When people think of shotguns, they usually picture familiar sizes like 12 gauge or 20 gauge—practical firearms used for hunting, sport shooting, or home defense. But far beyond these common options exists a legendary outlier that borders on the unbelievable: the 2 gauge gun. Known as the largest shotgun ever made, this colossal firearm is more myth than mainstream, more historical curiosity than everyday weapon. Still, it remains one of the most fascinating pieces of firearms history.

In this article, we’ll break down what the 2 gauge gun is, why it was created, how it works, and why it holds such a unique place in the world of firearms today.

What Is a 2 Gauge Gun?

A 2 gauge gun is a shotgun classified under the traditional gauge system, which measures the diameter of the barrel based on how many solid lead balls of that bore size equal one pound. In the case of a 2 gauge, it takes two lead balls of that diameter to make one pound, meaning the bore is extraordinarily large.

To put this into perspective:

• A 12 gauge bore is approximately 0.729 inches in diameter

• A 10 gauge bore measures about 0.775 inches

• A 2 gauge bore measures roughly 1.326 inches

That makes the 2 gauge gun not just larger than standard shotguns, but dramatically larger—closer in scale to small artillery than a shoulder-fired firearm.

The Origins of the 2 Gauge Gun

The 2 gauge gun did not emerge for sport or personal defense. Instead, it originated during the 19th century, a time when firearms experimentation was common and industrial innovation was accelerating rapidly.

These massive shotguns were primarily developed for commercial hunting and industrial use, particularly for:

• Hunting large waterfowl in extreme quantities

• Market hunting, before wildlife conservation laws existed

• Experimental or novelty firearm construction

At the time, regulations on hunting methods were minimal, and efficiency often outweighed sustainability. The sheer power of the 2 gauge gun allowed hunters to take down multiple birds with a single shot, making it highly effective—but ultimately controversial.

How Big Is a 2 Gauge Gun?

The size of a 2 gauge gun is difficult to grasp without seeing one in person. These firearms are enormous in every respect:

• Weight: Often exceeding 30 pounds

• Length: Frequently over 6 feet long

• Recoil: Extreme—far beyond what most shooters could safely handle

Many 2 gauge guns were mounted on tripods, boats, or fixed platforms, rather than being fired from the shoulder. Attempting to shoulder-fire one would be impractical and dangerous.

Because of their size and recoil, these guns were more tools than weapons—designed to deliver massive firepower rather than comfort or precision.

Ammunition for a 2 Gauge Gun

Ammunition for a 2 gauge gun is just as rare and intimidating as the firearm itself. Original shells were often custom-made, typically constructed from brass rather than modern plastic hulls.

A typical 2 gauge shell could contain:

• Multiple ounces of shot

• A massive powder charge

• Extremely high recoil energy

Today, original ammunition is almost impossible to find, and modern reproductions are generally handmade for collectors or demonstrations. This rarity further cements the 2 gauge gun as a historical artifact rather than a functional hunting tool.

Why the 2 Gauge Gun Fell Out of Use

Despite its raw power, the 2 gauge gun quickly became obsolete for several reasons.

1. Conservation Laws

As wildlife populations declined, governments introduced regulations banning market hunting and excessive firepower. Shotguns larger than 10 gauge were restricted or outright prohibited in many regions.

2. Practical Limitations

The size and recoil made the 2 gauge gun difficult to transport, load, and fire. Smaller gauges offered more versatility with far less risk.

3. Advancements in Firearms

Improved ammunition, choke systems, and barrel technology allowed smaller shotguns to perform more efficiently, eliminating the need for extreme bore sizes.

By the early 20th century, the 2 gauge gun had effectively disappeared from practical use.

Is the 2 Gauge Gun Legal Today?

Legality surrounding the 2 gauge gun varies depending on location, but in most cases:

• It is legal to own as a collector’s item

• It is not legal to hunt with

• Firing it may require special permissions or controlled environments

In the United States, federal law does not explicitly ban 2 gauge firearms, but state hunting laws and safety regulations typically make their use impractical or illegal outside of private property or exhibitions.

The 2 Gauge Gun as a Collector’s Item

Today, the 2 gauge gun exists almost entirely in the realm of firearms collecting and historical preservation. Surviving examples are extremely rare and highly valuable.

Collectors prize these guns for:

• Their historical significance

• Their sheer size and craftsmanship

• Their role in early firearms innovation

Many known examples are housed in private collections, museums, or specialized firearm exhibitions. When one surfaces at auction, it often draws significant attention due to its rarity and novelty.

How Does the 2 Gauge Gun Compare to Modern Shotguns?

Compared to modern shotguns, the 2 gauge gun is wildly impractical—but undeniably impressive.

Modern firearms focus on efficiency, safety, and adaptability—areas where the 2 gauge gun simply cannot compete.

Myths and Misconceptions

Because of its rarity, the 2 gauge gun has inspired numerous myths, including claims that it was used in warfare or could take down large land animals with ease. In reality:

• It was not a military weapon

• It was primarily designed for birds, not big game

• Its destructive power was impressive but not magical

Understanding its true purpose helps separate fact from exaggeration.

Why the 2 Gauge Gun Still Captivates Firearms Enthusiasts

Despite being obsolete, the 2 gauge gun continues to capture imaginations. It represents a time when firearm innovation had fewer boundaries and experimentation was driven by raw power rather than refinement.

For enthusiasts, it symbolizes:

• The extremes of firearm engineering

• A forgotten chapter of hunting history

• The evolution of responsible firearms regulation

It’s a reminder of how far firearms technology—and ethics—have evolved.

Final Thoughts on the 2 Gauge Gun

The 2 gauge gun stands alone as the largest shotgun ever made—a true giant in firearms history. While it has no place in modern hunting or sport shooting, its legacy remains firmly intact as a fascinating example of early innovation pushed to its absolute limit.

For collectors, historians, and enthusiasts who appreciate rare and unusual firearms, learning about the 2 gauge gun offers insight into an era where bigger truly meant bolder. Platforms like GunsAmerica continue to fuel interest in historic and collectible firearms, ensuring that legendary pieces like the 2 gauge gun are never forgotten.