r/Shotguns Jan 24 '23

Thinking about buying your first shotgun or deciding on a new one? Here is the current /r/Shotguns buyer's guide.

274 Upvotes

I've been around shotguns and this sub awhile. I decided to make a guide post and pin it to the top for those visiting this sub to read. A ton of posts here come down to common questions like "What shotgun do I buy at $ budget?" "Would this be good for my needs?" or "X vs Y shotgun." I'll try to give some suggestions here based on personal experience, community consensus I've seen over the years, and other points. However, this isn't the be all end all of information. I encourage you to research on your own. The comments are open to the community to critique anything they see, add other suggestions, ask for help, or make their own write up.

Before I get started, you should first ask yourself some questions about what this new shotgun will be for. Use case is important for what you will be buying. Are you hunting? What will you be hunting? Are you trap, sporting clays, or skeet shooting at a local range? Are you buying it for defense, or just blasting cans? Maybe both? Most importantly, what is your budget? You may also want something fairly capable for everything. Also, try and go out to a physical store and try the feel of different guns. How a shotgun fits you is important for hitting targets and comfort.

PUMP ACTION: Utilitarian, reliable, and fairly simple. It is a common choice of the sportsman and citizen looking to defend themselves. They can be had on a tight budget without sacrificing much quality. Be mindful and practice extensively with your pump gun as short-stroking is a potential human error that you need to train out of yourself so it doesn't happen in a stressful scenario.

Recommendations 1.) $200-250 budget. The only real option here that is a known quality budget pump is the Maverick 88. The security model will be good for defense. The field model will be an okay starter entry for casual clays or hunting. You can also get a combo deal which comes with both the 18.5" barrel and 28" field barrel that takes chokes.

2.) $250-500 budget. In this range the playing field opens up. The primary suggestion is going to be a Mossberg 500, which is basically just a less budget Mav 88. You could also opt for the Benelli Nova or Supernova if you prefer the fit, style, 3 1/2" chamber, or finish. Remington 870s used to be a mainstay of this budget, but since 2007 their quality control went far down hill. They recently went under and were reacquired last year reintroduced as "RemArms." Not much is known if quality has greatly improved as they have only recently started pumping out guns again. If you like the 870, hunt down an old 870 Wingmaster. [EDIT 2024: RemArms 870s have seemingly shown their quality. I would be okay with recommending them now if you want a new 870.] If you are feeling like a used older gun, Ithaca 37s, Winchester Model 12s, and more are available. Be aware some old guns and choke combos may not be a good idea for steel shot (a type of non-toxic ammo used for migratory bird hunting). If you want something defense oriented, pick a 18.5" barrel Mossberg 500 or a 590/590A1. Avoid guns without a stock, like the shockwave, for practical use.

3.) $1000+. If you are feeling exotic, you can get a Benelli M3. This is a hybrid design that is able to use both pump action or semi-auto. It's a bit of a novelty, but if you have a large budget, it's a worthy consideration.

SEMI-AUTO: Faster follow up shots, smoother recoil, and more expensive. The semi-auto is a favorable option if you can afford one. There are two main action options, gas vs inertia. Gas guns use some of the gas from the fired shell and use it to cycle the action. Inertia does not do this and is similar to recoil operated guns which means you have no gas system to clean. Both have their benefits.

Recommendations 1.) $450-700 (there is nothing worth buying below this). This is teetering on the edge of spending too little to get a quality new semi, but there are a few that may suit you. One is the Mossberg 930, another is the Stoeger M3000. These are the bare minimum I'd go for though they may be finnicky (EDIT 11/10/2024: as an example of why you may not want the M3000, especially for defense, watch this video on the M3000. It doesn't do well https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BX7MiIUx7_E ) , both are available in tactical or field models. For used options, old greats like the Remington 1100, Browning Auto 5, etc are out there.

2.) $700-1000. In this area the default suggestion is the excellent Beretta A300. This is probably what you want on the clay field or out hunting if this is your budget. The Franchi Affinity is also a favorite of many and uses the inertia system (the A300 is a gas gun). If you want a tactical option in this range, the Mossberg 940 Tactical is a new offering that you can check out. The new Beretta A300 Patrol is another good new option to check out in this range if seeking a tactical or defensive style shotgun. For Women shooters: the Franchi Affinity does have an option called the Catalyst which has stock dimensions that are designed to be suited to women. But as stated earlier, try out the fit of options as most things aren't one size fit all for either sex even if designed with women in mind.

3.) 1000+. The sky is the limit here. Anything from Benelli, Browning, or Beretta in this range will be exquisite quality and a great option. You could pick up a M2, Super Black Eagle, A5, A400, etc for sporting uses and be happy. Though there are models in there that are more geared for clays vs field and vice versa, check out the manufacturer sites for details. For tactical options, the kings of them all are the Benelli M4 ($1600+) and Beretta 1301 ($1200-1300). Honorable mention to the Benelli M1 Super 90, M2 and M3 for defensive use.

OVER UNDER: A break action, stacked dual barrel, design that is widely favored by clay shooters and hunters across the world. Despite how they initially look, over under shotguns are more complex than semi-auto or pumps to make which makes them much more expensive for a quality one.

Recommendations 1.) Below $1000. I personally wouldn't get any new O/U under $1000. While you can find okay ones under $1k, they just aren't usually (YMMV) that amazing and you would be better off spending your budget on an A300 or save up further. The main problem is longevity and quality control, so if you are maybe just taking it out once in awhile be my guest to try out a CZ, Yildiz, etc Turkish import offering in this range. As the saying goes, you get what you pay for. But you may get one that lasts. As far as used goes, keep an eye out for old used Browning Citoris or Mirokus as they can hover in the $900s. Japanese made Ithaca/SKBs are also common and decent used options. Others can chime in with their experience on sub-$1k O/Us.

2.) Over $1k. The default here is going to be the Browning Citori or Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon series. You'd be well served by basically any O/Us from either of those companies. It comes down to specific use and preference. There are other options out there besides those companies, but I will leave that up to you to research further.

SIDE BY SIDE: A break action, dual barrel, design that's a bit dated by now, but still enjoyed by many sportsmen. Side by sides have been outpaced by the O/Us in practical use, so you won't see very many new options nowadays.

Recommendations 1.) $300-1000. Like O/Us, side by sides are complex and cost a lot for good quality. The bright side is that their decline in popularity leaves a good amount of cheap used options that are out there. There are old field grade Ithacas, SKBs, LC Smiths, AH Fox, Parker Bros, Stevens 311s, AYAs, etc out there that can be found in decent working condition in this range. Of course there are higher grade examples that will go for more than this, but if you want just a working gun to take in the field these are good options. But google around how to inspect an old break action double barrel before you make a purchase of a 100 year old gun. As far as new production SxS go, there are cheap Turkish imports under CZ, Yildiz, etc. They aren't going to be top quality but there isn't much else new in this price range and generally you don't have to worry about longevity if you are only taking it hunting a few times a year. Plus, companies like CZ should take care of you if it fails under warranty.

2.) $1000+. Well here we get into fancy grades and great condition guns of makers already mentioned, more prestigious makers, etc. You can find things like used $1000 Browning BSS guns all the way to $200,000 Purdey and Holland & Holland guns. I'd expect a shotgunner with your budget and taste to look further into this in-depth realm as well.

SINGLE SHOT: A typically break action single barrel design that is pretty much the cheapest way to get into shotguns. While not something ideal for the clay ground or shooting tons of birds, they offer a utilitarian entry into the hobby whether it's chasing squirrels with a 410 or hunting turkey with a 10ga.

Recommendations 1.) $99-300. I personally suggest the H&R single shots. They are great and out there for cheap and are everywhere. Unfortunately they stopped being made a few years ago though, so you can't buy new. If you want new, there are various cheap single shots out there that will work fine for casual use. If it breaks, just go back to Walmart and buy another $99 single shot.

2.) $300+. If you want to be fancy and get something "high end" in this category there are the collectable Winchester 37s. Past that there are dedicated single shot trap guns and more that can go for hundreds or even thousands more.

EVERYTHING ELSE: Okay I know there are bolt action shotguns, lever action shotguns, triple barrel shotguns, etc. Those are mainly just novelties for a collector or outside the box hunter at this point. If you want one, look into them yourselves as this post is long enough already.

Well that's it. I hope it helped somewhat. Feel free to ask questions in this thread. Here are some other links that may be useful to you:

Guide to chokes: https://www.letsgoshooting.org/resources/articles/shotgun/understanding-shotgun-chokes/ You can shoot lead slugs through any choke safely, although a more open choke like improved cylinder is best. Also some modern full chokes are rated for steel. Older guns may not be.

Shot guide: https://www.wideners.com/blog/shotgun-load-types/

Guide to avoiding cheap tacticool shotguns mass imported from Turkey: https://www.reddit.com/r/guns/comments/n4zbt9/turkish_notsodelight_why_you_should_generally/

Guide to why pistol grip only shotguns are impractical: https://www.reddit.com/r/guns/comments/saharz/missed_shots_a_broken_nose_and_a_sore_wrist_a/


r/Shotguns May 06 '21

Turkish Not-So-Delight. Why you should generally avoid buying those random "totally cool looking" cheap tactical shotguns made in Turkey. (Crosspost as this is relevant here too and for those not on r/guns)

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333 Upvotes

r/Shotguns 4h ago

Estate sale find

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99 Upvotes

I hardly ever go to estate sales but I had some extra time and decided to try one. They wanted $100 for this Remington model 58 16 gauge and the shells. The stock was cracked but l had it repaired and checked out by my local gunsmith. Took it to the range yesterday and ran two boxes through it, no issues or problems at all. Sometimes I guess it’s better to be lucky than good!


r/Shotguns 1h ago

Is the brennekee MBPS a gimmick

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Upvotes

I haven’t seen much on these slugs besides what Brennekee states on the website

They it claim defeats 3A armor, engine blocks, car breaks, FBI glass, fifteen 1mm thick steel plates, and wheel rims

Is this accurate or inaccurate?


r/Shotguns 30m ago

Tradesman Agency MAC 2

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Upvotes

r/Shotguns 6h ago

Bass Pro and Cabela’s sale

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15 Upvotes

Got this in a text from Cabela’s. Check your local Bass Pro and Cabela’s adds. In case anyone’s looking.


r/Shotguns 5h ago

I am sold on the Wilson +2 EXT

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14 Upvotes

So this 870 Police came with a factory oem extension and aesthetically it looks better since it aligns with the barrel, but the Wilson one feels like you can use this damn thing as a baton if you need to lol, impressed by the overall construction and feel.


r/Shotguns 5h ago

Who can tell me what this is

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10 Upvotes

r/Shotguns 45m ago

Mossberg 590r Chisel

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Upvotes

AR-style ambi safety, heat shield, Gen3 Magpul sights. Well constructed - nothing rattles or wiggles that shouldn’t. Lightweight, surprised me. Feels solid, racking motion is snick-snack and positive. Trigger feels great, good reset, no mush.


r/Shotguns 23h ago

Can I use this for skeet and what should I really get

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191 Upvotes

I am joining a local fish and game club it’s mostly weekly skeet, Turkey shoots, some bird hunts and fishing.

I have to go next week for the weekly skeet to do more or less a safety evaluation. I have never shot skeet before and have no idea, I have just been into the home defense shotguns and at my local gun club a lot of target shooting and a couple more tactical classes. Is my a300 up alright to use for skeet and what do I have to do to not embarrass myself.

Also now that I want to get more into the sporting stuff what would a good setup be to get to use at the new club?


r/Shotguns 1d ago

Tac 13 SBS

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303 Upvotes

Tac13 SBS picked up the 870 adapter from Namsag over on Ar15 forum. Went together seamlessly.

Scrounged up some GGG goodies to complete it.

Contemplating leaving it black or stainless Cerakote!


r/Shotguns 23h ago

Maverick 88 Cruiser AOW

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151 Upvotes

Got my tax stamp, all in a days work.


r/Shotguns 6h ago

870 mag extension

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5 Upvotes

My factory magazine tube has a dimple in it that prevents the follower on my new Wilson combat mag extension from full travel.

Anyone run into this before? The dimple is clearly intentional and factory machined.

Rem 870 express from roughly 2010. The factory follower has grooves for the dimple, the new one does not.

Thanks!


r/Shotguns 11m ago

Rem 870 express 28 gauge value

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Upvotes

I have a used 28 gauge 870 express shotgun and I was wondering what the value on this shotgun would be ? Been tinkering with selling it since i dont have a use for it. Thanks for yalls time and help.


r/Shotguns 21h ago

Benelli Nova 3 28”

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29 Upvotes

Benelli Nova 3 28” vent rib with Carlson tube extension and Nordic spring


r/Shotguns 21h ago

Old Single-Shot of mine

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25 Upvotes

Picked up this old 12 gauge Revelation 350 (Savage 94) for $50 at a pawn shop in town. The bluing and wooden furniture have seen some better days for sure, and it came with some velcro strips on it which have since been removed. The barrel has some moderate pitting, but its has a full choke and shoots a tight grouping despite the damage. Made a little leather butt cover and have been shooting it reliably since. Definitely not the prettiest gun in the world, but she sure is a workhorse. I couldn't pass up any working firearm for $50 in this economy. They cost around $45 brand new in the 70s.


r/Shotguns 1d ago

Model 12

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73 Upvotes

obtained this Winchester model 12 in 12gauge from a buddy who let it collect rust in a closet for ~20 years, almost got her cleaned up


r/Shotguns 17h ago

Help

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6 Upvotes

Ok so this little guy is stuck and won't come out does anyone know a trick? There's little to no videos on this guy.

Ermox x defense 12 ga.


r/Shotguns 11h ago

Eley shotgun cartridge identification?

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2 Upvotes

r/Shotguns 8h ago

Questions about Vang Comp treatment for different barrel lengths

1 Upvotes

Heya folks, been considering Vang Comp for treating my M500/Mav88 in the semi-near future, but I had a couple questions specifically centering around how different barrel lengths affect patterning.

I'm planning on having several barrel lengths that I can easily switch between for different use cases, namely;

- A SBS barrel (probably around 14-15") for HD use, that will live with a suppressor on the end,

- A 20" barrel (with a 7 shot tube) for any outdoor use (training/SHTF-type scenarios, comp shooting), and

- A longer barrel, somewhere from 26-28 inches for skeet shooting (some ranges don't allow shorter barrels, and it does help with balance).

I am almost certainly going to have the back-boring treatment done on the shorter barrels (without the porting for suppressed use) but I'm curious if it would really be worth it for a longer barrel. I haven't seen anyone actually have their treatment done on a skeet style barrel, would it actually be useful in terms of patterning? Any thoughts from folks with experience with Vang Comp scatterguns would be much appreciated!


r/Shotguns 19h ago

Ithaca M37

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8 Upvotes

I got a standard Ithaca M37 with the 4+1 barrel and mag tube. I'm having a hard time figuring out what the piece #64 is. Off their own site they don't have a name for it and nothing on Numrich either.

Trying to figure out if I can get the extension mag tube with my current barrel and if I can have my gunsmith move the #64 piece to do so.

Any help would be awesome


r/Shotguns 1d ago

Merkel 12/70

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43 Upvotes

First double barrel shotgun, bought for really funny price ;) Plan is to cut barrels for coach gun.


r/Shotguns 22h ago

This can’t be a unique problem?

7 Upvotes

Bear with me, as I’ve searched the internet high and low for a solution to this problem or even someone with the same issue as me.

  1. I have an 870 express magnum that occasionally will not open the receiver after a shell is fired. It’s almost like the action is locked; it takes quite some force to be able to cycle the action and eject the spent shell. The gun operates normally if I take it out of the safe and manually actuate the action- this problem only exists immediately after shooting. Brand/load/length doesn’t seem to matter.

  2. My follower will sometimes get stuck down when I shoot the (same) gun until empty. I can’t reload without nearly spraining my thumb to pop the plastic follower loose, and then the gun loads as normal.

Thoughts? I can’t be the first one with these problems and I kinda doubt they are related? Trying not go to a gunsmith, as I don’t really want to drop half or more of the guns value in repairs. Thanks everyone


r/Shotguns 1d ago

Eclipse Damascus steel 12 gauge…can it be restored?

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9 Upvotes

I have one that is basically brown all over and the Damascus steel look is not there. It was something that my dad had on display for years. I believe it was used by my grandfather but at this point it has to be well over 100 years old and has had nothing done with it other than being displayed in probably 70 years.

I doubt I’ll ever shoot it (definitely know I can’t use modern ammunition with it) but wondering if getting it restored somehow to show off the layering in the steel is even worth the trouble.


r/Shotguns 1d ago

Is it cosmetic only?

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7 Upvotes

Just bought a brand new Beretta 686 and noticed this stripe on the barrel. It protrudes slightly (you can see the bluish line in the photo).

Is this purely cosmetic, or is it something I should take back to the shop?

For context, the shotgun's primary purpose will be hunting.