A tactical shotgun, either pump-action (manual) or semiautomatic action, with pistol grip or without, is a staggering advancement in modern firepower. A tactical shotgun can hold as many as 9-shotgun shells, and when loaded with ammunition such as used by most police departments, each shell can contain fifteen .33 caliber lead pellets (3-inch, 00-Buck). This translates into a barrage of 120 bullet-like projectiles that can be launched at your target in a few seconds.
For family and personal defense at home, a “tactical”
shotgun like those used by law enforcement officers is clearly the best choice.
Tactical shotguns are designed for self-defense. Therefore, they are not ideal
for hunting or sport, but in a pinch they can be used to hunt both large and
small game. Because of this potential for dual use and the reduced size of
tactical shotguns, these are often included in survival kits on private airplanes
and boats. Particularly gun models such as the Mossberg 500 JIC (Just in Case)
which has a special finish to protect it against rust, and a high-visibility
orange watertight floatation-tube for storage.
If you hunt or participate in shotgun sports, consider buying a tactical shotgun which is similar to your sporting gun. This will provide a clear training advantage. Most people use their sporting gun far more frequently than their tactical shotgun, so the use of the sporting gun will develop operating and shooting skills that transfer to your tactical shotgun.