Pump or semi-auto shotgun?

Me | 10/2/2021 | Paul R

[Paul R.]

For home defense at a very budget constrained price, what do FReepers (or their sources) think: Semi-auto or pump action 12 ga. shotgun? Semi-auto will deliver the most stopping power in a very short time, but might it be less reliable? Other considerations?

[MNJohnnie]

1 hand a shotgun? In a Hollywood action movie maybe.

If you are hurt that bad, you are not going to be using the auto either

[jy8z]

But it was already “racked” and ready to shoot.

Do you get it now?

[kiryandil]

That’s why I have a carry piece.

[Paul R.]

Right. And, I do already own a longer 26” pump. (Hunting gun, really.)

[MNJohnnie]

You been watching way too many holliweird movies. You don’t have time to ratchet one you are so far in the shit you aren’t coming out of it. Don’t kid yourself that one in the tube is going to let you out draw them.

[Paul R.]

Looks to be about a $50 difference. I can handle that - just can’t afford a $400 or more gun, at present.

[Paul R.]

I do have an AR-15. More worried about it penetrating walls, tho’, than picking off a bad guy standing beside wifey..

[jy8z]

That is exactly what I’ve been saying. Please direct that comment to kirandal.

[UnwashedPeasant]

If you need to use it one-handed while riding a motorcycle, consider a lever action.

[CivilWarBrewing]

"That being said, I don't know your living situation, but if you live with other people or have other people over somewhat regularly, I would suggest you get an AR-15. If you're trying to shoot someone who is standing next to someone you're not trying to shoot, a shotgun is the worst gun you could use."

No birdshot in the house.. SLUGS, MAN!.. SLUGS!!!

Collateral damage avoidance in crowds is exactly why cops carry slug shells for their shot guns.

[MNJohnnie]

You have no idea what you are talking about. Trying to posture like this is just embarrassing yourself.

[Paul R.]

Noted and similar to some of my thoughts.

I’m also thinking a semi-auto would be easier for wife to use, tho’ she’s very petite: It might knock her down...

[jy8z]

Your comprehension may need some work. I said what you did in post #31.

[NorseViking]

I have a semi-auto. Have no idea why it might be unreliable.

[Paul R.]

Reading reviews* it would seem current production of semi-auto models I’ve looked at are pretty reliable. Plus this gun will not be taken out for hunting, etc.

*I’d rather ask people I know, but only one I know to ask about such has a semi-auto 12 ga., and I think he said it ran him over $500 on sale. Not sure of brand and model, but that’s out of my budget range anyway.

[Veggie Todd]

Short, double barrel, side-by-side.

[SandwicheGuy]

That lovely sound when you rack a pump shotgun... The ineffable reasons for owning a pumper..

[Mogger]

I take it you’ve fired 12 gauge 3 inch double ought shells 1 handed?

I wouldn’t want to personally.

I've fired 2 1/2" 00 buckshot one hand with semi auto.

It can be done, but I don't want to again, unless I have to.

The semi auto action plus a muzzle break helps absorb the recoil.

What REALLY hurt was a 12 gauge short barrel coach gun with any shells.

[Mogger]

If you are hurt that bad, you are not going to be using the auto eitherSuppose you happen to have a pre-injured hand/arm?

BTW, I've shot 12 gauge shotguns single hand, just to see how it would go.

It's doable, but not enjoyable

[Clutch Martin]

“The pump is cheaper, but the semi-auto is quicker.”

Auto’s can be fired and cycled one handed. Pumps, not so much and with greater difficulty. It’s a hard choice. Tubes and doubles, go out-of-play too quickly... if the initial volley doesn’t end well. But who plans on failing?