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28 Gauge Ammo

28 gauge ammo is a common choice for skeet shooters and upland game hunters. At Palmetto State Armory, you will find a variety of shot lengths, shot sizes, and top brands to choose at competitive prices. Looking for a new 28 gauge shotgun? Well, we stock those too, so shop today.
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  1. Winchester Ammunition Super-X 28 Gauge 3" #7.5 1-1/8 Ounce 25rds

    Winchester Ammunition Super-X 28 Gauge 3" #7.5 1-1/8 Ounce 25rds

    $24.99 $1.00
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  2. Federal Black Cloud 28 Gauge 3" 4 3/4 Ounce 25rds

    Federal Black Cloud 28 Gauge 3" 4 3/4 Ounce 25rds

    $33.99 $1.36
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  3. B&P Competition One 28 Gauge 2-3/4" #8 3/4oz Shotshells, 25Rds

    B&P Competition One 28 Gauge 2-3/4" #8 3/4oz Shotshells, 25Rds

    Regular Price $17.99 Special Price $16.19 $0.65
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  4. B&P Competition One 28 Gauge 2-3/4" #7.5 3/4oz Shotshells, 25Rds

    B&P Competition One 28 Gauge 2-3/4" #7.5 3/4oz Shotshells, 25Rds

    Regular Price $17.99 Special Price $16.19 $0.65
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  5. Sterling Exclusive Series 28 Gauge 2-3/4" #8 Birdshot 3/4oz Shotshells, 25Rds

    Sterling Exclusive Series 28 Gauge 2-3/4" #8 Birdshot 3/4oz Shotshells, 25Rds

    Rating:
    90%
    (2)
    Regular Price $15.99 Special Price $13.99 $0.56
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  6. Rio Outdoors Game Load 28 Gauge 2-3/4" #6 Shot 1oz Shotshells, 25rds

    Rio Outdoors Game Load 28 Gauge 2-3/4" #6 Shot 1oz Shotshells, 25rds

    Regular Price $18.99 Special Price $16.99 $0.68
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  7. Rio Outdoors Corp Top Target 28 Gauge 2-3/4" #9 3/4 oz 25rds Shotshell - Precision Target Load for Competition - RC289

    Rio Outdoors Corp Top Target 28 Gauge 2-3/4" #9 3/4 oz 25rds Shotshell - Precision Target Load for Competition - RC289

    Regular Price $16.99 Special Price $14.69 $0.59
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  8. B&P Upland Game 28 Gauge 2-3/4" #7 Shot 3/4 oz Shotshell 25rds

    B&P Upland Game 28 Gauge 2-3/4" #7 Shot 3/4 oz Shotshell 25rds

    Regular Price $26.99 Special Price $23.69 $0.95
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  9. B&P Upland Game 28 Gauge 2-3/4" #6 3/4oz Shotshells, 25rds

    B&P Upland Game 28 Gauge 2-3/4" #6 3/4oz Shotshells, 25rds

    Regular Price $26.99 Special Price $23.69 $0.95
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  10. B&P Upland Game 28 Gauge 2-3/4" #7.5 shot 1oz Shotshells, 25Rds

    B&P Upland Game 28 Gauge 2-3/4" #7.5 shot 1oz Shotshells, 25Rds

    Regular Price $28.99 Special Price $25.99 $1.04
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  11. B&P Upland Game 28 Gauge 2-3/4" #6 1oz Shotshells, 25Rds

    B&P Upland Game 28 Gauge 2-3/4" #6 1oz Shotshells, 25Rds

    Regular Price $28.99 Special Price $25.89 $1.04
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  12. B&P Upland Game 28 Gauge 2-3/4" #5 1oz Shotshells, 25Rds

    B&P Upland Game 28 Gauge 2-3/4" #5 1oz Shotshells, 25Rds

    Regular Price $28.99 Special Price $25.99 $1.04
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  13. Rio Ammunition Royal Pheasant 28 Gauge 2-3/4" #5 Shotshell 10rds

    Rio Ammunition Royal Pheasant 28 Gauge 2-3/4" #5 Shotshell 10rds

    Regular Price $243.99 Special Price $220.99 $22.10
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  14. Fiocchi Golden Waterfowl Bismuth 28 Gauge 3" #4 15/16 oz Shotshell, 10rds - 283GB4

    Fiocchi Golden Waterfowl Bismuth 28 Gauge 3" #4 15/16 oz Shotshell, 10rds - 283GB4

    $39.99 $4.00
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  15. Federal Premium Prairie Storm FS Lead 28 Gauge 3" #6 1 oz 25rds Shotshell - Precision Lead Ammo for Small Game Hunting - PFX285FS6

    Federal Premium Prairie Storm FS Lead 28 Gauge 3" #6 1 oz 25rds Shotshell - Precision Lead Ammo for Small Game Hunting - PFX285FS6

    $41.99 $1.68
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  16. Federal Premium Black Cloud FS Steel 28 Gauge 3" #3 3/4 oz 25rds Shotshell - Powerful for Waterfowl Hunting - PWBX285 3

    Federal Premium Black Cloud FS Steel 28 Gauge 3" #3 3/4 oz 25rds Shotshell - Powerful for Waterfowl Hunting - PWBX285 3

    $33.99 $1.36
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  17. Winchester Super Pheasant 28 Gauge 3" #5 1-1/8 oz 25rds Shotshell - High-Performance Load for Pheasants - X283PH5

    Winchester Super Pheasant 28 Gauge 3" #5 1-1/8 oz 25rds Shotshell - High-Performance Load for Pheasants - X283PH5

    $30.99 $1.24
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  18. Rio Game Load 28 28Gauge 2-3/4" 1oz #8 Shot Ammo, 25rds - RCHV288

    Rio Game Load 28 28Gauge 2-3/4" 1oz #8 Shot Ammo, 25rds - RCHV288

    $18.99 $0.76
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  19. Winchester AA Sporting Clay 28 Gauge 2.75" #7.5 - 0.75 oz - 100rds - AASC287VP

    Winchester AA Sporting Clay 28 Gauge 2.75" #7.5 - 0.75 oz - 100rds - AASC287VP

    Rating:
    100%
    (1)
    $69.99 $0.70
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  20. Fiocchi Field Dynamics High Velocity 28 Gauge 2.75" #9 - 0.75 oz - 25rds - 28HV9

    Fiocchi Field Dynamics High Velocity 28 Gauge 2.75" #9 - 0.75 oz - 25rds - 28HV9

    $21.99 $0.88
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  21. Fiocchi Field Dynamics High Velocity 28 Gauge 2.75" #6 - 0.75 oz - 25rds - 28HV6

    Fiocchi Field Dynamics High Velocity 28 Gauge 2.75" #6 - 0.75 oz - 25rds - 28HV6

    $21.99 $0.88
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  22. Federal Premium High Over All 28 Gauge 2.75" #8.5 0.75 oz - 25rds - HOA2885

    Federal Premium High Over All 28 Gauge 2.75" #8.5 0.75 oz - 25rds - HOA2885

    $19.99 $0.80
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  23. Federal Premium High Over All 28 Gauge 2.75" #8 Shot Ammo - 0.75 oz - 25rds - HOA288

    Federal Premium High Over All 28 Gauge 2.75" #8 Shot Ammo - 0.75 oz - 25rds - HOA288

    $19.99 $0.80
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  24. Federal Premium High Over All 28 Gauge 2.75" #9 Shot Ammo - 0.75 oz - 25rds - HOA289

    Federal Premium High Over All 28 Gauge 2.75" #9 Shot Ammo - 0.75 oz - 25rds - HOA289

    $19.99 $0.80
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Learn More about 28 Gauge Ammo

A Brief History of the 28 Gauge Shotgun Shell

The 28-gauge shotgun shell traces its origins to the early 20th century, first gaining traction in Europe before gradually becoming established in the United States. Standardized by the Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturers’ Institute (SAAMI) in 1929, the 28-gauge was initially considered a specialty gauge best suited for upland bird hunting and small game.

Unlike the 12 and 20 gauges, which were designed with general-purpose use in mind, the 28 gauge filled a niche for hunters looking for lighter, faster-handling shotguns with less recoil and sufficient performance for smaller game. It was particularly favored among experienced wing shooters who appreciated the gauge’s balance of power, precision, and portability

For many years, it remained relatively obscure compared to more common gauges. However, in recent decades, the 28 gauge has experienced a resurgence in popularity, especially among sporting clays competitors, dove hunters, and recreational shooters who value its combination of minimal recoil and effective patterning.

What is the 28 Gauge Good for?

The 28-gauge shines in various sporting and hunting roles, despite its modest payload size.

  • Upland Bird Hunting: The 28-gauge truly excels in this area. It's a favorite among quail, grouse, dove, and woodcock hunters. The shell’s smaller shot charge still delivers consistent patterns at moderate ranges, which is ideal for fast-flying game birds.
  • Sporting Clays and Skeet: In competitive clay target sports, the 28-gauge offers a unique challenge while also reducing shoulder fatigue during long sessions. Its lighter recoil allows for quicker follow-up shots and better control.
  • Youth and Recoil-Sensitive Shooters: Because of its lighter recoil, the 28-gauge is often recommended for youth shooters, new hunters, or those looking for a more comfortable shooting experience. It offers more power than a .410 bore but without the often-abrupt kick of a 12-gauge.
  • Preserve and Pen-Raised Birds: On shooting preserves where game birds are typically flushed at close to moderate distances, the 28 gauge provides sufficient energy while avoiding overkill, preserving meat and feathers.


Though not suited for waterfowl or larger game, its effectiveness in its intended niche is what makes the 28 gauge so well regarded.

Is 28 Gauge Popular?

While the 28 gauge has long occupied a niche market, its popularity has grown steadily over the last 20 years. Increased interest in high-end bird hunting, advancements in shotshell technology, and a shift toward lightweight, low-recoil shooting experiences have all contributed to its rising appeal.

Manufacturers have responded to this growing interest by producing a wider variety of 28-gauge shotguns, including over/unders, semi-automatics, and pump-actions. Ammunition offerings have also expanded, with more loads available for sporting and hunting purposes. Some of today’s most respected shotgun makers, such as Browning, Beretta, and Benelli, offer premium models chambered in 28-gauge.

Among clay shooters, the 28-gauge has carved out a respected space, particularly in American Skeet, where it's one of the four standard gauges used. Though still less common than 12 or 20 gauge, its recognition and use are far more widespread than in previous generations.

Is .410 the Same as 28 Gauge?

No, .410 bore and 28 gauge are not the same, and they differ significantly in construction, performance, and classification.

  • Gauge vs. Bore: The .410 is not a gauge in the traditional sense. It's classified by caliber (approximately .410 inches in diameter). In contrast, the 28 gauge is part of the conventional gauge system based on the number of lead balls of bore diameter that weigh one pound.

  • Payload: A standard 28-gauge shell typically holds 3/4 ounces of shot, while a .410 bore shell often holds 1/2 to 11/16 ounces. This means the 28-gauge delivers a denser, more effective shot pattern, especially at longer ranges.

  • Performance: While the .410 is often seen as a beginner or small-game shell, the 28-gauge is more versatile and forgiving. It provides a more balanced performance, especially in field hunting where slightly longer ranges or more robust shot patterns are required.

  • Ease of Use: Though both are known for light recoil, the 28-gauge often proves easier to hit with, thanks to its fuller pattern. It offers a better margin for error and more consistent knockdown power.

While both are low-recoil, lightweight shells, the 28-gauge stands out for its superior ballistic performance and greater utility across a broader range of uses.

28 Gauge Affordability

Affordability is one of the few limitations associated with 28-gauge shot shells. Due to its specialized role and relatively limited market share compared to 12 and 20 gauge, the 28 gauge tends to carry a premium price.

  • Cost Per Round: On average, 28-gauge shells can range from $0.75 to $1.25 per round, depending on brand, shot size, and whether the load is designed for hunting or target shooting. This is more expensive than comparable 12- or 20-gauge ammunition, which is produced in far greater volumes.

  • Availability: While not as common as other gauges, 28-gauge ammunition is still readily available through most major sporting goods retailers and online vendors. However, stock levels can fluctuate, particularly during hunting season or periods of high demand.

  • Reloading: For dedicated 28-gauge shooters, reloading can be a practical solution. Reloading not only helps manage costs but also allows for the customization of loads based on specific hunting or competition needs.

While the cost is higher, many enthusiasts argue that the 28 gauge’s balance of performance, recoil, and effectiveness is well worth the added expense, especially when used for its intended applications.