A combat shotgun is a shotgun that is intended for use in an offensive role, typically by a military force. They come in both manual operated and select fire forms. In modern times they have 3 main roles: Offensive, Breaching (Mostly with Special Forces) and Riot control. A typical combat shotgun has a bayonet lug, vented handguard, extended magazine, short barrel and adjustable/folding stocks.
Variants[]
Manual[]
Manually operated combat shotguns have a wider array of ammo options as they are more reliable in combat environments and less likley to jam due to the pressure used for reloading. However they are slower to fire than semiauto/select fire shotguns in when used in combat. Manually operated combat shotguns are mostly reserved for roles such as breaching etc.
Select fire[]
Select fire shotguns and semi and full auto models are mostly used for combat in modern times, due to faster firing etc. However for performance, the ammo types are limited as there has to be a particular gas pressure/bullet type to cycle its operation as many shotgun shells are underpressured in comparison to rifle rounds which can result in unreliable functioning/lack of range etc. Some automatic shotguns have a selector switch that enables the weapon to be operated manually to overcome this issue.
Ammunition[]
Combat shotguns have a wide array of ammo variations for different purposes, from pellets to flechettes. The most common used is buckshot which is effective at close quarters.
References[]
- The World's Fighting Shotguns. Volume IV. Hardcover – 1 Jan. 1978 by Thomas F. Swearengen. Chesa Limited / T. B. N. Enterprises; First Edition (1 Jan. 1978)
- Streetsweepers: The Complete Book of Combat Shotguns Paperback – 31 Dec. 1987 by Duncan Long. Paladin Press, U.S. (31 Dec. 1987) ISBN-10: 0873644247