Legal Ownership and Uses of 8-Gauge and Larger Industrial Shotguns

Have you ever wondered what industry uses an industrial shotgun? While most modern shotguns serve recreational or hunting purposes, industrial shotguns like the 8-gauge and larger models serve unique roles in various fields. In this article, we explore the legality, production, and practical applications of these powerful weapons.

Current Production and Uses of Industrial Shotguns

As of today, most shotguns with gauges larger than 10 are no longer produced for conventional sporting use. However, a small number of industrial 8-gauges are still manufactured every year, and ammunition is loaded for them. These firearms are particularly useful in industries that require robust tools for specific tasks. For instance, if you own a rotary kiln in a mining or minerals industry, an 8-gauge industrial gun could be a valuable asset. As someone who works in the mining/minerals industry, I have some experience and knowledge to share.

A Personal Anecdote

Back in the 1960s, my Uncle brought in an 8-gauge shotgun from his home country of England. It was a beautiful, intricately engraved double-barrel masterpiece. I remember how stunning it looked, shining with a blue steel finish. At the time, owning such a shotgun was illegal in the United States, but authorities decided to let him keep it due to the lack of access to ammunition. The story goes that a case labeled champagne actually contained a cache of shotgun shells. One evening, my Uncle and my Dad decided to test the weapon, knowing full well it was loaded with shells.

My Uncle, a hefty man around 300 pounds, chose to stand with a tree behind him for safety. However, the sheer power and kick of the 8-gauge were too much for him. In his effort to keep the first barrel from firing accidentally, he unintentionally discharged both barrels. The impact was surprisingly powerful, and my Uncle was left with a rather spectacular bruise. The shotgun was eventually passed on to my Dad, who, on a 4th of July celebration, rather nonchalantly planted the butt of the gun on the front lawn and fired both barrels. Yes, it was a reckless move, but we lived in a remote and sparsely populated area back then.

Legal Considerations of Owning 8-Gauge Shotguns

It is legal to own shotguns larger than 10 gauge in the United States, though it is not legal to use them for hunting migratory birds. This includes ducks and doves. However, these larger shotguns have other practical uses. An 8-gauge, for example, can be used to hunt small game, such as quail, or even larger animals like deer, elk, or moose. The powerful round ball fired by an 8-gauge would weigh around 2 ounces (870 grains) and could effectively dispatch larger game animals. Although these shotguns are heavy, their power allows them to be highly effective tools in the right hands.

Fireside Chat with a Shooting Enthusiast

While I have never personally used a breechloading 8-gauge shotgun, I have had the opportunity to fire an 8-gauge muzzleloader. The experience was quite different from conventional shooting experiences. These firearms require a certain level of skill and caution, but they offer unique opportunities for those who understand their capabilities and limitations.