Best Shotguns for Survival Situations: Practical Picks You Can Rely On
When it comes to survival situations, having a reliable and versatile firearm can make a big difference. Among the various types of firearms available, shotguns stand out for their adaptability, stopping power, and ease of use. Whether you're preparing for natural disasters, backwoods emergencies, or off-grid living, a good shotgun can serve multiple roles from defense to hunting.
Below, we explore some of the best shotguns to consider for survival and break down why they’re trusted by experienced preppers and outdoorsmen.
1. Mossberg 500 Field/Security Combo
Type: Pump-action
Gauge: 12
Why It Stands Out: The Mossberg 500 is known for its rugged reliability and adaptability. The Field/Security Combo version comes with two interchangeable barrels an 18.5-inch tactical barrel and a 28-inch hunting barrel. This dual-purpose setup means you can switch from home defense to bird hunting with a quick barrel swap.
It’s also widely supported with aftermarket parts, making it easy to customize for your specific needs. In a survival context, that kind of flexibility is golden.
2. Remington 870
Type: Pump-action
Gauge: 12
Why It Stands Out: Another classic, the Remington 870 has been around for decades and earned a reputation for dependability. Like the Mossberg, it supports a wide variety of accessories and aftermarket upgrades, which adds to its long-term usability.
Many consider the 870 a “no-brainer” for survival kits thanks to its proven design, durable construction, and straightforward maintenance.
3. Chiappa M6 Survival Gun
Type: Break-action combination gun
Gauge/Caliber: 12 or 20 gauge over .22 LR or .22 Magnum
Why It Stands Out: The Chiappa M6 is specifically designed with survival in mind. It features an over-under barrel configuration that gives you the option to shoot both shotgun shells and rimfire ammunition.
Its foldable design makes it easy to store and carry, whether in a bug-out bag or an off-grid cabin. You can even use caliber adapters to expand its ammunition options, making it one of the most flexible survival firearms available.
4. Hatfield SGL Single Shot 20-Gauge
Type: Break-action single-shot
Gauge: 20
Why It Stands Out: For those who prefer simplicity and minimalism, the Hatfield SGL is a solid option. It’s lightweight, folds easily for transport, and has fewer parts that could break or require maintenance.
While a single-shot doesn’t offer the firepower of a pump or semi-auto, it excels in reliability and ease of use. It’s also a great teaching tool or backup gun for a survivalist household.
5. Chiappa Double Badger
Type: Break-action combination gun
Gauge/Caliber: .22 LR over .410 bore
Why It Stands Out: This compact combo gun is excellent for small game hunting and basic defensive needs. It folds down to just over 21 inches and includes fiber optic sights for better accuracy.
Because it pairs a .22 rifle with a .410 shotgun, you get the best of both worlds ideal for catching dinner or scaring off threats without taking up much space or weight.
What to Look for in a Survival Shotgun
When choosing the best shotgun for survival situations, consider these essential factors:
Gauge: 12 and 20 gauge are the most common and versatile. They also have widespread ammunition availability, which is crucial in emergencies.
Action Type: Pump-action shotguns are favored for their simplicity and reliability. They’re less prone to malfunction than semi-autos and easier to clean.
Portability: In a survival situation, gear weight and space matter. Folding or takedown designs can help you stay mobile and prepared.
Versatility: The ability to swap barrels or shoot multiple calibers increases your odds of being ready for anything from hunting to home defense.
Final Thoughts
The best survival shotgun is the one that fits your environment, skill level, and long-term plan. Whether you’re preparing for a bug-out scenario or just want a multi-purpose firearm for emergencies, any of the models above would serve you well. From proven classics like the Mossberg 500 and Remington 870 to versatile combo guns like the Chiappa M6, there's something for every type of survivalist.
Stay safe, stay prepared, and remember reliability and simplicity often win when it really counts.