Automatic shotguns of the world. Shotgun Weapons: The Second Coming of Shotguns

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"Dependence" on certain types of ammunition was a major problem for many years after the commercial success of the first semi-automatic shotguns. So there is nothing surprising in the fact that the developers of this type of weapon were mainly focused on finding technical solutions that would allow the use of various types of ammunition without problems. It is thanks to their diligence that modern semi-automatic shotguns chambered in 12/76 will have no difficulty using any 12/70 caliber cartridges. The average shot weight has also been increased from 24g to 52g.

In Europe, this technological leap has brought semi-automatic shotguns out of the shadows and made them the weapon of choice for most hunters.

With the advent of the Beretta "UGB25 Xcel", self-loading shotguns have found their way into sports skeet shooting.

In practice, semi-automatic shotguns have two main advantages over double-barreled shotguns: first of all, the third shot can be fired very quickly. Secondly, they have a softer recoil in accordance with the weight and power of the cartridges, which is no less important for the shooter with a long series of shots.

The main disadvantage we have to mention here is that it is possible to use only one alternative choke for all shots in quick succession. At the shooting range, this disadvantage can be compensated, at least in part, by right choice ammunition. Similar to over/under shotguns, interchangeable chokes are now also available for semi-automatic shotguns, and thanks to their simple and quick installation and removal, even this category of weapon can be quickly adapted to any type of hunting.

The first semi-automatic shotguns appeared in the early 20th century. John Moses Browning was the creator of this new class of weapon. The development of his legendary self-loading shotgun "Auto 5", which uses the energy of the recoil of the barrel during its long stroke for reloading, was sold to the Belgian company "FN", which started mass production in 1905. It was the first technically and commercially successful semi-automatic shotgun.

In fact, self-loading (semi-automatic) shotguns can be divided into two categories, which differ in the principle of operation of automation: based on recoil energy and based on the removal of powder gases.

In the first case, we are talking about the principle of locking based on recoil energy, where the barrel moves a certain distance in engagement with the bolt, until it is released, which allows the bolt to linger in the rear position and the barrel to return to starting position, while the shutter ends its cycle by sending the next cartridge into the chamber.

The era of semi-automatic shotguns began at the beginning of the 20th century with the advent of the legendary BROWNING "Auto 5", which operated on the basis of this principle of locking and was taken as the basis for the manufacture of semi-automatic shotguns by other gun manufacturers, among which were the company "REMINGTON" and the company "FRANCHI". ".

Modern shotgun BROWNING A5 with recoil-based automatics

The main disadvantages of early semi-automatic shotguns were their rather rigid reliance on certain ammunition and their sometimes enormous recoil. Users were forced to fit these guns to their respective ammunition, for example, the "Auto 5" self-loading shotgun needed to install the famous friction rings to give extra force that would slow down the recoil of the barrel, providing it with a stable recoil speed for using cartridges with different powder and shot loads. .

Self-loading hunting shotgun BROWNING "A5" in action

Some users were also annoyed by the recoil of the barrel. Therefore, the designers initially turned their attention to rejecting barrel recoil and minimizing dependence on certain ammunition. There were several more attempts to improve the principle of operation of automation based on recoil, but by the beginning of World War II, the future was clearly behind the principle of operation of automation based on the removal of powder gases.

The principle of operation of this mechanism is extremely simple: the gas outlet is located in the bore around the bolt group. The gas drives the piston to reload the cartridge.

The main disadvantage of the principle of operation of automation based on the removal of powder gases is the carbon residue from the gas stream. However, for last years even these systems have undergone significant improvements in terms of reliable operation with any type of ammunition and greater resistance to the accumulation of carbon residues - in some cases, almost to perfection.

Vivid examples of this are BERETTA "A-400 Xplor Unico", REMINGTON Versa Max and BROWNING "Maxus".

BERETTA puts its trust in the new gas exhaust system of the "A 400 Xtreme Unico" shotgun

REMINGTON VersaMax 12-gauge self-loading shotgun with "Realtree" camo finish

BROWNING Maxus shotgun in modest black color scheme

All three models can equally well shoot 12-gauge cartridges with a long sleeve from 70 mm to 89 mm and a weight of 24 g to 63 g. and gas pistons located in the region of the combustion chamber. This gas piston system independently regulates the gas pressure depending on the length of the sleeve for reliable cycling regardless of the load. The BERETTA "A-400 XPlor Unico" shotgun uses a different tactic to solve this problem. The "A-400 XPlor Unico" model integrates a new gas system with a rotating bolt head and supply system, and uses a self-cleaning gas vent mechanism. These two well-controlled lugs fit into matching recesses in the barrel sleeve to lock the bore.

In order to ensure the normal operation of the weapon with great variety ammunition, it is necessary to regulate the pressure of the gases required for the chamber, depending on the corresponding load. This effect is achieved by an innovative gas piston with a cleaning ring, which is also a seal.

Pressure rises as gas enters the valve, causing the piston to move. The manufacturer claims that these shotguns are 36% faster than any other semi-automatic shotgun known today. To achieve this goal, the recoil action has been reduced compared to the previous "AL 391" model. BERETTA calls this new "high performance engine" A 400 Unico "Blink".

WINCHESTER SX3 semi-automatic shotgun with Active-Valve-System

The "Power Drive" gas seal system is the heart of the BROWNING "Maxus" shotgun. The additional vents were designed to bleed powder gases out of the mechanism faster than previous BROWNING vents when firing heavier shot shells. New system sealing the gas outlet removes excess powder gases from the mechanism, which, in turn, increase the stroke length of the gas piston. WINCHESTER's SX3 gas shotguns also claim the title of the fastest firing semi-automatic shotguns in the world.

Receiver of the semi-automatic shotgun WINCHESTER SX3

In order to minimize any risk of jamming or other problems that may arise in hunting or shooting ranges, designers have also put a lot of effort into finding solutions to problems encountered in modern gas exhaust systems: the aforementioned phenomenon of carbon residue accumulation, as well as from dust and moisture. However, there is no doubt that in some extreme situations, residual risk still remains. Even modern gas rifles must be kept clean to remain in good working order.

The BENELLI M2 IPSC semi-automatic shotgun has been specifically designed for dynamic sports shooting.

Basically it is the use of the recoil of weapons in general. Automation here works from a powerful spring installed between the combat larva and the bolt body, which, accumulating energy when the weapon recoils, then provides a full cycle of the gun's automation. The combat larva turns and unlocks the bore, clamping the inertial spring between the larva and the body. Due to the recoil force of the gun, the bolt moves forward by several millimeters relative to it under the action of inertia, while compressing the inertial spring, which, overcoming the inertia of the bolt, throws it back, and at the same time, the spent cartridge case is ejected, and a new one is fed in the return stroke of the bolt group. cartridge in the chamber.

Essentially, therefore, the inertial system consists of a combat larva, a bolt body and an inertial spring. BROWNING has applied this system to its new A5 semi-automatic shotgun.

All components of the inertial system in the Vinci model move exclusively coaxially and in line with the barrel. Benelli has also set new standards with its Vinci shotgun. The "Vinci" shotgun, consisting of three main modules, can be easily assembled and disassembled without the use of additional tools.

All (or almost all) models of shotguns mentioned in this article were originally developed for use as hunting weapons, but subsequently they have found their way into new applications as weapons for the military, police or for sports shooters (participating in practical shooting competitions under the auspices of the IPSC (International Practical Shooting Confederation)).

In addition to the flawless operation of the automation, all the efforts of the engineers were also directed to reducing recoil. Recent years have seen significant advances in this area, especially among premium shotguns.

For people of the military specialty, professional activity which is associated with the frequent use of firearms, situations are well known when success brings one powerful volley. The use of large-caliber weapons for this purpose, firing bullets or a shot charge, allows you to quickly achieve a certain tactical advantage. Shotguns can be safely attributed to this category. Already the name of the trunk speaks of its mode of action.

This type of firearm is well known to game hunters. In this case, the main damaging element is the shot, which allows you to achieve a large area of ​​damage. Despite the fact that the use of smoothbore hunting rifles for military purposes proved ineffective, the military was able to properly evaluate the effect when firing shot. The result of the transformation of a smoothbore gun into a powerful military weapon was combat shotguns, which are armed today with the army, special forces and law enforcement forces.

The technical side of the issue

Shotgun is a smoothbore firearms, a derivative of a hunting rifle that gunsmiths converted to suit the conditions combat use. A pistol grip was added to the butt used for shooting from the shoulder, allowing you to fire from the belt line or offhand. Combat shotguns have also retained hunting calibers, which vary in the range of 5.5 mm - 5 cm.

Weapons of this type are divided into the following types:

• by type of trunk;
• by the number of trunks;
• by the recharge mechanism.

According to the type of barrel, guns can be smooth-bore and combined, capable of firing both bullets and a charge of shot. According to the number of barrels, shotguns can be single-barreled, double-barreled or multi-barreled. This type of weapon also differs in the loading mechanisms. There are models with a pump-action recharge mechanism, with a lever-action recharger. There are self-loading and automatic shotguns in the range.

The double-barreled shotgun is the most popular and common type. Most amateur hunters prefer to use just such a weapon design in their craft. As a rule, a hunting shotgun is a typical hunting double-barreled shotgun, loaded by breaking. The main effect is achieved by a double shot, when a double charge of shot flies out of two barrels with a difference of a fraction of a second. For all its enormous firepower, this type of gun suffers from a significant drawback - a rather capacious reloading process. The double-barreled shotgun is a first-strike weapon when there is no urgent need for an urgent reload. However, due to the low accuracy, a large affected area is achieved. This quality is especially valuable when hunting birds and small animals. In terms of combat use, shotgun fire may be the only effective in close combat or in defensive combat conditions.

Shotgun ammo

The main reason for the increased interest in this type of firearm from the military is ammunition. The low firing range is more than compensated by the huge power of the shot and the high penetration ability of the striking elements, which are so necessary during a combat clash in a limited space. To date, most models of military smoothbore guns are designed to fire special cartridges. All of them are based on hunting ammunition. No, these are not the same hunting cartridges that can be equipped at home. These are factory-made ammunition that meets all the necessary specifications.

If the main caliber for all hunting rifles is the 12th caliber, then the assault shotgun (combat weapon of the special forces) can also have the 10th caliber. Each caliber corresponds to certain conditions for the use of weapons. Despite the huge recoil force when fired, 10-gauge cartridges have a monstrous penetrating power, which is often necessary during assault operations.

It is enough to compare the power of a shot with a 12-gauge cartridge loaded with buckshot with the power of a shot fired from a 9 mm PM Makarov pistol. The weight of each buckshot with a caliber of 8.2 mm is 3.9 g. The initial flight speed when fired from a smoothbore gun is 380 m / s. At the same time, the flight energy of the buckshot is 280 J, which is almost the same as the flight energy of a 9-mm Makarov pistol bullet. There are 9 such buckshots in a hunting cartridge, so if we multiply 9 by 280, we get a total charge energy of 2520 J. Is it worth commenting?

Despite the huge penetrating power, a significant drawback of such a powerful weapon is a large recoil force and a small magazine capacity.

The 12-gauge hunting shotgun is a balanced weapon that allows you to shoot from the shoulder and still achieve desired result. 20 gauge shotguns have limited firepower, due to the weak stopping power of the released charge.

The main equipment of live ammunition is large-caliber shot (type 00), flechettes (rod shot) and special bullets (jacans). Combined action cartridges are used in combat conditions, where, along with small shot, there is a buckshot with a diameter of 8 mm. Each type of shotgun uses its own ammo. If for weapons with a manual reloading mechanism it is enough to have a cartridge with a 70 mm sleeve, then a semi-automatic shotgun or an automatic combat shotgun is equipped only with cartridges with a 76 mm sleeve. This is due to the fact that in this case the functionality of the automatic reloader is affected by the energy of the charge. Cartridge caliber for automatic rifles can be either 10 or 12.

The history of the shotgun as a melee weapon

Let's start with the fact that the prototype of modern pump-action shotguns and shotguns are ancient muskets. The first units armed with smooth-bore guns, which have tremendous penetrating power, appeared in the armies as early as the end of the 18th century. The first samples of this weapon were extremely imperfect. The muskets had a large combat mass, had a huge caliber and were loaded from the barrel. However, despite its clumsiness, this weapon has demonstrated tremendous power from its first days on the battlefield. Heavy bullets of large caliber at a short distance inflicted huge losses on the enemy. Shotgun fire during hand-to-hand combat has become a favorite tactical technique during naval battles or during assault operations.

In those distant years, a firefight between the lines of the opposing troops rarely exceeded 2-3 volleys, after which the opponents rushed into hand-to-hand combat, wielding a bayonet and edged weapons. The use of shot as a damaging element was limited and was used mainly to equip irregular combat units. With the advent of rifled firearms, smoothbore guns migrated to the field of hunting, where shotguns found their worthy application.

They remembered the fire properties of smooth-bore weapons already in the 20th century, when positional warfare came into fashion. Troops burrowed into trenches and hid under the protection of fortifications, from which they could only be smoked out during a direct combat encounter. The first to use shotguns in combat conditions were the Americans, who faced the factor of trench warfare during the battles of the First World War. The Winchester Model 1912 repeating shotgun is the first American 12-gauge shotgun used in combat. This gun has become the weapon of choice for US Army infantry units during close combat when clearing enemy trenches. More advanced was the Trench Gun Model 1917, which became an improved version of the sporting rifle. Both models have proven themselves as powerful melee weapons. From that moment on, shotguns of various models began to be used to solve certain problems by both the army and law enforcement agencies. Subsequent events on the fronts of World War II, in particular the fighting in the tropical jungle, forced the Americans to return to this tried and tested means of armed struggle again.

Using the experience of the combat use of smoothbore guns, specialists from security structures and police units developed their own concept for the use of shotguns. Six-shot pump-action shotguns came to the court of the American police during a fierce fight against organized crime. In the post-war period, shotguns began to enter the equipment of the law enforcement forces, the gendarmerie, the carabinieri and the police. The police shotgun has significantly increased the firepower of the units during the suppression of riots, and the assault teams and the force of the police special forces have received a powerful tool for solving the assigned tasks.

Modernity and shotgun

On the this moment almost all paramilitary structures adopted smoothbore guns. A tactical shotgun, depending on the ammunition used, allows you to solve various tactical tasks.

This is facilitated by an extensive range of manufactured ammunition, represented by the following types:

• rubber and conventional bullets;
• buckshot, large or small fraction;
• tear gas cartridges;
• high-explosive and high-explosive fragmentation grenades;
• light-noise grenades.

The versatility of the design of modern models of these weapons provides the presence of special attachments that allow you to not only fire live ammunition, but also perform a number of tactical and technical manipulations. In law enforcement and assault army units, shotguns are used in the following cases:

• means for quick breaking of doors;
• non-lethal means of armed struggle;
• offensive melee weapon.

Of all the listed methods of application, each is specific and is used in certain conditions.

Manufacturers today produce a wide variety of models of such weapons, among which lever-action pump-action shotguns and an automatic shotgun are the most popular. As a rule, traditional models of smoothbore guns are single-barreled combat shotguns with a lever-operated reloading mechanism. The best shotguns in this category are the legendary Remington Model 870, the FN SLP police shotgun, a Mossberg 500 self-loading, smoothbore pump-action shotgun produced since 1962. All these models can be found in the arsenal of current police forces around the world.

Automatic shotguns, which are equipped with army units today, are much more advanced weapons. Together with an improved reloading mechanism, such models have an increased rate of fire and a larger magazine capacity. One of the latest innovations in this area was the appearance on the arms market of a double-barreled automatic rifle. The DP-12 double-barreled shotgun is capable of firing at a distance of up to 22 meters from two barrels, alternately. In just half a minute, 16 rounds of 12 mm caliber can be fired from this weapon.

Despite the appearance of modern models of these weapons, it is difficult to call a combat shotgun a universal combat weapon. Significantly increase the combat and firing characteristics of a smoothbore gun by increasing the number of barrels. The combat qualities were greatly affected by the appearance of an automatic reloading mechanism and the expansion of the range of ammunition that shotguns can be equipped with today. However, the situation with the aiming range does not change for the better. Maximum possible effective range, which gives a shotgun, is no more than 60 meters. In modern products, the firing range is an order of magnitude smaller - only 22-25 meters.

The way out of this situation was the creation of rifled samples of automatic weapons, which comes with an underbarrel shotgun. Such a weapon increased the firepower of the shooter several times, making it a universal combat unit.

Popular models of our time

Most models of pump-action shotguns are designs for the needs of the civilian arms market. However, as it goes on sale, as often happens, such weapons quickly find their niche in paramilitary structures. Currently, almost any automatic hunting shotgun has an army or police counterpart. The commercial market is driving progress in this regard as well. The creation and development of new models of smoothbore guns is proceeding at a faster pace. These weapons are released all over the world. Among the popular models you can find American, Italian, Belgian and Turkish samples of smoothbore guns, each of which was created under certain category consumers.

"Face to face": which "tactical shotgun" is better?

When I first used in the 1960s, I didn't even question which was better. Police shotguns were pump action, no options. The widespread opinion that semi-automatic shotguns were less reliable than pump-action shotguns, I heard much later.

The author still considers the Remington 8710 one of the most reliable and effective "combat" shotguns. In this case, he's using a Remington 870 Express Tactical with a GATOR choke tube.

At that time, double-barreled shotguns with shortened barrels were still in service. For example, detectives NYPD used double barrel shotguns Stevens for many years. Mostly in service with law enforcement agencies were Remington 870 or Ithaca 37, although some agencies used Winchester, High standard, Smith & Wesson.

So what to choose - "pump" or semi-automatic? Next I will tell you which will help you choose the best tactical shotgun.

1. Rate of fire

The first semi-automatic shotgun I fired was Remington model 11, from the Second World War, from the collection of my friend. I shot about 10 rounds from it and found that it works.

If I remember correctly, the next semi-automatic shotgun was one of the first Benelli imported into the USA. I was at Chapman Academy and Ray let me try his new shotgun. I was very surprised at how fast it worked. Ray shot out the magazine before the first shell hit the ground. This speed of fire made an impression on me. But the only negative is the generation Benelli it was hard to load.

I think that policeman and military weapon should be as simple as possible. The rate of fire is still one of the advantages of semi-automatic shotguns. During World War II and the Vietnam War, they were used as Winchester Model 97/Model 12 and Ithaca Model 37. They did not have a fuse, and therefore they were always ready to fire.

From pump action shotgun You can also shoot very fast. A friend of mine, from the St. Louis Police Department, said that very often, when asked by internal security officers investigating the use of official Remington 870, the officers replied that they fired once or twice, but in fact their magazines were empty. The officers did not lie; it’s just that they, in a state of deadly collision, did not notice how quickly “muscle memory worked”.

2. Using cover

Another big advantage semi-automatic shotgun is that it is more convenient to work with him from behind shelters, since you do not need to operate the forearm, the shooter can shoot lying down or from under cover.

However, when firing over cover from pump action shotgun, it is convenient to rest the hand holding the forearm, and reload by pushing the “shooting” hand of the gun forward.

3. Loading

In any case, you need to be able to quickly restock your store tactical shotgun. Since semi-automatic shotguns fire faster, reloading them is especially important.

A shortened version of the Remington 870 with a 12" barrel from Scattergun Technologies. Thompson rests the hand holding the forearm on the surface, and reloads by pushing the “shooting” hand

On the combat shotguns I prefer side-saddle carriers and place the cartridges in them with primers down, so that if necessary I can quickly draw a cartridge and load it into the magazine. If I have bullet cartridges, I can also quickly identify them.

But note that these bandoliers require special attention, since, for example, when passing through doorways or when leaving Vehicle they can get caught in an obstacle.

4. Magazine capacity

Insofar as semi-automatic shotguns more rapid-fire, they require more capacious magazines. Detachable magazines are good, but they increase the size.

There are some modern self-loading shotguns that solve this problem in an interesting way. For example, my favorite SRM 1216, which has a 16-round rotary magazine. Four 12 gauge cartridges are placed in each of the four chambers. As one chamber empties, the magazine rotates and the cartridge from the next chamber is sent into the chamber.

Several tubular feed magazines can be used in pump action shotguns. One of them - UTS-15. It has a length of only 720mm, while the magazine capacity is 15 rounds - 7 rounds in the chambers, one in the chamber.

5. Delays

Another parameter for comparing guns is the ability to quickly remove a faulty cartridge from the chamber. As a rule, this can be done faster on a pump-action shotgun. But the semi-automatic has a bolt handle that can be kicked or pressed against a hard surface to help increase the applied force. Otherwise, clearing a jammed cartridge/sleeve on a semi-automatic may take longer.

Another advantage pump action shotguns is the ability to shorten the barrel and reduce the dimensions of the weapon. You can also shorten the semi-automatic, but then it will be necessary to adjust the gas chamber and the stroke of the gas piston, which is somewhat more difficult. Benelli and Remington offer versions of their combat semiautomatic devices with 355 mm barrels, which are highly reliable.

6. Reliability

I exploited the cop a lot Remington model 11-87 and found it extremely reliable. I have used this weapon for many years and trust it enough to . I also have an equally reliable Mossberg 930 Tactical. It has a very comfortable bolt carrier handle, strong and comfortable. Lately I've been testing Beretta 1301 Tactical, and I also find it quite reliable. Like the old ones Benelli, the modern models I use are also very reliable.

M4 (1014) used USMC, has performed well in military service although I prefer M3 Tactical. My M3 has a folding stock and is a great combat shotgun. The M3 model can be used in both semi-automatic and "pump" mode. Double-action shotguns originally appeared in the Italian contingent of peacekeeping forces. They make it possible to shoot standard shotgun and traumatic cartridges.

The ability to switch to pump mode allows the use of less lethal ammunition, which has less powder weight and does not allow the automatic reload to work. One of the first and most popular double action shotguns is the Italian SPAS-12.

While the principle of operation of the pump shotgun is by far the most reliable, I argue that it requires more practice in order to avoid "underloading", especially under stress.

7. Sending a cartridge into the chamber

For less experienced users, the safety issue of a semi-automatic machine arises. After the shot, the next cartridge is automatically sent to the chamber, which can be dangerous if no further use is required. For a well-trained shooter, this is not a problem, but for this it can be an argument in favor of the "pomp".

Not everyone may agree, but the chamber should be empty for as long as necessary. There are marks in the roofs of many police cars that support my opinion.

Unless immediate action is needed, I prefer not to chamber a round. I believe that the sound of the shutter and the cartridge being fired is a strong deterrent for suspects.

8. Price factor

Another argument, especially for law enforcement agencies. It consists in the fact that a semi-automatic is more expensive. This is true, but not always. semi-automatic Mossberg 930 Tactical costs the same as some models Mossberg 590.

Let's summarize:

Advantages of a semi-automatic shotgun

1. High combat rate of fire.
2. Better use of shelter.
3. More "soft" return.

Benefits of a pump action shotgun

1. Low price.
2. Reliability with any ammunition.
3. Manual feed is safer for inexperienced shooters.
4. Easily eliminate delays.

And the winner...

This was just a quick look at some of the advantages and disadvantages of each type of shotgun.

There are many other comparison criteria, for example, sights, magazine capacity, fuse arrangements and ergonomics. As for me, this is the same as comparing who is better - blondes, brunettes or redheads.

Personally, I like pumps, semi-autos and double actions.

The AA-12 is rightfully considered one of the best automatic shotguns. It was appreciated by the US Marines, in addition, they were installed on AutoCopter unmanned helicopters and on the turrets of the HAMMER protection system.

This weapon was also lit up in the cinema. In particular, it was with such a shotgun that the protagonist movie "Predator", as well as one of the characters in the movie "The Expendables".

The AA-12 self-loading shotgun provides two types of magazines: boxed for 5 and 8 rounds, drum or disk for 20 or 32 shots.

In 2000, the rights to manufacture the AA-12 were acquired by the American company Military Police System, which planned to equip the American army and police with this shotgun. Actually, just after that, in 2004, these guns entered service with the Marine Corps.

And they were created in 1981 by Maxwell Atchisson on the basis of his other invention - the 1972 Atchisson Assault Shotgun. The very idea of ​​​​creating semi-automatic shotguns came from American designers after the Vietnam War, where shotguns proved themselves very well at short distances in dense jungles and indoors. This was the weapon of the Cold War era. The weapons of our time should have been different. I wanted to achieve a higher rate of fire. And the most effective method achieve this - automatic recharge.

Then the idea of ​​​​developing an automatic shotgun appeared. And several talented designers took up this work at once. Among them was Atchisson.

Design

He took as a basis a system that had not previously been used for smoothbore guns, but worked well for submachine guns: automatic blowback. This allowed to significantly reduce the recoil force and rate of fire. Actually, in the rollback of the free shutter was the basic principle of the system of this combat shotgun. Powder gases after the shot pushed the shells back, and with it a rather heavy cylindrical shutter, well, he was already compressing the return spring.

To ensure low recoil when firing in bursts, the receiver reached the recoil pad of the butt, due to which the length of the bolt recoil increased. This made it possible to almost completely extinguish the momentum of the shot, which explained the rather low return.

Low recoil is very important in automatic weapons chambered in 12 gauge to ensure proper accuracy. Otherwise, firing bursts will simply be ineffective.

By reducing the recoil for the shooter, the designer distributed its action over the shotgun mechanism. This had a particularly strong effect on the reliability of fastening the store. The metal bracket, together with the pistol grip, acts as a stop that fixes the magazine.

The second feature of the AAS shotgun is that it is fired with an open bolt. After the shooter pulls the trigger, the bolt under the influence of the return spring breaks off and only then does the cartridge primer prick.

The AA-12 differs in many ways from its predecessor. Even appearance it has seriously changed. Now the body of the shotgun has become one-piece: a hollow plastic butt, covering the receiver and passing into the forearm, consists of left and right halves, attached to each other with pins. But it is not enough to change the shape of the stock, the USM has also been redesigned. Starting with the use of a more advanced system with a gas outlet tube and two return springs. This made the shotgun more reliable and reduced recoil even further. Now the barrel is rigidly locked with a wedge included in the groove of the breech.

The length of the barrel was also changed down and the weight was reduced.

Advantages and disadvantages

The undoubted advantage of the AA-12 automatic shotgun is its high accuracy and high efficiency at short distances. However, as the range increases, the efficiency drops rapidly. Actually, the shotgun was created for combat at short distances. So he copes with the task set before him.

In addition, the designer managed to minimize the recoil when firing bursts. Given that we are talking about a fairly powerful 12-gauge ammunition, reducing recoil is a top priority. The ability to select a store for the desired number of shots is also a plus for this model. The box magazine for 5 and 8 rounds is more compact and light, but the magazine for 20 rounds increases the number of shots. The security of the system is at a high level, which can also be attributed to the advantages.

The disadvantage can be called a lot of weight. Of course, compared to the earlier version, the gun weighs less. And yet it is quite heavy.

Ammunition

The original version of the gun - Atchisson Assault Shotgun - was designed to fire standard 12-gauge ammunition with a 70 mm sleeve and a Magnum cartridge with a 76 mm sleeve. Both the one and the other cartridge could be equipped with both buckshot and various bullets.

The AA-12 is capable of handling these cartridges, but is also capable of firing the more powerful FRAG-12 ammunition. There were rumors that the ammunition itself was developed specifically for this shotgun, but it is impossible to verify them.

FRAG-12 is seriously different from its predecessors. A bullet of a special design: a metal shell on the outside, and various fillings inside. Additionally, when the bullet exits the barrel, it opens the tail. It is it that allows you to stabilize the flight of the projectile, and this, in turn, increases the accuracy of shooting. The FRAG-12 cartridge from the AA-12 shotgun can be accurately fired at a distance of up to 200 meters.

The filling of a bullet in the FRAG-12 cartridge can be of three types:

• HE - high explosive;
• HE-FA - high-explosive fragmentation;
• HE-AP - armor-piercing bullets that combine cumulative and high-explosive action.

If you shoot bursts of buckshot from an AA-12 shotgun, you get a dense cloud of striking elements. At short distances or indoors, this perfect option. However, as the distance increases to 70 meters, such shooting loses its effectiveness.

If the shooting distance is higher, then it is better to use single shots with ammunition loaded with lead or steel bullets, depending on the target. Aimed firing bursts over long distances is only possible with the FRAG-12 cartridge.

Specifications

AA-12 has the following parameters:

• country of production - America;
• weight - 4.7 without magazine;
• 12 caliber ammunition;
• length - 965 mm;
• barrel length - 457 mm;
• 360 rounds per minute;
• the initial speed of the bullet is 350 m / s.

Conclusion

The AA-12 automatic shotgun, taking into account all the features described above, can be called a worthy representative of its class. He does an excellent job with the tasks assigned to him, such as law enforcement, and this is not surprising. The prototype was created about 30 years ago, and since then the system has been constantly improved and refined.

By the way, on the basis of aa 12, South Korean gunsmiths developed their own shotgun. He also enjoys some notoriety.

All variations on the theme of the AA-12 shotgun remained the prerogative of the army and police. This gun never hit the civilian market, and such sales are not planned in the near future.

Video: AA-12 Automatic Shotgun

A shotgun is a smoothbore type of firearm that uses small round balls called shot as cartridges. Mainly used for shooting from the shoulder. At the moment, many people actively use the shotgun for self-defense, due to its high stopping power at short distances. What you need to purchase a shotgun and how to choose the right type of weapon will be discussed below.

Before acquiring a particular type of weapon, it is necessary to determine the specifics of the legal framework that regulates the possibility of obtaining and using such products. All currently existing weapons can be divided into two large groups:

1. Service, which is used by various military units, special forces, police, etc. As a rule, these types of weapons have enhanced firepower without any restrictions in performance.
2. civilian weapons. Such products are intended for sports, self-defense, hunting, and can also be used for educational purposes. As a rule, these are weapons with reduced firepower, which are not capable of inflicting serious injuries on the enemy.

The law "On Weapons" prescribes the following types of self-defense equipment that do not require a permit for storage and use:

• stun gun (with the exception of those models that have great power and operate remotely);
• gas atomizer;
• axe;
• household knife;
• rubber clubs and sticks;
• devices of the "Impact" type;
• pneumatic weapons of weak action (caliber not more than 4.5 mm, power up to 7.5 J);
• spear gun;
• those types of signal revolvers that, due to their characteristics, cannot be used as military weapons.

To acquire the above means of self-defense, it is enough for a citizen to reach the age of majority.

Weapons such as shotguns may not be kept or used without a permit. Moreover, such weapons need a certain storage space that meets certain standards. It must be a securely closed safe, checked by an authorized representative.

Consequences of using a shotgun

In self-defense, in no case should you shoot in the face and head of the attacker

A shotgun is a smoothbore shotgun that uses small metal balls as cartridges. Thus, we are not even talking about traumatic weapons, but about firearms. At the moment, both possession and use of shotguns without permission involves administrative or even criminal liability. The degree of punishment will depend on the nature of the wrongdoing.

Important! According to the legislation of the Russian Federation, carrying cold and long-barreled firearms for the purpose of self-defense is unacceptable. Thus, even after obtaining all the relevant permits, such weapons can only be used to protect their private property.

Now we should consider the consequences of using a shotgun for self-defense. In this case, several important aspects must be taken into account:

1. Due to its specificity, the shotgun is designed to hit close targets. If we are talking about a range exceeding 25 meters, then the results of the shot will be unpredictable due to the scree of cartridges. Even if we are talking about high-quality buckshot, using a shotgun in self-defense is only suitable for short distances.
2. The capabilities of this gun are significantly limited even if it is used in small spaces. Application at a distance of less than 5 meters requires very precise guidance, since the scree in this case will be negligible. However, in the event of a hit, the attacker will be guaranteed to be disabled.

It should be remembered that the shotgun is serious weapon, which can cause significant damage to the opponent and lead to death. In this case, the defender may be tried for negligent homicide. In addition, the use of a rifle must be justified. If the court proves that nothing threatened the life of the defendant, then he himself will sit in the dock.

So that the use of a shotgun for self-defense does not have negative consequences, you must adhere to the following rules:

1. In no case should you shoot in the face, head, neck. Shot damage to these areas is highly likely to result in death.
2. Do not shoot into the peritoneal area, as buckshot can cause multiple injuries internal organs with profuse bleeding.
3. It is advisable to make a warning shot in the air, giving the attacker the opportunity to change his mind about what he planned to do. As a rule, such actions are quite enough for the conflict to be settled.
4. If the previous paragraph did not have the desired effect, you should shoot at the limbs.

When using any firearm, the following nuances should also be considered:

1. Physical training. Any gun has a certain recoil force, and therefore, before using it directly for self-defense, you should practice shooting. In addition, without the skills of conducting aimed fire, firearms become only an annoying factor for the attacker. And although the area of ​​\u200b\u200bdestruction for a shotgun will be much larger than for the same pistol, accuracy in this case will be useful.
2. Psychological preparation. In practice, not everyone can shoot a person. To perform such actions requires a certain mindset and special training. Therefore, if you are not able to act balanced and decisively with a shotgun in your hands, then you should consider other ways of self-defense, for example, tasers or gas cartridges.

Types of shotguns

Benelli M4 Super 90 is a smoothbore semi-automatic magazine semi-automatic shotgun developed in Italy by Benelli Armi S.p.A.

In most cases, shotguns are smoothbore-type shotguns that use the energy of a fixed projectile to fire shot. The direct predecessor of the shotgun is the musket, which can now also be used for riot control and self-defense.

Regardless of the type, shotguns are designed for combat at short distances (up to 25 meters). This is due to two features:

1. No grooves inside the barrel. Rifled shotguns are extremely rare.
2. The use of shot as a projectile. Due to the large spread of metal balls, the striking ability of a shotgun at long distances is negligible.

At the moment, the following types of shotguns are distinguished:

1. Single-barreled. Classic variant, which is highly valued by experts for its ease of use and unpretentiousness.
2. Double-barreled (similar to rifles). Such models of weapons have a higher damaging ability in comparison with single-barreled counterparts. Currently, such models are especially common among hunters.
3. Multi-stem. Such models may have more than two barrels and are not found among civilian weapons.

Regarding the method of reloading, the following options for shotguns are distinguished:

1. Pump action. This is the most popular design, with which many people associate the very concept of a shotgun. It assumes the presence of a movable front handle, through which the bolt group moves by sliding. Thus, when holding the handle back and forth, the spent cartridge case is ejected, and new cartridge. Such a mechanism has a higher rate of fire compared to classic rifles and double-barreled shotguns, allowing you to keep your hand on the handle until the magazine is completely shot.
2. Lever type. This is a multiply charged weapon, the reloading procedure in which takes place in manual mode, through a semicircular movement of the trigger guard. To change the cartridge, it should be held around the trigger. At the moment, this method of reloading is considered somewhat outdated and is largely inferior to pump-action counterparts.
3. Self-loading or automatic shotgun. This is a weapon that allows you to shoot in automatic mode. Here the process of recharging occurs without the direct participation of a person. Regarding the device, such designs resemble automatic rifles and machine guns. To date, this is the most advanced type of such weapon, characterized by a high rate of fire. Civilians do not have the ability to wield this type of shotgun.

Shotgun ammo

Buckshot cartridge, has an ideal accuracy of 80-85% at a distance of 35 meters

In addition to the cheapness of this weapon (about half the price of a classic rifle), the shotgun attracts attention with a wide variety of ammunition. In this case, the low firing range can be easily compensated for by the significant power of the shot, due to which the shotgun is characterized by a truly high penetrating ability. This criterion led to the use of a shotgun for assault purposes.

Nowadays, most shotguns are designed to fire special cartridges, which can be 10, 12 and even 20 gauge. They are created on the basis of hunting ammunition, which are manufactured in the factory and meet all modern specifications.

However, despite the huge penetration power of the shotgun, which exceeds 2500 J, its significant drawback is the insignificant magazine capacity and strong recoil.

Overview of the best shotgun models

Consider some of the most popular and technically advanced models of shotguns that can be successfully used for self-defense and hunting:

Mossberg 500 Tactical Persuader

Mossberg 500 is a smoothbore hunting shotgun with a pump-action reloading system (a feature of this pump-action shotgun is a thumb-operated safety located on top of the receiver)

A classic model, the release of which began back in 1962. Characterized a wide range applications, used for self-defense, for hunting and in various law enforcement agencies. The structural elements of the shotgun are made of steel, while the body of the model is aluminum, and the forearm and stock are plastic or wooden. The fuse is located on top of the receiver, which is very convenient.

Super Black Eagle 3

The model is perfect for use in difficult climatic conditions. A key feature of this shotgun is the presence of a special stock that helps reduce recoil. The weapon is characterized by excellent rates of fire, power, accuracy of fire and reliability, and a certain aggressive design is an additional advantage, allowing you to successfully use this weapon for self-defense.

Remington 870

Remington 870 is a shotgun with an 8-round underbarrel tube magazine and a longitudinally sliding forearm ("pump" shotgun)

A popular shotgun model that has been produced by an American manufacturer since the middle of the last century. Due to the special shape of the forearm, the gun is easily recognizable. The design is characterized by the lower supply of cartridges, while the ejection of spent cartridges is carried out from the side. The high reliability of this model is due to the presence of a one-piece receiver, which further reduced the weight of the shotgun, making it more convenient to use.

M4 Super 90 from the Italian company Benelli

Has excellent characteristics, being made of high-strength materials. Specialists emphasize the high reliability of this weapon - it is designed to fire 25 thousand shots before the first repair. This shotgun can use 12 and 16 gauge cartridges. The telescopic butt allows you to choose the most convenient stop for using weapons. A high reliability resource and unpretentiousness in maintenance made this model popular among professional hunters.