Shop shotguns by action
- Semi Auto Shotguns
- Over Under Shotguns
- Pump Action Shotguns
- Side By Side Shotguns
- Single Shot Shotguns
- Lever Action Shotguns
- Bolt Action Shotguns
- Other Shotguns
Shotgun actions compared
| Action | How it cycles | Common uses |
|---|---|---|
| Pump Action Shotguns | You rack the forend to load each shell. | Home defense, waterfowl, turkey and all-around use. |
| Semi Auto Shotguns | Each shot loads the next shell. | Waterfowl, upland, clays and less felt recoil. |
| Over Under Shotguns | Two barrels stacked, break-open. | Clays, upland birds and doves. |
| Side By Side Shotguns | Two barrels side by side, break-open. | Upland birds, cowboy action and coach guns. |
| Single Shot Shotguns | One barrel, break-open, one shell at a time. | Youth guns, turkey, trap and first shotguns. |
| Lever Action Shotguns | A lever loads each shell from a tube. | Pest control, cowboy action and fun. |
| Bolt Action Shotguns | You work a bolt for each shell. | Slug hunting for deer. |
Shells by gauge
Match the gauge and chamber length stamped on the barrel. Shop 12 Gauge Shells, 20 Gauge Shells, 410 Shells, 28 Gauge Shells, 16 Gauge Shells and 10 Gauge Shells, or start at Shotgun Shells.
Shotguns FAQ
12 gauge or 20 gauge?
A 12 gauge carries more shot and handles the widest range of loads. A 20 gauge kicks less and weighs less, which suits upland hunting and smaller shooters. Most of the guns above come in both.
How old do you have to be to buy a shotgun?
Under federal law a licensed dealer can transfer a shotgun to buyers 18 and older. Some states set the bar higher, and the receiving dealer follows the law of their state.
Can a shotgun ship to my house?
No. It ships to the licensed dealer you choose. The full process is on How To Buy A Gun Online.