In a world where rifles and machine guns dominate the battlefield, the humble shotgun holds its own in close-quarters combat. Its ability to deliver a substantial amount of lead with each trigger pull makes it invaluable in certain situations.
This was particularly evident during the Iraq war, where the shotgun proved its worth in dense urban environments. Despite its limited range, the shotgun excels when the fight gets up close and personal.
But the shotgun’s versatility extends beyond close-quarters combat. It serves as an excellent breaching tool, capable of destroying locks and hinges.
In less kinetic environments, shooters can load non-lethal munitions to disperse rioters. You’ll even find shotguns on flight lines, scaring off birds. Let’s take a closer look at seven of the most popular, effective, versatile, and unique combat shotguns in use around the world today.
The Benelli M4: King of Combat Shotguns
The Benelli M4 has rightfully earned its place as the king of combat shotguns. This gas-operated, semi-automatic shotgun was put through its paces by the Marine Corps in 1999, and it didn’t take long for it to become a crucial part of their arsenal. Its design allows for rapid, accurate follow-up shots, making it particularly effective in close-quarters combat scenarios.
Key Features
- Gas-Operated System: The ARGO (Auto-Regulating Gas-Operated) system ensures reliability and reduces recoil, which is critical for maintaining accuracy during rapid fire.
- Semi-Automatic: This allows for a high rate of fire, crucial in close-combat situations where every second counts.
- Modular Design: The Benelli M4 can be fitted with a variety of accessories, including optics, tactical lights, and laser sights, making it adaptable to different combat roles.
Global Users
- United States Marine Corps: Adopted for its reliability and effectiveness in urban combat, the M4 has been a staple in operations ranging from city streets to confined spaces.
- Italian Armed Forces: Given its Italian origin, the M4 is naturally a part of Italy’s military equipment.
- British Armed Forces: Valued for its reliability and modularity, it is used in various operations.
- Israeli Defense Forces: Known for urban warfare, the IDF utilizes the M4 in tight combat situations.
- South Korean Military: Adopted for its versatility and reliability in various military operations.
Historical Context
The Benelli M4 was developed in response to a request from the U.S. Marine Corps for a new combat shotgun. The ARGO system, which automatically adjusts to different types of ammunition without the need for user adjustments, was a significant innovation. This feature ensures that the shotgun operates reliably with a variety of loads, from heavy combat loads to lighter training rounds.
Operational Effectiveness
The Benelli M4’s effectiveness stems from its ability to handle various environments and conditions. Its reliability has been proven in the sandy deserts of the Middle East and the humid jungles of Southeast Asia. The modular design allows soldiers to customize their M4s with different stocks, sights, and grips, tailoring the shotgun to their specific mission needs.
The Mossberg 500 Series: An American Classic
The Mossberg 500 series is a hallmark of American firearm engineering, with a service record that spans decades and crosses numerous international borders. The 590A1 variant, in particular, serves the United States military, while other versions have been adopted by Argentina, Portugal, and Denmark. The series is known for its robustness and versatility.
Key Features
- Pump-Action Design: The pump-action mechanism is straightforward and reliable, functioning well under various conditions.
- Versatility: The 500 series comes in multiple configurations, tailored to different tactical needs, from standard patrol to specialized breaching roles.
- Durability: Built to endure harsh environments and extensive use, the 500 series has a reputation for toughness.
Advantages of Pump-Action
- Reliability: Unlike semi-auto shotguns, pump-actions are less prone to malfunctions and can handle lower-powered loads, making them ideal for non-lethal and breaching purposes.
- Adaptability: Capable of cycling various ammunition types, including non-lethal rounds, breaching rounds, and even net-based ammunition for drone defense.
Global Users
- United States Military: The 590A1 variant is the standard combat shotgun.
- Argentinian Armed Forces: Utilized for its robust design and reliability.
- Portuguese Armed Forces: Adopted for its versatility in different operational roles.
- Danish Armed Forces: Valued for its durability and performance in diverse environments.
Historical Context
The Mossberg 500 series was introduced in 1960, and its design focused on simplicity, durability, and affordability. Over the years, it has seen numerous modifications and updates, ensuring it remains a relevant and effective tool in modern combat and law enforcement operations.
Operational Effectiveness
The Mossberg 500 series has been a trusted companion in many military and law enforcement operations. Its ability to function flawlessly in various environmental conditions—from arctic cold to desert heat—makes it an indispensable tool.
The 590A1 stands out for its ruggedness and reliability in combat situations, thanks to its metal trigger guard and safety, heavy barrel, and durable construction.
The Benelli M3: Versatility in Action
The Benelli M3 stands out for its unique capability to switch between pump-action and semi-automatic modes, offering unmatched versatility. This shotgun uses Benelli’s inertia system, allowing it to adapt quickly to different operational needs.
Key Features
- Dual-Mode Operation: The ability to switch between pump-action and semi-automatic modes provides flexibility in various combat scenarios.
- Inertia System: This system uses the gun’s recoil to cycle the action, offering a lightweight and reliable operation.
- Adaptability: Suitable for both combat roles in semi-auto mode and breaching or non-lethal roles in pump-action mode.
Global Users
- Canadian JTF2: Elite special operations forces appreciate its versatility for diverse missions.
- Defence Forces of Ireland: Utilized for both combat and specialized operations.
- Japanese Self-Defense Forces: Adopted for its reliability and adaptability in different roles.
- New Zealand Armed Forces: Valued for its dual-mode operation in various operational contexts.
Operational Flexibility
In combat, the M3 is typically used in semi-auto mode for rapid fire. When a mission requires breaching or the use of less-lethal ammunition, the operator can easily switch to pump-action mode. This makes the M3 particularly valuable in special operations where the mission profile can change rapidly.
Historical Context
The Benelli M3 was introduced to address the need for a shotgun that could perform reliably in both semi-automatic and pump-action modes. Its dual functionality allows it to excel in multiple roles, from direct combat to support and non-lethal applications.
Operational Effectiveness
The M3’s design incorporates the best of both worlds. The semi-automatic mode provides rapid response capability, which is essential in high-stress combat situations. The pump-action mode offers reliability and versatility for less-lethal and breaching operations. This adaptability makes the M3 a preferred choice for special operations forces and tactical units around the world.
Remington 870: A Pump-Action Legend
The Remington 870 is another legend in the world of pump-action combat shotguns. It has served the United States military, including the Marines, SEALs, and other sailors. While it has been largely replaced in the U.S., it still sees action in Belgium, Canada, Finland, and Sweden.
Key Features
- Robust Design: Known for its durability and reliability.
- Double Action Bars: Prevents binding and enhances smooth operation.
- Versatility: Suitable for both combat and specialized roles, such as breaching.
Historical Significance
- Over 11 Million Produced: Since its introduction in 1950, the 870 has been a staple in both military and civilian markets.
- Innovative Features: Pioneered design elements that have become standard in modern shotguns.
Global Users
- Belgian Armed Forces: Utilized for its robust design.
- Canadian Armed Forces: Adopted for its reliability and ease of use.
- Finnish Armed Forces: Valued for its durability in harsh conditions.
- Swedish Armed Forces: Recognized for its versatility in various roles.
Operational Effectiveness
The Remington 870’s design has proven itself in diverse combat and law enforcement scenarios. Its double action bars prevent binding and ensure smooth operation, a critical feature in high-pressure situations. The 870 MCS (Modular Combat Shotgun) variant remains in use with U.S. special operations forces, thanks to its modular design that allows for quick configuration changes to meet mission-specific needs.
The Saiga 12: Russia’s Box-Fed Beast
Most Western shotguns use tubular magazines, but the Russians took a different approach with the Saiga 12. This shotgun is essentially an AK scaled up to fire 12-gauge rounds. Its semi-auto design and box-fed magazines make it a unique and powerful option.
Key Features
- Box-Fed Magazines: Allows for faster reloads compared to traditional tube magazines.
- AK-Based Design: Provides familiarity for users accustomed to the AK platform.
- Semi-Automatic: Offers rapid firepower for close-quarter situations.
Global Users
- Russian Armed Forces: Widely used for its adaptability and firepower.
- Ukrainian Armed Forces: Utilized in various operations, particularly urban combat.
- French GIGN: Adopted by elite counter-terrorism units.
- American Coast Guard: Recognized for its effectiveness in maritime operations.
Operational Effectiveness
The Saiga 12’s design allows it to handle the rigorous demands of modern combat. Its box magazines can hold more rounds and are quicker to reload than traditional tube magazines, providing a significant advantage in sustained firefights. The Saiga 12’s AK-based design ensures ruggedness and reliability, essential traits for any military firearm.
Russia’s KS23: A Massive Shotgun
The KS23 is one of the most unusual shotguns in use today. The “23” stands for 23mm, the diameter of the round it fires, which translates to a massive four-gauge. Originally made from rejected anti-aircraft barrels, the KS23 can hold four rounds in its internal tubular magazine.
Key Features
- 23mm Diameter: Fires a massive round, equivalent to a four-gauge.
- Low Recoil: Despite its size, the recoil is manageable.
- Versatile Ammunition: Can fire rubber, gas, flashbang, and heavy barrier-piercing slugs.
Intended Use
- Prison Control: Designed for riot control within prisons.
- Post-Soviet States: Used in various internal security operations, including in Ukraine.
Operational Effectiveness
Despite its intimidating size, the KS23 is highly effective in its intended roles. The low recoil allows for controlled firing, even with its large rounds. The shotgun’s ability to fire a variety of ammunition types, from non-lethal rounds to heavy slugs, makes it a versatile tool for riot control and internal security operations.
China’s QBS-09: A Mysterious Contender
Key Features
- Semi-Automatic: Provides rapid-fire capability.
- Gas-Operated: Ensures reliability and reduces recoil.
- Recoil Reducer: Reports suggest it has a built-in recoil reduction system.
Design Considerations
- Collapsible Stock: While functional, it is often described as uncomfortable.
- Exclusive Use: Currently, it is used exclusively by Chinese military forces.
Operational Effectiveness
The QBS-09’s design aims to provide the Chinese military with a reliable and effective combat shotgun. The designers ensured smooth operation and reduced recoil with the gas-operated system and rotating bolt, enhancing the shotgun’s usability in combat situations. However, evaluators have yet to fully assess its overall effectiveness compared to modern shotguns like the Benelli M4.
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