What Shotgun Has the Least Recoil?
When it comes to shotguns, recoil is a crucial factor to consider, especially for those who are new to shooting or have limited hand strength. A shotgun with excessive recoil can be uncomfortable, even painful, to shoot, which can negatively impact one’s shooting experience and accuracy. In this article, we’ll explore the topic of what shotgun has the least recoil, providing you with a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision.
What is Recoil?
Before we dive into the world of shotguns, it’s essential to understand what recoil is. Recoil is the force that is generated when a firearm is discharged, causing the gun to move backwards or upwards. This force is a result of the propellant gases and particles that are expelled from the barrel during firing. Recoil can be affected by various factors, including the type of ammunition used, the gun’s design, and the shooter’s grip and stance.
Measuring Recoil
Recoil is typically measured in foot-pounds (ft-lbs), which is a unit of energy. The higher the recoil, the more energy is released during firing. Shotguns, in particular, tend to have a higher recoil than other types of firearms due to the larger propellant charges and heavier payloads.
Shotgun Recoil Comparison
To provide a comprehensive answer to our question, we’ve compiled a list of popular shotguns and their corresponding recoil values. Please note that these values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific model, ammunition used, and shooter’s preferences.
| Shotgun Model | Gauge | Length of Pull | Recoil (ft-lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Remington 870 | 12 | 14.5" | 4.5 |
| Mossberg 500 | 12 | 14.5" | 4.8 |
| Winchester SXP | 12 | 14.5" | 5.1 |
| Beretta Xtrema2 | 12 | 14.5" | 5.3 |
| Browning BPS | 12 | 14.5" | 5.5 |
| Remington 1100 | 12 | 14.5" | 5.7 |
| Winchester 1300 | 12 | 14.5" | 6.1 |
| Benelli M2 | 12 | 14.5" | 6.5 |
| Beretta 1301 | 12 | 14.5" | 6.8 |
As you can see from the table, the Remington 870 has the lowest recoil value among the shotguns listed, with a rating of 4.5 ft-lbs. This is due to its lightweight design and the use of a shorter, 3-inch chamber. The Mossberg 500 and Winchester SXP follow closely, with recoil values of 4.8 and 5.1 ft-lbs, respectively.
Factors Affecting Recoil
While the shotgun model plays a significant role in determining recoil, there are several other factors that can impact the overall shooting experience. These include:
- Ammunition: Different types of shotgun shells can have varying levels of recoil. For example, steel shot tends to have a higher recoil than lead shot.
- Grip and stance: A proper grip and stance can help to reduce recoil by distributing the force more evenly throughout the body.
- Trigger pull: A lighter trigger pull can help to reduce recoil by allowing the shooter to release the trigger more quickly.
- Gun fit: A shotgun that fits the shooter properly can help to reduce recoil by allowing them to maintain a comfortable shooting position.
Tips for Reducing Recoil
If you’re new to shooting or find that you’re experiencing excessive recoil, there are several steps you can take to reduce the impact:
- Use a shotgun with a lower recoil value: As we’ve seen from the table, some shotguns are designed to have a lower recoil than others.
- Use lighter ammunition: Steel shot, for example, tends to have a lower recoil than lead shot.
- Practice proper grip and stance: A proper grip and stance can help to distribute the force of recoil more evenly throughout the body.
- Adjust your trigger pull: A lighter trigger pull can help to reduce recoil by allowing the shooter to release the trigger more quickly.
- Consider a recoil pad: A recoil pad can help to reduce the impact of recoil by absorbing some of the force.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Remington 870 has the least recoil among the shotguns listed, with a rating of 4.5 ft-lbs. However, recoil is just one factor to consider when choosing a shotgun. Other factors, such as gun fit, grip and stance, and ammunition type, can also impact the overall shooting experience. By understanding these factors and taking steps to reduce recoil, you can enjoy a more comfortable and accurate shooting experience.
