Gauge selection affects more than recoil. It influences shot pattern, shell weight, belt capacity, and endurance.
As outlined in our Complete Pheasant Hunting Gear Guide, each gauge serves a purpose depending on terrain and season.
12 Gauge
- Excellent for late-season birds
- Handles longer shots
- Heavier shells, greater recoil
- Requires stronger belt support due to shell weight
Best paired with a structured leather belt that distributes weight evenly.
16 Gauge
- Balanced recoil
- Strong pattern density
- Traditional upland favorite
- Comfortable for long walking hunts
Many experienced pheasant hunters consider it the most versatile option.
20 Gauge
- Lightweight shotgun platform
- Lower recoil
- Excellent for early season and closer flushes
- Ideal for hunters covering significant ground
Lighter shells allow slightly higher belt capacity without fatigue.
28 Gauge
- Precision shooting
- Minimal recoil
- Requires accurate shot placement
- Best for confident, experienced upland hunters
Because shells are smaller, loop sizing precision becomes even more important.
Belt Considerations by Gauge
Heavier gauges require:
- Reinforced stitching
- Proper leather thickness
- Stable buckle hardware
Premium handmade belts, like those from Raphael Rossetti, ensure each gauge sits securely without stretching or deformation.
Designed for Miles in the Field
Upland hunting means movement — walking fields, pushing cover, staying ready. Our handmade leather shotgun shell belts are engineered for comfort during long days behind a bird dog. Each belt features structured shell loops for 12GA, 16GA, 20GA, and 28GA, maintaining secure retention while allowing smooth, natural access.
Lightweight feel, proper weight distribution, and field-tested construction make these belts a dependable companion across open land and thick cover.
Browse the collection below and equip yourself with gear built for serious upland performance.
Brown Crazy Horse Leather Shotgun Shell Belt (Cartridge Belt) – 12GA/16GA/20GA/28GA
Original price was: $260.$200Current price is: $200.Custom .30-06 Leather Hunting Set – Slide & Belt
Original price was: $180.$145Current price is: $145.Custom Leather Shotgun Shell Belt (Cartridge Belt) – 12GA/16GA/20GA
Original price was: $310.$210Current price is: $210.Custom Leather Shotgun Shell Belt (Cartridge Belt) Slide
Original price was: $150.$80Current price is: $80.Flap-Closure Leather Shotgun Shell Belt (Cartridge Belt) – 12GA/16GA/20GA
Original price was: $420.$300Current price is: $300.Handmade 308 Winchester Leather Belt Slide
Original price was: $140.$95Current price is: $95.Handmade Black Leather Shotgun Shell Belt (Cartridge Belt)- 12GA/16GA/20GA
Original price was: $300.$190Current price is: $190.Handmade Crazy Horse Leather Shotgun Shell Belt (Cartridge Belt) & Shoulder Bag Set
Original price was: $420.$320Current price is: $320.Handmade Leather Shotgun Shell Belt – 12GA/16GA/20GA
Original price was: $320.$220Current price is: $220.Handmade Leather Shotgun Shell Belt (Cartridge Belt) – 12GA 16GA 20GA
Original price was: $290.$210Current price is: $210.Handmade Leather Shotgun Shell Belt (Cartridge Belt) Slide
Original price was: $120.$70Current price is: $70.Hybrid Flap-Closure Leather Shotgun Shell Belt – 12GA/16GA/20GA
Original price was: $400.$280Current price is: $280.Leather Shotgun Shell Belt (Cartridge Belt) and Slide Matching Set
Original price was: $390.$290Current price is: $290.Matching Set of 2 Leather Shotgun Shell Belt (Cartridge Belt) Slides
Original price was: $200.$140Current price is: $140.Premium Leather Shotgun Shell Belt (Cartridge Belt) – 12GA, 16GA, 20GA
Original price was: $450.$260Current price is: $260.
