How to choose your first shotgun for self-defense or sport

Smoothbore weapons are a popular type of civilian weapons in Ukraine. They are used to practice marksmanship, in competitions, hunting, and for self-defense. However, it is quite difficult for beginners to choose a good model according to their goals. The slightest nuances can negatively affect how comfortable it is to use the product and its effectiveness.

Transportation of weapons is a responsible process that is regulated by certain legislative requirements. Minimal violations are fraught with fines and other unpleasant legal consequences.

The choice of a smoothbore gun depends on its main purpose. Some parameters are critical for use in self-defense, others - for sport shooting.

When planning the choice of a smoothbore weapon for sport shooting competitions or for training, pay attention to models with high ergonomics, rate of fire, accuracy.

If we are talking about self-defense, then compact models with a quick throw-in, minimal time to prepare the weapon for combat and comfortable use even in confined spaces will suit you. In addition, experts strongly recommend paying attention to the simplicity of the design, reliability of the product, the absence of delays during shooting.

First, let's figure out how to choose a gun for training and sports. The shooting result and the shooter's comfort directly depend on the technical characteristics of the weapon.

When choosing your first smoothbore weapon, pay attention to:

• Caliber. A common and universal training and sports option is 12 gauge. It has excellent characteristics of power balance, controlled recoil. If the gun is selected for a teenager or a woman (that is, a user with a small body weight), then the best option is 2 gauge.
• Gun type. For sports competitions, a good option is a double-barreled over-and-under or a semi-automatic weapon. Double-barreled guns are easy to operate, have an advantage when shooting at different distances. As for semi-automatics, these models are good for long training sessions, as they have reduced recoil and a high rate of fire.
• Barrel length. A suitable length for training and sports is 71–76 cm. This length allows you to maintain smooth target tracking and ensures stability during the shot. The longer the barrel, the higher the shooting accuracy. However, maneuverability also decreases. Therefore, choose a gun taking into account individual specifics.
• Chokes. A choke is a replaceable muzzle constriction that allows you to adjust the weapon to the situation. Open chokes are needed for close range, and tight chokes are needed for long range.
• Balance. The gun should fit comfortably in your hand. The best option is when the weight is distributed evenly, which means the sight line will be stable. The first smoothbore gun should be suitable in length, comb height and angle. Otherwise, the shots will not be as accurate, and the shooter will quickly get tired.
• Weight of the gun. If we are talking about sports competitions, the ideal weight is 3-3.7 kg. The lower the weight, the higher the maneuverability, but also the recoil. Heavy guns are more stable, but the shooter will get tired faster.

Smoothbore shotguns are the best choice for self-defense. They are easy to use and have good stopping characteristics.

When choosing a smoothbore weapon for self-defense, pay attention to:

1. dimensions - it should be compact;
2. maneuverability;
3. ease of use;
4. readiness for prompt use.

The best option is a short-barreled, pump-action model with a barrel length of about 45-50 cm. In this case, the gun will be convenient to use even in a confined space. At the same time, pump-action models are simple and reliable to use and allow you to quickly make the next shot.

A good alternative type is a gas-operated or inertial semi-automatic gun. It is characterized by a high firing rate, since it reloads automatically.

If we are talking about home defense, pay attention to models with a large magazine capacity (5-8 rounds).

In addition to the listed parameters, when choosing smoothbore guns for self-defense, ease of use, weight (optimal - no more than 3.5 kg) and ergonomics are taken into account. Many modern models have various adjustable pads, shock absorbers that reduce recoil and increase comfort of use.

Smoothbore shotguns, even similar models, differ in individual parameters of ergonomics, balance, recoil level and specific behavior when firing. The most important advice on choosing a smoothbore weapon: before making a final choice, we recommend testing it in real conditions, for example, in a shooting club or at a shooting range.

So, what should you pay attention to during testing?

First, test how comfortable it is for you to hold the gun in your hands.

Second, feel how quickly your arms and shoulders become tired after several shots.

Third, aim and fire a shot to figure out if it is comfortable for you to do so.

Fourth, make sure by the recoil force — whether it is comfortable for you or not.

And fifthly, evaluate the stability of the mechanics.

Even if a smoothbore weapon looks great on the outside, gunsmith workshop experts advise making the final choice only after testing it in practice. It is in shooting galleries that customers are given such an opportunity. It is better to try a gun once than to choose it solely based on its characteristics and customer reviews.