Why the 16 Gauge Double Barrel Side by Side Shotgun Rules

If you've ever spent an afternoon walking through a golden cornfield or a thicket of brush, you probably already understand why the 16 gauge double barrel side by side shotgun is considered the "gentleman's gauge." There is just something about the way it feels in your hands—balanced, slim, and ready for action—that a bulky 12 gauge or a light-hitting 28 gauge can't quite replicate. It's the sweet spot of the shotgun world, even if it doesn't always get the mainstream credit it deserves. ...

May 19, 2026 · 6 min · Lizet Wen