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What Is a Bolt Action Shotgun?

Bolt action shotguns combine the rugged reliability of bolt-driven mechanisms with the power of shotgun shells, offering a unique shooting experience tailored for precision and performance.

While bolt action rifles have been popular for centuries, the bolt action shotgun emerged in the early 20th century as a specialized platform for hunters and sport shooters who valued accuracy, power, and simplicity.

One of the earliest mass-produced bolt action shotguns was introduced by J. Stevens Arms & Tool Company (which later became part of Savage Arms) in the 1920s.

These early models were built for affordability and durability, quickly finding favor among American sportsmen during the Great Depression.

As hunting regulations and firearm preferences evolved, bolt action shotguns maintained a niche appeal, especially among slug hunters, who needed a reliable, accurate platform for shooting large game at moderate distances.

Today, bolt action shotguns are experiencing a resurgence thanks to their effectiveness in slug-only hunting zones, where accuracy and single-shot control matter most. Their sturdy construction, ability to handle heavy slug loads, and simplified maintenance continue to make them a trusted choice for specialized applications.

From brush hunting to deer season, bolt action shotguns offer a balance of old-school functionality and modern utility.

At Ammunition Depot, we carry a selection of bolt action shotguns and compatible slugs, giving precision-minded shooters the tools they need for success in the field.

Different Shotgun Types

Pump-Action Shotguns

Pump-action shotguns are known for their dependability and versatility. Shooters manually operate the sliding fore-end to eject a spent shell and chamber a new one. This action makes pump guns incredibly reliable even in harsh conditions, which is why models like the Mossberg 500 and Remington 870 are favorites among hunters, law enforcement, and home defenders.

Semi-Automatic Shotguns

Semi-automatic shotguns automatically cycle the next round after each shot, thanks to gas or inertia-driven systems. These shotguns are loved for their fast follow-up shots and reduced recoil, making them popular for clay shooting sports, waterfowl hunting, and tactical applications. Well-known examples include the Benelli M2 and Beretta A300.

Break-Action Shotguns

Break-action shotguns are classic and simple in design, with barrels that hinge open for loading and unloading. They’re favored for their reliability, safety, and elegant aesthetics. Break-action shotguns come in several subcategories:

Single-Shot Shotguns

Single-barrel break-action shotguns are lightweight, easy to operate, and budget-friendly. Ideal for beginners or hunters seeking simplicity, these shotguns offer a single shot before reloading, encouraging careful marksmanship.

Over/Under Shotguns

Over/under shotguns feature two barrels stacked vertically. They’re prized in sporting clays, skeet, and upland bird hunting for their excellent balance, quick second shots, and the ability to select different chokes for each barrel. Models from Browning and Beretta are highly regarded in competitive shooting circles.

Side-by-Side Shotguns

With barrels positioned horizontally, side-by-side shotguns deliver traditional style and swift handling. They’re favored by upland hunters and enthusiasts who appreciate the classic look and instinctive pointing ability of this timeless design. Brands like CZ and Stoeger produce respected side-by-side models.

Bolt-Action Shotguns

Though less common, bolt-action shotguns offer superb strength and precision. Hunters seeking accuracy with slugs often choose bolt-action designs for deer and large-game hunting. Rifled barrels and the controlled cycling of the bolt make these shotguns excellent for delivering powerful, accurate shots at longer ranges.

Lever-Action Shotguns

Lever-action shotguns combine nostalgic appeal with functional speed. Operated by a lever beneath the receiver, these shotguns evoke Old West charm while delivering rapid follow-up shots. Popular for cowboy action shooting and collecting, models like the Winchester 1887 are timeless favorites.

Key Features of Bolt Action Shotguns

Bolt action shotguns are a specialized choice for shooters who prioritize accuracy, reliability, and slug performance.

While less common than pump-action shotguns, break-action, or semi-automatic shotguns, bolt action models offer several distinct features that make them ideal for hunting and precision shooting in regulated or slug-only areas.

Below are the most common and defining characteristics of modern bolt action shotguns:

Manually Operated Bolt Mechanism

The core of every bolt action shotgun is its manually operated bolt, similar to a bolt action rifle. This design allows for deliberate, precise cycling of shells, ideal for hunters who want maximum control with minimal moving parts.

Slug-Ready Barrel Design

Most bolt action shotguns feature rifled or smoothbore barrels optimized for slugs, making them particularly accurate for medium- to long-range shots.
Rifled barrels provide improved spin stabilization, giving slug hunters a ballistic edge in the field.

Detachable or Internal Box Magazine

While some models use traditional internal tube magazines, many modern bolt action shotguns are equipped with detachable box magazines for quicker reloads and convenient ammo swaps.
These typically hold 2 to 5 rounds depending on the gauge.

Heavy-Duty Construction

Built for rugged use in hunting and field environments, bolt action shotguns often feature steel or alloy receivers, synthetic stocks, and thick barrels, offering enhanced durability and recoil management.

Ambidextrous or Reversible Bolt Options

Some models cater to left- or right-handed shooters with ambidextrous bolt configurations or reversible bolt handles, ideal for improving comfort and usability across a wider range of shooters.

Extended Choke Compatibility

While primarily used for slugs, some bolt action shotguns support interchangeable choke systems, allowing users to customize spread and performance if using shot shells for different applications.

Top Brands We Offer

Whether you’re seeking a precision slug gun for deer season or a distance-capable platform for challenging terrain, these top manufacturers consistently deliver dependable options for serious shooters.

Savage Arms

One of the most recognized names in bolt action firearms, Savage Arms leads the way with their Savage 212 and 220 bolt action shotguns. Chambered in 12 and 20 gauge respectively, these shotguns are prized for their rifled barrels, crisp AccuTrigger, and tack-driving accuracy, making them a top choice among slug hunters.

Mossberg

Known primarily for their pump-action dominance, Mossberg also offers select bolt action models like the MVP series adapted for shotgun use in limited runs. Built on their reputation for reliability and performance, Mossberg’s bolt action offerings serve hunters looking for solid value and simplicity.

CZ-USA

CZ-USA has gained attention in the shotgun world with their well-crafted firearms, and while better known for break-action and semi-auto designs, they have introduced limited bolt action options tailored to precision and slug shooting. Their offerings are typically built with hunters in mind, emphasizing fit, finish, and function.

Ruger (Limited Runs)

Though not a traditional bolt-action shotgun producer, Ruger has dabbled in specialty platforms over the years. Some custom shops and regional distributors have offered bolt action shotguns based on Ruger’s American Rifle chassis, giving users a hybrid hunting platform with a rifle-style feel.

At Ammunition Depot, we proudly stock bolt action shotguns from top brands, offering hunters and slug shooters the perfect combination of power, precision, and reliability for every season.

Whether you’re hitting a slug-only hunting zone or looking to expand your collection with a low-recoil, high-accuracy shotgun, these trusted names deliver the performance you demand.

Why Choose a Bolt Action for Slug Hunting?

When it comes to precision and performance in slug-only hunting zones, bolt action shotguns stand out as one of the most capable and reliable tools in a hunter’s arsenal.

Unlike pump or semi-auto shotguns, bolt action models are built for deliberate, single-shot accuracy, giving hunters a distinct advantage when every round counts.

One of the key benefits of using a bolt action shotgun for slug hunting is its ability to deliver tight, consistent groupings at extended ranges.

Rifled barrels paired with sabot slugs create a bullet-like trajectory, making bolt actions ideal for hunters pursuing deer or wild boar in open fields or wooded clearings.

Bolt action shotguns are known for long-range slug accuracy, making them a top pick for ethical hunters who want to ensure clean, effective shots without the need for follow-up fire. The bolt-driven action also reduces felt recoil and eliminates cycling issues often experienced with semi-automatics when using heavy slug loads.

Additionally, bolt action shotguns often feature scope-ready receivers, ergonomic stocks, and customizable triggers, features typically found on precision rifles.

These enhancements help bridge the gap between traditional shotguns and modern hunting rifles, giving shooters the best of both worlds.

Whether you're hunting in a slug-only state or just prefer the precision of a single-shot approach, a bolt action shotgun offers dependable accuracy, rugged construction, and optimal control, perfect for those who prioritize performance over speed.

Bolt Action Shotgun FAQs

QUESTION: What is a bolt-action shotgun?
ANSWER: A bolt-action shotgun is a type of firearm that uses a manually operated bolt mechanism to load and eject shotgun shells. Similar to a bolt-action rifle, the shooter cycles the bolt between each shot, offering greater control and reliability, especially for slug hunting or long-range shooting.

QUESTION: Are bolt shotguns still used today?
ANSWER: Yes, bolt shotguns are still widely used today, especially by slug hunters and shooters in states with slug-only hunting regulations. They offer precision, minimal mechanical failure, and are ideal for situations where one accurate shot is more important than rapid fire.

QUESTION: What is the main advantage of a bolt-action shotgun over a pump or semi-auto?
ANSWER: The main advantage is accuracy and simplicity. A bolt shotgun typically offers better performance with rifled barrels and sabot slugs. Fewer moving parts also mean fewer malfunctions, making them great for hunters who value reliability and precision over rate of fire.

QUESTION: What types of ammunition can I use in a bolt-action shotgun?
ANSWER: Most bolt-action shotguns are designed to fire slug rounds, especially sabot or rifled slugs. Some models can also fire standard buckshot or birdshot, but they truly excel in long-range performance with slugs. Always check your manufacturer’s specs for approved ammo types.

QUESTION: Are bolt shotguns accurate for long-range shooting?
ANSWER: Absolutely. With the right setup, like a rifled barrel and quality optics, a bolt-action shotgun is highly accurate at distances of 100+ yards. This makes it a top choice for deer hunting in shotgun-only zones where precision matters.

QUESTION: Who makes the best bolt-action shotguns?
ANSWER: Popular manufacturers of bolt-action shotguns include Savage Arms (Savage 212/220), Mossberg, CZ-USA, and Ruger (via special configurations). These brands are known for rugged construction, scope compatibility, and slug accuracy.

QUESTION: Can I mount a scope on a bolt shotgun?
ANSWER: Yes. Most bolt shotguns feature drilled and tapped receivers or come optics-ready for mounting scopes, red dots, or other sighting systems. This is one of the key reasons they are preferred by distance slug hunters.

QUESTION: Are bolt-action shotguns good for home defense?
ANSWER: While not typically the first choice for home defense due to slower cycling speed, bolt shotguns can still be used for defense if set up properly. However, most people prefer pump-action or semi-automatic shotguns for faster follow-up shots in close-quarters situations.

QUESTION: What gauges are bolt shotguns available in?
ANSWER: Most bolt-action shotguns are offered in 12 gauge and 20 gauge, with 20 gauge being popular for reduced recoil and youth hunters. These gauges are widely available and perform well with a variety of slug types.

QUESTION: Where can I buy a quality bolt-action shotgun online?
ANSWER: You can find a wide selection of bolt-action shotguns from top brands at Ammunition Depot, along with slug ammunition, optics, and shooting accessories for all your hunting and range needs.

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Bolt Action Shotguns