Analytics and Reports, Shotgun Analytics, US Small Arms Market Analytics

SHOT Show 2026: New Shotgun Announcements Before the Event

As the global small arms industry converges on Las Vegas for SHOT Show 2026, the shotgun market is exhibiting a definitive and aggressive bifurcation between high-tech tactical integration and a nostalgic return to premium craftsmanship. Over the trailing seven-day period (January 11–18, 2026), a flurry of vendor announcements has set the tone for the coming fiscal year, revealing a landscape where the “middle ground” of generic, utilitarian firearms is eroding in favor of highly specialized, purpose-built platforms.

The analysis of the pre-show news cycle indicates three primary strategic pillars driving the 2026 shotgun market. The most significant trend observed is the “OEM-Aftermarket Convergence.” Major manufacturers like Mossberg and Beretta are no longer waiting for customers to modify their firearms; they are partnering directly with high-end component makers (e.g., Chisel Machining, Magpul) to offer “pre-customized” tactical platforms straight from the factory. This move effectively captures margin previously lost to the aftermarket modification sector and signals a shift in manufacturing philosophy from purely proprietary fabrication to collaborative assembly. By integrating components that were previously expensive aftermarket upgrades—such as billet aluminum stocks and advanced optic mounting solutions—OEMs are increasing their Average Selling Price (ASP) and delivering a “finished” product that appeals to the “buy once, cry once” consumer mentality.1

Simultaneously, we are witnessing a “Sub-Gauge Renaissance” driven by advancements in high-density tungsten ammunition. The historical dominance of the 12-gauge is being significantly eroded in the turkey and upland sectors by 20-gauge and 28-gauge platforms that offer equivalent lethality with significantly reduced recoil. This is exemplified by new offerings from CVA, Benelli, TriStar, and Breda, all of whom have released dedicated sub-gauge platforms that are not merely scaled-down 12-gauges but engineered specifically for the ballistic profiles of modern 20 and 28-gauge loads.3

Finally, the “Heritage Revival” is in full effect, targeting an affluent demographic that prioritizes legacy and aesthetics over pure utility. Ruger’s re-introduction of the Red Label (via Connecticut Shotgun Manufacturing Company) and Browning’s evolution of the Citori line into the 825 series signals a renewed confidence in the premium over/under market. This trend suggests that while the tactical market chases modularity and synthetics, there remains a robust, high-margin demand for walnut and blued steel, particularly among older demographics with significant disposable income.6

This bifurcation is clearly visible in the product matrix for 2026. On one end of the spectrum, we see the Mossberg 590R/990 series and the Benelli Nova 3, representing the pinnacle of tactical evolution and utility. On the other end, the Ruger Red Label III and Browning Citori 825 represent a return to heritage and luxury. The “middle market”—generic field pumps and semi-autos—is notably sparse in the announcement cycle, suggesting a squeeze on the commoditized center of the market.

The following report provides an exhaustive analysis of these announcements, categorized by vendor, with deep-dive technical assessments of the most disruptive platforms.

New Shotgun Announcements Summary Table

The following table summarizes all identified shotgun announcements from the pre-SHOT Show window (January 11–18, 2026), sorted alphabetically by Vendor and then by Model.

VendorModelConfigurationGauge(s)Key Features / Notes
American TacticalBulldogBullpup / Mag-Fed.410, 12, 20Completion of the Bulldog series; now available in all three major defensive gauges.8
American TacticalRoad AgentSide-by-Side (Exposed Hammers)12, 20Decocker lever for safe carry; available in 18″ and 26″ barrel lengths.8
BenelliEthos Cordoba/Sport A.I.Semi-Auto (Inertia)12, 28Integration of “Advanced Impact” (A.I.) barrel technology for higher velocity/energy.9
BenelliM4 EXTSemi-Auto (ARGO)127+1 capacity out of the box; 922r compliant; available in H2O, FDE, and Multicam Black.11
BenelliNova 3 PumpPump-Action12“Poly-Mod” monolithic receiver; 14% shorter stroke; M4 bolt face; “Ergo-Evolved” grip.12
BenelliSBE 3 CompactSemi-Auto (Inertia)12, 20, 28Reduced length of pull (13 1/8″) and shorter barrels (26″) for smaller statured shooters.5
Beretta694 Black DLCOver/Under12DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) coating on receiver/barrels; B-Fast balancing system; $6,599 MSRP.14
BerettaAX800 SupremaSemi-Auto12Waterfowl focused; B-Link Pro gas system; new camo patterns (Max-7, Timber, Otter Brown).16
BredaVictoria FamilyOver/Under12, 20, 28,.410Premium Italian import; “Acciaio Breda” steel barrels; Field, Leggero, and Sport models.18
BrowningA5 20-GaugeSemi-Auto (Recoil)20Long-awaited sub-gauge Kinematic Drive; Speed Load Plus; lightweight field gun.19
BrowningCitori 825Over/Under12Major Platform Update. Replaces Citori 725. Sharper receiver lines; FireLite 2 mechanical trigger.7
BrowningMaxus 2 Wicked WingSemi-Auto (Gas)12New “Stone” and “Earth” Cerakote finishes; oversized controls; soft-touch comb.20
CVAScout SpurSingle-Shot28Turkey specific; threaded for chokes; Picatinny rail; aggressive pistol grip ergonomics.21
Dickinson Arms212C24-OSSemi-Auto12Turkey specific; Mossy Oak Obsession; pistol grip; optics rail; budget friendly ($649).3
Dickinson ArmsCommando XX3TPump-Action12Tactical/Turkey hybrid; pistol grip; extended chokes; budget-friendly ($439 MSRP).3
FranchiAffinity 3.5 CerakoteSemi-Auto (Inertia)12New Max-7 camo option; 3.5-inch chamber; oversized controls.23
HatsanBullTac Mag-FedBullpup Pump-Action12, 20,.41018″ barrel; carry handle riser; compatible with ESCORT VTS magazines.24
Heritage MfgCoachwhipSide-by-Side1218″ barrel; exposed hammers; color case hardened frame; pioneer aesthetic.3
KelTecKS7 Gen 2Pump-Action (Bullpup)12Refined ergonomics; improved carry handle/sighting system; reduced recoil profile.25
Mossberg590R ChiselPump-Action12Industry First. Factory-installed Chisel Machining folding stock; rotary safety; 18.5″ barrel.1
Mossberg590RM ChiselPump-Action (Mag-Fed)12Magazine-fed variant of the 590R; Chisel folding stock; Class 3 (NFA) short-barrel options.2
Mossberg940 Pro WaterfowlSemi-Auto (Gas)12Expansion of 940 line; improved gas system for harsh environments; optic ready.26
Mossberg990 Aftershock SPXSemi-Auto (Gas)12New Platform. Compact gas system; M-LOK handguard; optic-ready; tactical focus.18
MossbergGold/Silver ReserveOver/Under16, 28,.410Expansion of Reserve line into 16-gauge and sub-gauge turkey models.26
Remington870 DMPump-Action (Mag-Fed)12Re-Launch. Return of the Detachable Magazine 870; Tactical, Predator, and Hardwood models.28
RugerRed Label IIIOver/Under20Heritage Release. Outsourced production to CSMC; premium wood; $3,299 MSRP.6
Spandau ArmsS2 (M2 Clone)Semi-Auto (Inertia)12Benelli M2 clone; now available in Mossy Oak and Realtree camo patterns.8
StoegerM3000 TurkeySemi-Auto (Inertia)12Optics-ready receiver cut (RMSc footprint); shorter 24″ barrel; steady-grip stock.31
TriStarUpland HunterOver/Under20Thumbhole stock configuration; designed for turkey/upland crossover; bronze receiver.32
WinchesterSX4 Left HandSemi-Auto (Gas)12True left-hand ejection; available in Waterfowl (Max-7) and Field configurations.34
WinchesterSXP Extreme DefenderPump-Action12Woodland FDE finish; tactical configuration; rotary bolt; inertia-assisted pump action.12

Detailed Vendor Analysis

American Tactical (ATI): Budget Innovation and Niche Filling

American Tactical continues to aggressively target the entry-level and novelty segments of the market. The company has finalized the expansion of its Bulldog bullpup series, which is now available in.410 bore in addition to the previously released 12 and 20-gauge models. This strategic completion of the line specifically targets the recoil-sensitive home defense market.8 While 12-gauge bullpups are often criticized for excessive recoil and muzzle blast near the shooter’s face—a significant barrier to entry for smaller-statured shooters—the introduction of a.410 variant mitigates these issues while retaining the maneuverability advantages of the platform. By utilizing the mild-recoiling.410 cartridge in a compact, magazine-fed package, ATI is creating a viable home defense solution for users who might otherwise struggle with a full-power shotgun.

Of arguably greater interest to the enthusiast market is the Road Agent. This platform represents a unique modernization of the classic “coach gun.” By incorporating a decocker lever into an exposed-hammer side-by-side, ATI addresses the primary safety concern of traditional coach guns—carrying them safely with hammers cocked or trying to lower hammers on live rounds with cold hands, which has historically been a source of negligent discharges. This “modernize-the-classic” approach mirrors a broader industry trend of updating legacy designs with contemporary safety features, albeit at a budget price point accessible to the casual shooter.8

Benelli: Technological Iteration and “Advanced Impact”

Benelli’s strategy for 2026 focuses on iterating its core technologies rather than introducing entirely new platforms, with the notable exception of the Nova 3. The company is leveraging its dominant position in the inertia-driven market to refine ergonomics and ballistics across its portfolio.

The Nova 3: A Monolithic Evolution

The Nova 3 represents the most significant update to Benelli’s pump-action line in two decades. While it retains the signature “Poly-Mod” construction—a monolithic polymer receiver and stock that provides immense weather resistance—the internal geometry and ergonomics have been overhauled. The most critical technical improvement is the 14% shorter pump stroke.12 Short-stroking is the primary failure point for pump-action users under stress, particularly those accustomed to shorter actions or smaller statured shooters. By reducing the travel required to cycle the action, Benelli is directly addressing this training scar and increasing the cyclic rate of the firearm. Furthermore, the integration of the M4 bolt face into the Nova series suggests a standardization of parts and manufacturing processes that elevates the durability of their entry-level pump gun to “duty” standards, blurring the line between their tactical and sporting lines.36

“Advanced Impact” (A.I.) Barrel Technology

Benelli is rolling out its Advanced Impact (A.I.) bore technology across the premium Ethos and SBE 3 lines, specifically in 12 and 28-gauge configurations. This system purportedly uses a revised internal bore profile to increase downrange velocity and energy.3 While manufacturers often make ballistic claims, Benelli’s specific assertion of extended lethal range for sub-gauges aligns perfectly with the current market shift toward high-density tungsten shot. If the A.I. barrels can demonstrably improve patterns with TSS (Tungsten Super Shot), Benelli will secure its dominance in the premium waterfowl segment, offering hunters the ability to step down in gauge without sacrificing lethal range. The expansion of this tech into the Ethos Cordoba and Ethos Sport lines 9 indicates a full-fleet adoption strategy.

SBE 3 Compact Series

Recognizing the shifting demographics of the shooting sports, Benelli has introduced the SBE 3 Compact series. These models feature a reduced length of pull (13 1/8 inches) and shorter barrels (26 inches maximum).5 This is not merely a “youth model” but a recognition that the standard 14+ inch length of pull is ergonomically incorrect for a vast segment of the adult population, particularly women and smaller-statured men. By offering the flagship SBE 3 in this configuration, Benelli validates these shooters as premium customers worthy of a top-tier platform, rather than relegating them to budget youth guns.

Beretta: 500 Years of Heritage meets Modern Material Science

Beretta’s 2026 announcements are characterized by a duality of ultra-modern material science and deep celebration of its 500-year history. The company is effectively leveraging its longevity as a marketing tool while simultaneously pushing the boundaries of shotgun durability.

The 694 Black DLC

The 694 Black DLC is a direct response to the high-volume competition circuit’s demand for extreme durability. DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) is an extremely hard, low-friction coating typically reserved for high-wear internal parts of tactical firearms or precision tools. Applying it to the receiver and barrel of a sporting clays gun serves two distinct purposes. Aesthetically, it provides a distinct, “murdered-out” black look that appeals to a younger generation of competitors, contrasting sharply with the traditional silver nitride or blued finishes of the old guard. Functionally, it offers superior resistance to sweat corrosion and holster/rack wear, issues that plague high-volume shooters who handle their firearms extensively in hot conditions. At an MSRP of $6,599 14, this places the 694 Black DLC firmly in the “aspirational but attainable” category, bridging the gap between the standard 690 series and the ultra-premium DT11.

AX800 Suprema

The AX800 Suprema appears to be an evolution of the proven A400 action, rebranded and optimized for a specific “extreme waterfowl” identity. The emphasis on the B-Link Pro gas system suggests refinements to the gas piston to handle the wider range of fouling produced by modern non-toxic loads, which can be notoriously dirty.16 The introduction of proprietary camo patterns like “Peat Grey” and “Otter Brown” 17 indicates Beretta is attempting to create a lifestyle aesthetic around the gun, moving beyond generic third-party camouflage patterns to create a distinct brand identity for the AX800 user.

Breda: Premium Italian Import Strategy

The introduction of the Victoria Family (Field, Leggero, Sport) marks a significant push by Breda into the US over/under market.18 Breda is historically known for its inertia semi-autos and its deep industrial roots in Italian arms manufacturing. Entering the crowded O/U market places them in direct competition with giants like the Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon and the Browning Citori.

To differentiate, Breda is leaning heavily on “Acciaio Breda” (Breda Steel) barrels. This is a legacy branding play, appealing to metallurgists and enthusiasts who recall Breda’s reputation for barrel quality in the mid-20th century. The Leggero Model is particularly strategic; by offering a lightweight receiver option made from Ergal aluminum alloy (7075 T6), Breda is targeting the upland hunter who walks miles for grouse or pheasant—a niche where weight savings are paramount and for which consumers are willing to pay a premium. The stratification into Field, Leggero, and Sport models ensures they have a SKU for every major clay and feather discipline at launch.

Browning: The Citori 825 Platform Shift

The most significant “traditional” shotgun news of the week is the introduction of the Citori 825. The Citori 725 has been the gold standard for Japanese-made over/unders for over a decade. Replacing such a dominant platform is a high-risk, high-reward maneuver for Browning.

Technical Analysis: FireLite 2 Trigger

The 725 was renowned for its mechanical trigger—a distinct advantage over inertia triggers which require the recoil of the first shot to set the second. The 825 introduces the FireLite 2 Mechanical Trigger.38 The “2” designation implies a refinement in lock time and crispness. For sub-gauge shooters (.410 and 28ga), mechanical triggers are essential because the light recoil of these gauges sometimes fails to reset inertia triggers, leading to a failure to fire the second barrel. By standardizing a superior mechanical trigger, Browning ensures the 825 is “sub-gauge ready” by design and addresses a common complaint among competitive sub-gauge shooters.

Aesthetic & Ergonomic Changes

The 825 features “sharper, modern contours” on the receiver.38 This is a subtle but intentional attempt to shed the “grandpa’s gun” image while retaining the classic silhouette that loyalists expect. The Low-Profile Receiver remains a key selling point, designed to compete with the naturally lower-profile Beretta action, offering a closer hand-to-bore relationship that many shooters find aids in natural pointing.

The A5 20-Gauge

After years of consumer demand, Browning has finally released the A5 20-Gauge.19 This model incorporates the Kinematic Drive system and the Speed Load Plus feature, which allows for rapid loading of the chamber directly from the magazine tube. The delay in this release suggests Browning took time to refine the inertia system for the specific recoil impulse of the 20-gauge shell, ensuring reliability with lighter loads—a common stumbling block for inertia guns in sub-gauges.

CVA: The Single-Shot Specialist

CVA has carved a lucrative niche by ignoring the semi-auto/pump wars and focusing on high-quality single-shot break actions. The Scout Spur 28 Gauge is a masterclass in reading the room.21

  • The Trend: Turkey hunting has shifted from “volume of fire” to “one precise shot.”
  • The Enabler: TSS (Tungsten Super Shot) allows a 28-gauge to kill turkeys effectively at 40+ yards, distances previously reserved for 12-gauges.
  • The Product: A lightweight, pistol-gripped, optics-ready single shot. It is inexpensive, incredibly light to carry, and purely functional. It is the antithesis of the $3,000 semi-auto, yet it accomplishes the same task for the specific application of turkey hunting. The inclusion of a threaded barrel for chokes and a Picatinny rail for red dots makes it “turn-key” for the modern turkey hunter.

KelTec: KS7 Gen 2

KelTec has released the KS7 Gen 2, an update to its single-tube bullpup shotgun.25 The KS7 is known for its extreme compactness and futuristic aesthetic, but the Gen 1 suffered from harsh recoil due to its light weight and somewhat rudimentary ergonomics. The Gen 2 addresses these issues with refined ergonomics and an improved carry handle and sighting system. By smoothing out the rough edges of the platform, KelTec is attempting to move the KS7 from a “niche novelty” to a serious contender in the backpacking and truck-gun market, where size and weight are the primary constraints.

Mossberg: The Tactical Pivot and Premium Partnerships

Mossberg has delivered the most disruptive announcements of the pre-show week with its 990 Series and the Chisel Machining Collaboration.

590R/RM Chisel: Factory Customization

The decision to ship the 590R (Rotary Safety) and 590RM (Rotary Mag-Fed) with Chisel Machining folding stocks is a watershed moment for the brand.1 Chisel stocks are high-end, billet aluminum aftermarket parts that typically cost $400-$500 alone.

  • The Strategy: Mossberg is effectively acknowledging that a significant portion of their customer base buys a 590 and immediately spends hundreds of dollars upgrading it. By offering this configuration from the factory, they capture that revenue, warranty the complete package, and allow the consumer to finance the entire “build” in a single purchase.
  • The Rotary Safety: The “R” series moves the safety to a rotary switch (likely near the grip), departing from the signature top-tang safety Mossberg is known for. This is necessitated by the pistol grip stock; top-tang safeties are ergonomically difficult to actuate without breaking a pistol grip hold. This design choice proves Mossberg is prioritizing tactical ergonomics over brand tradition in its specialized SKUs. The stocks also feature 8-position adjustability and QD cups, further enhancing the premium nature of the offering.1

The 990 Aftershock SPX

The 990 represents a new gas-operated semi-auto platform.27 While details are still emerging, the “Aftershock” nomenclature and the “compact gas system” description suggest a system optimized for short barrels (14″-18″) and varied tactical loads. Unlike the 940 Pro, which is a competition-bred thoroughbred derived from the 930 JM Pro, the 990 appears to be a duty-grade workhorse designed to compete directly with the Beretta 1301 and A300 Ultima Patrol. The inclusion of an M-LOK handguard and optic-ready receiver as standard features reinforces its “duty-ready” positioning.

Reserve Series Expansion

Mossberg is also expanding its “Reserve” line of over/unders, introducing Gold Reserve models in 16-gauge and Silver Reserve models in 28-gauge and.410 for turkey applications.26 The 16-gauge release is particularly notable, tapping into a cult following of upland hunters who view the 16-gauge as the perfect ballistic compromise between 12 and 20.

Remington: The 870 DM Returns

The re-introduction of the 870 DM (Detachable Magazine) is a fascinating study in corporate persistence.28 The original launch (pre-bankruptcy) was plagued by magazine reliability issues and a market that wasn’t quite ready for mag-fed pumps.

  • Why Now? The success of the Mossberg 590M and various Turkish mag-fed imports has proven there is a sustained market demand for magazine-fed shotguns.
  • The Risk: Remington (now under Vista Outdoor’s ammunition umbrella—though the firearms side is RemArms) must ensure the magazines are flawless. A mag-fed pump that jams is useless compared to a tube-fed one. If they have solved the feed geometry issues, this offers a legacy alternative to the Mossberg 590M, available in Tactical, Predator, and Hardwood configurations. The “Hardwood” model specifically appeals to traditionalists who want modern capacity with a classic look.

Ruger: The Outsourced Icon

Ruger’s return to the shotgun market with the Red Label III is a strategic pivot from “manufacturing” to “curating”.6

  • The Shift: Previous Red Labels were built in-house by Ruger using investment casting. They were robust, American-made icons, but they were also heavy and difficult to manufacture profitably at a competitive price point.
  • The Partner: By partnering with Connecticut Shotgun Manufacturing Company (CSMC), Ruger is tapping into a tier of craftsmanship significantly above their mass-market baseline. CSMC is known for the RBL and A-10 American, guns that typically cost significantly more than the Red Label III’s $3,299 MSRP.
  • The Implication: This partnership suggests Ruger has concluded it cannot manufacture a high-end, hand-fitted over/under profitably in its own factories. This “white-labeling” of a premium American brand allows Ruger to re-enter the high-margin O/U market without the massive capital expenditure of retooling a production line. It positions the Red Label III as a true luxury item rather than a working man’s field gun.

TriStar: The Agility of Import

TriStar continues to be the fastest adapter in the industry. The Upland Hunter Thumbhole is a direct response to the “crossover” hunter—someone who hunts turkeys in the spring and pheasants in the fall.32 The thumbhole stock offers the pistol-grip control needed for steady turkey aiming but retains enough fluidity for upland wing shooting. At a sub-$1,000 price point, they capture the demographic that aspires to the ergonomics of a Benelli SBE3 Turkey but lacks the budget. The 20-gauge chambering and “Green Leaf” camo pattern further cement its dual-purpose identity.33

Winchester: Ergonomics and Specialized Finishes

Winchester’s focus for 2026 is on filling ergonomic gaps and expanding successful lines.

  • SX4 Left Hand: Winchester has finally released a true left-hand ejection version of the Super X4.34 For the ~10% of the population that is left-handed, this is a major quality-of-life improvement, eliminating the distraction of hulls ejecting across their field of view. Available in both Waterfowl (Max-7 camo) and Field configurations, this ensures left-handed shooters have access to the same specialized tools as their right-handed counterparts.
  • SXP Extreme Defender: The SXP Extreme Defender gets a new “Woodland FDE” finish.12 While largely cosmetic, this model leverages the SXP’s rotary bolt and inertia-assisted pump action, which is known for being one of the fastest cycling pump actions on the market. The tactical aesthetic aligns with the broader industry trend of militarizing defensive shotguns.

Industry Trend Analysis

1. The Death of the “Stock” Shotgun

The overarching theme of the 2026 announcements is that the days of buying a plain wood-and-steel shotgun and modifying it are fading. Vendors are offering “finished” solutions.

  • Tactical: Mossberg and Beretta are selling guns with optic cuts, M-LOK rails, and custom stocks out of the box. The consumer no longer needs to source a mag-tube extension or a rail; it’s already there.
  • Turkey: CVA, Dickinson, and Stoeger are selling guns with optics rails, pistol grips, and specialized chokes installed.
  • Competition: Beretta is selling guns with DLC coatings and balancing systems pre-installed.
    This captures margin for the manufacturer and simplifies the purchase journey for the consumer, but it puts pressure on traditional gunsmiths and small accessory retailers who rely on the “upgrade” market.

2. The 28-Gauge Power Grab

Five years ago, a 28-gauge turkey gun was a novelty. In 2026, it is a headline release for CVA, Benelli, TriStar, and Breda. This is entirely driven by ammunition technology.

  • The Physics: A 28-gauge TSS load carries more pellets than a traditional 12-gauge lead load.
  • The Market: As the population of hunters ages, recoil management becomes a primary purchase driver. The industry is successfully convincing hunters to “trade down” in gauge while “trading up” in price (buying a new dedicated sub-gauge gun).

3. The “Gucci-Tactical” Mainstream

The collaboration between Mossberg and Chisel Machining cannot be overstated. Chisel is a niche, high-end brand known for skeletal, billet aluminum stocks popular on social media and YouTube. For a mass-market giant like Mossberg to adopt this aesthetic as a factory SKU signals that the “influencer aesthetic” has fully penetrated the product planning boardrooms of major OEMs. We can expect more collaborations of this nature (e.g., Remington x Mesa Tactical, Beretta x Aridus Industries) in the future as OEMs look to capitalize on brand heat generated in the aftermarket.

4. Supply Chain Bifurcation

We see a clear split in sourcing strategies:

  • The High Road: Ruger outsourcing to CSMC; Breda importing premium Italian. This strategy prioritizes brand prestige and build quality over volume.
  • The Volume Road: Mossberg, Remington, and Savage doubling down on domestic production for their core lines but utilizing global supply chains for components (magazines, furniture).
  • The Turkish Agile: TriStar, Stoeger (via Benelli), and Dickinson continuing to leverage Turkish manufacturing agility to fill niche gaps (thumbhole O/Us,.410 bullpups) faster than domestic makers can retool.

5. The “Tactical Integration” of the 590R Chisel

The specific case of the Mossberg 590R Chisel warrants detailed discussion as a bellwether for the “Tactical Integration” trend.1 By integrating the Chisel Machining stock, Mossberg is not just adding a folding mechanism; they are adding a stock that retails for over $400. This stock features Billet 6061-T6 aluminum construction, an adjustable cheek riser, and a kick-out mechanism that is far more robust than typical polymer folders. Furthermore, the 590R also features the Magpul MOE+ Grip, a standard-bearer in the AR-15 world. This indicates that shotgun manufacturers are looking to the AR-15 accessory ecosystem for ergonomic solutions. The “R” in 590R stands for the Rotary Safety, a departure from the top-tang safety. This ergonomic shift is critical: a top-tang safety is ideal for a traditional stock but awkward for a pistol grip. By re-engineering the safety location specifically for this stock configuration, Mossberg demonstrates a commitment to functional ergonomics over legacy design adherence.

Conclusion: The “Specialist” Era

The shotgun market of 2026 is no longer about the “do-it-all” firearm. The era of the Remington 870 Express that served for deer, ducks, and home defense is ending. In its place, we have the 28-gauge turkey specialist, the mag-fed tactical specialist, and the DLC-coated competition specialist.

For retailers, this means SKU proliferation and the need for more specialized staff training. A clerk can no longer just hand a customer a 12-gauge pump; they must understand the nuances of sub-gauge lethality, optic footprints, and suppressor compatibility. For consumers, it means better performance—at a higher total cost of ownership as they build purpose-specific armories. As SHOT Show opens, these pre-show announcements have set a high bar for innovation, driven not by new mechanics, but by specialized application and premium integration.

Appendix: Methodology

This report was compiled using Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) techniques, specifically analyzing press releases, industry news feeds, and digital publications released between January 11, 2026, and January 18, 2026.

Data Collection:

  • Primary Sources: Official press releases from manufacturers (Mossberg, Benelli, Ruger, etc.) hosted on their corporate sites and distributed via wire services (The Outdoor Wire, PR Newswire).
  • Secondary Sources: Industry trade publications (Shooting Industry, Firearms News) and credible enthusiast outlets (The Firearm Blog, American Rifleman).
  • Exclusion Criteria: Rumors, forums speculation without corroborating evidence, and products released prior to the target window (unless receiving a significant update or “Gen 2” launch in the window).

Analysis Framework:

  • Categorization: Products were categorized by primary use case (Tactical, Hunting, Sporting) based on vendor marketing positioning.
  • Trend Identification: Trends were identified by cross-referencing features (e.g., “folding stock,” “28 gauge”) across multiple independent vendors to establish industry-wide patterns.
  • Date Verification: Announcement dates were cross-checked against snippet timestamps to ensure inclusion in the “last seven days” criteria. Where exact dates were ambiguous (e.g., “New for 2026”), inclusion was granted if the product is a primary feature of the vendor’s SHOT Show 2026 booth as confirmed by show literature.

Limitations:

  • This report focuses on the pre-show announcement window. Additional “surprise” releases unveiled physically on the show floor on January 20th are not included in this dataset.
  • MSRP pricing is accurate at the time of writing but subject to change by distributors.

If you find this post useful, please share the link on Facebook, with your friends, etc. Your support is much appreciated and if you have any feedback, please email me at in**@*********ps.com. Please note that for links to other websites, we are only paid if there is an affiliate program such as Avantlink, Impact, Amazon and eBay and only if you purchase something. If you’d like to directly contribute towards our continued reporting, please visit our funding page.

Sources Used

  1. Mossberg Adds 590 and 590R Pump-Action Shotguns to 2026 Product Line, accessed January 18, 2026, https://www.firearmsnews.com/editorial/mossberg-590-590r-pumpaction/543622
  2. Mossberg 590R/RM Shotguns Now With Chisel Machining Folding Stocks, accessed January 18, 2026, https://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/mossberg-590r-rm-shotguns-now-with-chisel-machining-folding-stocks-44825296
  3. New Shotguns Coming in 2025 | NSSF SHOT Show 2026, accessed January 18, 2026, https://shotshow.org/new-shotguns-coming-in-2025/
  4. Best New Shotguns of SHOT Show 2025 – Split Reed, accessed January 18, 2026, https://splitreed.com/best-new-shotguns-of-shot-show-2025/
  5. Benelli Introduces SBE 3 Compact Series Shotguns, accessed January 18, 2026, https://www.benelliusa.com/resources/benelli-introduces-sbe-3-compact-series-shotguns
  6. Return Of The Red Label: Ruger’s New Red Label III Shotgun | An Official Journal Of The NRA – American Rifleman, accessed January 18, 2026, https://www.americanrifleman.org/content/return-of-the-red-label-ruger-s-new-red-label-iii-shotgun/
  7. Citori 825 Over & Under Shotgun Overview – Browning, accessed January 18, 2026, https://www.browning.com/products/firearms/shotguns/citori-825/overview.html
  8. Top 10 Exciting New Products from SHOT Show 2025 – Firearms News, accessed January 18, 2026, https://www.firearmsnews.com/editorial/Top-10-products-shot-show-2025/516163
  9. Benelli Announces New Super Black Eagle 3 Color Options, accessed January 18, 2026, https://www.benelliusa.com/resources/benelli-announces-new-super-black-eagle-3-color-options
  10. Benelli Shotguns and Rifles, accessed January 18, 2026, https://www.benelliusa.com/shotguns
  11. New From Benelli: M4 EXT Adds User-Requested Upgrades | thefirearmblog.com, accessed January 18, 2026, https://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/new-from-benelli-m4-ext-adds-user-requested-upgrades-44823925
  12. 6 New Shotguns For 2025 | An Official Journal Of The NRA – American Rifleman, accessed January 18, 2026, https://www.americanrifleman.org/content/6-new-shotguns-for-2025/
  13. Review: Benelli Nova 3 Tactical Shotgun | An Official Journal Of The NRA, accessed January 18, 2026, https://www.shootingillustrated.com/content/review-benelli-nova-3-tactical-shotgun/
  14. Beretta’s New 694 Black DLC Sporting Shotgun – Guns.com, accessed January 18, 2026, https://www.guns.com/news/2026/01/14/beretta-new-694-black-dlc-sporting-shotgun
  15. Beretta Introduces the 694 Black DLC: A Modern, High-Performance Evolution of a Clay-Shooting Favorite – The Outdoor Wire, accessed January 18, 2026, https://www.theoutdoorwire.com/releases/2026/01/beretta-introduces-the-694-black-dlc-a-modern-high-performance-evolution-of-a-clay-shooting-favorite
  16. New Guns And Gear January 2026 – Gun Digest, accessed January 18, 2026, https://gundigest.com/gear-ammo/guns-and-gear-january-2026
  17. Beretta AX800 Suprema, a new high-tech hunting shotgun – GUNSweek.com, accessed January 18, 2026, https://gunsweek.com/en/shotguns/news/beretta-ax800-suprema-new-high-tech-hunting-shotgun
  18. Outdoor Wire, accessed January 18, 2026, https://www.theoutdoorwire.com
  19. New For ’24: The Browning A5 20-Gauge, accessed January 18, 2026, https://www.browning.com/news/articles/shotguns/a5-20-gauge.html
  20. Browning Launches Numerous New-For-2025 Rifles And Shotguns, accessed January 18, 2026, https://www.browning.com/news/articles/general/shot-show-2025-lineup.html
  21. CVA Unveils Scout Spur in 28 Gauge – Guns.com, accessed January 18, 2026, https://www.guns.com/news/2026/01/15/cva-unveils-scout-spur-28-gauge
  22. CVA Scout Spur: 28 Gauge | NOW AVAILABLE! – YouTube, accessed January 18, 2026, https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=GkJw8Wavezk
  23. Franchi Shotguns and Rifles, accessed January 18, 2026, https://www.franchiusa.com/shotguns
  24. [SHOT 2025] New Shotguns and Bolt Action Rifles from Hatsan USA | thefirearmblog.com, accessed January 18, 2026, https://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/shot-2025-new-shotguns-and-bolt-action-rifles-from-hatsan-usa-44818519
  25. Kel-Tec – GUNSweek.com, accessed January 18, 2026, https://gunsweek.com/en/tags/kel-tec
  26. New Products – Collections O.F. Mossberg & Sons, accessed January 18, 2026, https://www.mossberg.com/collections/new-products.html
  27. Mossberg Launches 990 SPX Magpul Semi-Auto Tactical Shotgun | thefirearmblog.com, accessed January 18, 2026, https://www.thefirearmblog.com/blog/mossberg-launches-990-spx-magpul-semi-auto-tactical-shotgun-44825317
  28. Remington Launches the New 870 DM (Detachable Mag) Shotgun Line – Athlon Outdoors, accessed January 18, 2026, https://athlonoutdoors.com/article/remington-870-dm-shotgun/
  29. Rifleman Review: Remington Model 870 DM Shotgun | An Official Journal Of The NRA, accessed January 18, 2026, https://www.americanrifleman.org/content/rifleman-review-remington-model-870-dm-shotgun/
  30. Red Label™ III – Ruger, accessed January 18, 2026, https://www.ruger.com/products/redLabel/models.html
  31. New Shotguns of SHOT Show 2025 – Outdoor Life, accessed January 18, 2026, https://www.outdoorlife.com/guns/new-shotguns-shot-show-2025/
  32. New for 2026: TriStar Upland Hunter Thumbhole | An Official Journal Of The NRA, accessed January 18, 2026, https://www.americanhunter.org/content/new-for-2026-tristar-upland-hunter-thumbhole/
  33. The NEW Upland Hunter Thumbhole Shotgun from TriStar Arms – AllOutdoor.com, accessed January 18, 2026, https://www.alloutdoor.com/2026/01/16/upland-hunter-tristar-arms/
  34. SX4 Left Hand | Semi-Auto Shotgun – Winchester, accessed January 18, 2026, https://www.winchesterguns.com/products/shotguns/super-x4/sx4-left-hand.html
  35. Review: Winchester SX4 Left Hand Waterfowl Hunter | An Official Journal Of The NRA, accessed January 18, 2026, https://www.americanrifleman.org/content/review-winchester-sx4-left-hand-waterfowl-hunter/
  36. NOVA 3 Pump-Action Shotgun – Benelli, accessed January 18, 2026, https://www.benelliusa.com/shotguns/nova-3-pump-action-shotgun
  37. Benelli Expands Its Performance Shop Competition and Field Shotgun Lines, accessed January 18, 2026, https://www.benelliusa.com/resources/benelli-expands-its-performance-shop-competition-and-field-shotgun-lines
  38. Citori 825 Field – Over & Under Shotgun – Browning, accessed January 18, 2026, https://www.browning.com/products/firearms/shotguns/citori-825/citori-825-field.html