The Best Shotguns for Homestead Security

When you live out in the country, you’re often your own first responder. A good shotgun can be one of the most practical tools for protecting your home, livestock, and family. You don’t need something fancy—just reliable, rugged, and ready when things go sideways. Whether it’s a bump in the night or a predator after your chickens, here are some shotguns that have earned their spot on the homestead.

Mossberg 500

The Mossberg 500 is a workhorse that’s been guarding homes for decades. It’s reliable, easy to maintain, and has enough aftermarket support to tweak it how you like.

You can toss it in the corner of the mudroom and still count on it to cycle rounds when it matters. That kind of dependability goes a long way out here.

Remington 870

It’s hard to leave the Remington 870 off any shotgun list. This pump-action has a long track record of getting the job done. Law enforcement and hunters trust it—and so can you.

It handles 12 gauge or 20 gauge shells, depending on what you’re comfortable with. And it’s not picky when it comes to ammo, either.

Benelli M4

If you’re looking for semi-auto power that cycles even when it’s dirty or wet, the Benelli M4 is hard to beat. It’s not cheap, but it’s made for real-world situations.

This is the kind of shotgun folks in the military carry, and for a good reason—it works. Fast follow-up shots can be a game changer if you need them.

Stoeger P3000

The Stoeger P3000 gives you pump-action simplicity without the price tag of the big brands. It’s not flashy, but it shoots straight and doesn’t jam.

If you’re on a tight budget but still want peace of mind, this one deserves a look. It’ll handle buckshot or slugs without much fuss.

Winchester SXP Defender

The SXP Defender is fast-cycling and built tough. It’s got a shorter barrel, which makes it handy indoors or when moving through tight spots.

This one’s ideal for someone who wants a ready-to-go gun that doesn’t need much customizing. Just load it and go.

Kel-Tec KSG

The KSG looks different, but there’s a reason it’s gotten popular. It holds a ton of shells—up to 14—without being unwieldy.

If you like the idea of not having to reload during a stressful moment, this shotgun brings a lot of firepower in a small package. Just expect a bit of a learning curve.

CZ 612 Home Defense

This pump-action is no-frills and straight to the point. The CZ 612 is easy to use and feels solid in the hands, even with heavier loads.

It’s a good pick if you want something dependable that doesn’t break the bank. It may not have the name recognition, but it’ll do the job.

Maverick 88

The Maverick 88 is often called the “budget Mossberg,” but that’s not a bad thing. Made by Mossberg, it shares a lot of the same parts with the 500.

If you’re just starting out or need a backup, this shotgun delivers way more than its price tag suggests. It’s simple, tough, and ready to go.

Beretta 1301 Tactical

This one’s fast, smooth, and proven. The Beretta 1301 Tactical cycles reliably and stays on target even when you’re rushing shots.

It costs more than your average pump, but it’s a serious tool. If you’ve got a little extra to spend and want top-tier performance, this one’s worth a hard look.

H&R Pardner Pump

The H&R Pardner Pump is a solid Chinese-made shotgun based on the Remington 870 design. It’s heavier, but that weight helps soak up recoil.

You won’t find it in every store, but if you spot one used, it’s a tough gun that won’t complain about a hard life on the homestead.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.