Top Tactical Firearms Roundup Part Three: Tactical Shotguns

It’s no secret that tactical shotguns are some of the most popular firearms in the US. High optimization options and the ability to customize your gun with accessories are some of the most important qualities in a modern firearm right now. Whether you are interested in self-defense handguns, a tactical shotgun for home defense, or the AR-15 variants; there are plenty of options to choose from at GrabAGun. Keep reading for a chance to look at the best tactical shotguns we have to offer to help you defend your home or win in the next competition.

Tactical Shotguns at GrabAGun

Unlike their predecessors, which were used primarily for hunting, tactical shotguns provide features and performance geared toward home defense and are used for events such as three-gun competitions with certain types of guns. In these environments, features like a shorter barrel, higher capacity, and semi-auto shotguns or pump action shotguns allow the user to quickly maneuver and fire the shotgun with ease and accuracy. Additional features such as improved sights and available customization also distinguish these shotguns, as they allow the shooter to create the gun that’s best suited for them. We have many options for tactical shotguns, as well as shotgun accessories, here at GrabAGun. Keep reading to see some of our favorite tactical shotguns!

Rock Island VR80

Rock Island VR80 shotgun

The Rock Island Armory VR80 semi-auto shotgun combines the look and feel of an AR15 with the power and versatility of a 12 gauge shotgun. This AR shotgun allows a shooter already familiar with the AR platform to pick up the RIA VR80 and use it with ease, both in competition and self-defense. This shotgun has a rugged 7075 T6 aluminum construction, a 3-inch chamber, a 5-round capacity (with 9 and 19-round factory mags available), and a 20-inch barrel. The VR80‘s BufferTHS buttstock is compatible with most commercial buffer tube stocks and pistol grips, allowing for easy customization. It also has flip-up sights and ambidextrous controls for both right and left-handed shooters. Available in a variety of finishes, including this tactical black finish, you can get a gun that looks the way you want it to. View the full line here.

Rock Island VR80 Specs

Caliber: 12 GaugeChamber: 3”Barrel Length: 20″
Capacity: 5-RoundsSights: Flip Up Front and Rear SightsReceiver Finish: Black Anodized
Action: Semi-AutomaticChokes: F, M, ICWeight: 9.03 lbs
GAG SKU: GAG_VR80-4732-0206

Tokarev TBP12 Bullpup

Tokarev TBP12 Bullpup shotgun

The Tokarev bullpup shotgun is another great semi-automatic tactical shotgun, packed with great features for the everyday enthusiast at a great price point. Built to operate well in tight spaces, the Tokarev Bullpup features an 18.5-inch barrel, a 3-inch chamber, one 5-round magazine, and folding backup iron sights. The TBP 12 utilizes the industry standard T-1919 shotgun magazines that are available in varying capacities up to 20 rounds to suit the end user’s needs. All of these features come together to form a high-performance, semi-automatic tactical shotgun that delivers reliable performance in a sturdy platform that you can count on. With this fast-firing 12 gauge shotgun, you’ll always have the power you need. View the full line here.

Tokarev TBP12 Bullpup Specs

Caliber: 12 GaugeChamber: 3”Barrel Length: 18.50″
Capacity: 5-RoundsSights: Flip Up Front and Rear SightsReceiver Finish: Black
Action: Semi-AutomaticChokes: F, M, ICWeight: 7lbs 11oz
GAG SKU: GAG_TBP12P-142860

Kel-Tec KSG

Kel Tec KSG shotgun

Moving on to a pump action shotgun, the Kel-Tec KSG provides durability and reliable performance in a variety of situations. The KSG is a 12 gauge shotgun with a 3-inch chamber and an 18.5-inch barrel. It’s uniquely equipped to provide the user with an extremely high max capacity, featuring two magazine tubes that provide a max capacity of 6+6+1 (or 7+7+1 depending on shell length). This allows you to shoot more and reload less, benefiting you both in certain competition scenarios and defense situations. The KSG Kel Tec also includes top and bottom Picatinny rails for accessories and optics, as well as a soft rubber butt pad that helps tame recoil. The receiver is made from hardened steel and the magazine tubes have been welded in place, providing you with the durability you need. It also features ambidextrous controls and ejects from the bottom, allowing easy operation with right and left-handed shooters. View the full line of Kel Tec KSGs here.

Kel-Tec KSG Specs

Caliber: 12 GaugeChamber: 3”Barrel Length: 18.50″
Capacity: 14-RoundsSights: NoneReceiver Finish: Black
Action: Pump ActionChokes: Fixed Cylinder BoreWeight: 6.90 lbs
GAG SKU: GAG_KTKSGBLK

Mossberg 930 Tactical SPX

Mossberg 930 SPX shotgun

Focusing on a simple yet sturdy shotgun, we have the Mossberg 930 SPX. It’s another excellent tactical shotgun known to be a rugged and dependable autoloader. The 930 SPX is highly maneuverable and easily controlled in a competitive situation. Features of the gun include a dual gas-vent system, an ambidextrous safety, drilled and tapped receiver, and a quick-empty magazine release button for easy unloading. Built for speed, the Mossberg 930 SPX is a tactical shotgun that’s made for the time when every second counts. The 930 Tactical SPX also features a ghost ring rear and fiber optic front sights, a fixed cylinder bore choke, and a matte finish. Everything comes together to build a great tactical shotgun. View the full line here.

Mossberg 930 Tactical SPX Specs

Caliber: 12 GaugeChamber: 3”Barrel Length: 18.50″
Capacity: 7-RoundsSights: Fiber Optic Front, Ghost Ring RearReceiver Finish: Matte Blued
Action: Pump ActionChokes: Fixed Cylinder BoreWeight: 7.50 lbs
GAG SKU: GAG_MS85360

Remington 870 Express Tactical

Remington 870 Express Tactical Shotgun

Similar in design to the previous shotgun, we now have the Remington 870 Express Tactical, which is a great pump-action shotgun! It comes from the family of best-selling shotguns in history, with over 11 million manufactured. As the name might suggest, the 870 Express Tactical is perfect for tactical applications, demonstrating smooth operation with its maneuverable 18.5-inch barrel, durable synthetic stock, bead front sight, and six-round capacity. All these qualities and features come together to produce one of the best tactical shotguns ever made. View the full line here.

Remington 870 Express Tactical Specs

Caliber: 12 GaugeChamber: 3”Barrel Length: 18.50″
Capacity: 6-RoundsSights: XS Ghost RingReceiver Finish: Matte Blued
Action: Pump ActionChokes: Rem ChokeWeight: 7.50 lbs
GAG SKU: GAG_REMR81198

Beretta 1301 Tactical

Beretta 1301 Tactical Shotgun

The Beretta 1301 Tactical is another great shotgun, designed with law enforcement, home defense, and competition in mind. It’s engineered to be the most reliable and easy-to-use modern tactical shotgun, featuring an oversized charging handle, a large textured bolt release, a secure checkered fore-end and stock, and a reversible safety button. The Beretta also boasts a compact 18.5-inch barrel, adjustable stock for the length of pull, a ghost-ring rear sight with an interchangeable front sight, and an interchangeable choke system. Included is an OptimaBore, HP Improved Cylinder. The receiver is also constructed of aircraft-grade aluminum with a 1913 Picatinny rail, making it easy to add optics to the shotgun. You can always count on the durability and efficiency of the Beretta 1301 Tactical. View the full line here.

Beretta 1301 Tactical Specs

Caliber: 12 GaugeChamber: 3”Barrel Length: 18.50″
Capacity: 7-RoundsSights: Ghost RingReceiver Finish: Black Anodized
Action: Semi-AutomaticChokes: ICWeight: 7.50 lbs
GAG SKU: GAG_J131TT18C-139777

Tactical Shotgun Deals at GrabAGun

If you’re searching for tactical shotguns, look no further than GrabAGun! Whether you’re looking for an AR shotgun, the sleek pump action shotgun, or are looking for any other shotgun for sale, GrabAGun has what you need. In addition to shotguns, we also have rifles for sale, handguns for sale, and ammo for sale. So check out what we have for sale at GrabAGun.com, today find the best tactical firearms today!

Additionally, if you missed it, check out the best tactical handguns blog and the best tactical rifles blog we did to see more of our favorites!

Thanks for reading!

—Matthew Cornell

Top 3 Duck Hunting Shotguns

duck in flight

Across the country, duck hunting season is about to begin. Having all your essentials is imperative to a successful experience, the most important item being your firearm. These days, most hunters choose between a semi-automatic shotgun and a pump-action shotgun for their arsenal. GrabAGun has thousands of shotguns for sale online that you can pick from, all at affordable rates and even with flat-rate shipping! 

Pros and Cons of Semi-Automatic Shotguns

If you’re leaning towards a semi-automatic shotgun as your firearm of choice for your duck hunt, then it’s best to weigh your options. Everything comes with good and bad aspects, so it’s important to understand these before making a purchase. Duck hunting is a challenging but highly rewarding sport, so you need the right firearm to make your experience that much better. 

Pros

  • Speed: There is no denying that a semi-automatic firearm is faster than its manual counterparts. The speed comes from the shotgun’s design, which cycles gas throughout the system to eject a spent shell and load a new one, making it great for hunting ducks
  • Better Stabilization: Semi-automatic shotguns are also notoriously easier to stabilize. Think about it—no pumping action means no time spent trying to readjust your firearm to get on target. 
  • Less Perceived Recoil: That gas redirection isn’t just great for speed. Because all that gas is used to run the action, there is less recoil and muzzle creep with a semi-automatic. For duck hunters, this is great because they can keep on target with little effort. 
  • Reduced Need for Cleaning: While you can’t escape maintenance completely, inertia-driven systems operate as such that cleaning and maintenance can be reduced.  

Cons

  • Sketchy Reliability: Unfortunately, one of the main complaints against semi-automatic shotguns is the fact that they are prone to unreliability. Fouling can cause a shotgun to jam or misfeed, and that’s the last thing you want to happen in the field.  
  • Loading and Unloading: For anyone that has never used a shotgun before, there can be a steep learning curve when it comes to loading and unloading the firearm. New hunters that haven’t practiced with a shotgun beforehand can find this to be a particularly tough problem.  
  • Expensive: Duck hunting semi-automatic shotguns are expensive, there are no two ways about it. Even if you get the most basic model, you are still going to spend a pretty penny. 

Top 3 Semi-Automatic Shotguns for Sale

For a new hunter, semi-automatic shotguns may be the best route to take. You have faster follow-up shots, generally less recoil, and easier handling with his type of firearm. While there are thousands on the market, there are a few shotguns for sale that GrabAGun customers love.

semi-automatic shotguns for sale

Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus

Beretta is one of the oldest firearms manufacturing companies in the world, with more than a century of knowledge and experience. A shotgun that many hunters, both new and experienced, trust for duck hunting is the Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus. This is a high-quality shotgun that you can depend on in just about any situation, but especially on a duck hunting trip. It features Beretta’s exclusive Steelium Plus barrel—a first for hunting shotguns. This barrel actually provides the best shot patterning possible for all hunting loads and reduces felt recoil. It also comes with an extended charging handle and bolt release for easier manipulation, even during the coldest, rainiest days. Plus, with an enlarged port for easier loading, you really can’t go wrong with Beretta shotguns. It truly has all of the pros and none of the cons. 

Takeaways:

  • Dependable, reliable, and performance-driven
  • Reduced recoil with the Steelium Plus barrel
  • Feeds a variety of rounds effortlessly
  • Made by a brand with over a century of experience

Browse all of GrabAGun’s Beretta shotguns for sale here

semi-automatic shotguns for sale

Weatherby Element Waterfowl 

The Weatherby Element Waterfowl Max-5 combines Weatherby’s signature style, fit, and finish with their inertia operated action. It’s a no-nonsense semi-automatic shotgun that delivers exceptional performance. The inertia-operating system allows for high-volume shooting, giving duck hunters a chance at faster follow-up shots. This is a cleaner, smoother, and ready-for-action firearm that waterfowl hunters trust. It features a Griptonite stock with rubberized pistol grip and forend inserts as well as a Realtree Max-5 camo pattern. Take this into the field and know that you’ve got a reliable firearm in your hands. 

Takeaways:

  • Both a stylish and highly functional firearm
  • Griptonite stock and rubberized pistol grip ensure constant comfort
  • Inertia operated action for reliability 

Check out the collection of Weatherby shotguns from GrabAGun

semi-automatic shotguns for sale

CZ 1012 

A trend among semi-automatic hunting shotguns is a gas-inertia operating system, and the CZ 1012 is no different. It utilizes a gas-less spring-based inertia system. This leads to increased consistency, fewer cleaning requirements, and the ability to fire a variety of shells. For duck hunting, this means shooters can cycle more shots with less chance of failure. And with this operating system, follow-up shots can be set up faster, with more accuracy. It also features a mossy oak bottomland finish for excellent camouflage with no shiny surfaces. The CZ 1012 is a high-quality firearm from a brand that knows what they are doing. If you are searching for a dependable duck hunting shotgun, this is it!  GrabAGun has all the shotguns for sale that you could need, including the incredible CZ 1012.

Takeaways:

  • Utilizes a gas-inertia operating system
  • Cycle a variety of shells effortlessly
  • Increased consistency

Take a look through GrabAGun’s collection of CZ shotguns for sale here

men hunting ducks

Pros and Cons of Pump-Action Shotguns

Just like anything, there are pros and cons that need to be weighed when considering a pump-action shotgun. Tactical shotguns are generally a better fit for more experienced shooters, but that doesn’t mean a new hunter can’t use one. As always, make sure to examine the pros and cons of a pump-action shotgun before you make your purchase. 

Pros

  • Rugged and Reliable: Pump-action shotguns are built to be rugged and reliable. A well-constructed shotgun will be able to work in all conditions, including those cold and muggy days during peak duck hunting season. 
  • Versatile: At first glance it may not seem to be, but tactical shotguns like the pump-action style are incredibly versatile. They generally sport a modular design, meaning it’s easy to update or upgrade this firearm to meet your needs. 
  • Powerful: There is no denying the power that comes with a pump-action shotgun. It doesn’t matter if you are shooting lead or tungsten ammo, the results can be deadly, which is exactly what duck hunters need. 
  • Affordable: Good quality, basic pump shotguns are generally less expensive than a brand-name striker-fired pistol or even a hunting rifle.  

Cons

  • Limited Rounds: With a pump-action shotgun, you generally only get a handful of shots to work with—as opposed to, say, a semi-automatic hunting rifle. This can make for a frustrating duck hunting experience if you aren’t a strong shot with this style of firearm.
  • Slower Rate of Fire: Because the operator must manually cycle the weapon, follow-up shots often take longer than semi-automatic or even break-open shotguns. This is especially true for inexperienced shooters and can mean many missed opportunities. 
  • Limited Range: Probably the biggest complaint of any shotgun is the limited range. Most shells used will only have a 50-yard distance to clear. When compared with tactical rifles or other hunting shotguns, this is a serious limitation, especially when ducks can easily clear several yards with ease. 
  • Not for the Inexperienced: For as good as a pump shotgun is, it’s simply not the best option for new hunters. Many are guilty of short-stroking, meaning, they aren’t working the slide through its entire cycle. This can result in jamming, misfeeds, and other issues.

Top 3 Pump-Action Shotguns for Sale

If you are an experienced duck hunter, then the pump-action shotgun may be more your speed. This firearm is powerful, reliable, and trusted by millions. Here are a few favorite shotguns for sale that can be found at GrabAGun for affordable rates and flat-rate shipping. 

pump-action shotgun for sale

CZ 612 Field

This is a workhorse shotgun that performs when you need it most. Not only is it affordable, but it’s reliable in all conditions. The CZ 612 Field features a walnut stock, matte blued finish, and 28-inch barrel. Shooters love CZ shotguns because of how well they perform in all situations. The design allows shooters to cycle 2 ¾ and 3-inch shells with ease. It also comes with 3 chokes so you can easily customize your experience. This is especially helpful for duck hunters who may need multiple chokes to deal with flight patterns, changing locations, and other factors that come with duck hunting. 

Takeaways:

  • Workhorse shotgun
  • Affordable
  • Comes with 3 additional chokes for easy customization

Check out GrabAGun’s selection of CZ pump-action shotguns for sale here

pump-action shotgun for sale

Mossberg 835 Turkey / Waterfowl

For a shotgun that is specifically designed for waterfowl hunting, look no further than the Mossberg 835 Turkey / Waterfowl. Designed to be used in all conditions, without fail, this shotgun manages even the most punishing magnum loads with better shot patterns and reduced felt recoil. This is achieved through an overbored and ported barrel which results in quicker follow-up shots, less muzzle jump, and cleaner shots. Where most tactical shotguns can have a serious kickback, this mitigates it well. Certain models also come with an X-Factor Ported Ulti-Full turkey tube and Accu-Mag set, so you’ll never miss a shot. 

Takeaways:

  • Designed specifically for waterfowl hunting
  • Overbored and ported barrel helps to reduce felt recoil
  • Faster follow-up shots, reduced muzzle jump, and cleaner shots
  • Accu-Mag set included

Browse Mossberg pump-action shotguns for sale from GrabaGun here

pump-action shotgun for sale

Browning BPS Field

The Browning BPS Field is one of the most prolific and reliable shotguns in the world. Browning is a brand that hunters trust for everything from their hunting shotgun to their camo. The Browning BPS Field is a versatile and dependable pump-action shotgun manufactured specifically for waterfowl hunting. It’s great for shooters of all experiences and designed to last a lifetime. It comes equipped with a rugged, machined steel receiver and steel internal components. The twin steel action bars ensure long-lasting, bind-free, pump-action performance for many years to come. It’s a solid shotgun that is not only great for duck hunting, but user-friendly, high-quality, and affordable. What more could you want?  

Takeaways:

  • One of the most prolific and reliable shotguns in the world
  • Designed for waterfowl hunting
  • Good for new and experienced shooters
  • Features twin steel action bars for long-lasting shooting

Take a look through the Browning pump-action shotguns from GrabAGun

Shotguns For Sale

While there are many options to choose from, the right firearm for your next duck hunt will come down to several things—your budget, your experience level, and where you’ll be hunting are just a few things to consider. Always make sure to check your local laws regarding permits, season openings and closings, bag limits, etc. Once you have all that, and you’re looking for shotguns for sale online, check out GrabAGun for some of the best prices online! We have 12-gauge, 20-gauge shotguns, semi-automatic shotguns, pump-action shotguns, and so much more for you to pick from. 

—Kellie Krevosky

The Best Tactical Shotgun Accessories

The shotgun has been a staple of arsenals since its inception. Whether if it is used for home defense, hunting, or another function, the shotgun always finds a way into gun owner’s homes. Though it is capable of many feats on its own, a shotgun can be improved to elevate its functionality to new heights.

Whether you are in the market for shotguns for sale or are looking to upgrade an existing firearm, there are some upgrades to your firearm that you will want to look for. This doesn’t mean that your firearm is inferior or cannot be used without accessories. It’s just if you can optimize it, why wouldn’t you? All of us want to improve the efficiency of our firearms, and accessories can take them to the next level. They can improve carrying capacity, make them easier to carry, and improve accuracy. If you have ever wanted to take your skills and firearm to the next level, then you will want to check out these four essential shotgun accessories you should have:

Tactical Shotgun Accessories

Mesa Tactical Sureshell Carrier Remington 8-12ga

Tactical shotguns require unique upgrades. Sidesaddles are an ideal way to keep additional ammo close and easily accessible. One of the biggest issues with nearly every shotgun is its magazine capacity. When you carry the magazines on the firearm with a side saddle, you alleviate some of that problem. With the Mesa Tactical Sureshell Carrier, you get a rugged and reliable tactical shotgun accessory. It also fits onto the Remington 870.

Truglo Long Bead Front Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight

Another issue many shotgun owners have is sight: not only the ability to see, but also to have an accurate idea of what they are aiming at. Target identification allows for safer use of the shotgun and better accuracy (though this is not always what shotguns are thought of when used).

The Truglo Long Bead Front Fiber Optic Shotgun Sight is one of the industry-leading bead replacements. For this shotgun accessory, the sight is red, with a fiber of 0.078” in diameter and 0.5” in length. Made out of metal and painted solid black, it fits on a Ruger or Winchester.

Grovtec USA GTAC77 Buttstock Cartridge Shell Holder

Similar to the Sidesaddle, a stock carrier can give your shotgun the additional storage it needs in situations where you find yourself needing more ammo for sale. The Grovtec USA GTAC77 is a camouflaged version of a buttstock shell holder designed to carry five additional rounds. The buttstock carrier wraps securely around the shotgun’s stock rather than screwing into the firearm like the sidesaddle.

Many people have a preference between how the additional storage is secured to the firearm due to either the screws coming out of the sidesaddle, or the Velcro coming loose on the buttstock carrier. Owning both can give you two options that will sure to have one work for your needs.

Crickett 800 Shotgun Sling

One of the best accessories for a shotgun is a sling. There are one-point, two-point, and three-point slings; but arguably the ideal for shotguns is the two-point sling. For many purposes, the one-point sling is not practical. Climbing, moving through rugged terrain, or just having to move quickly can all be problematic. The three-point sling is also too complicated for many shotgun owners. Because of this, most owners tend to lean towards the two-point sling as the favorite. The Crickett 800 sling comes in black leather embossed with the Crickett name. Its two-point design makes it a favorite for many to add to their list of shotgun accessories.

Advantages for Accessorized Shotguns

When you combine all of these choices with your current firearm, you will notice plenty of advantages. Your ability to hold more rounds closer to your shotgun can help you in situations when your average shell carrying capacity just won’t do. The two-point sling will help carry your shotgun in several situations you might find yourself in that other slings couldn’t do. Everyone will agree that having the added sights on a shotgun might not seem necessary at first. However, once they try them they will never know how they fired a shotgun without laser sights.

Tactical Shotguns at GrabAGun

If you are looking to buy guns online, GrabAGun can help you find each of these extremely useful and helpful accessories. They are trying to help improve the quality of the tactical shotgun you carry as well as make the person carrying it a higher caliber of marksman as well. If you are interested in a tactical shotgun, make sure you read our blog post on the Beretta 1301 Tactical. Enjoy your new accessories, stay safe, and continue to look for ways to improve your firearm.