Why do I want a 16 gauge?

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linderhof

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I own both 12 and 20 gauge guns already, why do I have this desire to try a 16? The only thing holding me back is that the one I'm looking at is heavier (1/2 lb) than the 20 gauge version in the same gun (Citori lightning). It would be used on grouse, woodcock and preserve pheasants over a pointing dog. Anybody want to talk me in or out of this dilemma?
 
Maybe because the ammo is expensive?:p At least with 12 and 20, you can buy bulk packs. Maybe that will change if enough demand is made for 16 bulk packs.
 
I grew up shooting a 16g and I'm a big fan. The old saying 'carries like a 20, hits like a 12' is quite accurate in my opinion. I really want a classy side by side and I'll eventually get one, however, I've seen a few citoris and will likely end up with one sooner than later for much of my upland hunting,especially pheasant and other 'larger' birds. I've actually been eyeing up one that just came up for sale at a site sponser. I'm a sucker for nice wood and its quite nice for a citori.
http://store.prophetriver.com/browning-citori-16ga-2-75-26-white-lightning-upgraded-wood-b/
 
I enjoy all shotgun shooting ........ however my LCSmith 16 bore SxS is my all time favourite gun of guns!

She shoots where I point it and patterns so sweetly.

Yes... I did get into reloading because of LC , but well worth the trouble!

Lucky
 
If you have not already done so, check out the web page for the society dedicated to 16 ga. Packs like a 20 and hits like a 12 is a sentiment I endorse as well. The ammo is not a big deal if you use it for hunting. How much would you burn in a season? As soon as I build enough points the 16 ga itch will be scratched and one added to my collection as well. The 28 ga. they claim is an excellent bird gun. Sorry about that.
 
I have an old 16 gauge as well shoots slugs as good as my 20 and better than my 12s. Shells are expensive but what hobby is cheap?
 
Lots of shooters get all misty-eyed and nostalgic about the 16 gauge. I'm not among them.

The 16 gauge went on to life support with the introduction of the 3" 20 magnum and the move to non-toxic shot. Ammo is harder for find. You might need to reload but acquiring loaders and wads is even tougher than finding ammo. Many of the modern guns made for the 16 are built on 12 gauge receivers resulting in a heavier gun shooting a lighter gauge. Those built on 20 gauge or scaled receivers make some sense but in a modern gun why not just get a 20 that will do everything the 16 will with ammo you can find anywhere.

If you want a 16 gauge just because there is no reason not to have one but it will do nothing for you that you aren't doing as well already.
 
Claybuster said:
Lots of shooters get all misty-eyed and nostalgic about the 16 gauge. I'm not among them.

The 16 gauge went on to life support with the introduction of the 3" 20 magnum and the move to non-toxic shot. Ammo is harder for find. You might need to reload but acquiring loaders and wads is even tougher than finding ammo. Many of the modern guns made for the 16 are built on 12 gauge receivers resulting in a heavier gun shooting a lighter gauge. Those built on 20 gauge or scaled receivers make some sense but in a modern gun why not just get a 20 that will do everything the 16 will with ammo you can find anywhere.

If you want a 16 gauge just because there is no reason not to have one but it will do nothing for you that you aren't doing as well already.
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That is a shame you are missing out on something special.
 
CoryTheCowboy said:
Because you have seen the light.

Cory
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That sums it up Cory. Got my 1st wingmaster in the mid 60's and never looked back. The 16ga was the king of the hill back them. Explaining it to someone is like trying to tell them about ### you have to live it to fully understand the feeling.
I think an ounce of number 6 shot in paper imperials in a SxS 16ga will do just about anything I want to do in the uplands.
Add two britts an old pipe and woolrich jacket and the experience is priceless.
No sure why so many have a hard time finding reloading components. Quality Hulls yes I can see taking some effort but wads are everywhere especially since claybuster started making the AA style again.Loaders are no problem I even have a 9000 in 16ga. Mec sizemasters and jr's easy to order
I think if they had of produced a 3" 16ga the old 20 would be dead today and the 12ga taken a hell of a beating also.
Not being part of the 4 gun skeet group killed it
 
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Not to incite any "heat" in this discussion, but some feelings stated here are absolutely incorrect:

- I have never had a problem finding ammo. (Winchester, Remington, Federal, Kent, Rio & Fiochi all catalogue 16's)

- I have never had a problem finding components. (Same powder, primer & shot, clay buster wads anywhere you buy wads - many others you can order and a regular supply of hulls at range & CGN EE)

- I have never had a problem finding reloading gear (MEC, PW, Lee all currently produce @ same price as other gauges).

Some discussion suggest cost as an issue, how many of us drive the cheapest car we can afford, buy the cheapest gun, scope, rings, cases, etc.?

There are guys who love "plastic" guns, machine made with stainless steel, and there are guys who feel just as strongly about "blue & walnut" neither are wrong, some just appreciate more intrinsic quality.

If you see a gun as a tool (hammer or screwdriver) you may not appreciate a 16, but if you see a gun as something appreciable (a wooden block plane, classic Randall or Case knife, or even a vintage car). I guarantee you prize a quality 16 ga.

I'd like to draw a comparison to bow hunting, not even comparable to a modern rifle, but certainly adds something to each and every hunt.

I shoot thousands of rounds a year, at least 50% of which are 16 gauge.

M
 
3macs1 said:
I think an ounce of number 6 shot in paper imperials in a SxS 16ga will do just about anything I want to do in the uplands.
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Just for discussion's sake, is a 1oz load out of a 16 that different than a 1oz load out of a 12 or 20 ? Do they inherently really throw that superior of a pattern?
 
My Cooey 840 16 gauge is the only staple in my safe. For chickens of opportunity. I bought a whack of ammo for it a few years ago. I'm gonna make some wax slugs and see if I can knock a deer down next fall.
 
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