Gear And Accessories
Sub-Gauge Tubes: How to Shoot Multiple Gauges out of One Break-Action
How sub-gauge tubes can transform your 12-gauge shotgun into a versatile multi-gauge tool.
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✍️By ZRIntel Editorial Team📍Houston, TX
Shotguns are a versatile weapon, widely appreciated for their adaptability in a variety of shooting disciplines, from hunting to competitive shooting. Among the different gauges of shotguns, the 12-gauge stands out as the most popular, prized for its versatility and power. However, when it comes to more specialized situations, such as competitive shooting or hunting smaller game, a 12-gauge can sometimes feel like overkill. Enter the sub-gauge tube, a clever accessory that allows shooters to use smaller gauge shells in a 12-gauge shotgun, making it an incredibly flexible tool. Sub-gauge tubes are inserts that fit into a shotguns barrel, allowing it to fire smaller gauge shells such as 20, 28, or even .410, all from the same gun. This solution eliminates the need for multiple shotguns, which is particularly valuable in competitive environments, where changing between different gauges for various events can be cumbersome and costly. Briley Manufacturing, a leader in this innovation, offers the Side-Kick 2.0 Chamber Inserts, which can turn a 12-gauge shotgun into a multi-gauge platform. The Side-Kick tubes are among the most popular sub-gauge options, with their non-choked designs offering straightforward installation and ease of use. Each set comes with a hammer, C-T driver, and three-piece knockout rod for installation, making it a quick and efficient process. Whether you need to convert a 12-gauge into a 20-gauge, 28-gauge, or even a .410-bore, the Side-Kick 2.0 delivers. This modular system allows shooters to tailor their shotguns to different types of hunting or shooting activities, whether they're chasing upland birds with a smaller gauge or engaging in sporting clays. However, sub-gauge tubes aren't just for sport shooters. They're also an excellent tool for hunters who want to use the same firearm for different types of game. For example, a hunter may prefer a 12-gauge for turkey or waterfowl, but when hunting smaller birds like quail or dove, a 20- or 28-gauge might be more effective. With a sub-gauge tube, this flexibility can be achieved without the need to carry multiple guns. Additionally, these tubes are designed for use in both traditional and break-action shotguns, adding to their versatility and accessibility. The sub-gauge tubes from Briley are designed to fit precisely within the shotgun's chamber, ensuring reliable performance. Once inserted, the tubes provide smooth feeding and ejection, ensuring a seamless transition between different gauges. Whether shooting for precision in a competition or aiming for the perfect shot in a hunt, the reliability and adaptability of sub-gauge tubes can make all the difference. Briley also offers high-performance alternatives like their Companion Drop-In Tube Sets. These full-length inserts provide superior performance compared to non-choked models, as they allow shooters to maintain the accuracy and tight patterning typically associated with full-length barrels. Brileys Companion sets are available in a variety of gauges and come with screw-in chokes, providing more options for customizing shot patterns. While the price point for these tubes is higher, ranging from $399 to over $2,000 depending on customization, their performance in competitive settings is unmatched. Another notable product from Briley is the ICON Single Companion Drop-In Tube, designed for even more precise handling. Available in ultra-light configurations, the ICON Single tubes are engineered from titanium for reduced weight while maintaining durability. This design ensures that shooters can still rely on their sub-gauge setup without sacrificing shooting comfort. In competitive shooting, where every bit of accuracy counts, sub-gauge tubes have become a staple for serious competitors. These tubes offer flexibility without compromising on performance. By allowing shooters to shoot multiple gauges with a single shotgun, they eliminate the need for multiple firearms, reducing costs, transportation issues, and maintenance efforts. Whether you're a hunter looking for a versatile setup or a competitor in need of a customizable solution, sub-gauge tubes provide a smart, cost-effective solution.