A shotgun shell is described which reduces recoil while increasing muzzle velocity. The shell comprises a first cylindrical base portion having an enlarged rim at its rearward end with a second cylindrical portion extending forwardly from the forward end of the first cylindrical portion. The second cylindrical portion has a diameter less than the diameter of the first cylindrical portion. A third cylindrical portion extends forwardly from the forward end of the second cylindrical portion and is designed to receive a shot cup containing shot therein. A powder chamber is formed in the shell and communicates with a central opening formed in the rearward end of the shell. A primer is positioned in the central opening for communication with the powder chamber through a small opening at the forward end of the central opening. The powder chamber has a cylindrical rearward portion and an outwardly and forwardly extending tapered portion at its forward end. The reduced diameter of the second cylindrical portion expands laterally during detonation of the shell so as to reduce the recoil. The small opening or hole between the central opening and the powder chamber shields the primer during detonation and prevents the primer from being blown rearwardly from the shell during detonation.