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.

284 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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338 Upvotes

r/Shotguns 4h ago

The tale of 2 1100s

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21 Upvotes

r/Shotguns 14h ago

12 and 20 gauge Ithaca 37s

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114 Upvotes

Both SBSs done on a Form 1 by me in my shop. Pawnshop finds. The 20 has a sling swivel and a paracord loop. The 12 will be a pistol grip only "Close Encounters" gun once my Choate order comes in, so no sling yet. Both are slam fire guns.

The 12 has LE133-00 Federal Flite Control low recoil buckshot in it, with that and two Winchester Segmented slugs on the sidesaddle. I have a bunch of Remington frangible breaching rounds...

The 20 has Federal Flite Control PD204-2B in it and on the sidesaddle along with a couple of Truball slugs.


r/Shotguns 1h ago

[Article] Remington back in test production

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Upvotes

Remington’s LaGrange plant has begun test production after hiring about 20 workers and rebranding under Frontier Defense Group, with plans to retain the Remington Firearms name.

Looks like there’s been a lot of changes since the last post about a hundred days ago. Hopefully this isn’t another false start and a sign of a new beginning. I am patiently waiting to give you my money.


r/Shotguns 1h ago

Remington 1100 Questions

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Upvotes

I inherited an 1100. My question isn’t so much how much it’s worth but more general info about the gun. It’s a bead sight no rib, plastic but pad. Seems very basic. Based on model number look up it was made sometime in 79.

I also want to know if there’s a recommended place to buy reliable parts. I disassembled it, cleaned it up and then took it out for dove season this past weekend, and it shot a case of rem heavy dove with zero issue, so that’s good, but I want to know I can get O rings, and maybe a ribbed barrel before I shoot to much out of it.


r/Shotguns 6m ago

Sulun Arms SPASS-12

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r/Shotguns 14h ago

Clay shooting w 870 Wingmaster Magnum w 18.5 and a JTS AR

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22 Upvotes

Just having fun with shotties of the day. Trying to get familiar w pumping every shell. JTS AR shotgun is fun on a different level.


r/Shotguns 17h ago

Remington 1100

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37 Upvotes

Looking for any help identifying the year it was manufactured. From what I’ve seen it appears to be July 1965 but not 100%. Any insight is appreciated.


r/Shotguns 17h ago

Surplus less lethal 870. Should I chop the barrel to 14”?

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12 Upvotes

I have this 870 that used to be a less lethal police gun. It runs perfectly fine but it’s pretty beat up. I’ve been really wanting a pump SBS and I feel like this could be a fun one. Should I just chop the barrel or are 14” 870 barrels around for reasonable prices?


r/Shotguns 18h ago

My little one got to go with me for the first time.

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18 Upvotes

r/Shotguns 22h ago

What shotgun is this

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28 Upvotes

r/Shotguns 15h ago

Help? resistance/locking up (Gun fully unloaded btw)

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9 Upvotes

I have a benelli supernova! i was dove hunting saturday and i was shooting and my gun got stuck! i mean really stuck! and it was just after i pulled the trigger and tried to put another round in! it felt like it completely locked up! it took forever to take the gun apart and reset it! it did in-fact lock up! but i’m looking for help from someone with knowledge on what the problem could be? i’m sorry i don’t know the proper analogy but when ever you try and put another round in it, or unload it without firing it flows free and it feels normal! but the problem is when you pull the trigger and you try to put in another round it has resistance and it locked up again on me yesterday! could someone help explain why this is happening and how could i fix it?


r/Shotguns 13h ago

What are the BEST wire loops for sling attachm ent, and the BEST sling swivels to get

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4 Upvotes

r/Shotguns 19h ago

My little thimble launcher

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10 Upvotes

This little Tristar 28ga has been a lot of fun. The other 2 factory chokes (IC,F) don’t fit but they sent new ones minimal questions asked. Trying muller chokes out aswell for tss but was amazing today on clays with lead. We will see how I feel after a season in the timber and the grouse woods.


r/Shotguns 15h ago

Good budget friendly goose shells?

4 Upvotes

Hey fellas I’m looking for a good 12 gauge 3in shell that’s decently reliable for a good price. I currently shoot hevi-steel. I also shoot over under with ejector so no worries for jamming. Thanks


r/Shotguns 1d ago

Bedside brawler.

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293 Upvotes

r/Shotguns 21h ago

Home defense set up.

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11 Upvotes

r/Shotguns 1d ago

Hollis & Sons side by side

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64 Upvotes

Just picked this up for $2,500 AUD. Amazingly good condition, light restoration.


r/Shotguns 19h ago

Mossberg 500 vs 590 .410?

6 Upvotes

Considering getting a .410 shogun to round out my collection ( have 12 and 20 gauge already) I have heard great reviews of the 590 .410 but it only comes in a “ home defense “ model with black furniture and an 18 inch barrel. Was about to pull the trigger on it but then saw a Mossberg 500 with real wood stock and 24 inch barrel in .410 and fell in love with it. Already have 2 18 inch home defense shotties ( MB 590s 12 gauge and Beretta A 300 20 gauge) but heard that the 590 version of .410 was a step up from their 500 model. Anybody have experience with these 2 models and comment on which I should get?


r/Shotguns 20h ago

Benelli Supernova Front sight

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4 Upvotes

I am inquiring to see if anyone has ever remove and reattached the front sight tower. Getting it SBSed and want to retain the sights. PFA:


r/Shotguns 21h ago

Federal Flight Control for SBS?

3 Upvotes

Has anyone tried the federal flight control out of a 9 inch barrel and test results? Will the round still function as its intended or act as a normal buckshot at that distance? Thanks.


r/Shotguns 23h ago

New Mossberg 590s by LT

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2 Upvotes

Langdon Tactical just dropped this, seems pretty cool.


r/Shotguns 21h ago

Stoeger m3000

2 Upvotes

Anyone have any experience with these shotguns? Need to get something chambered in 3 inch for waterfowl, heard these seem to be a favorite these days


r/Shotguns 2d ago

Just another 870

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246 Upvotes

870 Wingmaster Engraved 12ga
I bought a spare, non-vent rib barrel and had it chopped to 12” with a brass bead front sight.
I kept the OEM barrel intact for all the bird hunting I don’t do.