Until fairly recently, the 16-gauge shotgun stayed hidden in the obscure corner of the shotgun world with the other sub-gauges, only kept alive by time-worn bird hunting tales and storied lore of Grandads old Auto-5 or vintage Parker side-by-side. Times have changed and along with ammunition manufacturers now offering newer non-toxic shotshells to safely shoot those old relics, gun makers are also producing brand-new shotguns in the 16-gauge.

The 16-gauge is perhaps slightly softer shooting than a hulky 12-gauge (while still packing a punchy payload), and a little lighter for carrying for an all-day hunt across the prairies or woodlands. The 16 presents itself as a multi-pursuit, do-it-all gun, and with so many shotshell configurations to choose from, a hunter can easily employ their 16 for any upland, waterfowl, small game, or clay shooting purposes.

Whether you prefer a stylish side-by-side, a sporty over/under, or a fast-cycling semi-automatic, here are a few of our favorite 16-gauge shotguns for bird hunters.

Top 16-Gauge Shotguns

Browning A5 Sweet Sixteen 16-Gauge Shotgun

With the original humpback design, the Sweet Sixteen will have you smitten with nostalgia every time you shoulder it. The secret to its sauce is the way it feels like a lighter, smaller 20-gauge but shoots like a 12. Equipped to pull double duty in the uplands and duck blind, the Auto-5 handles and points like a dream. It’s trimmed out with a glossy walnut stock, black anodized receiver, and fiber-optic sight with a simple and reliable recoil-operated Kinematic Drive system ready to handle a variety of loads. Complete your configuration with Invector-DS interchangeable choke tubes and adjustable shims to custom fit to your cast, drop, and length of pull.

$1,980 | browning.com

TriStar Bristol 16-Gauge Shotgun

If you’ve dreamed about venturing into the world of sub-gauge side-by-sides but worried about breaking the bank, TriStar has introduced an incredible option with their Bristol 16-gauge shotgun. Sporting an English-style stock made of Turkish walnut and a case-colored receiver, you’ll be carrying a collector grade shotgun at a field grade price point that combines beauty, elegance, and most importantly, performance. The Bristol comes complete with five chokes, auto ejectors, single selective trigger, and chrome lined barrels chambered for 2 ¾-inch shotshells. The Bristol is also available in the “Silver” model which features an elaborately-detailed, nickel-finished steel receiver and a pistol grip-styled stock.

$1,250 | tristararms.com

Stevens 555 16-Gauge Shotgun

If you’re in the market for a no frills, nothing fancy, meat-hunting stackbarrel, check out the Stevens 555. With a Turkish walnut stock and forend, semi-pistol grip, single selective mechanical trigger, and a lightweight, black aluminum receiver, this over/under has everything you need and nothing you don’t. The 555 comes with a five-pack of interchangeable chokes, manual extractors, chrome-lined barrels, and world-class performance at an affordable price.

$770 | savagearms.com

Franchi Instinct SL 16-Gauge Shotgun

For shooters and hunters seeking a sleek, slim, and ergonomic over/under shotgun, the Instinct SL checks all the boxes of fit, form, and function. With an A-grade satin walnut stock, Prince of Wales grip, and a lightweight, scalloped aluminum alloy receiver, this shotgun combines a classy aesthetic with exceptional performance in the field. A 3-inch chamber with auto ejectors, 28-inch blued barrels and three extended nickel choke tubes complete this finely crafted shotgun package. The Instinct SL in 16-gauge has been around for a few years and is loved by many, but it’s important for us to also honorably mention the Franchi Instinct Sideplate which will now be available in 16-gauge starting in 2023.

$1,800 | franchiusa.com

Browning Citori Hunter Grade II 16-Gauge Shotgun

Built upon J.M. Browning’s iconic Superposed design, the reliable and fast-handling Citori comes with an elegant, nickel-plated, gold-enhanced receiver and gloss finished barrels. This stunning and durable working-grade gun has satin finish Grade II/III American walnut stock with Inflex recoil pad, silver bead front sight, and three flush choke tubes included to tackle all your bird hunting and clay shooting pursuits.

$2,480 | browning.com

CZ Sharp-Tail 16-Gauge Shotgun

As one of the sharpest-looking side-by-sides, the Sharp-Tail features a one-piece CNC-machined receiver with independent floating firing pins, coil spring operated hammers, and newly designed sears, designed for a long life in the uplands. This unique SxS sports a case-hardened finish, Turkish walnut stock, single selectable mechanical trigger, fixed chokes in IC/Mod, 28-inch barrels, 3-inch chamber, and a semi-beavertail forend.

$1,000-$1,100 | cz-usa.com