Here are some of the most common types of shotguns...
These are the primary types of shotguns, each tailored to suit different shooting needs and preferences. The choice of shotgun type depends on factors like intended use, personal preference, and local regulations.
Over and Under Shotgun
Break-Action Shotgun
Break-action shotguns are known for their simplicity and reliability. They have a hinged action that opens to expose the breech, allowing for easy loading and unloading. There are two subtypes within break-action shotguns:
- Single Shot Single Barrel: These shotguns have a single barrel and fire one shot at a time.
- Over-Under Shotgun: These shotguns have two barrels stacked vertically on top of each other.
- Side-by-Side Shotgun: These shotguns have two barrels positioned side by side horizontally.
Pump-Action Shotgun
A pump-action shotgun is one of the most popular and widely used types of shotguns. It features a manually operated pump or forend that allows the shooter to cycle the action, eject the spent shell, and chamber a new round. Pump-action shotguns are versatile and can be used for hunting, home defense, and sport shooting.
Pump Shotgun
1960 Winchester Model 42 Pump
In my collection, I have examples of semi-automatic, pump, break-action, over and under, combination and specialty shotguns. I do not have a bolt-action or lever-action shotgun.
Over and Under Shotgun
My favorite shotgun (right now) is my Citori Gran Lightning. However, I must say that the purpose of the shotgun dictates the characteristics, and for certain purposes, I would have to choose another shotgun as my favorite.
