20 Gauge

Overview

The 20/70 — a 20-gauge, 2¾-inch (70 mm) shotshell — is a widely used shotgun load for 20-gauge shotguns, used primarily for small-game hunting and a broad range of general shotgun applications. It is characterized by a balanced mix of recoil, pattern coverage, and handling, and it pairs well with light, easy-handling shotguns. Depending on the load, the 20/70 is available in a range of shot sizes and configurations with either lead or non-toxic (lead-free) payloads. It appeals to hunters and shotgun shooters who want a nimble, practical, and — compared with 12 gauge — often more comfortable option for field, woods, and waterfowl use.

History & Background

The 20-gauge, 2¾-inch shotshell is one of the most popular shotgun loadings, prized for its lighter recoil and the lighter shotguns it allows. While the 12 gauge remains the all-around standard, the 20 gauge offers a friendlier shooting experience without giving up the versatility needed across upland, woodland, and waterfowl hunting, which is why it has remained a favorite among hunters and clay shooters alike.

Ammunition Types & Loads

Tunet (Nobel Sport France) offers several 20/70 hunting loads suited to different field situations:

Yellow Tempest Steel HP (lead-free) - Uses steel shot and reaches a velocity of 400 m/s (about 1,310 fps). - With a 24 g shot charge, it is a versatile choice for both woodland and field hunting. - Particularly well suited to hunting around water, where non-toxic shot is required. - Available shot sizes: 3.0 mm and 3.25 mm. - Requires a shotgun rated for steel shot.

Tunet Premier - A premium hunting load aimed at hunters who favor fast, precise shots. - Uses gold-graphited lead shot and reaches an exceptionally high velocity of 420 m/s (about 1,380 fps) with a 28 g shot charge. - This combination produces excellent pattern coverage, making it ideal for small-game hunting. - This high-performance load is approved only for shotguns proofed to 1,320 bar (high-performance proof). - Available shot sizes: 2.4 mm, 2.75 mm, and 3.25 mm.

Both load types are offered in packs of 25.

Applications & Game

The 20/70 covers a wide range of shotgun work. General-purpose steel-shot loads serve well for woodland and field hunting and are the right choice for hunting near water, where non-toxic shot is mandatory. Higher-velocity lead loads deliver dense patterns suited to small-game hunting. Beyond shot loads, the 20/70 is also offered with slugs (shotgun slugs / Flintenlaufgeschoss) for situations calling for a single projectile. Overall, the gauge's balance of manageable recoil and effective coverage makes it a practical, versatile option for upland, woodland, and waterfowl hunting.