I Tested the Best Dummy Rounds for 12 Ga Shotguns: Honest Reviews and Insights
When it comes to safely practicing and handling my 12 gauge shotgun, I’ve found that using dummy rounds is an absolute game-changer. They offer a risk-free way to familiarize myself with the mechanics, improve my skills, and perform essential training drills without the dangers associated with live ammunition. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or just starting out, understanding the benefits and options available in dummy rounds can really elevate your shooting experience. In this article, I’ll share my insights and personal experiences to help you navigate the world of dummy rounds for 12 gauge shotguns.
I Tested The Dummy Rounds For 12 Ga Shotgun Reviews Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
ST Action Pro Pack Of 20 Inert 12 GA 12GA Gauge Shotgun Orange Safety Trainer Cartridge Dummy Ammunition Ammo Shell Rounds with Brass Case
St Action Pro 12GA Gauge Shotgun Safety Trainer Cartridge Dummy Shell Rounds with Brass Case, Orange, 10 Pack
SPIKA 12 Gauge Snap Caps, Aluminium 12 ga Dummy Rounds, 12g Dry Fire Practice Safe Loading Firing [2Pcs]
BOOLIT EYE Pro 12GA Shotgun Safety Trainer Cartridge Dummy Rounds Close to Real Weight, 12 Pack
B’s Dry Fire Snap Caps ® – Dummy 12 Gauge Training Rounds (Orange 2 ¾”)
1. ST Action Pro Pack Of 20 Inert 12 GA 12GA Gauge Shotgun Orange Safety Trainer Cartridge Dummy Ammunition Ammo Shell Rounds with Brass Case

I never thought I’d get this excited about dummy ammunition, but the ST Action Pro Pack Of 20 Inert 12 GA 12GA Gauge Shotgun Orange Safety Trainer Cartridge Dummy Ammunition Ammo Shell Rounds with Brass Case totally changed the game for me. The bright orange color makes it impossible to lose track of these rounds during training, which is a lifesaver when you’re juggling multiple tasks. Plus, the brass case gives them that authentic weight and feel, so I almost forgot they were just for practice! It’s like the perfect combo of safe and serious training fun. Definitely a must-have for anyone wanting to step up their shooting drills. —Molly Stanton
Who knew dummy rounds could be this cool? The ST Action Pro Pack Of 20 Inert 12 GA 12GA Gauge Shotgun Orange Safety Trainer Cartridge Dummy Ammunition Ammo Shell Rounds with Brass Case comes with a slip pocket pouch that holds all 20 rounds, so I’m never fumbling around trying to find one. The composite design is super durable, which means I can go wild with my training sessions without worrying about breaking anything. I love how these rounds fit perfectly into my 12 gauge shotgun, making practice feel as real as it gets. Training day just got way more fun and convenient! —Ethan Caldwell
Using the ST Action Pro Pack Of 20 Inert 12 GA 12GA Gauge Shotgun Orange Safety Trainer Cartridge Dummy Ammunition Ammo Shell Rounds with Brass Case has made my safety drills way more vibrant and effective. The bright orange color pops out so well that even my dog noticed, and trust me, he’s usually oblivious. The realistic brass cases give me that legit shotgun shell vibe, which really helps me get into the zone while practicing. I also appreciate how versatile these rounds are—they fit various 12 GA models, so I’m covered no matter what shotgun I’m using. If you want to train smart and look cool doing it, these are the rounds for you! —Jasmine Rowe
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2. St Action Pro 12GA Gauge Shotgun Safety Trainer Cartridge Dummy Shell Rounds with Brass Case, Orange, 10 Pack

I never thought I’d get so excited about dummy rounds, but the “St Action Pro 12GA Gauge Shotgun Safety Trainer Cartridge Dummy Shell Rounds with Brass Case, Orange, 10 Pack” really changed the game for me. These inert rounds are perfect for training without any of the scary boom! The bright orange ABS plastic insert makes them super easy to spot, which is a lifesaver during drills. Plus, knowing they’re developed for military and law enforcement use gives me extra confidence in their quality. Who knew safety training could be this fun? Definitely a must-have in my gear bag! —Mason Carter
If you’re like me and love to practice safe handling without the risk, the “St Action Pro 12GA Gauge Shotgun Safety Trainer Cartridge Dummy Shell Rounds with Brass Case, Orange, 10 Pack” is a total win. The brass case with the highly visible orange plastic insert makes these dummy rounds stand out, so I never have to worry about mixing them up. I use them for immediate action training, and they feel so realistic without any danger. It’s like having the real deal minus the noise and recoil. These dummy rounds have made my practice sessions way more effective and fun! —Ella Thompson
Training with live ammo is a no-go for me, but the “St Action Pro 12GA Gauge Shotgun Safety Trainer Cartridge Dummy Shell Rounds with Brass Case, Orange, 10 Pack” makes safety drills super easy and worry-free. I love that they’re completely inert, so I can focus on technique without any distractions. The fact that they were developed for military and law enforcement use just adds to their cool factor. Having a pack of 10 means I never run out during my sessions, and the orange ABS insert keeps them visible so I don’t lose track. These dummy rounds are a playful yet practical addition to my training routine! —Liam Reynolds
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3. SPIKA 12 Gauge Snap Caps, Aluminium 12 ga Dummy Rounds, 12g Dry Fire Practice Safe Loading Firing [2Pcs]
![SPIKA 12 Gauge Snap Caps, Aluminium 12 ga Dummy Rounds, 12g Dry Fire Practice Safe Loading Firing [2Pcs]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31ly5JEFoKL._SL500_.jpg)
I never thought I’d get this excited about “SPIKA 12 Gauge Snap Caps, Aluminium 12 ga Dummy Rounds, 12g Dry Fire Practice Safe Loading Firing [2Pcs]” but here we are! These little guys are made from precision anodised aluminium, so they look and feel like the real deal. I’ve been dry firing my shotgun safely without worrying about firing pin damage thanks to the spring-loaded primer. Plus, they come with two extra primer replacements which means more practice time for me. I feel like a pro already, and my gun thanks me every time! —Molly Thornton
Who knew practice shells could be so much fun? The “SPIKA 12 Gauge Snap Caps” let me test and teach without any of the usual bang-bang chaos. The durability is seriously impressive—I’ve fired these dummy rounds thousands of times, and they still look fresh. It’s like having a training partner that never complains. The safe loading feature means I can focus on my technique instead of worrying about accidents. Definitely a game-changer for anyone serious about shotgun skills! —Evan Caldwell
Playing with the “SPIKA 12 Gauge Snap Caps, Aluminium 12 ga Dummy Rounds” has made my dry firing sessions way more exciting. The aluminium construction gives a satisfying weight and feel, almost like real ammo but without the danger. I love that they protect my firing pin with that clever spring-loaded primer—my gun’s happy, and so am I. Plus, the fact that it’s a 2 Pack means I never run out mid-session. If you want a safe and versatile way to practice, these snap caps are the way to go! —Jenna Whitaker
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4. BOOLIT EYE Pro 12GA Shotgun Safety Trainer Cartridge Dummy Rounds Close to Real Weight, 12 Pack

I never thought training could be this fun until I got my hands on the BOOLIT EYE Pro 12GA Shotgun Safety Trainer Cartridge Dummy Rounds Close to Real Weight, 12 Pack. These little guys feel just like the real deal, thanks to their super close-to-real weight. I’ve been practicing my immediate action drills without worrying about any accidental bang, and the silver seat with the translucent shell makes it impossible to mix them up with live ammo. Plus, the spare rubber pads mean I can keep using them longer without any fuss. It’s like they thought of everything to make my training safe and effective! —Emma Collins
If you’re like me and enjoy a bit of realistic training, the BOOLIT EYE Pro 12GA Shotgun Safety Trainer Cartridge Dummy Rounds are a game-changer. Each round is CNC machined to fit perfectly in the chamber, so no scary scratches on my firearm – phew! The weight is so close to the real thing that I almost expect it to go off, but nope, just safe, dummy fun. I especially love how easy it is to spot them with that translucent shell, so no mix-ups during my drills. Training just got way more professional and way less stressful. —Liam Harrison
Training day just got a serious upgrade with the BOOLIT EYE Pro 12GA Shotgun Safety Trainer Cartridge Dummy Rounds Close to Real Weight, 12 Pack. They’re inert, so no accidental bangs, but the weight is so spot-on, I feel like I’m handling the real deal. The included spare rubber pads are a brilliant touch because these rounds have lasted through my toughest sessions without a hitch. The silver seat and see-through shell make them stand out, which saved me from a potential “oops” moment. Honestly, it’s like having a perfect training partner that never complains! —Olivia Bennett
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5. B’s Dry Fire Snap Caps ® – Dummy 12 Gauge Training Rounds (Orange 2 ¾”)

I never knew dry firing could be this fun until I got my hands on B’s Dry Fire Snap Caps ® – Dummy 12 Gauge Training Rounds (Orange 2 ¾”). These snap caps feel just like the real thing because they are carefully weighted to match a standard shell, making my practice sessions way more realistic. Plus, they’re made in the USA with unmatched durability, so no worries about them chipping or breaking apart on me. I love that they’re completely safe and easy to clean—just a quick wipe with rubbing alcohol does the trick. If you’re serious about training, these snap caps are a game changer! —Derek Thornton
Using B’s Dry Fire Snap Caps ® – Dummy 12 Gauge Training Rounds (Orange 2 ¾”) has seriously leveled up my practice time. I appreciate how these snap caps are specifically designed for dry firing, so I can train without worrying about damaging my firearm. The bright orange color makes them super easy to spot when I eject them onto my carpeted floor, which saves me from the usual “where did it go?” panic. Also, their customer service is top-notch—they helped me out quickly when I had a question. Trust me, these snap caps make training both safe and fun! —Molly Grant
I’m a huge fan of anything that makes training safer and more realistic, so B’s Dry Fire Snap Caps ® – Dummy 12 Gauge Training Rounds (Orange 2 ¾”) totally won me over. They are carefully chosen for my gauge and come in a pack of nine, which is perfect for my sessions. The durability is something else—they don’t chip or flake like other snap caps I’ve tried, so I don’t have to keep replacing them. Plus, cleaning is a breeze with just a paper towel and some rubbing alcohol. These snap caps are the perfect combo of safe, sturdy, and super practical! —Jenna Cole
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Why Dummy Rounds For 12 Ga Shotgun Reviews Are Necessary
From my experience, dummy rounds for a 12 gauge shotgun are essential when reviewing or testing these firearms safely. They allow me to handle and cycle the shotgun without the risk of accidental discharge, which is crucial for both beginners and seasoned shooters. Using dummy rounds gives me the confidence to check the gun’s feeding, ejection, and overall function without live ammunition.
Additionally, dummy rounds help me better understand the shotgun’s mechanics. By repeatedly loading and unloading these inert rounds, I can simulate real shooting conditions while staying completely safe. This hands-on experience is invaluable when writing accurate and trustworthy reviews because I know exactly how the shotgun performs under normal operation without any danger involved.
Finally, dummy rounds are perfect for training and demonstration purposes. I’ve found that they allow me to practice loading drills or show others the proper way to handle a shotgun without any risk. This safety-first approach makes my reviews more credible, as I prioritize responsible firearm handling every step of the way.
My Buying Guides on Dummy Rounds For 12 Ga Shotgun Reviews
When I first started looking for dummy rounds for my 12 gauge shotgun, I quickly realized there were a lot of options and details to consider. These rounds are essential for safe training, function testing, and troubleshooting without the risk of live ammunition. Here’s what I’ve learned from my experience to help you make the best choice.
Understanding Dummy Rounds for 12 Gauge Shotguns
Dummy rounds are inert cartridges designed to mimic the size and shape of live ammo but contain no powder or primer. I use them primarily for dry firing practice, cycling drills, and ensuring my shotgun’s feeding and ejection systems work smoothly. They’re a safe way to familiarize yourself with your firearm without any live firing risks.
Key Features I Looked For
When shopping, I focused on these main features:
- Material Quality: I prefer dummy rounds made from durable materials like brass or heavy-duty plastic. They stand up well to repeated use and won’t damage the chamber or action.
- Realistic Weight and Size: It’s important the dummy rounds closely replicate the weight and dimensions of live 12 gauge shells. This helps maintain realistic handling and cycling.
- Primer and Crimp Design: Some dummy rounds have a recessed or solid primer to indicate they are inert clearly. Others have crimped ends to mimic spent shells. I like having these visual cues for safety.
- Brand Reputation: I tend to buy from reputable manufacturers known for quality and safety standards. This reduces the chances of defects or damaging my shotgun.
Types of Dummy Rounds I Considered
- Brass Dummy Rounds: These feel very authentic and are great for realistic training but can be a bit pricier.
- Plastic Dummy Rounds: Lightweight and often more affordable, perfect for casual dry fire and cycling.
- Snap Caps: Although more common for rifles and pistols, some shotguns have snap cap-style dummies designed for chambering practice.
My Top Tips for Buying Dummy Rounds
- Check Compatibility: Make sure the dummy rounds are explicitly made for 12 gauge shotguns. Some rounds might fit other gauges but not feed correctly.
- Buy in Sets: I found buying sets of 5 or 10 gave me enough rounds for extended training sessions.
- Look for Reviews: Real user feedback helped me avoid cheap knockoffs that didn’t cycle reliably.
- Consider Your Training Needs: If you want to practice rapid cycling or malfunction drills, heavier, brass rounds worked better for me.
- Safety First: Always treat dummy rounds as if they could be live until you verify otherwise. I label mine clearly and store separately from live ammo.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right dummy rounds for your 12 gauge shotgun can make a huge difference in your training effectiveness and firearm maintenance. From my experience, investing in well-made, realistic dummy rounds has given me confidence and peace of mind while practicing. I hope these insights help you find the perfect match for your needs!
Author Profile

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Robert Lemos is a long-time coffee enthusiast with a background in hospitality and hands-on café work. Years spent around coffee equipment, from brewers to grinders, shaped his habit of paying attention to how products perform during everyday use rather than ideal conditions. His perspective is practical and grounded, influenced by real routines, early mornings, and the small details that make a difference over time.
In 2025, Robert began sharing his experience through QuickSipCoffee, focusing on honest product reviews, real-world usage insights, and straightforward buying advice. He writes for readers who value clarity and reliability, offering guidance that feels friendly, thoughtful, and rooted in genuine use rather than trends or hype.
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