The term "24-gauge" refers to a specific measurement used primarily in the context of metal thickness, particularly for sheet metal and wire. In the gauge system, a lower number indicates a thicker material, so 24-gauge is relatively thin compared to other gauges. It is commonly used in applications such as roofing, siding, and HVAC systems. In the world of firearms, "24-gauge" can also refer to a type of shotgun shell. However, this is less common, as most shotguns use gauges like 12 or 20. The 24-gauge shotgun is typically used for small game hunting and is known for its lighter recoil.