Tactical shotguns have become hugely popular for both law enforcement and civilian use in recent years. Their versatility and stopping power make them ideal for home defense, sport shooting, and tactical applications. However, with so many options on the market, choosing the right tactical shotgun can feel overwhelming.
In this comprehensive guide, We’ll break down everything you need to know to select the perfect shotgun for your needs and budget. We’ll examine the key factors to consider, from purpose and caliber to accessories.
Understanding Tactical Shotguns
Before diving into specific recommendations, it’s helpful to define what differentiates a “tactical” shotgun from others. Generally speaking, best tactical shotguns are purpose-built for reliable, rapid deployment in dynamic situations like home defense, law enforcement, or competition sports.
Some key attributes that define a tactical shotgun include:
Shorter Barrel Lengths
Compared to hunting shotguns, tactical models tend to have barrel lengths of 18-20 inches for enhanced maneuverability in tight spaces like buildings or vehicles. Shorter barrels do trade off accuracy for close quarters performance.
Semi Automatic or Pump-Action
Most of the best tactical shotguns offer either a semi automatic or pump-action design for fast follow-up shots. Semis are faster, while pumps tend to be lighter, simpler, and often more affordable.
High Capacity
Magazine-fed semi autos can hold 6-14+ rounds depending on the model, granting more shots before reloading under pressure. Pump shotguns typically top out around 5+1 capacity.
Accessory Mounting
Ports are frequently pre-drilled to directly attach lights, optics, slings, and other accessories for intuitive operation in low-light or tense situations.
Durable Finishes
Corrosion-resistant coatings like Cerakote help best tactical shotguns withstand the elements and abrasive use better than wood stock hunting guns.
Customization Options
Aftermarket markets support myriad stocks, forends, sights, and other parts to tailor a tactical shotgun precisely as desired.
The bottom line is the best tactical shotguns prioritize optimized performance in high-stress scenarios over hunting practicalities. Their shorter lengths, high capacities, and easy-to-mount features empower reliable performance when seconds count most.
Factors to Consider
With a basic understanding of the best tactical shotguns in hand, here are the main criteria to weigh when selecting your ideal model:
Purpose
Your planned use cases will drive many decisions. Home defense shotguns favor shorter lengths while 3-gun competition benefits from extended magazines.
Caliber
12-gauge dominates the market, while smaller 20-gauge offers reduced recoil suitable for new shooters. For defensive use, bigger is usually better to stop threats.
Action Type
Semiautomatic provides rapid follow-up shots but requires more routine maintenance. Pump-action is simpler and often lighter while ensuring functionality.
Magazine Capacity
Capacity needs vary – 8-10 rounds often suffices for home defense while competitive sports may merit higher capacities.
Ergonomics
How the shotgun fits your body and shooting style profoundly impacts performance. Handle several models in-person before deciding.
Reliability
Particularly for defense, the gun absolutely must go bang every single time without failure. Brand reputation here heavily informs decisions.
Customization
Consider parts availability – some platforms like the AR-15 afford near-endless customization while others offer fewer upgrade paths.
Budget
Prices vary considerably so define your financial limits – low-cost workhorses exist alongside premium models. Sales often provide deals.
By carefully weighing each category based on your specific uses, you can zero in on 1-2 options that best align with your needs. Let’s now explore some top tactical shotgun contenders.
Top Tactical Shotgun Models
While individual gun fitting always matters, some shotguns have proven themselves particularly well-suited for tactical applications based on decades of real-world use.
Here are a few consistently top-rated options to consider:
Remington 870
The venerable Remington 870 remains a top choice for its reliability, aftermarket support, and affordable price point.
The gold standard of pump-action shotguns, Remington’s model 870 represents a proven design that just works. Its simple barrel/operating system provides astounding reliability even in punishing conditions. Aftermarket accessories are ubiquitous too – 870s can be customized endlessly on any budget. A solid all-around pick.
Mossberg 500
Like the 870, Mossberg’s 500 series pump shotguns uphold a reputation for durability and affordability that keeps them a perennial favorite. Mossberg also offers countless configurations.
Closely mirroring the 870’s attributes, Mossberg 500s distinguish themselves through even lower price points and Mossberg’s solid warranty backing any issues. Between the 870 and 500 series, you truly can’t go wrong with a pump-action tactical shotgun on a budget.
Benelli M4 Super 90
The M4 is considered the gold standard of semi-automatic tactical shotguns, known for handling harsh abuse cycles with absolute reliability.
Stepping into semi-autos, the Benelli M4 Super 90 earns its stellar reputation for reliable cycling even under heavy use. Its rotary bolt provides unmatched durability, while intuitive ergonomics boost performance. The M4 charges a premium but for intensive duty use, it’s almost universally acknowledged as the best choice.
Benelli M2
A lighter, slimmer rendition of the M4 ideal for smaller shooters or those seeking maximum maneuverability, the M2 retains Benelli quality at a lower cost.
Offering the legendary Benelli action in a lighter, compact form factor, the M2 remains highly functional while improving portability. Its lighter weight makes the M2 a more balanced option for smaller shooters or situations emphasizing mobility over durability. Still very durable by any other brand’s standard.
Kel-Tec KSG
The KSG stands alone with its semi-auto bullpup design and dual magazine tubes enabling 25+1 capacity. Its unique layout amplifies firepower for specialized roles.
Taking a radical departure from convention, Kel-Tec’s KSG relocates the action into a bullpup configuration for astonishing magazine capacities. While quirky to operate compared to traditional layouts, the KSG delivers unrivaled firepower potential in a handy package suited for niche tactical and competition applications.
Accessories for Customization
With an ideal base shotgun selected, it’s wise to factor in worthwhile accessories that boost functionality for your uses. The right add-ons can truly transform a stock tactical shotgun into a perfectly optimized tool. Here are some essential upgrades to consider:
Lights
Surefire, Streamlight, and Inforce make lights durable enough to reliably mount on firearms. A weapon light is essential for low-light home defense identifying threats.
Lasers
Lasers like the Crimson Trace Rail Master Pro both aid aiming and clearly indicate your shotgun’s muzzle at night, reducing risk of accidents.
Optics
For longer distance shooting, red dot sights like the Primary Arms SLx MD-25 provide quick target acquisition. Holographic and magnified scopes also have roles.
Forends
Angled or vertical forends like the Magpul SGA stock improve maneuverability and stability for rapid shooting on the move.
Pistol Grips
Replacing the traditional stock with a rifle-style grip like a Magpul MOE enhances one-handed portability and pointability.
Slings
QD sling swivels allow easily attaching & removing single- or two-point slings for porting shotguns hands-free on your body.
Upgrade Kits
Mossberg 590A1 kits transform 500/590 models with additions like extended magazines and heat shields on the barrel.
Barrel Porting
Strategic barrel porting can subtly mitigate recoil pulses for faster follow-up shots on semi autos.
The aftermarket abounds with precisely the additions to elevate your shotgun beyond factory specs for specialized roles. Don’t sleep on these performance and utility boosters.
Ammunition
Just as critical as the gun itself is selecting the right defensive or sporting ammunition. Here are the major tactical ammo types to know:
Buckshot
00 or 000 buckshot cartridges deliver 9-15 pellets ideal for home defense without over penetration risks. Larger #1 buck holds 5-7 for longer distances.
Slugs
Rifled slugs function like lightweight shotgun “rifle” rounds for longer range stopping power up to 100 yards in a pinch.
Birdshot
Heavier 8-9 shot works at indoor self-defense distances, but presents less risk of killing compared to buckshot. Not ideal but better than nothing.
Flares/Less Lethals
Non-damaging options like flares or beanbag rounds serve as a useful less-than-lethal alternative depending on the scenario. Practice regularly to confirm proper cycling reliability with any ammo. Stocking a range aids being mission-ready.
Training is Key
The best shotgun is useless without developing your skills. Join practical shotgun classes and practice regularly to:
- Refresh manual of arms like reloading
- Enhance target acquisition under stress
- Manage recoil flinching for rapid follow-up shots
- Practice low-light shooting with your weapon light
Advanced instruction boosts confidence for real-world defensive deployments if ever needed. Staying sharp makes all the difference.
Conclusion
We hope this extensive guide has equipped you with the framework to identify the perfect tactical shotgun to suit your specific intended uses and budget. By weighing critical factors, highlighting top models, and emphasizing worthwhile upgrades and ammunition, you now have the knowledge to confidently purchase a tool that sets you up for success. As always, responsible training with your new shotgun takes the learning even further.
