6 Great Pump-Action Shotguns
Last updated: June 7, 2026 · Originally published: August 16, 2018
Pump shotguns are a terrific choice for home defense.
Pump shotguns are beneficial for home defense for a variety of reasons. They boast a simple, easy-to-operate design. They are available for modest sums and are also easy to maintain. If the user learns basic gun handling skills, shotguns are an excellent option for home defense. Widely accessible at budget-friendly rates, there is an embarrassment of riches to choose from.
1-For instance, the Winchester SXP Defender is a viable option for home defense. Based on a classic design and weighing just 6.5 lbs., it is available at a price range of $300 to $400, thus making it a popular choice for users.
2-Another option is the Remington 870 Express Tactical. Weighing 7.5 lbs. and costing approximately $650, it is ideal for experienced users and has lots of options for customization.
3-A more expensive but seriously exciting alternative is the Benelli M3 Convertible. With a barrel length approaching 20 inches and a weight of almost 8 lbs., its $1500-plus price tag might give you a bit of sticker shock…but you’re basically getting two guns in one. It is engineered to serve as both a pump-action and a semi-automatic gun. It is a reliable option for users who may be seeking versatility when purchasing firearms for home defense.
4-Moreover, the Mossberg 590A1 Mariner is a marine variant of the pump shotgun, and is ideal for new users. Its simple design and hardy protective coating mean that this pump tolerates tough conditions and rough treatment.
5-The Escort Aim Guard, designed and manufactured by Hatsan, is an extremely budget-friendly choice for users. With a weight of approximately 6 lbs., it has a measly $200 price tag. As such, it’s ideal for new users, small shooters and those on a tight budget.
6-Finally, the Cimarron 1897 is yet another option for home defense. Based on a classic design which was employed during the First World War in 1914-1918, it is adequate for self defense since it’s meant for short distances in closed spaces. Also, it is known for its simplicity making it optimal for those with no experience of gun use.
Ultimately, irrespective of choice, the bottom line is that pump-action shotguns are a terrific choice for home defense.
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The 1897 requires a lot of practice if the user wants to keep his/her flesh intact. The “open bolt” design requires a good grip technique to insure your personal safety, especially with the Cimarron clone. It does however have a “cool” factor.
If you don’t want to deal with 12 gauge recoil, the 20 gauge is still a formidable choice for self defense, hunting, and skeet, etc.. The drawback if there is one, the shells are more costly than 12 gauge, and there are less load choices available. I have 12’s and 20’s they’re both awesome. If you want to go inexpensive, Mossberg makes some excellent shotguns, so does CZ-USA. if you want higher end, Browning makes some nice stuff, and there are many many others . . .
I would like to get one, not only for home defense, but to use for shooting skeets. What model, and gauge would be recommended?
Hi! I didn’t write this article, but I may be able to help. What’s going to drive your decision is whether your primary use for the gun will be home defense or clays. The reason is that longer-barreled shotguns are better for accuracy at a distance (e.g., skeet), while shorter-barrel shotties are better for home use due to their superior maneuverability. Personally, I like the Remington Model 870 Express in 20 gauge and a 26-inch barrel as a “do-all” pump gun. Hope this helps!
You can’t go wrong with an 870 12 gauge. If you invest in a few barrels, you can enjoy hunting just about anything on top of shooting clays and have a good home defense gun. I would suggest going to a local club and talking to the guys there. Most of them would love to talk guns and probably let you try out their rig to get a feel on what you like.