What is the effective range of a shotgun?

The effective range of a shotgun largely depends on the specific type of shotgun, the gauge, the type of ammunition used, and the intended purpose. Generally, when discussing the effective range for shotguns, it is widely recognized that the effective range for most shotgun types is around 40 to 50 yards, especially when using standard lead shot.

The choice of 100 yards can sometimes be considered for specific situations, particularly with specialized loads such as slugs or when using specific sighting systems that may extend the range. However, it is essential to clarify that standard shot patterns and spread can significantly reduce hitting accuracy beyond typical ranges. Most shot spread will cause a significant loss of accuracy as distance increases.

In contrast, commonly accepted effective ranges for practical shotgun use, especially with buckshot or birdshot, do not typically reach up to 100 yards. Most competitive and tactical training for shotguns will emphasize ranges closer to 40 yards for effective use with standard ammunition types. Thus, while 100 yards may represent an upper limit for specific scenarios, it often does not reflect the practical implications of shotgun use as understood in terms of effectiveness in real-world scenarios.