What Is a Shotgun? Learn About Shotgun Types and Common Calibers


When it comes to firearms, few are as versatile and widely used as the shotgun. Whether for hunting, home defense, law enforcement, or sport shooting, the shotgun is a powerful and adaptable tool. But what is a shotgun exactly, and how does it differ from other types of firearms

What Is a Shotgun?

A shotgun is a type of long gun designed to shoot a spread of small pellets or a single projectile called a slug. Unlike rifles, which fire a single bullet with precision, shotguns are built for close to medium-range engagements. Their unique design allows them to cover a wide area, making them ideal for hitting moving targets like birds or clay pigeons.

Shotguns are commonly used for:

  • Hunting: Especially for birds, deer, and small game.

  • Home Defense: Due to their stopping power at close range.

  • Sport Shooting: Trap, skeet, and sporting clays are popular disciplines.

  • Law Enforcement and Military: For breaching and tactical operations.

The basic structure includes a barrel, a stock, a firing mechanism, and a chamber that accepts shotgun shells instead of traditional bullets.

Types of Shotguns

There are several types of shotguns, each with its own purpose and operation style. Understanding the differences can help you choose the right one for your needs.

1. Pump-Action Shotgun

  • Operated manually by sliding the forend backward and forward.

  • Known for reliability and ease of maintenance.

  • Common in home defense and law enforcement.

2. Semi-Automatic Shotgun

  • Fires one shell per trigger pull without manual cycling.

  • Faster follow-up shots.

  • Popular among sport shooters and hunters.

3. Break-Action Shotgun

  • Includes single-barrel and double-barrel models.

  • Simple to operate with minimal parts.

  • Great for beginners and sport shooting.

4. Bolt-Action Shotgun

  • Operated similarly to a bolt-action rifle.

  • Less common but useful for hunting with slugs.

5. Lever-Action Shotgun

  • Uses a lever to chamber a new shell.

  • Classic design with a nostalgic feel.

  • Often seen in cowboy-action shooting sports.

Each type serves a different purpose, so it's important to consider how and where you plan to use your shotgun before purchasing.

Shotgun Bullet Types

When discussing shotgun ammunition, people often ask about shotgun bullet types. Unlike rifles, shotgun ammo comes in shells, and the payload varies depending on the intended use.

1. Birdshot

  • Contains many small pellets.

  • Used for hunting birds and small game.

  • Minimal penetration, wide spread.

2. Buckshot

  • Larger pellets than birdshot.

  • Effective for self-defense and larger game.

  • Offers a balance of spread and stopping power.

3. Slugs

  • A single large projectile.

  • Ideal for hunting deer or for self-defense at longer ranges.

  • Greater accuracy and penetration than shot.

Shot size, load, and shell length all influence performance, so choosing the right shell is crucial for your intended purpose.

Common Shotgun Gauges and Calibers

Shotguns are measured by gauge rather than caliber (though .410 is technically a caliber). The most popular gauges include:

  • 12 Gauge: The most common and versatile, suitable for almost all uses.

  • 20 Gauge: Lighter recoil, ideal for smaller shooters or game.

  • .410 Bore: Very light recoil, used for small game and beginner shooters.

  • 10 Gauge: Powerful, mainly used for waterfowl hunting.

The gauge indicates how many lead balls of the bore diameter make up one pound. A lower number means a larger bore, so a 12-gauge is larger than a 20-gauge.

Read more: Types of Bullets: Sizes and Calibers

How Much Is a Shotgun?

If you're wondering Shotgun price range, the answer depends on brand, type, and quality. Here’s a rough guide:

  • Entry-Level Models: $200–$400

  • Mid-Range Shotguns: $500–$1,000

  • High-End or Custom Shotguns: $1,000 and up

Used shotguns can be significantly cheaper, but always ensure they are safe and legal to purchase in your area.

Final Thoughts

Understanding what is a shotgun and the different types of shotguns available can help you make a more informed decision whether you're a new buyer or just expanding your collection. From shotgun bullet types like birdshot and slugs to knowing how much is a shotgun, the key is choosing what fits your purpose, skill level, and budget. As always, safe handling and proper training are essential with any firearm.

Location: United States

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