In a contentious election year with guns a hot-button issue, the rush of Americans to acquire firearms probably won’t abate. With that in mind, here are some of the best new shotguns to consider adding to your own shopping list.
FosTech Origin-12
A new detachable-box, magazine-fed semi-automatic shotgun is now available, and this one is made in the U.S.A. Fostech’s Origin-12 brings AK-styling to an ambidextrous shotgun that also has 20- and 30-round drum magazines available.
Gauge: 12 gauge; 3-inch chamber
Magazine Capacity: 5 rounds
Barrel Length: 18.25 inches
Overall Length: 36.37 to 40.17 inches
Weight: 9 pounds, 3 ounces
MSRP: $2,600
(812) 445-4028, fostechoutdoors.com
Kel-Tec KSG NR
Kel-Tec smartly introduced the NR version of its KSG shotgun. This variant of Kel-Tec’s bullpup features a shortened magazine tube for eventual conversion to a short-barrel shotgun, but with a full-length barrel that allows you to use it while waiting for your SBS paperwork.
Gauge: 12 gauge; 3-inch chamber
Magazine Capacity: 10 rounds
Barrel Length: 18.5 inches
Overall Length: 26.1 inches
Weight: 6 pounds, 8 ounces
MSRP: $1,200
(321) 631-0068 keltecweapons.com
Molot VEPR 12-01
Combining the ruggedness and reliability of an AK with the effective terminal performance of a shotgun, the Molot VEPR 12-01 offers the convenience of a competition magazine well and a last round bolt-hold-open feature to facilitate fumble-free reloads under stress. The thread pattern on its chrome-lined barrel is also compatible with Saiga muzzle devices.
Gauge: 12 gauge ; 3-inch chamber
Magazine Capacity: 5 rounds
Barrel Length: 19 inches
Overall Length: 40 inches
Weight: 6 pounds, 14 ounces
MSRP: $724.99
(702) 215-3600 fimegroup.com
Molot VEPR 12-03
Similar to its fixed-stock sibling, the Molot VEPR 12-03 sports a metal, folding buttstock with an ample rubber recoil pad. Best of all, models contain U.S.-made parts to ensure 922r compliance when using any magazine.
Gauge: 12 gauge ; 3-inch chamber
Magazine Capacity: 5 rounds
Barrel Length: 19 inches
Overall Length: 40 inches
Weight: 6 pounds, 14 ounces
MSRP: $1,199
(702) 215-3600 fimegroup.com
Mossberg 500 ATI Scorpion
Enhancements from ATI are present on almost every part of this shotgun, but rather than wade into the details, turn to page 98 to read a complete review of the latest Model 500.
Gauge: 12 gauge; 3-inch chamber
Magazine Capacity: 6 rounds
Barrel Length: 18.5 inches
Overall Length: 36.38 inches
Weight: 6 pounds, 12 ounces
MSRP: $588
(800) 363-3555 mossberg.com
Mossberg 590A1 7-Shot Tactical
This one goes to seven! Mossberg added a round of capacity to its popular 590A1 pump-action shotgun, making it an even better choice for home defense. Parkerized, Kryptek camo and Marinecoat finishes are all options.
Gauge: 12 gauge; 3-inch chamber
Magazine Capacity: 7 rounds
Barrel Length: 18.5 inches
Overall Length: 39.5 inches
Weight: 7 pounds
MSRP: $587
(800) 363-3555 mossberg.com
Pointer Home Defense Over/Under
With two proven shots, the double-barrel shotgun is an overlooked home-defense option. Pointer’s newest shotgun offering features rails for optics and accessories, multiple choke options and a single trigger with an automatic resetting safety.
Gauge: 12 gauge; 3-inch chamber
Capacity: 2 rounds
Barrel Length: 18 inches
Overall Length: 38 inches
Weight: 7 pounds
MSRP: $580
(800) 553-4229 legacysports.com
TriStar KRX Tactical Shotgun
Familiar and affordable describe the KRX Tactical shotgun. With a layout similar to an AR-15 and offering a 5-year limited warranty, the KRX should appeal to those desiring a tactical shotgun with controls like those of America’s rifle.
Gauge: 12 gauge; 3-inch chamber
Magazine Capacity: 5 rounds
Barrel Length: 20 inches
Overall Length: 38 inches
Weight: 7 pounds, 6 ounces
MSRP: $595
(816) 421-1400 tristararms.com
