Types of Ammunition Used by Soldiers Carrying 12 Gauge Shotguns in Combat

A 12 gauge shotgun has been a versatile weapon in the hands of soldiers, especially in close-quarters combat scenarios. The ammunition used in these shotguns has evolved with the changing nature of warfare and the legal requirements imposed by international conventions. Understanding the different types of ammunition that can be used in these shotguns can help clarify their effectiveness and legality in various combat settings.

Historical Background

Going back to the early 20th century, the Ithaca 12-gauge Model 37 pump shotgun was a common weapon among soldiers. Utilizing 2.75 inch high brass shells with either 00-buckshot or 4-buckshot, these rounds could settle disputes effectively within a range of 30-40 yards. In some cases, when breaching rounds were not available, the soldiers would settle for 4-buckshot, which, while less effective, could still resolve conflicts satisfactorily.

The Decline in the Use of the Combat Shotgun

The combat shotgun is not as omnipresent today as it was during the Vietnam era. Factors such as limitations in ammunition capacity and barrier penetration have led to a decline in its usage. While the combat shotgun is not entirely obsolete, it is no longer as commonly utilized as it once was.

Modern Military Applications

While the primary function of a combat shotgun is no longer focused on outright combat with the objective of killing the enemy, it still plays a crucial role in certain scenarios. For instance, if the objective is to eliminate enemy targets at close range, 00-buckshot is the standard issue ammunition. However, in most cases, shotguns used by the military are primarily employed as breaching tools, with special rounds designed to open doors or breach fortifications.

Types of Breaching Rounds

One of the primary breaching rounds used in modern combat is the slug. These slugs are designed to disperse on impact, providing enough force to penetrate metal hinges and even incapacitate unarmored targets. However, these rounds are not sufficient to penetrate soft body armor, which underscores the need for other types of specialized ammunition in said scenarios.

Other Ammunition Types

Alongside these specialized rounds, soldiers may also equip their shotguns with other types of ammunition. These include:

Bird/skeet shots - Used for non-lethal crowd control or disengagement. BBs - Utilized for less-lethal purposes, such as incapacitating non-combatants or warning shots. Slugs - High-impact rounds used for breaching or higher lethality scenarios. Beanbags - Again, used for non-lethal crowd control or disengagement.

Each of these rounds has a specific purpose, ranging from breaching doors to incapacitating opponents in close quarters.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

The use of certain ammunition, particularly in military conflicts, is governed by international law. The Geneva Convention and other regulatory documents strictly prohibit the use of explosive rounds, 22 LR ammunition, or hunting ammo like soft point bullets against human targets. Additionally, shotguns and shotgun rounds are forbidden under specific legal contexts, such as the use of fléchettes, which, despite their potential effectiveness, are considered illegal under international law.

It is important to note that while the USA has signed some parts of the Geneva Convention, it has not endorsed all aspects of it. This legal framework implies that the use of certain types of ammunition, such as 22 LR or explosive bullets under 50 cal, is illegal in most circumstances. However, in practice, these prohibitions may not always be enforced strictly, especially in regions with higher levels of lawlessness.

Conclusion

The use of 12 gauge shotguns in modern military operations is a multifaceted affair, involving a range of ammunition types and legal considerations. From breaching rounds designed to clear obstacles to less-lethal options for crowd control, the versatility of 12 gauge shotguns continues to make them a valuable tool in the hands of soldiers. However, the ethical and legal boundaries surrounding their use highlight the need for constant vigilance and adherence to international standards.