Don't Overlook The Defensive Shotgun

Written with input from Craig French, the region's prominent shotgun instructor

The defensive shotgun is often overlooked and under-utilized as a defensive firearm due to crude sighting, size, recoil, capacity, and even firepower. Is the shotgun a relic of the past, replaced by modern rifles? Or something you should consider? The gun offers more firepower than anything else you might have but is that too much? Some of these reasons are misguided. It's a formidable tool if you train with it, and the "limitations" tend to disappear.

Perhaps versatility is the biggest advantage a shotgun offers. The do-almost-anything platform can shoot birdshot, buckshot, slugs, less lethal, and a host of other specialty rounds. Each serves a special purpose. But with all that, comes the need to learn what is best for your particular situation and environment. You must understand how each type of ammo functions and performs in your environment, and how to transition during times of stress.

Let's dive into some the reasons people shy away from a defensive shotgun

First, poor sights. Most good defensive shotguns today have quality sights on them. Ghost rings, express sights, fiber optic, and even red-dots nowadays. These all work just like they do on other firearms and will get you on target quickly and accurately. Yet, even the old bead sight allows you to do some good work quickly.

Next, huge size. Shotguns are no longer the behemoths your dad had. Defensive models have shrunk in size, weighing and measuring similar to a basic AR15. Different stock configurations and barrel lengths can make them more comfortable for smaller-framed people. Despite what you may have heard, the longer barrels aren't needed.

What about recoil? We won't dismiss recoil. The 12-gauge combat shotgun is the most devastating hand-held weapon per trigger press in your arsenal, but that power comes at the cost of recoil. To master the shotgun, you must first master that recoil. Full power shells pack a punch. However, there are low recoiling options out there from Federal, mini shells, and even plenty of effectiveness from a 20-gauge shotgun. All have less oomph. Proper technique (the push-pull method) can also significantly reduce felt recoil.

Limited capacity. The common complaint is that it just doesn't hold enough rounds. But let's take a look at standard 00 buckshot. Each shell contains 9 pellets of .33 caliber lead, each weighing about 54 grains. Multiply that by your total capacity and you'll quickly find out that "not enough" isn't a thing. Each shell fired means 54 pellets (486 grains) flying between 1,100-1,300 feet per second with an approximate muzzle energy of 1,694 foot pounds. A 1 ounce slug ups the ante to 437 grains flying at 1,850 fps with 3,320 foot pounds of energy. Devastation is an understatement.

These numbers are pretty amazing and remember that they come from just one shot! That’s why the FBI data around LE gunfights with shotguns shows that they generally end very quickly and don’t need as many rounds as other weapons do. The deanimation of the body often happens much quicker than handgun or rifle rounds.

Resurgence!

In recent years, there has been a resurgence of shotgun models, accessories, and technology updates seen on social media, at industry events like SHOT Show, and in training circles. We think it's because people are realizing how capable, versatile, and available the shotgun is.

Get Trained

Using a shotgun effectively for defense however does require training. Most people think that because they have been hunting with one for years, that they can just point and shoot in the general direction to be effective. It's not that simple and depending on the ammo being used, it's very easy to miss. Each shotgun also has certain particulars about operating them; little nuances for each brand. You have to know how yours functions and behaves at all distances.

If you are at all curious if the shotgun is a possible defensive arm for you, it is best to take a class and discover the pros, cons, and everything else that goes along with using one.

The Rapid Defense Defensive Shotgun series is designed to make you a better shotgun user and dispels most of the myths around them. Feedback from these classes is often, "I never knew what was truth and fiction with my shotgun." Or, "I didn't realize how poor my marksmanship and operation was." Even, "that was the most fun class I've ever taken."

The Intro class can be taken with any pump or semi-auto shotgun that you already own. Extra shells can be held in a fanny pack or even a nail apron. The barrier to entry is low, and this class teaches all of the basics on ammo, gear, marksmanship, and more. We take the time to answer questions, test theories, and bust myths so you can make the most informed decision possible.