Shotguns on display rack with ammunition and officer in background
Analytics and Reports, Law Enforcement Analytics, Shotgun Analytics

Top 10 Most Common Law Enforcement Patrol Shotguns in the United States: 2025-2026

1. Executive Summary

The landscape of law enforcement shoulder-fired weapon systems in the United States has experienced steady transformation over the past two decades. Historically, the 12-gauge pump-action shotgun stood as the primary long gun within the patrol cruiser. However, the proliferation of the AR-15 platform patrol rifle initially appeared to supplant the shotgun in the primary lethal role, driven by the rifle’s advantages in magazine capacity, effective operational range, ballistic precision, and diminished felt recoil.1 Despite this shift in procurement and deployment doctrine, analysis of departmental policy reviews, armory inventories, and operator sentiment from 2025 and 2026 indicates that the patrol shotgun remains a relevant, specialized tactical asset.2

Law enforcement agencies currently deploy shotguns for specific operational mandates where the 12-gauge platform is ballistically and tactically suited. These niches include the delivery of high kinetic energy at close quarters, vehicle immobilization, ballistic door breaching, large wildlife dispatch, and the deployment of impact-based less-lethal munitions.1 The physical kinetic output of a 12-gauge shotgun—generating approximately 2,400 foot-pounds of energy compared to the 5.56mm NATO rifle’s 1,100 foot-pounds—ensures its continued utility in modern policing.2

The 2025-2026 timeframe reveals a technological divergence in weapon procurement. Traditional pump-action models remain the standard for less-lethal applications due to their ability to cycle low-pressure impact munitions reliably. Concurrently, self-loading semi-automatic shotguns are experiencing a notable increase in adoption for lethal roles.2 Modern semi-automatic systems mitigate the recoil associated with 12-gauge duty loads, allowing for faster follow-up shots and flattening the training curve for recruits.2 This report evaluates the top ten shotgun models currently utilized by local and state law enforcement, examining their typical configurations, lifecycle longevity, maintenance requirements, and the training doctrines governing their deployment.

2. The Strategic and Tactical Evolution of the Patrol Shotgun

To understand the current deployment architecture of the patrol shotgun, it is necessary to analyze the tactical roles it fulfills. The ascendancy of the patrol rifle addressed the need for precision engagement at extended distances. However, tactical analysts and field officers identified limitations in close-quarters stopping power, barrier penetration, and ammunition versatility—areas where the shotgun performs well.

The primary lethal application of the 12-gauge shotgun centers on kinetic energy transfer at close range. Standard law enforcement handgun calibers, such as the 9mm or.40 S&W, generate roughly 400 foot-pounds of energy upon impact.2 A standard round of 00 buckshot unleashes nine individual.32 caliber pellets simultaneously, creating multiple wound channels and delivering substantial physiological stopping power inside of 15 to 20 yards.2 For engagements involving vehicles or heavy physical barriers, the 1-ounce rifled slug provides penetration capabilities, effectively defeating light cover, glass, and engine components in a manner that lighter rifle rounds cannot consistently replicate.2

A significant operational factor sustaining the shotgun’s presence in 2025 and 2026 is its utility as a less-lethal delivery system. Departments routinely issue dedicated shotguns configured to fire impact munitions, such as 40-gram drag-stabilized bean bag rounds.8 These specialized platforms provide a force option positioned between chemical agents, electronic control weapons, and deadly force, allowing officers to engage non-compliant subjects from an extended standoff distance.4 This dedicated less-lethal role is becoming so prominent that some large agencies, such as the Fairfax County Police Department, have completely removed lethal shotguns from their cruisers, replacing their entire fleet with hundreds of dedicated less-lethal shotguns. While some agencies are transitioning to 40mm launcher systems, the 12-gauge bean bag shotgun remains integrated into the standard operational doctrine of thousands of local and state agencies due to existing inventory, lower ammunition costs, and familiar ergonomics.5

Ballistic PlatformStandard Duty Caliber/LoadAverage Projectile MassApproximate Muzzle EnergyPrimary Law Enforcement Application
Standard Duty Pistol9mm Luger (124gr JHP)124 grains~350 – 400 ft-lbsPrimary sidearm, continuous carry
Patrol Rifle5.56x45mm NATO (55gr)55 grains~1,100 – 1,200 ft-lbsPrecision engagement, distance, body armor defeat
Patrol Shotgun (Buckshot)12-Gauge 00 Buck (9 Pellets)~485 grains (total)~2,200 – 2,400 ft-lbsMaximum kinetic transfer, close-quarters
Patrol Shotgun (Slug)12-Gauge Rifled Slug (1 oz)437.5 grains~2,300 – 2,500 ft-lbsBarrier penetration, vehicle immobilization
Less-Lethal Shotgun12-Gauge Bean Bag40 grams (~617 grains)~100 – 120 ft-lbsPain compliance, blunt trauma incapacitation

3. Top 10 Shotguns Deployed in Local and State Agencies

Analysis of departmental inventories, procurement records, and operator discussions throughout 2025 and 2026 identifies the following ten shotguns as the most prevalent systems in active service. The platforms are sorted based on their estimated commonality and volume of deployment, reflecting the legacy presence of pump-action guns alongside the growing footprint of modern semi-automatics.

Top 10 law enforcement agencies

3.1 Remington 870 Police Magnum

The Remington 870 Police Magnum remains the most ubiquitous law enforcement shotgun in American policing. Characterized by dual-action bars and a milled steel receiver, the 870 has served as a core component of departmental armories for decades.3 The Police Magnum variant features factory-installed upgrades over commercial hunting models, including heavier sear springs, a more robust shell lifter, improved extractors, and alloy trigger guards designed to withstand physical abuse.12

In 2025 and 2026, the 870 remains prevalent, though its reputation is bifurcated based on the era of its manufacture. Operators generally favor older models—particularly those manufactured before 2007—for their mechanical smoothness and durability.3 These older models are often viewed as long-term assets.3 Models produced during the company’s financial decline experienced notable quality control issues, leading some departments to seek alternative platforms for new procurements.3 Despite this, the large volume of 870s currently in cruiser racks, coupled with their mechanical simplicity, secures its position at the top of the inventory list.3

The current average street price for a new Remington 870 Police Magnum is approximately $950.00.

3.2 Mossberg 590A1

The Mossberg 590A1 was engineered to meet U.S. military specifications, notably becoming the only pump-action shotgun to pass the MIL-SPEC 3443E test, a 3,000-round continuous live-fire military assessment without mechanical failure.14 It is distinguished from the standard Mossberg 500/590 series by a heavy-walled barrel, solid aluminum trigger guard, and metal tang safety button.15

For law enforcement, the 590A1 has become a primary choice for dedicated less-lethal deployments.8 Its robust construction ensures it handles the unique pressure curves of drag-stabilized bean bag rounds.16 The placement of the safety on the upper rear tang allows for ambidextrous operation without breaking the firing grip, a feature favored by users of traditional stocks.3 The 590A1’s reliability has positioned it as the main competitor to the Remington 870 in the pump-action duty market.2

The current average street price for the Mossberg 590A1 is approximately $650.00.

3.3 Mossberg 590

The standard Mossberg 590 serves as a utilitarian alternative to the heavier 590A1.2 It utilizes the same fundamental aluminum receiver and dual-action bar design but features a standard profile barrel and a high-impact polymer trigger group, reducing both weight and financial cost. The standard 590 is highly prevalent in local municipal police departments and rural sheriff’s offices.13

Mossberg has also expanded the 590 lineup to include the 590M Mag-Fed variants, which utilize detachable double-stack magazines. This configuration allows specialized units to rapidly transition between different types of specialized ammunition by swapping external magazines, rather than manipulating the tubular magazine.16

The current average street price for the standard Mossberg 590 is approximately $500.00.

3.4 Mossberg 500

The Mossberg 500 is the foundational commercial design upon which the tactical 590 series is built. While it lacks the easily cleanable magazine tube cap of the 590 and the heavy-duty components of the 590A1, it remains a formally authorized duty weapon in numerous jurisdictions.6 Its commercial availability, aftermarket support network, and low acquisition cost make it a practical choice for smaller agencies operating under budget constraints, or for use as a secondary weapon system.10

The current average street price for a Mossberg 500 is approximately $450.00.

3.5 Benelli M2

The Benelli M2 operates on an Inertia-Driven system, distinct from the gas-operated mechanisms of the Beretta series or the Benelli M4.17 The inertia system relies on the rearward energy of recoil to compress a heavy spring inside the bolt carrier, which then rebounds to cycle the action. This design results in a lighter weapon that runs clean, as propellant gases are not vented back into the receiver action.17

While proven over decades of police service, the M2 transfers slightly more physical recoil to the operator compared to gas-operated equivalents. As police departments prioritize recoil mitigation to improve qualification scores, gas-operated guns have outpaced the M2 in fresh acquisitions.6 Nevertheless, the M2 remains a staple in agencies that value a lightweight platform requiring minimal internal cleaning.3

The current average street price for a Benelli M2 is approximately $1,450.00.

3.6 Beretta A300 Ultima Patrol

Introduced to bridge the gap between premium performance and standard departmental budget constraints, the Beretta A300 Ultima Patrol has rapidly become a heavily procured patrol shotgun in 2025 and 2026.1 Priced lower than the flagship 1301, the A300 is manufactured in the United States and utilizes a proven gas-operated mechanism.19

The A300 Ultima Patrol features a shortened stock with a 13-inch length-of-pull to accommodate officers wearing hard body armor, textured grip areas for weapon retention, a 7+1 magazine capacity, and an enlarged loading port to facilitate reloading under stress.19 It includes integral M-LOK mounting points and Picatinny rails from the factory, reducing the need for aftermarket modifications.19 Its introduction offers semi-automatic reliability at a price point that municipalities can justify.7

The current average street price for the Beretta A300 Ultima Patrol is approximately $1,100.00.

3.7 Beretta 1301 Tactical

Representing a prominent example of modern, gas-operated combat shotguns, the Beretta 1301 Tactical has seen adoption by specialized tactical units, SWAT teams, and well-funded patrol divisions.1 The 1301 operates via Beretta’s proprietary BLINK gas system, which features a self-cleaning piston mechanism allowing the weapon to cycle up to 36% faster than competing models.22

The primary advantage of the 1301 Tactical in a law enforcement context is its ability to reduce felt recoil while maintaining a high rate of fire.2 This recoil mitigation assists officers of smaller statures or those with less extensive firearms experience in managing 12-gauge duty loads.23 Custom configurations feature proprietary internal enhancements, refined ergonomics, and direct-mount optic capabilities, elevating the platform within the industry.22

The current average street price for the Beretta 1301 Tactical is approximately $1,650.00.

3.8 Benelli Nova / SuperNova Tactical

Benelli’s entry into the pump-action market is represented by the Nova and SuperNova series.17 These shotguns feature an internal steel skeletal framework overmolded with high-strength polymer, resulting in a single-piece, unified stock and receiver unit.25 This design renders the weapon resistant to the elements, making it suitable for highway patrol units or agencies operating in corrosive coastal environments.

Its suitability for widespread law enforcement deployment is evidenced by the Virginia State Police, which recently transitioned its entire agency to the Benelli SuperNova, replacing its legacy fleet of Remington 870s. The SuperNova variant includes Benelli’s ComforTech recoil-reduction system in the stock, which utilizes synthetic chevrons to absorb energy, diminishing the physical impact of magnum duty loads.24 Both models feature a shell-stop button located under the forend that allows an officer to extract a chambered round without feeding another shell from the magazine—a useful tactical feature for rapidly transitioning to a slug.24

The current average street price for the Benelli Nova/SuperNova Tactical is approximately $500.00.

3.9 Winchester 1300 / SXP Defender

While no longer the dominant market force it once was, the Winchester 1300 (and its modern successor, the SXP Defender) is still actively present in the armories of various agencies.26 The Winchester platform is renowned for its rotary bolt design, which features inertia-assisted cycling. The mechanism unlocks with the rearward pressure upon firing, mechanically assisting the pump stroke and creating a fast pump-action cycle.26 These weapons frequently appear in current police inventories as legacy systems or as recent budget-conscious acquisitions where the SXP platform provides a functional defensive tool.27

The current average street price for the Winchester SXP Defender is approximately $375.00.

3.10 Benelli M4

The Benelli M4 serves as a benchmark for reliability in the semi-automatic shotgun category.13 Built around the Auto-Regulating Gas-Operated (A.R.G.O.) system, which features dual stainless steel, self-cleaning pistons located forward of the chamber, the M4 was originally designed for the U.S. Marine Corps to function in austere environments.22

In the domestic law enforcement context, the M4 is typically reserved for elite SWAT, Emergency Response Teams, or specialized breaching units rather than general patrol.13 This is largely due to its high acquisition cost and substantial physical weight.22 However, for agencies that prioritize heavy-duty construction over budgetary limits, the M4 remains a respected asset.2 Recent commercial and LE iterations feature extended bolt releases, enlarged charging handles, and five-position collapsible stocks to improve ergonomics and accommodate various armor profiles.32

The current average street price for the Benelli M4 Tactical is approximately $2,000.00.

4. Typical Cruiser Configurations and Deployment Strategies

The operational configuration of the patrol shotgun has evolved to mirror the modularity seen in the AR-15 platform. The base shotguns of the late 20th century—typically featuring wooden stocks, blued metal finishes, and brass bead sights—have been largely phased out of frontline service, replaced by systems designed around the biomechanics of armored officers.2

Optics and Sighting Systems

Precision is a legal and tactical mandate in modern law enforcement to mitigate the liabilities associated with errant projectiles. Consequently, standard bead sights have been largely superseded by adjustable ghost ring sights or enclosed micro red dot optics.2 The integration of optics, such as the Steiner MPS, Holosun EPS, or Holosun 407k/507k, allows for rapid target acquisition while allowing the officer to keep both eyes open, improving peripheral situational awareness.18

To mount these optics securely without compromising the weapon’s profile, aftermarket solutions like the Aridus Industries CROM (Co-Witness Ready Optic Mount) are utilized.18 The CROM interfaces directly with the receiver, mounting the red dot low enough to co-witness with iron sights. The addition of red dot optics extends the precise and legally defensible range of the platform when firing 1-ounce rifled slugs.2

Ammunition Carriage and Management

Reloading a tubular shotgun magazine under stress is a fine-motor skill that degrades due to adrenaline. To address this vulnerability, modern LE setups include on-gun ammunition carriage. Bulky hard-plastic side saddles have been largely replaced by industrial Velcro systems adhered to the receiver, paired with elastic shotgun cards (e.g., Esstac or Spanker cards).18 These lightweight cards hold five to seven shells. When a card is depleted, it can be torn off the receiver and replaced with a fully loaded card from the officer’s tactical vest.18

Ergonomics, Illumination, and Slings

Given the use of hard body armor in patrol operations, traditional shotgun stocks force the operator to blade their body toward the threat, exposing the unarmored armpit area.16 Modern configurations employ shortened stocks (such as the Magpul SGA or the proprietary stock found on the Beretta A300) with a 12.5 to 13-inch length of pull.16 This ergonomic shift allows the officer to square up directly to the threat, maximizing ballistic plate coverage and improving control over recoil.16

Target identification in low-light environments is an operational requirement. High-lumen, shock-resistant weapon lights are mounted directly to the weapon via integrated M-LOK slots.1 Slings, typically modern two-point quick-adjustable variations, are securely affixed via QD (Quick Detach) sockets, allowing the officer to transition to a sidearm or go hands-on without relinquishing control of the long gun.19

Black and white photo on white background

Lethal vs. Less-Lethal Distinction and Cruiser Storage Procedures

The potential for a “cross-loading” error—accidentally loading a lethal round into a shotgun intended for less-lethal deployment—represents a critical liability.4 To prevent this, less-lethal shotguns are permanently modified with high-visibility orange furniture.4 Departmental policies mandate strict physical separation of ammunition types on the officer’s person and within the vehicle.

When not actively deployed in the field, these weapons are secured in heavy-duty electronic locking racks located either in the passenger compartment or trunk.2 They are universally kept in standard states of readiness depending on agency policy. “Cruiser Ready” (also known as Condition 3) dictates that the safety is on, the chamber is completely empty, the action is closed and unlocked (the trigger having been pulled on an empty chamber to drop the hammer), and the magazine tube is fully loaded. This allows the officer to deploy the weapon rapidly by simply racking the pump action. Conversely, “Cruiser Safe” dictates that the action is closed and locked (with the hammer cocked), requiring the officer to press the action release button before racking the slide. Both conditions ensure the weapon cannot discharge if the vehicle is involved in a severe collision.

5. Lifecycle Analysis: Age, Reliability, and Armorer Maintenance

A defining characteristic of the law enforcement shotgun is its operational lifespan. Unlike duty pistols, which are frequently traded in every seven to ten years due to frame fatigue or technological obsolescence, the shotgun is often treated as a long-term asset.

Longevity and Age Profiles

Data indicates that the average age of a patrol shotgun in a standard municipal or state agency fleet spans from 15 to 30 years of service.3 It is not uncommon to find Remington 870s and Mossberg 590s procured during the late 1990s still in active service.3 Officers note that older models, particularly 870 Wingmasters originally fielded in the 1960s and 1970s, are still mechanically sound and functioning within acceptable parameters.3

This longevity is attributed to the inherent durability and robust engineering of the pump-action mechanism. These weapons lack complex gas systems, fine-tuned reciprocating masses, or delicate springs susceptible to rapid degradation.3 The heavy-duty receivers and thick-walled steel barrels withstand the physical abuse of being stored in a cruiser rack across rough terrain for decades.

Maintenance Schedules and Repair Frequency

The maintenance overhead for patrol shotguns is low, which appeals to departmental armorers and budget directors. Routine maintenance generally consists of a visual inspection by the patrol officer at the start and end of each shift to ensure the weapon is clear of barrel obstructions and surface rust.36 Comprehensive cleaning is infrequent; most duty shotguns are field-stripped and cleaned only once a year, immediately following the department’s annual qualification shoot, or when exposed to severe weather.3

Factory-certified armorers conduct detailed annual inspections to verify headspacing, part wear, and safety function.37 The frequency of mechanical repair is low. When parts fail on high-mileage pump-action guns, the issues are almost exclusively localized to easily replaceable, low-cost components.

Common Mechanical IssueRoot CauseStandard Armorer RepairApproximate Parts Cost
Failure to Feed (Next shell stuck in tube)Weakened magazine tube spring from years of constant compressionReplace tubular magazine spring$10 – $15
Failure to Extract (Spent hull stuck in chamber)Broken or chipped extractor clawReplace extractor and extractor spring$15 – $20
Failure to Eject (Spent hull fails to clear receiver)Worn or bent ejectorReplace ejector$7 – $12
Action Binding / StiffnessCarbon/debris buildup or bent action barsDeep ultrasonic clean; replace action bar assembly$0 – $45

The most common armorer interventions include replacing worn magazine tube springs and swapping out worn extractors or ejectors.3 A failure to stay in battery or properly eject a spent hull can often be remedied by an armorer with a $7 replacement ejector, returning the weapon to factory-level working order.3

Trade-In and Replacement Triggers

Agencies initiate the procurement of new shotguns or transition entirely to rifles when the fleet reaches an advanced state of mechanical degradation that impacts reliability across multiple units. Reports indicate that shotguns in service for over 15 to 20 years eventually experience systemic issues with action slides failing to feed reliably, sight alignment drifting due to physical impacts, and general operational stiffness.11 At this stage, agencies frequently utilize law enforcement distributors to trade in the aging fleet, offsetting the cost of new acquisitions like the Virginia State Police’s transition to the Benelli SuperNova.

6. Training Doctrines, Shooting Frequency, and Qualification Standards

Despite the tactical utility of the shotgun, comprehensive training regimens have steadily declined across the country in favor of focusing range time on the patrol rifle and duty pistol. The prevailing training doctrine in many modern police academies currently allocates only a small fraction of range time to the shotgun.34

The Degradation of Operator Skill

This reduction in foundational training has led to a decline in officers’ physical ability to manipulate the platform effectively under stress.39 The pump-action shotgun requires deliberate operator input. The most common user-induced malfunction is “short-stroking”—failing to rack the slide fully to the rear to eject the spent hull and forcefully forward to chamber the new round—which results in a failure to eject or feed.3 When fine motor skills degrade due to adrenaline, the physical act of pumping the gun correctly often falls apart without ingrained muscle memory.

Recoil management also remains a psychological and physical hurdle. Unfamiliar or smaller-statured shooters tend to unconsciously raise their heads away from the stock in anticipation of recoil, breaking their cheek weld and driving the stock into their shoulder awkwardly.16 This causes physical discomfort, leading to an aversion to the weapon system.16 This training scar is a primary driver behind the modern department transition toward recoil-mitigating semi-automatic platforms like the Beretta A300 and 1301.1

Shooting Frequency and Qualification Hurdles

The frequency with which line patrol officers actually fire their shotguns is statistically low. Excluding specialized SWAT or tactical teams, the vast majority of patrol officers fire their issued shotguns only during legally mandated annual qualifications.40 These annual sessions typically require the expenditure of a minimal amount of ammunition—often between 25 and 50 rounds total for the entire year.33

A small percentage of motivated officers utilize optional open range days to train on their own, firing upwards of 250 to 500 rounds annually to maintain proficiency, but they represent a statistical minority.40

Bar chart showing percentage of shotgun training

When officers do fail their shotgun qualifications, firearms instructors report that the root causes are rarely mechanical failures of the weapon. Instead, failures stem from self-imposed stress, rushing mechanics to beat the shot-timer, improper mounting of the weapon, and failing to utilize the sights.45 Remedial training usually involves isolating the officer to reduce performance anxiety, engaging in slow dry-fire drills to correct biomechanics, and slowly rebuilding confidence.45

To combat this degradation in skill, regulatory bodies are enforcing stricter standards. The Pennsylvania Municipal Police Officers’ Education and Training Commission (MPOETC) mandated a formalized, mandatory shotgun qualification course effective January 1, 2026, officially replacing older, less rigorous “optional” familiarization standards.43 The 2026 MPOETC Patrol Shotgun qualification course specifically requires the timed, graded engagement of targets using 15 total rounds (5 rifled slugs and 10 rounds of 00 buckshot) from varying distances and positions, such as standing barricade and kneeling.44

7. Operator Sentiment and Field Feedback

Open discussions among law enforcement personnel throughout 2025 and 2026 reveal a deep respect for the patrol shotgun. It occupies a unique space in police culture, serving as a bridge between older generations of policing and the modernized, tactically focused present.

The Myth of the “Racking Sound”

A persistent psychological phenomenon associated with the shotgun is the deterrent effect of violently racking the pump action. While firearms instructors, legal experts, and tactical analysts dismiss the idea that the sound alone will consistently induce a subject to surrender as a myth, officers continually report anecdotal instances where the distinct, metallic clatter of an 870 or 590 chambering a round successfully de-escalated a volatile situation without the need to fire a single shot.6 Regardless of empirical validity or tactical soundness (as racking an empty chamber means the weapon was not ready for immediate use), this deterrent remains an ingrained facet of the shotgun’s street lore.

Preference for Platforms

When discussing specific platforms, operator loyalty is fierce. The Mossberg vs. Remington debate centers on highly specific ergonomics. Officers who prefer the Mossberg 590 series praise the ambidextrous tang safety and the fully open loading port (which lacks a shell lifter resting in the down position, making rapid reloads easier).3

Conversely, loyalists to the Remington 870 point to the smoothness of the action and the intuitive placement of the slide release near the trigger guard.3 For veteran officers, the 870 represents consistent reliability.3

However, when departmental budgets permit, the transition to modern semi-automatics is met with enthusiasm. Officers issued the Beretta 1301 or A300 Ultima Patrol frequently state that the reduction in recoil and the rapid cycle rate of follow-up shots make it difficult to return to a pump-action system for lethal duties.1

The Realities of Ballistic Spread

A common misconception among the civilian populace is that a shotgun does not need to be aimed carefully due to the massive spread of the shot. Field officers and firearms instructors actively combat this myth, noting that modern law enforcement ammunition, particularly rounds utilizing specialized wads like Federal’s FLITECONTROL, hold incredibly dense, tight patterns.23 Officers report the ability to place tight groupings of 00 buckshot directly on target at distances of 50 to 75 yards.23 This level of precision requires deliberate, sighted fire, mirroring the fundamentals used for the patrol rifle, dispelling the notion of the shotgun as a careless “area of effect” weapon.

8. Strategic Outlook and Conclusions

The patrol shotgun has completed a necessary, highly specific evolution within American law enforcement. The era of the shotgun serving as a general-purpose implement for patrol encounters has been closed by the ballistic advantages of the AR-15 patrol rifle. However, the data, procurement records, and operator sentiments from 2025 and 2026 demonstrate that the 12-gauge platform remains indispensable to the modern police mission.

For the foreseeable future, the heavy-duty pump-action shotgun—led dominantly by the Mossberg 590A1 and legacy fleets of Remington 870s—will maintain a monopoly on the deployment of less-lethal impact munitions, offering a combination of mechanical reliability under low pressures and multi-decade lifecycle longevity.8 Simultaneously, the lethal shotgun role is being rejuvenated by the integration of advanced semi-automatic platforms like the Beretta A300 Ultima Patrol and the 1301 Tactical.19 By addressing the historical limitations of recoil and slow manual cycle rates, and by embracing modern optic and illumination technology, these advanced systems ensure that the law enforcement shotgun will remain a highly effective, specialized tactical asset well into the next decade.

Note: Vendor Sources listed are not an endorsement of any given vendor. It is our software reporting a product page given the direction to list products that are between the minimum and average sales price when last scanned.

Please share the link on Facebook, Forums, with colleagues, etc. Your support is much appreciated and if you have any feedback, please email us in**@*********ps.com. If you’d like to request a report or order a reprint, please click here for the corresponding page to open in new tab.

Sources Used

  1. Now that ARs are the new normal for patrol, are there any … – Reddit, accessed June 27, 2026, https://www.reddit.com/r/AskLE/comments/1re0enq/now_that_ars_are_the_new_normal_for_patrol_are/
  2. Shotguns in the Squad Car: Still a Tactical Asset? – Police and …, accessed June 27, 2026, https://policeandsecuritynews.com/2025/09/19/shotguns-in-the-squad-car-still-a-tactical-asset/
  3. Are any Troopers or Deputies on here issued the Remington 870 …, accessed June 27, 2026, https://www.reddit.com/r/AskLE/comments/1mdrgl1/are_any_troopers_or_deputies_on_here_issued_the/
  4. What is this weapon? : r/police – Reddit, accessed June 27, 2026, https://www.reddit.com/r/police/comments/1i56hte/what_is_this_weapon/
  5. Are Shotguns Still Viable? : r/police – Reddit, accessed June 27, 2026, https://www.reddit.com/r/police/comments/1iyy488/are_shotguns_still_viable/
  6. Best Tactical Shotgun for Home Defense [2026] – Recoil Magazine, accessed June 27, 2026, https://www.recoilweb.com/best-tactical-shotgun-for-home-defense-161809.html
  7. Product review: Beretta A300 Ultima Patrol police shotgun – Police1, accessed June 27, 2026, https://www.police1.com/police-products/firearms/shotguns/beretta-a300-ultima-patrol-bringing-the-law-enforcement-shotgun-back-and-better-than-ever
  8. Policy and Procedure DEPARTMENT ISSUED WEAPONS AND LESS LETHAL EQUIPMENT 2018-06 – BRAINTREE POLICE DEPARTMENT, accessed June 27, 2026, https://www.braintreepd.org/DocumentCenter/View/467/Department-Issue-Firearms-And-Less-Lethal
  9. Why don’t police use pepper spray on people with knives? – Reddit, accessed June 27, 2026, https://www.reddit.com/r/police/comments/1m1vf8c/why_dont_police_use_pepper_spray_on_people_with/
  10. Lehi City Police Department, accessed June 27, 2026, https://www.lehi-ut.gov/media/w1ol2ehk/lehi-city-pd-policy-manual-compressed-compressed.pdf
  11. SR – – PURCHASE REMINGTON 870 POLICE MODEL SHOTGUNS, accessed June 27, 2026, https://citydocs.cityoforange.org/WebLink/DocView.aspx?id=243636964&dbid=0&repo=CityofOrange
  12. Remington 870 Rehab: The Resurrection Of The Gauge – Athlon Outdoors, accessed June 27, 2026, https://athlonoutdoors.com/article/remington-870-rehab-the-resurrection-of-the-gauge/
  13. As of 2025, what shotguns do police and swat usually use? – Reddit, accessed June 27, 2026, https://www.reddit.com/r/Shotguns/comments/1k11l4b/as_of_2025_what_shotguns_do_police_and_swat/
  14. What’s the best 12 gauge shotgun for all purpose Mossberg 590 series vs the old reliable Remington 870 express – Reddit, accessed June 27, 2026, https://www.reddit.com/r/mossberg/comments/1m1v4qr/whats_the_best_12_gauge_shotgun_for_all_purpose/
  15. GUN TEST – Mossberg 590A1 12-Gauge – Athlon Outdoors, accessed June 27, 2026, https://athlonoutdoors.com/article/gun-test-mossberg-590a1-12gauge/
  16. Testing Mossberg’s new Professional Series: An evolution in fighting shotguns – Police1, accessed June 27, 2026, https://www.police1.com/shot-show/testing-mossbergs-new-professional-series-an-evolution-in-fighting-shotguns
  17. A300 Ultima Patrol – Beretta, accessed June 27, 2026, https://www.beretta.com/en-us/product/a300-ultima-patrol-FA0007
  18. Best Tactical Semi-Automatic Shotguns in 2026: Top Picks for Home Defense and Duty Use, accessed June 27, 2026, https://dirtybirdusa.com/best-tactical-semi-automatic-shotguns-in-2026/
  19. Rifle certification : r/ProtectAndServe – Reddit, accessed June 27, 2026, https://www.reddit.com/r/ProtectAndServe/comments/1l79tyr/rifle_certification/
  20. Beretta’s 1301 Tactical vs. A300 Ultima Patrol Shotguns: Which Should You Choose? | An Official Journal Of The NRA – American Rifleman, accessed June 27, 2026, https://www.americanrifleman.org/content/beretta-s-1301-tactical-vs-a300-ultima-patrol-shotguns-which-should-you-choose/
  21. SHOTShow video reports: Beretta’s A300 Ultima sets new standard for police shotguns, accessed June 27, 2026, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7tne3PxswNo
  22. M4 Tactical Series | Benelli Shotguns and Rifles, accessed June 27, 2026, https://www.benelliusa.com/family-series/m4-tactical-series
  23. M4 Tactical Semi-Auto Shotguns | Benelli Shotguns and Rifles, accessed June 27, 2026, https://www.benelliusa.com/shotguns/m4-tactical-semi-auto-shotguns
  24. Benelli’s New M4 EXT – Shotgun Review – YouTube, accessed June 27, 2026, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j6505w-18xA
  25. Benelli LE Firearms | Benelli Law Enforcement and Defense Tactical Shotguns, accessed June 27, 2026, https://www.benellile.com/
  26. Mossberg® Launches Mag-Fed 590® Pump-Action Shotgun, accessed June 27, 2026, https://resources.mossberg.com/journal/new-590m-mag-fed-pump-action
  27. Nova Series | Benelli Shotguns and Rifles, accessed June 27, 2026, https://www.benelliusa.com/family-series/nova-series
  28. Nova Pump-Action Shotguns – Benelli, accessed June 27, 2026, https://www.benelliusa.com/shotguns/nova-pump-action-shotguns
  29. SXP Trench | Pump-Action Shotgun – Winchester, accessed June 27, 2026, https://www.winchesterguns.com/products/shotguns/sxp/sxp-trench.html
  30. Winchester 1300 – For Sale :: Shop Online – Guns.com, accessed June 27, 2026, https://www.guns.com/search?keyword=winchester+1300
  31. WINCHESTER Model 1300 Defender – YouTube, accessed June 27, 2026, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ziF3nGzyMt4
  32. Winchester Tactical Shotguns for Sale – Buds Gun Shop, accessed June 27, 2026, https://www.budsgunshop.com/search.php/type/tactical+shotguns/manu/23
  33. HCCO Pct. 1 – Annual Firearms Training/Qualifications 2026 – Constable Alan Rosen, accessed June 27, 2026, https://pct1constable.net/2025/06/05/hcco-pct-1-annual-firearms-qualifications-2025/
  34. Shotguns : r/AskLE – Reddit, accessed June 27, 2026, https://www.reddit.com/r/AskLE/comments/1lnr1xy/shotguns/
  35. Policy 709 Military Equipment, accessed June 27, 2026, https://www.wvm.edu/services/police/community-transparency/_files/pdf/Policy-709-Military-Equipment-2026.pdf
  36. Gun cleaning : r/AskLE – Reddit, accessed June 27, 2026, https://www.reddit.com/r/AskLE/comments/1qd1b3c/gun_cleaning/
  37. Pennsylvania Troopers Get Remington 870P Shotgun with LED Forend – Police Magazine, accessed June 27, 2026, https://www.policemag.com/news/pennsylvania-troopers-get-remington-870p-shotgun-with-led-forend
  38. HONOLULU POLICE DEPARTMENT, accessed June 27, 2026, https://www.honolulupd.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/HPD-Policy-238-5-12-2025.pdf
  39. Why your agency shouldn’t shelve the shotgun – Police1, accessed June 27, 2026, https://www.police1.com/firearms/why-your-agency-shouldnt-shelve-the-shotgun
  40. How often do you guys go to the range? : r/AskLE – Reddit, accessed June 27, 2026, https://www.reddit.com/r/AskLE/comments/1o2sgdv/how_often_do_you_guys_go_to_the_range/
  41. how often do you goto the range with your service weapon? : r/AskLE – Reddit, accessed June 27, 2026, https://www.reddit.com/r/AskLE/comments/1pk7wk1/how_often_do_you_goto_the_range_with_your_service/
  42. How Many Times Per Year ? Firearms, DT, Training ?? : r/AskLE – Reddit, accessed June 27, 2026, https://www.reddit.com/r/AskLE/comments/1kfqq1x/how_many_times_per_year_firearms_dt_training/
  43. MPOETC 2026 Requirements for Firearms Qualification, accessed June 27, 2026, https://www.pa.gov/content/dam/copapwp-pagov/en/mpoetc/documents/training/firearms/mpoetc%20firearms%20qualification%20courses_dec_2025.pdf
  44. 2026 MPOETC Patrol Shotgun Qualification Course, accessed June 27, 2026, https://www.pa.gov/content/dam/copapwp-pagov/en/mpoetc/documents/training/firearms/shotgun_dec_2025.pdf
  45. Have you ever witnessed someone actually fail qualifications? : r/AskLE – Reddit, accessed June 27, 2026, https://www.reddit.com/r/AskLE/comments/1s7v95h/have_you_ever_witnessed_someone_actually_fail/
  46. In 2025 is this taught in tactics? Shotgun under armpit : r/ProtectAndServe – Reddit, accessed June 27, 2026, https://www.reddit.com/r/ProtectAndServe/comments/1m16gd4/in_2025_is_this_taught_in_tactics_shotgun_under/