Our 25th annual review of the best new shotguns.
Weatherby Orion I
Serious upland hunters and sport-shooters have trusted the balanced, dependable Weatherby Orion I over-and-under since its reintroduction in 2015. The sleek, fast-pointing shotgun is as pleasant to shoot as it is to look at. Now, for 2018, a new version of the over-and-under is available: the Orion Sporting Shotgun.
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Krieghoff K-20
Take the Krieghoff K-20 Parcours into the field and with you come five generations of fine gunmaking. Designed for the wingshooter, the K-20 Parcours features a tailored 20-gauge frame, soldered lightweight barrels and a sleek, oil-finished stock. Available in 30- or 32-inch barrel lengths and the option of right- or left-hand stocks, the K-20 Parcours’ responsiveness is legendary. Add an optional 28-gauge barrel to create a versatile two-barrel set for any wingshooting adventure.
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Mossberg 930 Autoloader
The 930 Field 12-gauge autoloader features Bottomland camo, the original pattern that launched Mossy Oak more than 30 years ago. The 930 has a versatile, 26-inch vent rib barrel topped with a fiber-optic front sight, and equipped with the ACCU-SET system of choke tubes (Full, Modified and Improved Cylinder), plus an X-Factor Ported XX-Full Turkey choke tube.
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Benelli Ethos Sport
Benelli’s new line of Ethos Sport models includes 12-, 20- and 28-gauge versions. Based on the proven Ethos field model, Ethos Sport shotguns have a recoil-absorbing cheek-comb pad that is twice the size of those on field models. Sport models also feature a raised, carbon-fiber rib and barrel porting for faster, more effective follow-up shots. Increased barrel lengths further enhance a smooth swing, while its award-winning ergonomics make the shotgun easy to mount, point and operate.
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Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus
The new A400 Xtreme Plus provides the superior reliability needed for all conditions encountered by waterfowlers. Offering exceptional ballistic performance and perfect shot patterns, the A400 Xtreme features a Kick-Off Mega recoil system, Soft-Comb stock, Steelium Plus barrel and Optima-Choke HP choke tube.
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Fausti RDX
The RDX over-and-under boasts unparalleled quality, elegance and unique looks. Its new low-profile “Round Body” action has been totally redesigned to give the RDX not only the lines of a Best shotgun, but also the strength and reliability. The action, machined from a solid piece of forged steel, hardened and tempered, features a patented “Four Lock” mechanism. The select walnut stock comes with a classic round pistol grip, rubber recoil pad and an innovative checkering pattern.
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Blaser F16 Heritage
The Blaser F16 Heritage 12 gauge is available in Game and Sporting models. It features the lowest profile receiver on the market, resulting in an exceptionally low center of gravity. Outstanding balance and less felt recoil make the F16 a perfect choice for both hunters and clay target shooters. The Sporting model can be individually balanced, and the trigger is adjustable.
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Franchi Instinct SL
A classic over-and-under, the 16-gauge Instinct SL combines the best of Italian craftsmanship with modern innovation in a shotgun that mounts, points, swings and performs exceptionally. Weighing just 5.8 pounds with its 28-inch polished blue barrels, the Instinct SL sports a distinctive receiver of polished and brushed silver alloy. Paired with the AA-grade satin walnut Price of Wales stock, the Instinct SL is an heirloom-quality hunting shotgun that demands to be used.
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Holland & Holland 28-bore Royal Deluxe
Holland & Holland recently unveiled its new 28-bore Royal Deluxe side-by-side with a single trigger. It’s fitted with 28-inch barrels, deluxe grade walnut and Acanthus leaf engraving pattern. The renowned gunmaker is also building a Royal Deluxe 20-bore over-and-under. It has a single trigger, 30-inch barrels and deluxe grade walnut stock with a semi-pistol grip. The gun is engraved with game scenes and Acanthus leaf scroll. Overall weight is only six pounds, 13 ounces.
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Turnbull Restoration L.C. Smith
Turnbull Restoration is committed to honoring the earliest gunmakers by returning firearms like this L.C. Smith Deluxe Grade to its original condition. Turnbull-restored shotguns benefit from a lifetime of knowledge and craftsmanship, in addition to a keen eye for detail. The firm’s gun projects preserve important pieces of history and, more importantly, cherished memories.
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Fabarm ELOS D2
Fabarm’s new ultra-light ELOS D2 is available in 12-, 20- and 28-gauge options with 28-inch barrels. Based on the gauge and wood density, weight may vary between five pounds, eight ounces to six pounds. The gun comes packed with features such as Tribore HP barrels and a set of five Inner HP flush-fitting chokes. Italian master engravers created a flushing pheasant and a pair of quail on the action. Gorgeous, semi-deluxe Turkish walnut stock and a crisp trigger-pull round out the package.
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Syren L4S
The new L4S semi-auto shotgun is designed specifically for women shooters. With a stock built for the female anatomy, it features a Monte Carlo comb for a woman’s higher cheekbones, a smaller grip and shorter length of pull. The gun’s soft-shooting, gas-operated system can cycle even the lightest loads. Available in left- and right-handed models, the L4S is designed as a competitive target gun, but can easily serve as an upland gamebird or even a duck gun.
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Cole Gunsmithing
Cole Fine Guns and Gunsmithing is offering the new Beretta SL3 with a custom stock option, hand-carved to exact specifications. High-grade blanks have been hand-selected for beauty and durability. Cole also offers custom engraving patterns and other upgrades to make your SL3 unique to your taste and style. Custom-stocked DT11 and SO5 models also available.
Italian Firearms Group
The Iside family of side-by-sides encompasses seven models, ranging from the original Iside to the Prestige Tartaruga Gold. All are built around F.A.I.R.’s demi-bloc barrel coupling system, in which the barrel and breech are formed from a single piece of bored steel. This coupling system and the Iside compact boxlock action create a very lightweight shotgun. The shotguns are available in 12, 16, 20, 28 and .410, each with its own dedicated, rounded steel frame.