GunsAmerica

Quick Look

The 28 gauge shotgun originated in the early 20th century as a lightweight option for upland game hunting. Designed for ease of carry and reduced recoil, it delivers effective performance in a smaller package. Today, it remains a popular choice among hunters and shooters seeking versatility and fast handling.

Why It's a Top Choice

Light recoil for comfortable shooting
Easy to carry during extended hunts
Effective for small to medium game birds
Widely supported by various manufacturers
Good balance between power and weight

Key Variants

The 28 gauge shotgun has various models tailored to different uses, including over-under, pump-action, and semi-automatic configurations. For specific brand models and options, please search by exact model name.

Competitor Comparison Table

Feature	28 Gauge Shotgun	20 Gauge Shotgun	410 Bore Shotgun
Typical MSRP	$600–$1,200	$500–$1,100	$400–$1,000
Capacity/Size	2–5 shells	3–5 shells	2–4 shells
Weight	5–6.5 lbs	5.5–7 lbs	4.5–6 lbs
Optics‑Ready	Limited	Some models	Rare
Trigger Type	Single or double	Single or double	Single
Notable Pro	Lightweight, low recoil	Versatile, widely available	Compact and maneuverable
Notable Con	Less power than larger gauges	Slightly heavier recoil	Limited range and stopping power

Best Use Cases

Upland bird hunting
Clay target shooting
Small game hunting
Lightweight field use
Quick handling scenarios

FAQs

Can I use 28 gauge shotguns for self-defense?

28 gauge shotguns can be used for self-defense but offer less stopping power than 12 or 20 gauge options. They are better suited for hunting and sport shooting.

What is the typical recoil of a 28 gauge shotgun?

The 28 gauge shotgun has lower recoil compared to larger gauges, making it comfortable for extended shooting.

How does a 28 gauge compare to a 20 gauge shotgun?

The 28 gauge is lighter with less recoil but offers slightly reduced power and shot volume compared to the 20 gauge.

28 GAUGE SHOTGUN for Sale