Semi-Auto Shotguns

Semi-automatic shotguns cycle automatically with each trigger pull, eliminating the manual pump stroke and allowing faster follow-up shots with noticeably less felt recoil than pump-action equivalents. We stock the full semi-auto shotgun lineup from Benelli, Mossberg, Browning, Beretta, and more — for waterfowl hunting, upland birds, 3-Gun competition, and home defense.

Read our Semi-Auto Shotgun Buying Guide ↓

Gas-Operated vs. Inertia-Operated

Gas-operated semi-autos bleed propellant gas from the barrel to cycle the action. The gas system absorbs a significant portion of recoil — gas guns are noticeably softer-shooting than inertia guns with the same load. The tradeoff is more parts, more cleaning, and occasional sensitivity to very light loads. The Mossberg 930 and Beretta A400 series are gas-operated.

Inertia-operated semi-autos use the force of the shotgun's rearward recoil to cycle the bolt. Fewer moving parts, simpler cleaning, and extremely reliable with standard and heavy loads. The tradeoff is more felt recoil and occasional issues with very light target loads. Benelli pioneered inertia operation and the Nova, M2, and Super Black Eagle are the benchmark inertia guns.

Key Models We Stock

Benelli M2 — The gold standard for hunting semi-autos. Inertia-driven, supremely reliable, available in field and tactical configurations. The M2 Field is our top recommendation for a serious hunting semi-auto.

Benelli Super Black Eagle 3 — The top-end waterfowl and turkey gun. Handles 3.5" magnums reliably, available in camo patterns, and the most refined inertia gun made. For hunters who want the absolute best.

Mossberg 930 — The value pick for gas-operated semi-autos. Soft-shooting, reliable, and significantly less expensive than the Benelli equivalent. Available in field, tactical, and competition configurations.

Browning Maxus II — Browning's premium gas-operated hunting semi-auto. Excellent balance, smooth cycling, and a well-executed Speed Lock trigger system. A top choice for serious waterfowl hunters.

Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus — Built for demanding waterfowl conditions. Handles 3.5" shells reliably, Kick-Off recoil reduction system, and an oversized bolt handle for use with gloves. The premium hunting semi-auto for serious waterfowlers.

Semi-Auto for Home Defense

Semi-automatic shotguns work well for home defense — faster follow-up shots than a pump, and modern tactical semi-autos are very reliable. The Mossberg 930 Tactical and Benelli M4 are the top choices here. The Benelli M4 is the US Marine Corps' current service shotgun and one of the most battle-proven semi-auto shotguns ever made.

What to Know Before You Buy

  • Semi-autos can be ammunition-sensitive, especially inertia guns. Use loads at or above the manufacturer's minimum velocity recommendation for reliable cycling.
  • Gas guns require more frequent cleaning than inertia guns — carbon buildup in the gas system can cause cycling issues if neglected.
  • Most semi-auto shotguns accept standard choke tubes — verify thread compatibility before purchasing aftermarket chokes.
  • All shotguns ship to your local FFL dealer. Standard background check procedures apply.

Questions about which semi-auto shotgun is right for you? Call us at 800-917-7137 or use our live chat — we're happy to help.