When was the Pump Shotgun Invented?
The pump shotgun, also known as the slide-action shotgun, has a rich history that dates back to the mid-19th century. In this article, we will explore the origins of the pump shotgun and its evolution over the years.
Early Beginnings
The first pump-action shotgun was patented in 1866 by American inventor and firearms manufacturer, Henry F. Trumbull. Trumbull’s design used a bolt-action mechanism, where the user would pull the bolt back to eject the spent shell and then push it forward to chamber a new round. This design was an improvement over earlier shotguns, which relied on manual loading and unloading.
The Early Years (1866-1880s)
In the late 1800s, pump-action shotguns became more popular among hunters and sportsmen. Winchester Repeating Arms Company, founded in 1866, was one of the first companies to mass-produce pump-action shotguns. Their Model 1887 shotgun, introduced in 1887, was a lever-action pump shotgun that used a breech-loading mechanism. This design allowed users to load and unload the shotgun quickly and easily.
The Golden Age (1890s-1920s)
The early 20th century saw the rise of Ithaca Gun Company, which became a leading manufacturer of pump-action shotguns. Their Ithaca Model 37, introduced in 1937, was a gas-operated pump shotgun that used a rotating bolt mechanism. This design allowed for smoother operation and increased reliability.
The Modern Era (1930s-Present)
In the mid-20th century, Remington Arms Company introduced the Remington 870, a pump-action shotgun that has become an iconic design. The Remington 870 was designed for military and law enforcement use, but it quickly gained popularity among hunters and sportsmen. Today, the Remington 870 is considered one of the most popular pump-action shotguns in the world.
Design Evolution
Over the years, pump-action shotguns have undergone significant design changes. Here are some key developments:
- Action type: From bolt-action to lever-action to gas-operated, pump-action shotguns have evolved to improve reliability and ease of use.
- Bolt design: From rotating bolts to sliding bolts, pump-action shotguns have used various bolt designs to improve operation and reliability.
- Stock design: From traditional wooden stocks to synthetic and composite materials, pump-action shotguns have evolved to improve durability and ergonomics.
- Barrel length and gauge: From 12-gauge to 20-gauge and various barrel lengths, pump-action shotguns have been designed to accommodate different hunting and shooting applications.
Comparison of Pump-Action Shotguns
Here is a comparison of some popular pump-action shotguns:
| Model | Gauge | Barrel Length | Weight | Magazine Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Remington 870 | 12-gauge | 18-28 inches | 7.5-8.5 pounds | 4-5 rounds |
| Mossberg 500 | 12-gauge | 18-28 inches | 6.5-7.5 pounds | 4-6 rounds |
| Winchester 1300 | 12-gauge | 18-28 inches | 7-8 pounds | 4-5 rounds |
| Ithaca Model 37 | 12-gauge | 18-28 inches | 7-8 pounds | 4-5 rounds |
Conclusion
The pump shotgun has a rich history that spans over 150 years. From its early beginnings to its modern designs, the pump shotgun has evolved to become a popular choice among hunters and sportsmen. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or just starting out, the pump shotgun is an excellent choice for its reliability, ease of use, and versatility.
