Best Shotgun for Apartment Dwellers
Living in an apartment comes with unique considerations when it comes to home defense. Limited space, close neighbors, and shared walls all make it especially important to choose a shotgun that is compact, easy to handle, and less likely to cause unintended harm through overpenetration. In this post, we’ll explore the best shotguns for apartment dwellers and the factors you should consider before making a purchase.
What to Look for in a Home Defense Shotgun
Before diving into specific models, here are a few criteria that make a shotgun suitable for apartment use:
Maneuverability: A shorter barrel and compact profile make it easier to handle in tight hallways and rooms.
Low recoil: Helps with follow-up shots and control, especially for new or smaller shooters.
Ammunition selection: Choosing the right type of ammo can reduce the risk of overpenetration through walls.
With that in mind, here are some of the top shotgun picks tailored for apartment dwellers.
Top Shotguns for Apartment Home Defense
Mossberg 500 Tactical
The Mossberg 500 Tactical is a pump-action shotgun known for its reliability and affordability. With an 18.5-inch barrel and a 5+1 shell capacity, it offers a great balance between performance and control.
This shotgun is a favorite among many home defenders due to its ambidextrous safety and wide range of aftermarket accessories. Whether you’re left- or right-handed, it’s easy to operate and customize.
Best for: Those seeking a dependable, budget-friendly, and highly customizable option.
Remington 870 Express Tactical
Another pump-action classic, the Remington 870 Express Tactical features an 18.5-inch barrel and a slightly higher capacity of 6+1. Built with a solid steel receiver, it’s known for its ruggedness and smooth operation.
Its widespread popularity also means there are countless aftermarket parts available, so you can tweak it to your liking.
Best for: Shooters looking for a time-tested, customizable shotgun with a reputation for durability.
Beretta 1301 Tactical
If you’re interested in a semi-automatic shotgun, the Beretta 1301 Tactical is one of the best in its class. With a 7+1 capacity and lightweight build, it excels in quick target acquisition and follow-up shots.
Thanks to its gas-operated system, recoil is minimal, making it easier to stay on target and fire rapidly when needed.
Best for: Those who want a fast-cycling, low-recoil shotgun with premium ergonomics.
KelTec KS7
The KelTec KS7 stands out for its bullpup design, which shifts the action behind the trigger group to reduce overall length without sacrificing barrel length. At just over 26 inches long with an 18.5-inch barrel, it’s exceptionally maneuverable in small spaces.
It’s also lighter than many traditional shotguns, making it a great pick for those concerned with weight and storage.
Best for: Apartment dwellers who prioritize compactness and easy handling.
Smart Ammo Choices for Apartment Defense
When using a shotgun in an apartment, the type of ammunition you choose matters just as much as the gun itself. Overpenetration through drywall could injure people in adjacent units, so it’s critical to choose ammo designed to minimize that risk.
Recommended: #1 or #4 buckshot. These offer solid stopping power while reducing the chance of penetrating through multiple walls.
Avoid: Slugs and 00 buckshot. These rounds can punch through drywall with ease and may pose a danger to neighbors.
Useful Accessories for Apartment Defense
To make your shotgun even more effective in a home defense role, consider the following upgrades:
Weapon-mounted light: Essential for identifying threats in low-light environments without having to hold a flashlight.
Sling: Helps with retention and makes it easier to carry the shotgun when moving or transitioning to another task.
Recoil pad: Reduces felt recoil, especially useful for shooters who are new to shotguns or of smaller stature.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right shotgun for apartment defense involves balancing power, control, and safety. The Mossberg 500 Tactical and Remington 870 Express Tactical are great pump-action options with a solid track record. If you prefer the ease and speed of a semi-automatic, the Beretta 1301 Tactical is hard to beat. And for those tight on space, the KelTec KS7’s compact bullpup design is a smart solution.
Whatever you choose, make sure to spend time practicing with your firearm, understand the laws in your area, and always prioritize safety and responsible ownership.