta A400 Lite KO (Kick-Off) 28"
- BEST 20 GAUGE SHOTGUN FOR THE MONEY: Benelli M2 20 Gauge 28” Field Shotgun
Comparison of the Best 20 Gauge Shotguns
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What to Watch For When Buying a 20-Gauge Shotgun
Most shotguns made by reputable firearms companies are going to do their jobs just fine. However, that doesn’t mean you won’t prefer one over another. Let’s go over some things to keep in mind while you are selecting a 20 gauge shotgun.
A 20 Gauge Graduation
A 20 gauge shotgun makes for an excellent step up for young shooters who have outgrown their 410 shotguns. Thanks to their overall lighter weight and lower recoil, gun control, and overall accuracy are both improved when compared to a heavy 12 gauge. That makes a 20 gauge shotgun ideal for female shooters, young shooters, and anyone who wouldn’t mind a less punishing trip to the field or range.
Excellent Learning Tool
The best part is that performance does not have to suffer either. In fact, learning how to correctly handle a shotgun using a 20 gauge model can help to instill proper form and gun handling abilities. There aren’t many people who would enjoy being thumped by the recoil of a 12 gauge shotgun over and over again as they take the volume of shots necessary to improve.
That is where a 20 gauge shotgun comes into play. Just keep in mind that recoil is relative. In other words, shooting very heavy loads from a lighter gun will result in higher levels of recoil. Make sure to choose appropriate shells to take advantage of the tolerable recoil of a 20 gauge shotgun.
Actions Aplenty
Despite not being quite as popular as the 12 gauge, there are still plenty of options when purchasing a 20 gauge shotgun. Available in all the popular actions including pump, over-under, semi-auto, and single shot, there is absolutely an ideal option out there for your preferences. For a very pleasurable shooting experience, invest in a semi-automatic 20 gauge shotgun and a few boxes of light target loads.
Home Defense Capable
Shotguns are one of the most popular types of home defense firearms. This is not just limited to 12 gauge models. A 20 gauge shotgun is just as capable for home defense and may even be a better option for households including women and young people. A home defense gun isn’t much use if the people who may need it can’t operate it comfortably.
Review of the Best 20 Gauge Shotguns
Based on the above-mentioned factors. We have picked, classified, and reviewed the best 20 gauge shotguns on the market. All these shotguns are the best in their class and are sold by reputed manufacturers to cover your purchase.
Best Overall:
Weatherby SA-08 Synthetic Compact
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
The gun is very lightweight, durable, and accurate. A perfect shotgun for young shooters who can carry out long shooting sessions without tiring. Almost zero users reported a misfire or feeding issues, even with cheap low-end ammunition. Additionally, the low price is also an inspiring factor for buyers.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The gun features a very durable design due to its synthetic stock. It is a lightweight shotgun, that shoots accurately and offers a fast rate of fire. The 5+1 capacity compliments its rate of fire and the gun is very easy to disassemble and clean. It is available in many barrel lengths and is a versatile shotgun.
Who Will Use This Most
The size, weight, and barrel length of this variant are perfect for young shooters and users with a slender stature. Bigger users can increase the LOP using spacer recoil pads. This shotgun is perfect for bird hunting and even home defense due to its compact size.
Bottom Line
The Weatherby SA-08 is an amazingly affordable and reliable shotgun that will serve almost every purpose relevant for a 20 gauge shotgun. It is very easy to disassemble and clean. Plus the price tag is almost a no-brainer for choosing it.
Runner-up:
Beretta A400 Lite KO (Kick-Off) 28"
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
This shotgun cycles all shotgun loads perfectly and absorbs recoil to the levels of absence. The gun points really well and is very controllable. Reloading it is very easy and the lightweight design is comfortable to carry all day. The design is very ergonomic and it is a classy weapon to carry.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Beretta A400 is the perfect example of a versatile full-size 20 gauge shotgun that has impeccable aesthetics, ergonomics, and function. The checkering delivers a perfect grip on the weapon, and the 4+1 capacity is apt for all applications. The blink gas system cycles factory and cheap loads flawlessly, while delivering exceptional accuracy.
Who Will Use This Most
The gun is perfect for upland bird hunting and competitions. The barrel is long enough to deliver accuracy and has exceptional pointability. Which makes this shotgun also suitable for shooting competitions. The extendable features ensure that the shotgun stays usable for years to come and can be customized to the individual physique.
Bottom Line
The Beretta A400 Lite features an amazing low-recoil which makes the gun very controllable. The amazing gas system, pointability, ergonomics, and aesthetics of this shotgun make it a versatile and reliable shotgun with a fast rate of fire and optimal capacity.
Best 20 Gauge Shotgun for the Money:
Benelli M2 20 Gauge 28” Field Shotgun
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Most users classify it as the best 20 gauge shotgun on the market. Most likely because of the perfect cycling operation, light-recoil, and perfect balance. The gun points really well and the operating system is very easy to clean. Almost none of the users reported a jam and the camo finish is very durable.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Benelli M2 has a simple inertia operated action, which works reliably and helps with mitigating the recoil. This is a fast-handling shotgun and has minimal recoil. The realtree camo finish helps with camouflaging the weapon in the brush. Thus helping during hunting sessions. The included set of choke tubes and a hard case makes this package complete.
Who Will Use This Most
The gun is perfect for bird hunting, given its fast swing, easy pointability, and camo finish. The inertia operation cycles low and magnum loads flawlessly. The ergonomics and function of this gun also make it a suitable home defense shotgun. However, the 3+1 capacity must be kept into consideration for such uses.
Bottom Line
The Benelli M2 is a very famous and widely used semi-auto shotgun for hunting and competitions. This gun has an inertia operated action and cycles all loads perfectly. The gun has a 60/40 POI, so you must get accustomed to that when using it.
Best 20 Gauge Youth Shotgun:
Tristar Sporting Arms Viper G2 Youth 26"
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
The Tristar Viper G2 is the best youth gun you can find at an exceptionally reasonable price. The shotgun has a ‘soft-touch’ stock and a perfect recoil balancing pad, which was liked by many users. The gun shows no jams, no short stroke, and no shooting problems at all. However, some users did recommend using heavy loads only.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The gun has been designed specifically to suit a young shooter. The gun has a soft texture, the color combination is quite cheerful and the gun has a smooth semi-automatic action. The price tag is very reasonable and the gun is quite versatile to stay useful with a growing shooter.
Who Will Use This Most
As already categorized, this gun is perfect for young shooters. The compact and lightweight design offer a smooth feel. While the 26” long barrel makes it suitable for hunting birds and sporting clays. The shotgun can be taken into the woods and used under extreme weather conditions without worrying about the finish and function.
Bottom Line
The Tristar Viper G2 is a value-for-money youth shotgun that'll grow with your kid. It has a very ergonomic and comfortable design with a decent price tag. The semi-auto operation is simple and fast to use, and the gun itself is very accurate and pointable.
Best 20 Gauge Semi-Auto Shotgun:
Winchester SX4
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Users absolutely love this gun and appreciate the low recoil and perfect cycling operation. The gun shoots almost anything you put through and is very easy to clean and maintain. It is an amazing alternative to those high-end shotguns and works perfectly well in all weather conditions. It is neither too heavy nor beats up the shoulder.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Winchester SX4 has a self-adjusting gas valve system, which ensures reliability with almost every load. The gun has a very ergonomic design and a slim profile. The swing and pointability of this shotgun are exceptional, and the long vented rib barrel helps with accuracy. The recoil is easy to manage, and the gun itself is very durable.
Who Will Use This Most
This is an all-purpose 20 gauge semi-auto shotgun. It can be used for bird hunting, medium game, clay sports, and even self-defense if the need arises. This is an all-season 20 gauge shotgun for beginners as well as pros. The SX4 Field is widely used by bird hunters and clay shooters across the states.
Bottom Line
The Winchester SX4 field gun is a tough, reliable, and ergonomic shotgun with a self-adjusting gas system to cycle any load you feed. The gun costs close to a thousand bucks, but it is a worthwhile investment and has the potential to be your go-to gun for the rest of your life.
Best 20 Gauge Home Defence Shotgun:
Mossberg 590 Shockwave
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers appreciate the build quality, reliability, and performance of this shotgun. The gun is very easy to move around and handle. Plus it gets a whole lot accurate with practice. It is very fun to shoot and has very manageable recoil. Most users reported to keep it for fun shooting and home defense purposes.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This gun has been designed to serve its purpose righteously, which is home defense. A compact design measuring approximately 26 inches, this gun packs 6 shells and has a forend strap to offer better control and safety to the shooter. It can be equipped with accessories to make it an astounding tactical weapon.
Who Will Use This Most
The size and barrel length of this Mossberg 590 makes it suitable only for close quarter use. Which obviously is home defense or range use. You can also use this gun for hunting turkey, but only if you are skilled enough to bring it as close as 10 feet. It is an accurate and fun gun to shoot and can also be used as a truck shotgun.
Bottom Line
The Mossberg 590 is a tested and reliable 20 gauge shotgun with a very short and controllable design. It can be concealed in small spaces around the house and carries enough ammo to ward off or bring down multiple hostiles. Practicing accuracy with it can also make it suitable for other purposes.
Best 20 Gauge Pump Shotgun:
Browning BPS Field Composite
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
There were almost zero buyers who complained about the function and finish of this shotgun. People like the fact that this shotgun is ambidextrous and bottom ejecting. The extra weight of this gun is also not a deterring factor due to its performance. However, some users did mention that the shotgun was quite hectic to clean.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The very basic factor is the ambidextrous design of this shotgun. The top-mounted safety and bottom loading/ejection port helps with handling and collecting spent cases. The gun never fails to cycle or shoot, and handles recoil properly(due to its weight). Additionally, it is a very affordable and accurate weapon.
Who Will Use This Most
The BPS is the perfect gun for hunting birds and trap shooting. However, it is more of an all-purpose shotgun, it has been reported to deliver outstanding performance for the above-mentioned applications. People have had this gun-running successfully for years, which proves its durability and efficacy.
Bottom Line
The BPS is an affordable, sturdy, and accurate shotgun which suits both left and right-handed shooters. The fit and finish of the gun are amazing, and the pointability is just awesome. A perfect pump action for hunting and shooting sports.
Best 20 Gauge Over Under Shotgun:
Browning Citori Feather Lightning
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyer's report what is expected from such a high-end over/under shotgun. People have shot thousands of rounds through this gun, without a single malfunction or any other issue. The gun is easy to point and shoot, plus has a low recoil to improve follow-up and handling. The recoil pad has rounded corners to improve handling, and the gun itself is very beautiful.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Browning Citori series is a line of premium shotguns that are extensively used by skeet and trap experts. This gun has everything you can ask and desire from a perfect over/under shotgun. The gun feels and handles very well, and has amazing aesthetics that compete with even the most opulent guns on the market.
Who Will Use This Most
The gun is ideal for trap and skeet shooting. That’s what this gun was designed for, and that’s what suits this gun the best. A prospective buyer is obviously not going to spend top dollar on an all-purpose workhorse. This gun can also be used for bird hunting and occasional fun shooting.
Bottom Line
The Browning Citori Feather Lightning is one of the most lightweight, ergonomic, beautiful, and accurate over/under on the market today. This shotgun is perfect for expert clay shooters and will be suitable for the advanced level shooting sports and hunting.
Best 20 Gauge Tactical Shotgun:
Remington Model 870 Fieldmaster
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
The Remington 870 doesn’t need any testimonies to prove its performance or reliability. More than 11 million of these have been sold, and people still buy them. The gun cycles smoothly and can shoot hundreds of rounds without a break. Finding aftermarket parts is very easy and the price is too affordable.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Yes, we hear you! The Mossberg 590 is a contender for this spot. We still chose the 870 express as the best tactical shotgun because of its all-purpose design, reliability, availability of aftermarket accessories, and recoil mitigation. You can keep it simple as it is, or convert it into a tactical beast within a few minutes by adding upgrades.
Who Will Use This Most
This is an all-purpose workhorse that can be used to bring food to the table, handle intruders, and even close range hunting. This shotgun has and will be the most reliable shotgun all around the globe for years to come. The extra weight is somewhat a deterrent for longer carry durations, but it also helps with mitigating recoil.
Bottom Line
The Remington 870 is an all-purpose, affordable, and simple shotgun that’ll serve all applications you can think of. It can be customized to suit different shooters and situations. Plus the durable construction will definitely last for generations. A good gun at an amazing price.
Best 20 Gauge Double Barrel Shotgun:
CZ-USA Sharp-Tail Coach
Pros
Cons
What Recent Buyers Report
The sharp tail is an upgraded version of the famous CZ-USA hammer coach. So the reviews are certainly similar to the former. According to recent buyer reports, this gun is very tough and well-made. The trigger selection is easy to use, and the gun shoots accurately right out of the box. The wood felt basic, however, it is still the nicest side by side close to a sane price.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The shotgun offers amazing value for money and delivers more than expected. Good sxs shotguns are hard to find at this price, and the Sharp-tail is one of them. This is a beautiful shotgun, and the fit and finish are superb. It points well, shoots well and the single selective trigger is a good upgrade for modern shooters.
Who Will Use This Most
The shotgun will find its worth either in the hands of a seasoned hunter or an expert clay shooter. The gun has an amazing swing and will help to track moving targets with ease. The aesthetics are very impressive to let the user boast about the gun at the range. It is a suitable option for sxs lovers and shooters looking to hone their shotgun skills.
Bottom Line
The CZ-USA Sharp Tail Coach is a useful, beautiful, and reliable double-barrel sxs shotgun. It requires very little maintenance and will shoot every time you pull the trigger. You don’t have to worry about jammed shells any detailed disassembly and cleaning procedures.
When Would a 20 Gauge Shotgun Come in Handy
A 20 gauge shotgun is widely used for hunting birds like quail and pheasants. It is also used for hunting small and medium-sized game, and the reason for that is quite obvious.
The 20 gauge shells pack lesser power than the devastating 12 gauge, which makes sure that a target small and feeble as a bird or hare is not decimated to shreds. These shells contain a larger number but smaller pellets which provide a wide spread to shoot fast-moving targets like birds.
20 gauge shotguns are also known for their lesser recoil. Which makes it a viable option for recoil sensitive shooters. Especially for women and young users. These shotguns are also quite popular for clay shooting sports due to their controllability and low recoil.
How Does a Shotgun Work
A shotgun can feature a pump-action, semi-automatic, double-barrel(sxs or over/under), and single-shot mechanism.
Pump-Action
These shotguns require the user to rack the pump fore and aft, which cycles the action(ejection and chambering). These guns are very reliable, most affordable, and widely used.
Photo credit: shootingtimes.com
Semi-Automatic
These shotguns can be gas-operated or recoil-operated. Using the blowback energy from the fired round to cycle the action. These shotguns offer a fast rate of fire and are great for bird hunting.
Double Barrel
These shotguns can have a side by side or over/under design, depending upon the positioning of both barrels. These are the most reliable of all shotgun designs and are widely used in competitions and clay shooting sports.
Single Barrel: This is the simplest design for a shotgun. These breech-loading weapons have a single round capacity and are used for hunting or learning and adapting to the basics.
How Do I Choose a 20 Gauge Shotgun
Action and Reliability
Consider the kind of action you’d want for your 20 gauge shotgun. While double barrels are utterly reliable and accurate, semi-auto’s offer a quick rate of fire and swing.
Application and Versatility
Choose a shotgun that suits your intended purpose. While pump actions are the most versatile, affordable, and effective among all types. It depends upon your personal preference and what you’d be putting your shotgun up to.
Photo credit: colsontaskforce.org
Capacity
Capacity is an important factor in choosing an appropriate shotgun. While competitions and hunting do not require a volley of rounds. Applications such as home defense or wing shooting will require a higher capacity. So choose wisely.
Durability and Manufacturer
Shotguns can be tough as a rock or even require a great amount of care to prevent marring its finish. A shotgun must be durable enough to withstand years of service while being equally reliable along with its entire service life. Additionally, shotguns from renowned manufacturers have better aftermarket support and warranty policies.
Finish and Aesthetics
The finish of the shotgun is a considerable factor for many people. A 20 gauge shotgun can be a simple piece of metal and synthetic clubbed together. Or a masterpiece with deliberate scrollwork and finish.
What Do I Need to Know Before Buying
Limitations of 20 Gauge
While the 20 gauge is a very economical, useful, and worthy caliber in its own sense. It has certain limitations to its applications. For example, a 20 gauge shotgun is perfect for upland birds and small to medium-sized game. But you have to shoot anything bigger with more power, you’ll either have to fire multiple shots, or upgrade the caliber.
Cost
A box of 20 gauge ammo is likely to cost more than a box of 12 gauge ammo. However, on the contrary, the 20 gauge shells are very cheap to reload compared to the 12 gauge. Since they hold lesser pellets and powder. 20 gauge shotguns are also a tad bit pricier than 12 gauge, although the difference is often not considered.
Photo credit: wideopenspaces.com
Chokes
Make sure to look out for choke interchangeability on the shotgun you choose. Since it will allow you to make the shotgun appropriate for different applications by modifying the spread and range of pallets.
Type of Game
While the 20 gauge is a more friendly-recoil caliber. It is more suitable for smaller game and birds like quail or pheasant. If you plan on taking down deer, a 12 gauge should be a better choice. As already mentioned, evaluate your intended applications before choosing a 20 gauge.
How to Clean a 20 Gauge Shotgun
Cleaning a shotgun should be very easy if you know the process and have the right cleaning tools. Different types of shotguns have their own unique method for disassembly. The single and double-barrel shotguns are the easiest to clean and maintain. All you have to do is to break them open, separate the barrel from the action, and clean all the parts thoroughly.
For pump actions and semi-auto, the process starts with unscrewing the mag tube end cap, followed by the removal of the barrel, mag tube assembly, and other parts of the receiver(if needed).
It is advised to get a universal or bore specific cleaning kit for your 20 gauge shotgun. Unlike other firearms, the disassembly of shotguns does not require any tools. All you need is a few rags, cleaning patches, a bore rod/bore snake, and bore brush.
Check out this video below for more detailed instructions on how to clean a 20 gauge over/under shotgun.
Conclusion
20 gauge shotguns are the smaller and less powerful version of a 12 gauge. They have less recoil and are perfect for recoil sensitive shooters. These shotguns are widely used for bird hunting and clay shooting sports. There are different types of 20 gauge shotguns available on the market. But you must choose them wisely, depending upon your intended use and preferences.
People Also Ask
Before you move towards buying a 20 gauge shotgun. Check out the answers to some very common queries about these guns.
Is a 20 Gauge Shotgun Good For Home Defense?
Yes. A 20 gauge shotgun is good for home defense. Especially for recoil sensitive people. While most home defense encounters will happen at a range closer than 20 yards. The 20-gauge shells will definitely decimate the target at that distance. Given your choice of ammo should be right.
Will a 20 Gauge Kill You?
Yes. A 20 gauge will kill you, so coming in its way is definitely not a good option. However, if loaded with non-lethal loads like rubber pellets, it will only cause injuries. But remember that it’s still a shotgun and if you have ever shot one. You know how much damage it can cause.
How Far Can You Shoot a Deer With a 20 Gauge?
A 20 gauge can bring down a deer. While pellets need to be fired at a close range, slugs will be more lenient on distance. It takes about 1,000 ft-lbs of energy to kill a deer. A 20 gauge slug packs about 2,000 ft-lbs. However, you should seriously consider accuracy and the right shot placement.
Will a 20 Gauge Shotgun Kill Bear?
Yes. A 20 gauge can kill a bear. But mostly with slugs. That’s because in order to bring down a bear, you need to get good penetration. Bears are among the toughest animals on this planet. It takes anywhere between 1,000 to 1,500 ft-lbs of energy to kill a black bear, and the 2-¾” 20 ga. 200-grain slugs have about 2,000 ft-lbs of energy.
How Much Kick Does a 20 Gauge Have?
A 20 gauge 3” shell with 1-¼ oz. shot and a muzzle velocity of 1,185 fps has recoil energy of 31 ft-lbs when shot from a 6.5 lbs shotgun. To give you an idea, a punch from an average person has about 90 ft-lbs of energy.
