Picking the Right Shotgun

By Jamie Hurley Founder Lone Star Heroes Outdoors

Choosing the right shotgun is one of the most important decisions an outdoorsman can make whether you are heading afield for your first bird hunt or upgrading a trusted companion. At Lone Star Heroes Outdoors we believe the right gear builds confidence promotes safety and helps create better experiences in the field.

After years of hunting and working alongside veterans first responders and outdoorsmen of all experience levels I have learned that picking the right shotgun comes down to a few key factors that matter far more than brand names or trends.

Start With Your Purpose

There is no one perfect shotgun for every situation. Before anything else decide what you plan to use the shotgun for most often.

Are you hunting upland birds like quail dove or pheasant
Are you focused on ducks and geese
Do you plan to shoot skeet trap or sporting clays
Are you looking for an all around shotgun that can do a little of everything

Your primary use will determine gauge barrel length action type and overall setup.

Choosing the Right Gauge

Gauge plays a big role in recoil effectiveness and versatility.

The twelve gauge is the most versatile option available. It handles waterfowl upland birds turkey and even home defense well. Recoil can be heavier but modern loads and proper fit reduce that significantly.

The twenty gauge is lighter and easier to carry making it a favorite for upland hunting and newer shooters. It offers plenty of performance with less recoil.

The twenty eight gauge and four ten are excellent for small game and youth shooters but require better shot placement and more experience.

Understanding Action Types

Shotguns come in several action styles each with advantages.

Pump action shotguns are extremely reliable affordable and simple to operate. They perform well in harsh conditions and are easy to maintain.

Semi automatic shotguns reduce felt recoil and allow for quicker follow up shots. They are excellent for waterfowl and clay shooting but require a bit more cleaning.

Break action shotguns including over under and side by side models are traditional balanced and popular with upland hunters. Over under shotguns offer excellent balance while side by side models provide a classic feel.

Barrel Length and Choke Selection

Barrel length affects swing speed and control.

Shorter barrels are quicker to move and ideal for fast flushing birds. Longer barrels provide smoother swings and better follow through for longer shots.

Interchangeable chokes allow you to adjust shot spread based on distance. Improved cylinder and modified chokes work well in most hunting situations while full chokes are better for longer range shots.

Fit Is More Important Than Brand

A shotgun that fits properly will always outperform an expensive shotgun that does not.

Make sure the length of pull allows you to shoulder the gun comfortably. Your eye should naturally line up with the rib without forcing your head down. The gun should balance well and feel natural when you mount it.

Always shoulder several shotguns before buying. Comfort and fit matter more than appearance.

Buy Quality Within Your Budget

You do not need the most expensive shotgun on the rack to be successful. Focus on reliability build quality and manufacturer reputation. Many excellent shotguns are available at reasonable prices and used firearms can offer great value if purchased from a reputable dealer.

Practice Builds Confidence

Once you choose your shotgun spend time learning it. Practice mounting shooting and following through. Try different loads and chokes to understand how your shotgun performs. Confidence comes from repetition and familiarity.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a shotgun is a personal decision. The right one should fit your body match your purpose and give you confidence every time you step into the field.

At Lone Star Heroes Outdoors we see firsthand how the right equipment helps create meaningful outdoor experiences for veterans first responders and their families. Take your time do your research and enjoy the process.

I will see you in the field.

Jamie Hurley
Founder Lone Star Heroes Outdoors