Best High Capacity Shotguns in 2024 – Top 10 Rated Reviews

When it comes to high capacity shotguns, the gun market offers a lot of options. While this is a good thing, it makes it challenging to find the right shotgun. Similarities and differences also confuse a lot of shooters. So, we decided to review the best high capacity shotguns currently on the market and find the perfect shotgun for you.

But before we get to that…

What exactly is a high capacity shotgun?

Well, it’s a defensive weapon that operates either through a quick reload system or a massive capacity system.

Let’s start by making a quick comparison between the options:

Best High Capacity Shotguns Comparison Table

Model	Caliber	Magazine Capacity	Barrel Length	Overall Length	Weight
Also Great Kel-Tec KSG-25 12 Gauge Shotgun View Price	Caliber 12 Gauge	Magazine Capacity 10+10 (3" Shells) / 12+12 (2.75" Shells)	Barrel Length 30.5"	Overall Length 38”	Weight 9.25 lbs
Best Choice Mossberg - 590 Shockwave SPX 12 Gauge View Price	Caliber 12 Gauge	Magazine Capacity 5+1	Barrel Length 14.37"	Overall Length 26.5”	Weight 6.75 lbs
Also Great EAA Corp Husan Arms MKA 1919 Shotgun View Price	Caliber 12 Gauge	Magazine Capacity 5+1	Barrel Length 20"	Overall Length 39-1/2”	Weight 8.7 lbs
Also Great Kalashnikov USA - Komrad 12ga 12.5 View Price	Caliber 12 Gauge	Magazine Capacity 5+1	Barrel Length 12.5"	Overall Length 31.5"	Weight 7.85 lbs
Also Great Kalashnikov USA - KS-12T View Price	Caliber 12 Gauge	Magazine Capacity 10+1	Barrel Length 18.25"	Overall Length 38”	Weight 8.86 lbs
Also Great Remington Versa Max Tactical View Price	Caliber 12 Gauge	Magazine Capacity 8+1	Barrel Length 22"	Overall Length 43.94"	Weight 7.75 lbs
Also Great Benelli M4 Tactical Semi-Auto Shotgun View Price	Caliber 12 Gauge	Magazine Capacity 5+1	Barrel Length 18.5"	Overall Length 40”	Weight 7.8 lbs
Also Great Legacy Sports International View Price	Caliber 12 Gauge	Magazine Capacity 5	Barrel Length 20"	Overall Length 41”	Weight 6.5 lbs
Also Great Panzer Arms - BP-12 Bullpup 12 Gauge View Price	Caliber 12 Gauge	Magazine Capacity 5+1	Barrel Length 18.5"	Overall Length 29.5"	Weight 9 lbs
Best Choice SRM Arms Inc View Price	Caliber 12 Gauge	Magazine Capacity 16+1	Barrel Length 18.5"	Overall Length 33.75"	Weight 7.75 lbs

Top 10 Best High Capacity Shotguns Reviews

1 Kel-Tec KSG-25 12 Gauge Shotgun, Black

The KSG-25 model is an innovative 12-gauge high-capacity shotgun that is used mainly as a defensive weapon. It features a 30.5-inch barrel with two magazine tubes, each holding 10- 12 rounds. It also has a trigger guard with a manual selector that lets you choose the loading magazine or the firing magazine when shooting.

Downward expulsion…

With this model, the bullet shells are expelled downward to clear the chamber. This makes the Kel-Tec KSG-25 ambidextrous. The dual tube magazines can hold a total of 24 rounds of 2.75-inch or 20 rounds of 3-inch shells. Thus, the shotgun boasts plenty of firepower.

It also features a Zytel synthetic forend and pump, both of which consist of a top and bottom Picatinny rails for mounting firearm accessories, such as optics and lights.

Less recoil, smooth shooting…

Its synthetic stock is made with a soft rubber recoil pad that provides extra padding between the buttstock surface and the shoulder. This is meant to reduce felt recoil and stop it slipping on your clothes while aiming at your target.

See on Palmettostatearmory - $799.99

2 Mossberg – 590 Shockwave SPX 12 Gauge

Mossberg recently launched the 590 Shockwave SPX 12 Gauge, one of the few shotguns with manageable recoil, thanks to its shockwave birds head grip. The gun offers impressive features, including the tang-mounted sliding safety, twin action bars, a fully-strapped corncob-style forend, a heavy-walled, cylinder bore barrel, and a sling swivel for mounting slings or a bipod.

If you want to find out more about Tactical Slings, check out our in-depth reviews of the Best Tactical Shotgun Slings on the market.

The muzzle is a sharply crenelated breacher-style cut device with several elongated vents. These vents prevent the barrel from bursting when blowing off door hinges and locks with either powdered metal breaching loads or solid plaster. The brass-bread sight, on the other hand, enables you to pick up the front sight post quickly.

Keep your cool…

The perforated heat shield provides a platform to hold the barrel after prolonged shooting without exposing you to excessive heat or burns. The shield aesthetic extends to the receiver.

The receiver itself is surrounded by a perforated metal cover, which also contains the Picatinny rail for mounting a laser sight or red-dot optic. With a 3-inch chamber, the magazine holds up to six 2.75-inch rounds.

The 5.75-pound Mossberg 590 shotgun has a barrel of 14.375 inches, and a total length of  26.37 inches.

See on Brownells - $540.99

3 EAA Corp Husan Arms MKA 1919 Match Pro 20″ 12 Gauge Shotgun 3″ Semi-Automatic, Blk – 700020

This magazine-fed AR-style high capacity shotgun is chambered for both 2¾-inch and 3-inch shells. The total polymer lower receiver is handy and light and comes with an A2-style front sight post for adjusting windage and elevation.

Adaptable sights…

The rear sight is adjustable- so you can install a detachable rear sight for easy visual pickup or mount a carry handle to hold your weapon horizontally. This allows you to comfortably put your EAA on the ground while getting into shooting position.

The safety is ambidextrous, meaning you can use the weapon with your non-dominant hand, in case your dominant hand is impaired. The safety is accompanied by a metallic magazine release and an extended bolt release for faster operations.

The MKA 1919 features an action lock that serves two purposes: to disengage the sear and trigger assembly until rounds settle in the chamber and to disengage until the breech mechanism is ready to fire another bullet.

Constant improvements…

Its enlarged charging handle has several functions within the shotgun. First, it triggers the ejection of used bullet casings. Secondly, it loads cartridges from the magazine into the chamber, and lastly, it clears stoppages. The bolt has been redesigned bolt, while the loading block and action have been improved to increase reliability.

A floating metal feed ramp and two separate gas rings have been included as well, to improve reliability when the gun is used with different ammo. In addition to that, there are three chokes, two 5-round magazines, and a tool for installing them.

See on Palmettostatearmory - $562.98

4 Kalashnikov USA – Komrad 12ga 12.5″ W/Brace

The Kalashnikov Komrad is based on the Saiga 12 semi-automatic shotguns. This uniquely designed shotgun comes with a 12.5-inch barrel and has the SBA3 arm braced installed, qualifying it as a shotgun.

The gun itself is designed on an AK-47 receiver, meaning it has the same controls as those of the AK-47, although this model has two 5- round box magazines. The adjustable gas piston system can power either 2.75-inch or 3-inch shells, regardless of whether they are slugs or low brass.

 Externally threaded…

The side rail is based on the AK-47 and can be used for mounting optics, laser sights, or vertical foregrips. And unlike most pistols in our review, the Komrad’s barrel is externally threaded. This means it can work perfectly with different muzzle devices, flash, and chokes.

Finally, there is an adjustable vertical grip that is designed for the forward hand. The handguard has the Picatinny rail for mounting your Komrad accessories.

Versatile and adaptable…

The Kalashnikov Komrad shotgun is compatible with many Saiga-style shotgun accessories.

See on Brownells - $999.99

5 Kalashnikov USA – KS-12T 12 Gauge 10+1 Black

The Kalashnikov KS-12T is a semi-auto magazine-fed tactical shotgun. Being 12-gauge ammo means it works with the 5, 8, 10, and 12 round stick magazines. The shotgun is based on the AK47 and is, therefore, a very reliable firearm. With the threaded barrel fitted, you can install your desired muzzle brake to counter recoil and unwanted muzzle rise.

The shotgun has an enlarged dust cover with a reciprocating slide. The function of the cover is to prevent dust and debris from penetrating the action. There is also a two-position gas regulator that controls the amount of gas that operates the action.

No stress…

The KS-12 can hold ten standard rounds and shoots 00 buckshot. This allows it to reduce shooter stress and increase the speed of follow-up shots.

The gun can produce 3000 ft/lbs of muzzle energy in each round.

Choice of loads…

With the two-stage gas system installed, you can use both sporting and tactical loads on the gun. To use tactical loads, set it at 1-inch, and for birdshot loads, set it at 2-inch. The 6-position AR-style buttstock provides structural support to the firing mechanism and barreled-action.

It features a recoil compensator that redirects propellant gases to counter unwanted muzzle rise and reduce recoil. It also has a Picatinny rail that provides a surface to mount your accessories.

Other useful features include a weapon light, tactical white light, vertical grip, and a claw for mounting a compact red dot sight. If you’re interested in a red dot for your weapon, check out our reviews of the Best Red Dot Sights Shotguns currently available.

See on Brownells - $799.99

6 Remington Versa Max Tactical, Semi-Automatic, 12 Gauge, 22″ Barrel, 8+1 Rounds

This Remington 12 Gauge 22-inch Barrel shotgun is set up with two gas pistons and oversized controls for a very shooting experience. Along with comfort features included in the stock, and with reduced recoil, you have a weapon that can fire hundreds of rounds without stress.

Self-cleaning…

The Versaport gas system can govern its gas pressure to ensure smooth cycling. The system sports self-cleaning capabilities as well, to help reduce recoil and maintenance. The 22-inch forged steel barrel has a ventilated rib whose size gradually diminishes from 10mm to 7mm, from the receiver to the muzzle, subsequently increasing sighting.

For easy mounting of your accessories, the Remington sports barrel clamp rails, and a Picatinny rail. And sling studs are available for mounting your slings. The bolt handle enables the shooter to pull the bolt to the back, while the bolt-release button promotes faster reloads. The cross-bolt safety will block the hammer to prevent accidental shooting.

And finally, it features a preinstalled magazine extension that has been devised to raise the capacity to a total of nine rounds.

See on Sportsmansguide - $1,133.34

7 Benelli M4 Tactical 12-GA 3″ 18.5″ Black 5+1 Semi-Auto Shotgun

Next up, we have the Benelli M4, which is a semi-automatic shotgun that’s powered by a specialized Auto-Regulating Gas- Operated (ARGO) System. And the gun features self-cleaning stainless-steel pistons, located on the bolt assembly. With the ARGO system in place, you do not need the bulky components and complicated linkages, as seen in other gun designs, to produce a powerful action.

The auto-regulating gas system has been specially designed to handle everything from field loads to hard-hitting 3-inch buckshot without adjustments. It includes a durable pistol-grip synthetic buttstock that can withstand any weather conditions. The stock has a strong recoil pad for reducing recoil and muzzle lift. As a result, the shooter can stay on target and deliver rapid follow up shots.

Safety first…

There is an under-barrel sling point attached to the front of the handguard and one on either side of the stock to provide ambidextrous sling attachment. The 18.5-inch barrel is connected to a modified screw-in choke tube and a 5-round magazine tube.

A cross-bolt safety behind the trigger guard ensures safe operation by blocking the hammer. The gun comprises a white dot front sight blade and a fully adjustable LPA ghost ring for easy target acquisition. A receiver-mounted Picatinny Rail is also attached for mounting scopes and optical sights. You can find out more by reading our reviews of the Best Shotgun Scopes currently available.

See on Eurooptic - $1,799.00

8 Legacy Sports International – RSS1 12 Gauge 20″ 2/5-Round Mags

The gas-operated system in the RSS1 powers the action and allows for smooth cycling. It is also designed to reduce the recoil of light and heavy loads. The 12-gauge scattergun features a 20-inch barrel that fires both 2¾-inch and 3-inch rounds. The chrome-lined barrel is also threaded for chokes.

Next, we have the fully adjustable front and rear sights, which do a great job of getting perfectly on target. Other than that, there is a Picatinny rail for mounting accessories. The handguards are based on the modern AK 100 series. Plus, there are an enhanced safety lever for one finger use, an easy-to-use bolt, an operated magazine, and bolt release levers.

Lighter, yet still powerful…

Coming at eight pounds, the RSS1 has an overall length of 40 inches and comes out of the box with two removable 5-round magazines. The safety of the gun is also based on the standard AK and has an extension that lets you slide it down with your trigger finger. The RSS1 uses Benelli chokes and a choke wrench to release them.

Lastly, the chrome-lined barrel is machined to fire both 2.75-inch and 3-inch shells and can handle steel shot.

See on Brownells - $598.49

9 Panzer Arms – BP-12 Bullpup 12 Gauge

The Panzer Arms BP-12 is a gas-operated bullpup shotgun. This means that the action and the magazine are located behind the trigger.

Even though the BP-12 is a small package, it is manufactured to offer full-size shotgun performance. And even though the gun is short and compact, it boasts a full-length barrel, making it a perfect weapon for home defense.

The manual safety and charging handle are positioned in the same places as you would find on an MI6 rifle. And there is an integral Picatinny rail on the upper part of the receiver for mounting optics or accessories.

Built to last…

The unit has an angled forend grip that is detached to match the shooter’s preference. As for the upper receiver, it is made from aluminum alloy, making it light yet strong. The lower receiver, stock, and pistol grip come as a single unit from impact-resistant polymer.

See on Brownells - $590.99

10 SRM Arms Inc – M1216 12 Gauge 16+1

The 1216 semi-automatic shotgun by SRM Arms comes with a detachable 16-round quad tube revolving magazine. The removable magazine, along with the ergonomic design of the gun, provides immense firepower, as well as tactical benefits.

Semi-automatic action…

The gun also boasts an ambidextrous firing design, triple faced-handguards, and Picatinny rails. The magazine is removable and holds 16 rounds, and uses both 2¾ -inch and 3-inch bullets. Being a semi-automatic action, the gun self-feeds following the cycling of the revolving quad tube magazine. The roller delayed action reduces felt recoil and improves fast cycling.

The 1216 model has an overall length of 34 inches with an 18-inch standard barrel. The Picatinny rail provides a surface for mounting lights, sights, optics, and other accessories.

Easy to maintain…

Lastly, the break open design and pushpin disassembly make field stripping and maintenance of this shotgun very easy. Finally, the ambidextrous receiver and controls make the shotgun perfect for both right hand and left-handed shooters.

See on Brownells - $1,574.90

Best High Capacity Shotguns Buyers Guide

What Makes the Best High Capacity Shotgun?

There are a few important features that make a shotgun ‘tactical,’ so let’ go through them…

18 to 20-inch Barrel

A shorter length of barrel ensures that the weapon is maneuverable when used inside buildings or vehicles. However, eighteen inches is as short as you can legally go with a shotgun barrel without a tax stamp and federal registration.

Pump or Semi-Auto Operation

Shotguns are available in different designs and styles, such as lever action, semi-auto, pump-action, single and double barrels, and so on. The most popular options, however, are the semi-automatic and pump action. They are fast and accurate, making them practical for home defense.

A Good Set of Sights

The majority of shotguns have a single bead at the end of the barrel that acts as the sight. This works for a lot of applications. However, if you would like to get the most out of your gun, consider a front and rear sight.

Chambered in 12 or 20 Gauge

Most shotguns come with the 12-gauge caliber, semi-automatic, to be specific. What makes the 12-gauge caliber so popular is the fact that it is heavy and large. A 20 gauge also makes a great choice, but it is best for smaller shooters.

The capacity of 4+1 Minimum

Generally, a shotgun uses large shells, the reason most shotguns have limited capacity. 4 +1 will settle most encounters, but you can use something like a 7+1 to give yourself that extra edge.

A Stock

Every tactical shotgun requires a stock. Shotguns with pistol grips are smooth and helpful in some circumstances. But a shoulder stock makes a gun easier to handle, shoot, and hold.

Loads

A shotgun normally uses one of three loads:

Birdshot

This is a load that is filled with small pellets, ranging from dozens to hundreds depending on use. It is designed for shooting clay pigeons, and hunting birds as well as other small game. They are not very effective for home defense.

Buckshot

Buckshot uses large metal pellets in the shells. When it is fired, the pellets scatter outward in the same way as with birdshot. The only difference is that buckshot does a lot more damage than birdshot because it contains larger pellets.

Slugs

Solid projectiles of around 1oz in weight are normally larger, heavier, and more powerful. They also allow you to extend your effective shotgun range.

So, what are the Best High Capacity Shotguns?

Based on our analysis, the…

SRM Arms Inc – M1216 12 Gauge 16+1

….is a great choice. With a capacity of 16+1, it is ideal for many different applications. And more ammo is always better than less!

However, the…

Mossberg 590

…has it all and checks all the boxes. And even with its premium features, the Mossberg 590 high capacity shotgun is cheaper than most of the models we reviewed. Highly recommended!