What to Look For When Choosing a Pump Action Shotgun
From the echoing roar of the range to the quiet anticipation of the hunting blind, the pump action shotgun holds a special place in the world of firearms. It’s a tool of remarkable versatility, trusted for home defense, prized for its hunting prowess, and enjoyed by many for sport shooting. The satisfying *shw-chunk* sound of the action cycling is iconic and instantly recognizable. But with a vast array of options available, finding the right pump action shotgun can be a daunting task. This guide will walk you through the best pump action shotguns of this year, helping you make an informed decision for your specific needs. We’ll delve into crucial considerations, explore top models, and offer practical advice on maintenance and safety.
Understanding Intended Purpose
Consider how you will primarily use the shotgun. This significantly influences your choices.
Home Defense: In the realm of home protection, speed, maneuverability, and reliability are paramount. Shorter barrels, usually around eighteen to twenty inches, are preferred for easier handling in confined spaces. Features like a pistol grip stock can also aid in maneuverability. The capacity of the magazine also becomes a factor. Look for shotguns with integrated accessory rails for mounting lights and lasers, crucial for low-light situations.
Hunting: For hunters, the ability to effectively deliver a pattern of pellets at varying distances is the key. Barrel length plays a role, with longer barrels often aiding in increased range and more consistent patterns. Choke tubes are essential for tailoring the shot pattern to the specific game and distance. Consider the chosen gauge and shell type based on the size of the game you intend to hunt. Camouflage finishes can also be beneficial.
Sport Shooting or Target Practice: If your primary focus is hitting clay targets or enjoying time at the range, ergonomics and recoil management become critical. A comfortable stock, a well-balanced design, and a reliable mechanism will make for a more enjoyable experience. Consider features that enhance handling and allow for rapid follow-up shots.
Gauging Your Options
The gauge of the shotgun directly impacts the size and power of the shot. The most common gauges are twelve gauge, twenty gauge, and the .410 bore.
Twelve Gauge: Arguably the most versatile and widely used gauge, twelve gauge offers a significant range of shell options, from birdshot to slugs, and delivers substantial stopping power. It is the most commonly found and offers the most aftermarket options.
Twenty Gauge: Lighter than twelve gauge, twenty gauge shotguns are often favored by hunters and shooters who value reduced recoil and a lighter overall weight.
.410 Bore: The .410 bore offers minimal recoil and is often used by new shooters or those seeking a less intimidating firearm. However, it has limited range and power compared to the other gauges.
Barrel Length Matters
Barrel length impacts the overall handling, range, and accuracy of the shotgun.
Shorter Barrels: Barrels under twenty inches are generally considered shorter. They improve maneuverability, making them ideal for home defense and close-quarters scenarios. However, they can reduce the effective range and accuracy slightly.
Medium Barrels: Barrel lengths in the twenty-four to twenty-eight-inch range are versatile and suit various applications, including hunting and sport shooting.
Longer Barrels: Barrels over twenty-eight inches are generally associated with increased range and improved shot patterns, making them well-suited for hunting.
Chokes: Shaping Your Shot
Choke tubes are threaded into the muzzle of the barrel and control the spread of the shot pellets.
Cylinder Choke: The most open choke, producing the widest shot pattern at close range.
Improved Cylinder Choke: Offers a slightly tighter pattern than the cylinder choke.
Modified Choke: Provides a tighter pattern, suitable for longer distances.
Full Choke: The tightest choke, delivering the most concentrated shot pattern for maximum range.
Building Quality: The Importance of Materials
Look for shotguns constructed from durable materials. Steel receivers and barrels are known for their strength and longevity. Aluminum alloys are also used, providing a good balance of weight and durability. Quality materials and construction result in a reliable firearm that will last for years.
Ergonomics and Handling: Feel the Difference
The shotgun’s ergonomics are the factors that affect how it feels and handles in your hands. A comfortable grip, a properly fitted stock, and easily accessible controls are crucial for accurate and comfortable shooting. Consider the stock length and drop to ensure a proper fit, which will influence how you see down the sights. Ambidextrous options cater to left-handed shooters.
Additional Features to Consider
Think about the features that will benefit your use. These include magazine capacity, sights (bead, rifle, or ghost ring), mounting rails for accessories, and shell carriers. These aspects enhance the functionality and customization options of your shotgun.
Budgeting for Your Shotgun
The cost of a pump action shotgun can range widely. The best entry-level options start at reasonable prices. More advanced models can cost more. Setting a budget beforehand can help narrow your choices. Remember to factor in the cost of ammunition, accessories, and any necessary gunsmithing services.
Best Pump Action Shotguns of This Year
Now that we’ve discussed the crucial factors, let’s examine some of the *best pump action shotguns* available. These choices represent quality, reliability, and value.
The All-Around Champion
This shotgun excels in various roles, providing a balance of features and performance. We’ll focus on the models that receive consistent positive reviews.
Remington 870: The Remington 870 has been a staple for decades, and for good reason. Renowned for its reliability, the 870 comes in many configurations making it versatile for home defense, hunting, and sport shooting. It is known for its rugged construction. It offers a smooth action, a variety of aftermarket parts, and a reputation for enduring performance.
Key Features: Steel receiver, various barrel lengths, interchangeable chokes, and robust construction.
Pros: Extremely reliable, widely available, vast aftermarket support, a time-tested design.
Cons: Some models may exhibit quality control issues.
Specifications: 12 Gauge, available in various barrel lengths (18-28 inches), and depending on configuration, it can hold 4-7 rounds.
Pricing: Varies widely depending on configuration, from around $300 to $800.
For Home Defense
These shotguns are optimized for close-quarters self-defense. Their design prioritizes ease of use, maneuverability, and rapid deployment.
Mossberg 590: The Mossberg 590 is another popular choice for home defense, known for its durability and robust build, often utilized by the military. It features a dual-action bar design for reliable cycling, and a top-mounted safety. Often comes with a shorter barrel, making it easy to handle in tight spaces.
Key Features: Ambidextrous top-mounted safety, dual-action bars, a durable design, and can often hold up to nine rounds.
Pros: Very reliable, easy to use, and relatively affordable.
Cons: Can feel bulky to some shooters.
Specifications: 12 Gauge, typically comes with an 18.5-inch barrel, and can hold 5-9 rounds depending on configuration.
Pricing: Generally priced between $400 and $700.
Hunting Focused
These shotguns are specifically designed for use in hunting and are characterized by features such as interchangeable choke tubes, camouflage patterns, and options for longer barrels.
Remington 870 Field: This is the hunting-focused version of the legendary 870. Featuring a variety of barrel lengths, choke options, and wood or synthetic stocks, it is made for taking down game. The smooth action makes it easy to cycle rounds.
Key Features: Interchangeable choke tubes, wood or synthetic stock, barrel lengths suitable for different hunting scenarios.
Pros: Reliable, readily available, offers excellent pattern control.
Cons: The same potential quality control issues as with other 870 models.
Specifications: 12 Gauge, 20 Gauge, and .410 Bore options are available, with various barrel lengths (26-28 inches) and typically holding 4-5 rounds.
Pricing: Varies significantly depending on configuration, but generally between $400 and $800.
The Budget-Friendly Option
These shotguns deliver good performance without breaking the bank. They are ideal for new shooters or those looking for an affordable option.
Maverick 88: The Maverick 88 is a value-packed shotgun from Mossberg, offering a reliable pump action at an affordable price. It uses the same proven action as the Mossberg 500, making it a reliable choice.
Key Features: Comes with a vent rib barrel and a synthetic stock.
Pros: Affordable, reliable, and easy to use.
Cons: Fewer features than more expensive models.
Specifications: 12 Gauge, various barrel lengths, and can hold 5-7 rounds depending on configuration.
Pricing: Typically under $300.
For Tactical Use and Sport Shooting
These shotguns are built for demanding use, featuring enhanced ergonomics, accessory rails, and often upgraded sights.
Mossberg 590A1: The Mossberg 590A1 is the military-grade version of the 590, built to withstand harsh conditions. It includes a heavy-walled barrel, steel trigger guard, and a durable build.
Key Features: Heavy-walled barrel, metal trigger guard, ghost ring sights, and accessory rails.
Pros: Extremely durable, reliable, and built to military specifications.
Cons: Heavier than other models.
Specifications: 12 Gauge, typically with an 18.5-inch barrel, and can hold up to 9 rounds.
Pricing: Usually priced between $600 and $900.
Maintaining Your Pump Action Shotgun
Regular maintenance is critical to ensuring the longevity and reliable performance of your pump action shotgun.
Cleaning and Lubrication: A Routine
Proper cleaning and lubrication are essential. Disassemble the shotgun according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Clean the barrel with a bore brush and solvent, wiping away any carbon buildup. Lubricate moving parts with gun oil, paying particular attention to the action bars and the bolt.
Safety First: Handling Your Firearm
Always treat every firearm as if it is loaded. Keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction. Never put your finger on the trigger until you are ready to shoot. Know your target and what is beyond it. Practice safe gun handling at all times.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Familiarize yourself with common problems. Failure to feed can often be attributed to a dirty magazine or a faulty cartridge. Failure to eject can result from a dirty chamber or extractor issues. Regular cleaning and maintenance will minimize these issues.
Conclusion
Selecting the *best pump action shotgun in 2024* depends on individual needs and intended use. For all-around reliability and versatility, the Remington 870 remains a solid choice. If home defense is your primary concern, the Mossberg 590 offers a robust and reliable platform. The Maverick 88 provides excellent value for those on a budget. Remember to prioritize safety and to thoroughly research any model before making a purchase. Choosing the correct shotgun will contribute to many years of enjoyment. Consider visiting a local gun range and test firing a few models before buying if that is possible.
