Tell Me About Semi-Auto Shotguns - Pros / Cons?

[D-Man]

What is the general consensus of a semi-auto shotgun? Are these now considered highly reliable self-defense tools, or still something that in most cases a regular pump would do better?

I'd always been intrigued with the higher-end Benelli's as far as tactical shotguns go, and of course those converted Saiga-12's seem to be awesome. But I noticed the other day that Mossberg has the 930SPX which seems like it would be a perfect fit for my budget and needs (home defense / range fun).

For a first shotgun, is something like that viable to get, or am I better served with the standard Remington 870 / Mossberg 500 (think those are the correct model #'s)?

 

[Regolith]

There are some who would argue that semi-autos are the only type of shotguns that should be considered for self defense. I'm not one of them. However, there are some benefits to using a semi.

The most important is that a gas operated semi-auto will absorb recoil, and hence it is easier to make a follow up shot.

However, although modern semi-autos are fairly reliable, they simply don't come close to the reliability of a pump gun.

However, none of this means a whole lot. What matters more is you. Which type of action do you have more experience with? What is your recoil sensitivity? What are you most likely to use often, and practice with? What can you afford? These are all questions that you should ask yourself before you decide.

 

[Wildfire]

All good.

Hey There:
The last post pretty well coverd it so I'll be short. Any of the better built shotguns are good in the right hands. With the right loads.
Pumps worked well in NAM. And many other places. They function even when dirty. Autos are very fast.
I to enjoyed those benelli's.
There are many after market parts for the 870s and one can make em look and fuction rather well.

 

[Smitty in CT]

Don't use any weapon in a self defence situation unless you are 100% comfortable with it's function and reliability...

There is only ONE WAY to get this kind of comfort level.....PRACTICE, PRACTICE, & more PRACTICE.

Regardless of the type of action you choose, pump or auto, if you can't trust that your weapon will fire when and where you choose, then you don't have the right weapon.....

I currently rely on the Mossberg 930SPX loaded up with #4 buckshot for my HD needs, I have had absolutely no problems whatsoever... I also have Mossberg and Remingtom pumps, but for ease of operation, light recoil, and reliability I'm more than satisfied with the SPX.

I keep my 930SPX cleaned and lubed, a pump is more forgiving when it come to cleaning, but if you don't like to keep your guns clean, go for a pump...