What is the risk of mixing shot shells of different sizes?

Mixing shot shells of different sizes can pose significant safety risks, particularly when a smaller gauge shell is used in a firearm designed for a larger gauge. The primary concern with this practice is that a smaller gauge shell might not fit securely within the chamber of the shotgun; it can slip past the chamber walls. This situation creates a high risk of the shell not being fired properly, leading to misfires or, worse, potentially causing a blockage that can result in a catastrophic failure of the firearm when a subsequent round is fired.

Maintaining proper shell size is crucial because shotguns are engineered to be used with specific gauge cartridges. When different sizes are mixed, the potential for an unsafe situation increases, as the mechanics of the firearm do not handle such discrepancies well. This understanding underscores the importance of adhering strictly to manufacturer guidelines regarding the ammunition that should be used in a shotgun to ensure safe operation and performance.