The Better Pump Shotguns

By Randy Wakeman


Often, the question is asked, "Is this gun any good?" Is it worth it?" That is so subjective and vague, that there can be no real answer. The individual gets to decide that. However, there is a "short list" of good pump action shotguns out there. I'll give you mine, relegated to current production models, with a few comments.

Browning BPS: People love it for the tang safety and bottom ejection. People dislike it for the same reasons. Well made, steel receiver, typically good Browning fit and finish, with a forearm that rattles a bit.

Benelli Nova: Ugly, noisy, a rattle-trap. Despite that, a pump gun that is immensely durable and seemingly unbreakable.

Remington 870: The classic all-American pump shotgun. My favorite (easily) of commonly available pump guns. Remington quality control is suspect of late, and the integral safety lock is a bit silly. Nevertheless, it is the gun that defines popular pump-actions.

Mossberg 500: People buy it simply because it is cheap. A very good basic design that is hampered by too much plastic; the safety likes to break off, etc. It could be so much more if the design specs were elevated a notch away from "economy at any cost." But, it remains good for the low-dollar fanatic or for light duty use.




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Copyright 2006, 2016 by Randy Wakeman. All rights reserved.


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