One thing we get from readers time and again is the request for more budget-friendly gun reviews and recommendations. Your wish is TTAG’s command. Here are the best 12ga shotguns we’ve reviewed, all available for around 600 samolians or less.
Stoeger P3000: $299 via Brownells
BLUF: This shotgun is a great bargain. Its light weight, portability, and reliability are strong suits. Ergos aren’t bad; it’s comfortable to shoot albeit a little front-heavy. It is not drilled and tapped in case you were considering mounting an optic. Full review here.
H&R Pardner Pump: $200 via Cabela’s
BLUF: Manufactured in China to maximize affordability, this utilitarian 870 clone is just shotgun you may want for the things (or people) that go bump in the night. If that’s what you’re looking for and you don’t want to spend much, this could be the perfect fit. Full review here.
Mossberg FLEX 500: $420-$550 via Brownells
BLUF: The FLEX is a highly modular, versatile shotgun that’s earned its tremendous popularity, so much so that we prefer it to the basic Mossberg 500. It’s hard to take issue with this gun, and we really only have good things to say about it. Full review here.
Mossberg 590 Pump Action Shotgun: $419 via Cabela’s
BLUF: A classic, affordable, versatile, low-maintenance, ultra-reliable home defense weapon ready for ambidextrous use. Feed it buckshot, slugs, or birdshot without a worry. Full review here.
Benelli SuperNova: $500-$600 via Cabela’s
BLUF: Weighing in at eight pounds for the 28″ model, the SuperNova isn’t as light as some other shotguns, but the weight goes a long way toward recoil management in this pump action scattergun. The famously reliable SuperNova may be more comfortable for those with larger hands. Full review here.
Weatherby PA-08 Upland: $370 via Brownells (currently on sale for $330)
BLUF: Though maybe less well known, Weatherby more than keeps pace with Winchester, Mossberg and the rest. This attractive, affordable pump gun is outstandingly accurate, with an element of style thrown in to boot. Full review here.