Pump Action Shotguns

Pump Action Shotguns: A Comprehensive History and Versatile Tool for Shooting and Hunting

The pump action shotgun stands as an iconic and versatile firearm in the world of shooting and hunting. Known for its distinctive action, reliability, and adaptability, the pump action shotgun has a rich history that spans over a century.

In this detailed exploration, DEGuns will delve into the origins, development, and various applications of pump action shotguns in shooting and hunting.

Origins and Early Development

A Precursor to the Pump Action Shotgun: The Lever Action Shotgun

Before the widespread adoption of the pump action design, lever action shotguns were a notable predecessor. The lever action mechanism, popularized by firearms like the Winchester Model 1887, allowed for rapid cycling of shells. However, the lever action had limitations in terms of speed and simplicity compared to the future pump action design.

The Birth of the Pump Action Shotgun

The true genesis of the pump action shotgun can be attributed to John M. Browning, a prolific firearms inventor. In 1893, Browning patented the first successful pump action shotgun, the Winchester Model 1893. This innovative design featured a sliding forearm that, when moved backward and forward, ejected spent shells and chambered new rounds. It was a leap forward in terms of ease of use and speed, making it an instant hit among shooters and hunters.

Evolution and Variations

Winchester Models and the 12-Gauge Standard

The Winchester Repeating Arms Company played a pivotal role in popularizing pump action shotguns. The Winchester Model 1897, chambered primarily in 12-gauge, became a classic and set a standard that endures to this day. The 12-gauge pump action shotgun remains the most prevalent choice for a wide range of shooting and hunting applications.

Mossberg and Remington Contributions

In the mid-20th century, manufacturers like Mossberg and Remington entered the scene with their own pump action shotgun models. Mossberg's 500 series and Remington's 870 series have gained immense popularity, offering various configurations and accessories to cater to diverse shooting and hunting needs.

Anatomy of a Pump Action Shotgun

Key Components

A typical pump action shotgun consists of the following key components:

Receiver: The central part of the shotgun that houses the action and trigger assembly.
Barrel: The tube through which the projectile travels. Barrels can vary in length and choke to suit different purposes.
Forearm: The sliding mechanism that the shooter pumps to cycle the action.
Stock: The rear portion of the shotgun that provides stability and a gripping surface for the shooter.
Magazine Tube: Located under the barrel, it holds multiple rounds of ammunition.

Pump Action Mechanism

The pump action mechanism is the defining feature of these shotguns. When the forearm is pulled back and then pushed forward, it ejects the spent shell, chambers a new round from the magazine tube, and prepares the shotgun to fire again. This simple and reliable operation is a hallmark of pump action shotguns.

Types of Pump Action Shotguns

Pump action shotguns come in various configurations tailored for different shooting and hunting needs. Some notable types include:

Home Defense Shotguns

Pump action shotguns are a popular choice for home defense due to their reliability and ease of use. Short-barreled models with magazine extensions and pistol grips are commonly used for this purpose. Popular models for home defense include the Mossberg 500 and Remington 870 Tactical.

Sporting and Competition Shotguns

Pump action shotguns are also employed in sporting events and competitions such as clay target shooting (trap, skeet, and sporting clays). These shotguns often feature longer barrels, interchangeable chokes, and specialized sights. While they may not cycle as quickly as semi-automatic shotguns, they remain competitive in the right hands.

Hunting Shotguns

Pump action shotguns are versatile hunting tools, suitable for various game species. Hunters can choose from different barrel lengths and choke options to match the specific requirements of their chosen game. Common hunting types for pump action shotguns include:

Waterfowl Hunting

Pump action shotguns excel in waterfowl hunting, especially when chambered in 12-gauge for its formidable firepower. Duck and goose hunters often prefer shotguns with longer barrels and improved cylinder or modified chokes.

Upland Game Hunting

For hunting upland game birds like pheasants and grouse, hunters may opt for lighter and more maneuverable pump action shotguns with shorter barrels and improved choke options.

Deer Hunting

Pump action shotguns chambered in larger calibers, such as 20-gauge or 12-gauge slugs, are effective choices for deer hunting in areas where rifles are restricted. These shotguns offer the accuracy and power needed for ethical and humane kills.

Pump Action Shotgun Ammunition

Gauge Selection

Pump action shotguns are available in various gauges, with the 12-gauge and 20-gauge being the most common. The choice of gauge depends on the intended use, with the 12-gauge offering more power and versatility, while the 20-gauge is favored for its lighter recoil.

Types of Ammunition

The versatility of pump action shotguns extends to the wide range of available ammunition types. Some common shotgun ammunition includes:

Birdshot: For hunting small game and birds.
Buckshot: Suitable for self-defense and hunting larger game at close range.
Slugs: Used for big game hunting and shooting at longer distances.
Specialty Loads: Including less-lethal rounds for law enforcement and home defense, as well as specialty hunting loads.

Pump Action Shotguns in Shooting Sports

Clay Target Shooting

Pump action shotguns are a staple in clay target shooting sports such as trap, skeet, and sporting clays. While they may require slightly more effort to operate compared to semi-automatic shotguns, skilled shooters can achieve impressive results, making them a popular choice for both beginners and experienced competitors.

3-Gun Competitions

In 3-gun competitions, where competitors use a shotgun, rifle, and handgun, pump action shotguns are often selected for their reliability and cost-effectiveness. Shooters participating in these events often modify their pump action shotguns with extended magazine tubes and improved sights for faster cycling and accuracy.

The pump action shotgun has a rich and enduring history, with its roots dating back to the late 19th century. Developed by John M. Browning, this innovative firearm has evolved over the years, leading to iconic models like the Winchester 1897 and the Mossberg 500.

Its reliability, simplicity, and versatility have made it a popular choice for a wide range of shooting and hunting applications. From home defense to sporting events and hunting, pump action shotguns continue to serve as reliable tools for shooters and hunters worldwide.

Whether you're protecting your home, breaking clays on the range, or pursuing game in the wilderness, the pump action shotgun remains a versatile and dependable companion in the world of firearms. Shop DEGuns to find the perfect pump action for your home.