The 16 gauge is a mid-size shotgun chambering that sits between the 12 and 20 gauge. Long valued by upland bird hunters for its balance of light handling and effective payload, it has a devoted following and is often said to "carry like a 20 and hit like a 12."

The 16 gauge occupies a classic middle ground in the shotgun world, sized between the dominant 12 gauge and the popular 20 gauge under the traditional gauge measurement system. For much of the 20th century it was a mainstream upland hunting bore, and while its popularity later declined as the 12 and 20 came to dominate, it retains a strong enthusiast following. Like all shotguns it is a payload system, firing birdshot, buckshot, or slugs. Its enduring appeal is captured in a long-standing saying among upland hunters — that it "carries like a 20 and hits like a 12" — reflecting a balance of relatively light, quick-handling guns with a payload closer to the larger bore. For walking upland bird hunting, many shooters consider that balance close to ideal. Its main practical drawback is availability rather than performance: 16 gauge shells and shotguns are less common and sometimes more expensive than the ubiquitous 12 and 20, a consequence of its smaller market share. Renewed interest in recent years has improved its availability somewhat, supported by hunters who appreciate its handling. Today the 16 gauge is used primarily for upland bird hunting, small game, and clay sports, with steady if less universal ammunition availability. Its balance of light handling and effective payload is why it has held a loyal following even as larger and smaller bores came to dominate the market.

General information about this caliber — not a recommendation for this specific firearm.