Best Buckshot for 20 Gauge Shotguns: Top Accessories and Storage
The top picks focus on practical buckshot use for 20 gauge shotguns, emphasizing quick reloads, safe storage, reliable cleaning, and easy field setup. This guide helps buyers choose items by function: shell carriers and buttstock holders for rapid reloading, storage boxes to organize ammo, cleaning tools to maintain bore health, shell catchers to manage spent casings, and case options for transporting multiple shells securely. Ideal buyers include turkey and upland hunters, home-defense shooters, and competitive shooters seeking quick access and durable gear.
| Product | Best For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Coolrunner 8 Round Shotgun Shell Holder Buttstock Holder | Hunting and practice | Fast reloads with a snug fit on 12/20 gauges |
| Uncle Mike’s Butler Creek Plug 12/20 Shotgun | Travel and storage | Removable plug for chamber protection and length customization |
| Plano Shot Shell Box 20 Gauge | Ammo organization | Up to 25 rounds with durable, lockable design |
| Kapow Outdoors Shell Catcher for 20 Gauge Semi-Auto | Semi-auto eject management | Catches empty casings during singles trap work |
| MTM SF-50-20-09 50-Round 20-Gauge Shotshell Case | Longer hunts and transport | Five shell holders for quick access and rugged construction |
Coolrunner 8 Round Shotgun Shell Holder Buttstock Holder
Brand: Coolrunner. This elastic buttstock holder is designed to carry a few 12/20 gauge shells for quick reloads. It helps transition from slugs to buckshot during hunting or practice by offering easy access to ammunition. Best for shooters who want a lightweight, ready-to-use shell carrier that mounts on the stock for fast reloads. A potential limitation is that it may hold a limited number of rounds, so consider additional storage for extended sessions.
Uncle Mike’s Butler Creek Plug 12/20 Shotgun
Brand: Butler Creek. This shotgun plug fits most 12-, 16-, and 20-gauge pumps and autos, accommodating 2 1/2″, 2 3/4″, and 3″ shells, and can be cut to desired length. Best for shooters who want chamber protection and adaptable length for varied shell sizes. Choose this if you need a versatile plug that helps prevent debris while allowing quick resizing. Limitation: compatibility may vary with some firearm models; verify fit before use.
Plano Shot Shell Box 20 Gauge
Brand: Plano. This plastic ammo storage crate holds up to 25 rounds with deep individual slots and dependable closures. Best for hunters and shooters who need organized, reusable storage with easy access. Choose this for durable, lockable transport and quick loading; caution with smaller storage limits if you often shoot more than 25 rounds in one trip.
Hoppe’s Boresnake 20 Gauge Shotgun
Brand: Hoppe’s. This compact bore-cleaning system emphasizes speed, with a patented one-piece design for easy use and quick maintenance. Best for shooters who value a fast, portable cleaning method and want to keep a 20-gauge bore in good condition. Limitation: some users may prefer a more thorough scrubbing routine for stubborn residue.
Kapow Outdoors Shell Catcher for 20 Gauge Semi-Auto
Brand: Kapow Outdoors. This right-handed shell catcher catches empty casings as they eject, designed for trap shooting and use with 20-gauge semi-auto shotguns. Best for shooters who want a clean range area and reduced spent shell litter. Better for singles and controlled practice than for high-volume dump scenarios. Caution: may require proper mounting alignment for reliable ejection capture.
MTM S-25-20-30 25 Round 20 Gauge Shell Box
Brand: MTM. Holds twenty-five 20-gauge shotshells with a flip-top lid and snap-lock latch. Best for keeping 20-gauge shells organized at a range or during big hunting trips. Choose this if you want a rugged, USA-made storage option with reliable closure. Limitation: not designed for rapid retrieval during live-fire situations; best used for transport and storage between uses.
MTM SF-50-20-09 50-Round 20-Gauge Case
Brand: MTM. This case stores 50 rounds with five shell holders on the lid for quick access. Best for longer hunts or travel where extra ammo management is essential. Choose this for bulk storage and quick loading during action, while noting that the case’s bulk may be less ideal for very compact setups.
Buying Guide
What should you consider when choosing buckshot-related gear for a 20-gauge shotgun?
- Intended use: Hunting, competition, or home defense each benefit from different features, such as quick-access carriers, durability, or portability.
- Compatibility: Check gauge compatibility, stock fit, and whether a shell carrier or plug fits your specific model.
- Capacity and access: Decide how many rounds you need readily accessible and whether you prefer open-access boxes or snap-latch cases with secure closures.
- Portability vs. capacity: Smaller items are easier to carry, but larger boxes or cases reduce reload time and organize more rounds.
- Maintenance: Cleaning tools like borescopes or boresnakes support firearm maintenance; choose items that fit your cleaning routine and travel habits.
- Durability and material: Look for durable plastics, corrosion-resistant metals, and weather-resistant finishes for field use.
FAQ
- What is buckshot typically used for on a 20-gauge shotgun?
Buckshot is commonly used for hunting small to medium game, home defense, or practice, depending on local regulations and target size. - Do shell holders affect accuracy?
Shell holders attach to the stock or belt; they do not directly affect accuracy but can influence balance and ergonomics during shooting. - Are plug devices safe for all 20-gauge shotguns?
Plugs are designed to fit common 12-, 16-, and 20-gauge models, but compatibility varies by model; verify fit and proper installation before use. - Is a shell catcher necessary for trap shooting?
A shell catcher helps keep the shooting area clean, but it is optional depending on range rules and personal preference. - Which MTM case is better for camping trips?
The SF-50-20-09 offers higher capacity and quick-access lid, making it a strong choice for longer hunts or trips with more ammunition needs. - Can I mix different shell brands in a single box?
It’s generally possible, but organizing by size and load is recommended to prevent misloads and ensure reliable feeding.