The shotgun is a very effective tool for home defense. Which model should you use and how should you equip it for tactical use?
Mossberg Shockwave
The Shockwave is basically a Mossberg 500 action with some modifications. It looks a little bit like a club and can be used as an impact weapon should your defensive use call for that. It function 2 ¾-inch and 3-inch shells.
‘Standard’ Mossberg Defensive Shotgun
The Mossberg 500 has a standard-length magazine tube and standard-length barrel with rifle sights. It is great for shooting slugs and buckshot. This one also has an aftermarket safety and sling swivel. You can use it for hunting or defense.
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Mossberg 500
The last Mossberg 500 has the ATI collapsible stock. It has six positions and really just helps the shotgun to fit a variety of people better. It also has a pistol grip to make the gun easier to control as well as absorbs some of the recoil. The polymer forend will also allow for Picatinny rails for lights or lasers as well.
Home-Defense Shotgun Differences
All of these shotguns function the same way. They’re pump-action, and you load through the bottom. The biggest difference is the size of the Shockwave. It’s shorter, making it easier to maneuver in the house, but it’s also not as accurate. Whichever model you choose, you should always aim, despite the spread of the pattern. Another important factor in using a shotgun for home defense is to practice reloading under pressure. Shotguns only hold six or eight loads, and you may need more.
