Are you aware of how vast the world of shotguns is? There are many different types of shotguns available, as well as many distinct classifications. From single shotguns to multi-barreled shotguns, semi-automatics, pump actions, and so on. Subcategories exist within those categories. Heck, some guns that are effectively shotguns aren't called shotguns at all; they can be AOWs, destructive devices, and other firearms.
We're going to speak about short-barrel shotguns today. This is a broad category that may possibly include any shotgun with a barrel that is shorter than typical. When we say "short-barrel shotguns," we need to be clear about what we mean.
What is a Short-Barrel Shotgun?
When you look at a line-up of shotguns at your local gun store, it appears that this is a simple question to answer because you can clearly tell which ones have short barrels and which ones have long barrels. Isn't it straightforward? Sorry, but it's a little more involved than your simple solution. Because the government has dabbled in the field of shotguns, we now have a very clear definition of what constitutes a short-barrel shotgun.
NFA Definition
The National Firearms Act, or NFA, was passed in the 1930s and essentially established a tiered system for firearms. Suppressors, machine guns, grenades, and short-barrelled rifles and shotguns are all covered under this law. A shotgun with a stock and a barrel less than 18 inches, or a shotgun with a stock but an overall length of less than 26 inches, is classified as a short-barrel shotgun by the NFA. Although it is allowed to own NFA firearms on a federal level, state regulations may be more restricted. To obtain an NFA firearm, you must complete extensive paperwork, register your firearm, pay a $200 tax, and wait for the ATF to authorize your NFA rifle.
You can buy an NFA shotgun from a dealer or file for a permit to make your own. Both methods necessitate ATF approval, documentation, and a tax stamp, among other things.
Why a Short-Barreled Shotgun
The better question is why not. Shotguns, unlike rifles and pistols, may function well with short barrels. Short barrels on rifles and handguns can reduce velocity and limit the ability of a cartridge to penetrate, expand, and perform at extended ranges. A shotgun's barrel gains or loses around 5 feet every inch of barrel gain or loss. Short-barrels are a natural choice because shot loads gain the majority of their acceleration in the first 12 to 14 inches of the barrel.
Shotguns with short barrels are ideal for defensive use, and the shorter barrels can make the guns more maneuverable in the field. Short-barreled shotguns are lighter and easier to maneuver. For home defense, maneuverability is essential. When an 18.5-inch or even 14-inch barrel is available, no one wants a 28-inch bird rifle for home protection. A longer barrel makes sense for hunting and sporting clays. They have a longer sighting plane, are better for swinging at airborne targets, and the added weight helps with hunters' 3 and 3.5-inch magnum ammunition.
Let's take a look at some of the best sort-barreled shotguns.
The Best Short-Barreled Shotguns
Beretta 1301
Mossberg 590A1
Benelli M4 Tactical
Remington 870 TAC-14
Kel-Tec KS7
Mossberg 590 Tactical
Ithaca Auto & Burglar
