SHOTGUNS

Shotguns are the most versatile firearms made — capable of defending a home, hunting everything from doves to deer, and breaking clays on the range, all by changing the load in the chamber. From pump-actions to semi-autos and break-action doubles, the shotgun’s ability to fire birdshot, buckshot, or slugs makes it a do-everything tool. This category covers the action types, gauges, and uses to help you choose. Pair your shotgun with the right 12 gauge ammo or 20 gauge shells for the job.

Tatted Tacticals stocks shotguns from leading makers — pump-action, semi-automatic, and break-action models in popular gauges for defense, hunting, and sport.

Shotgun Action Types

Three main actions dominate. Pump-action shotguns are rugged, reliable, and affordable, manually cycled by working the forend — the classic choice for defense and all-around use. Semi-automatic shotguns cycle automatically for faster follow-up shots and softer recoil, favored for waterfowl, competition, and defense. Break-action shotguns — single-shots and over/unders — are simple, elegant, and popular for clays and upland hunting. Each has its strengths; the best action depends on your primary use and budget.

Gauges and Uses

The 12 gauge is the versatile all-around standard for defense, hunting, and sport. The 20 gauge offers lighter recoil for new shooters and upland hunting, while the .410 is the lightest, ideal for small game and first guns. For home defense, a 12 or 20 gauge with buckshot is a proven choice; for hunting, match the gauge and load to your quarry. The shotgun’s load versatility is its greatest strength.

Buying a Shotgun: FFL and Compliance

A shotgun is a firearm and must transfer through a licensed FFL dealer, where you complete ATF Form 4473 and a background check before taking possession. Some states and localities regulate certain shotgun configurations, so review our state restrictions and verify local laws before ordering. Federal rules are published by the ATF, with safe-handling guidance from the NSSF. Always follow the four rules of firearms safety.

Shotguns — Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best shotgun action for home defense?

Pump-action and semi-automatic shotguns are both popular for home defense. Pumps are rugged, reliable, and affordable, with the manual action allowing positive control; semi-autos offer faster follow-up shots and softer recoil. Both, in 12 or 20 gauge with buckshot, are proven defensive choices. The best action is the one you can run reliably under stress, so train with whichever you choose.

What gauge shotgun should I get?

The 12 gauge is the versatile all-around choice for defense, hunting, and sport. The 20 gauge offers lighter recoil, ideal for new shooters, smaller-framed shooters, and upland hunting. The .410 is the lightest, suited to small game and first shotguns. For one do-everything shotgun, the 12 gauge is the standard; for lower recoil, step down to 20 gauge. Match the gauge to your use and recoil tolerance.

What can you hunt with a shotgun?

Shotguns hunt an enormous range of game by changing loads — birdshot for doves, quail, pheasant, ducks, geese, and turkey; buckshot and slugs for deer and larger game in shotgun-only zones. With the right load, one shotgun handles upland birds, waterfowl, turkey, small game, and deer. This load versatility makes the shotgun one of the most adaptable hunting firearms available.

Do you need an FFL to buy a shotgun?

Yes. A shotgun is a firearm and must ship to a licensed FFL dealer, where you complete a Form 4473 and background check before taking possession. Some states regulate certain shotgun configurations, so verify your state and local laws before purchasing. The FFL transfer process applies to all firearm purchases, ensuring the required background check is completed.

Can you buy a shotgun online?

Yes, but it must ship to a licensed FFL dealer near you, not directly to your home, and you complete the transfer there with a Form 4473 and background check. State and local laws may affect certain configurations, so verify your local requirements before ordering. Buying online with FFL transfer is a common, fully lawful way to purchase a shotgun.