What is the best 12 gauge shotgun for both trap and home defense?

Question

I'd like something I can easily change the barrel on for either trap or home defense.

I've been shooting rifle and pistol for years and now I want to get into trap.

Thanks

Answer 1

Remington 870, it has many variants and is heaver than its two main competitors, the Winchester 1300 and the Mossburg 500. Because it is the heaviest it has the least recoil or kick. The Remington also has a receiver made of steel as opposed to aluminum which is why the other 2 guns are lighter in weight. I have fired all three and I chose the Remington 870 simply because it is the easiest to fire multiple times without killing your shoulder. Also they start at around $300 for the synthetic model which is the least expensive of the 3 companies mentioned above.
P.S. Sometimes a handgun is better for home defense and other times a shotgun is more appropriate. To claim "a handgun is better for home defense" is a vague and inaccurate statement.

Answer 2

Pump is often best for home defense because you don't even have to see the criminal for it to be effective, just pull back on that pump and anyone with their head on straight is already 5 miles away. They actually sell devises that make the noise of a shotgun for people who don't want a gun in the home for whatever reason. If that doesn't do it, a big swarm of buckshot will. Do not use birdshot, thick clothes and leather jackets can stop it unless you are face to face.... this has happened many times so remember, buckshot is best, slugs are next then birdshot is in last place.

As for trap, I know nothing.... have only shot a shotgun once years ago, I prefer weapons with one, long range, well controlled projectile. I actually would prefer a 1911 for home defense since it has multiple shots with a lot of stopping power.... a shotgun would be my 2nd choice after a 1911.... for home defense, a Mossberg 500 or a Remington 870 because of the important pump action and there are TONS of parts for these... open any Cheaperthandirt or sportsmansguide catalog and you will find literally a few pages of nothing but extras and replacement parts for these guns.....very popular, very standardized, you can get the configuration you want.

Answer 3

Best 12 Gauge Pump Shotgun

Answer 4

Well, i have an Remington 870 Express, and you can buy several different barrels, from rifled barrels to short home defense ones. I have the stock barrel which is like 26'' on my 12 gauge. IT does good for trap, and will work for home defense, but a shorter barrel will move around easier. The 870 is a good all-around pump gun, and the Mossberg 500 isnt bad either, and they are not too expensive.

Answer 5

Remington Model 870 Wingmaster or Express Model 12 Gauge Pump Shotgun. Hands down the best multi-purpose shotgun on the market

Answer 6

remington 870. Barrels are easily interchangeable. My buddy bought a three barrel set with his for about $350. I have two separate gunns myself.The 3.5 inch mag really has some power. On my short barrel, I have a tube extension which fitts 8 of the 2 &3/4 rounds. I don't know where you could get that , I bought mine that way. Mossberg also has some nice guns reasonably priced. I'm sure you would be happy with them too. I just have always liked the 870s I have had , and most my buddies have them too. Good luck.

Answer 7

Mossberg model 500 home defense. It comes with both a pistol grip and a traditional stock. They make a 6 shot and a 8 shot model, I go with the 8 shot because the barrel is a bit longer.

Very accurate and only $300 new in the box!

The same shotgun used by police and the cost guard uses the stainless model.

Answer 8

Any good pump shotgun, from Mossberg, Remington, Winchester, or Benelli will fill the bill.

A short 18.5" cylinder bored barrel for things that go bump in the night, and a 28" screw-choked barrel for hunting, and trap.

IMNSHO, a handgun is better for home defense.

Doc

Answer 9

Remington 870 Express,my shotgun of choice

Answer 10

Mossberg 500 field and home defence combo kit, it comes with a 18 inch smooth bore barrel, a 28 inch field barrel (comes with 3 chokes), full wooden stock and a pistol grip. You can get one in Canada for under $400, so I would imagine that it's cheaper in the U.S.A