Do I really need a defensive shotgun? Convince me....

[Pi3]

870.jpg

Sorry. basic 870with tube extension, plastic furniture. For someone on a tight budget, this along with a 9mm pistol would make a good start.

[filthy phil]

$320 for the 870 tac (+shipp)!
http://www.slickguns.com/product/rem...ded-tube-31999

[jpeezy]

I'm a rifle operator and it feels like I should pay someone when I get to train with it on the city's dime since it's so fun. With that being said, the shotgun is a more advanced weapon system in terms of manipulation and fundamentals when shooting at 50 yards. Getting to watch a good shot gun operator is a pleasure and commands respect. My rifle is still my go to gun, but I would still love to punch a big whole in a rampaging bag guy with an 870p. If your willing to get some training on a shotgun then it's a good purchase. A bonus is rounds will be available and it's something you can pass on to your kids. I would just get it anyways since more guns in your safe is a bonus. Good luck.

[B Cart]

I agree with the consensus that they are not necessary if you have a quality AR, but a nice tool to have if you want to get one.

I primarily hunt, but have also been wanting to add a defense shotgun, so I got the Mossberg 500 defense/field combo. It has an 18.5" defense barrel, but also comes with a 28" field barrel that takes about 20 seconds to swap. I keep it in defense configuration and train with it like that, but then swap the barrel when I want to hunt. I like the versatility a lot.

[JusticeM4]

There's a place for it, but I don't think it's a must have. One more tool in the box, or club on the golf bag.

I think a shotgun makes a great post up and wait weapon in you're dealing with potential home invasion and your family is secure with you.

No need to invest big money for a defensive shotgun. A Mossberg or Remington with an 8 round tube and a velcro'd elastic shell caddy on the receiver is all you really need.

+1

If you have an AR and a sidearm, you really don't need a shotgun, unless you want one.

But for the prices of shotguns and ammo right now, it is a good investment. You can buy a Mossberg500 8-shot capacity for $299 and have plenty of money left over for ammo and accesories. If you just want a basic HD shotgun, this is want I recommend (or the 870)

[Ejh28]

Well the problem solved itself. I was at a gun show this past weekend and saw a Benelli Supernova tactical with the magazine tube extension for $350. I'm happy with the purchase. I know it's not an 870, but they have a good reputation and for the use in mind it fills my needs. If I ever get the time and money I would like to compete in some 3 gun tournaments, so it made sense to have a shotgun. It can pull backup home defense in the meantime.

Thanks for all the opinions guys!

[streck]

http://www.theboxotruth.com/docs/bot3.htm

My only issue with the BOT test that the walls are so close together. I'd like to see a test done using typical home construction such that two walls are a 2x4 width apart and the a second wall 10 or 12 feet away. Stacking numerous walls closely really doesn't tell us much more....

This is the better comparison: LINK

[eodinert]

1. Duck hunting
2. Breaching
3. ....Uuuhhhh that's all I've got.

[randyb]

Its a tool, not a requirement, but along with a handgun, rifle, etc. It could be argued that any one item (rifle, pistol, etc.) could be 'made do' without. In my defense scenario, the shotty is there as much for four legged as two legged vermin. I have much more confidence on nailing a yote running out of the chicken coup with my shotgun (loaded with buck) than I do getting on target with my AR. Now that being said, I could do fine with the AR and more practice.

[LoveAR]

I am not a professional weapons person but I think that a properly set up shotgun and pistol would be excellent for home defense. I am planning to get an 870 for that purpose one day. I would set it up to suit the purpose but I would not want it to look "tactical". A KAC would be a good choice too but if I ever had to use it (Lord...I hope not) the police will take it and that would be painful.