In the context of double-barreled shotguns (side-by-side or over/under), “regulation” refers to how the two barrels are aligned so that they both shoot to the same point of impact (POI) at a specific distance.

What “Regulation” Means

Shotgun barrels are not perfectly parallel. Because each barrel is offset from the bore centerline, a gunsmith must adjust their angles during construction so that:

• Both barrels’ patterns overlap at a chosen distance (usually 40 yards for field guns, sometimes 21–30 yards for skeet).

• Vertical alignment (over/under barrels) is correct.

• Horizontal alignment (side-by-side barrels) is correct.

  Advertisement

This ensures that when you fire either barrel, the pattern hits where you’re aiming.

How Barrels Are Regulated

During manufacturing, barrels are temporarily joined and test-fired repeatedly while the gunsmith:

• Bends or shims the tubes slightly

• Adjusts soldering points

• Chooses choke constrictions

• Checks pattern on paper at regulation distance

Once POI matches the design, the barrels are permanently soldered together.

Why Regulation Matters

Proper regulation affects:

• Pattern placement

• Consistency between barrels

• Overall accuracy and handling

Poorly regulated guns may shoot:

• Left/right with one barrel

• High/low relative to the other barrel

• With patterns that never converge at usable ranges

Regulation in Different Shotgun Types

• Side-by-Side: Barrels converge slightly inward.

• Over/Under: Barrels are aligned so the lower does not shoot significantly higher or lower than the upper.

• Single-barrel shotguns: No regulation required (only one POI).

# # #