popular shotgun types

The Ultimate Guide to Shotgun Types

Prior to the mid-19th century, all shotguns were muzzleloaders. But, the invention of cartridge ammunition made it possible for several shotgun actions to emerge. Self-contained shotgun rounds encouraged innovation in gun design and made repeating actions and breechloaders possible.

Shotgun types are categorized by their gauge and their action, which functions as its operating system. Every gauge and action type has benefits and uses both on the range and in the field.  

Let’s take a look at some popular types of shotguns and what makes each unique.

Overview of Shotgun Types

The 5 most common types of Shotguns are:

  1. Pump-Action Shotguns
  2. Semi-Automatic Shotguns
  3. Over-Under and Side-by-Side Shotguns
  4. Single-Shot and Bolt-Action Shotguns
  5. Lever-Action Shotguns

Pump-Action Shotguns

Pump-action shotguns are a great option for both hunting small game, waterfowl and turkey hunting as well as for home protection.

pump shotgun on yellow background

While some pump-action guns employ detachable box magazines, the majority use integrated tubular magazines. Although technology has also been used in rifles, grenade launchers, and other weapons, pump-action weaponry are usually thought of as shotguns. In colloquial terms, a gun that uses this system is called a pump gun.

Since the trigger hand does not need to be taken off of the trigger while reloading, a pump-action weapon is much quicker than a bolt-action and somewhat faster than a lever-action since the forend is often operated with the support hand. Additionally, since the action is cycled linearly, less torque is produced, which might tilt the gun and cause it to go off target when firing quickly.


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Semi-Automatic Shotguns

Selecting a shotgun that is semi-automatic is no different from selecting any other kind of weapon. You should consider pricing, performance, brand, and quality.

Naturally, the adage “you get what you pay for” still holds true in most cases. More abuse, longer firing schedules, and occasional cleanings are likely to be handled more reliably by a high-end shotgun, such as a Beretta 1301 or Benelli M4, than by one at the lower end of the spectrum. 

semi auto shotgun with shell coming out

However, there are still many shotguns that perform well at all price ranges, so unless complete dependability is your top need, you don’t need to spend a fortune.




Over-Under and Side-by-Side Shotguns

The question of over-under, and side-by-side will always be up for discussion. An over-under will not get the same derisive remarks on a shot as it did thirty years ago, despite the fact that tradition has favored side by side. In fact, many firearms discover that stacked barrels improve their shooting. Which would you prefer, side by side or over and under?

over under shotgun with red shells

Over-unders are typically thought to be easier to aim because they only have one sight plane, but some shooters prefer the quicker handling feel that side-by-sides provide.

The over-under, who usually weighs about 7 pounds, would be a whole pound heavier than the side-by-side, to begin with. Therefore, the perceived recoil in the side-by-side and the muzzle-flip would be much higher when utilizing identical 28g No. 7 ammunition, for instance. 

double barrel shotgun smoking

Not only will the over-under’s extra weight absorb more recoil, but the side-by-side’s barrel configuration causes the recoil to return in a dogleg fashion, which is backwards and slightly to the side, following the stock’s line, which normally has more cast in it than in the over-under. As a result, the way you experience the recoil will vary depending on whatever trigger you pull. But with the over-under, the recoil will return in a roughly straight line.

One tip when shooting an over-under is to use a considerably straighter lead-arm than you would with an over-under to increase pointability and lessen perceived recoil and muzzle-flip in a side-by-side.

In fact, the gun would always seem short if you held the fore-end of it side by side with your lead-hand, which would make it harder to handle. Therefore, the straight arm not only absorbs recoil (instead of your shoulder), but it also allows you to have more control over the barrels, which increases accuracy and precision.




Single-Shot and Bolt-Action Shotguns

The phrase “single-shot” describes weapon designs that need manual reloading after each shot since they can only contain one cartridge of ammunition.

Single-shot designs are much simpler and also more durable than magazine/belt-fed firearms, but they also fire at much slower rates. This is because single-shot designs do not require a large receiver behind the barrel to accommodate a moving action, unlike multi-shot repeating firearms (also known as “repeaters”), which have moving parts other than the trigger, hammer/firing pin, or frizzen.

Bolt Action camo shotgun

Particular to “bolt action” shotguns, the bolt closes up the rear aperture of the barrel chamber as the propellant in the cartridge burns. The bolt rotates forward to load a fresh cartridge after the round is shot and back to remove the used cartridge.

Examine that action in comparison to other shotgun kinds. To cycle the bolt on a pump-action shotgun, slide the forestock forward to load a fresh round and backward to expel the previous one, locking the bolt in position. In a semi-automatic, the bolt is cycled by gas from the fired cartridge.



Lever-Action Shotguns

Behind the trigger of a lever-action gun is a sizable metal lever. Usually, this handle also serves as the trigger guard. The cartridge case is ejected from the chamber by pushing the lever forward and downward to open the action.



Choosing the Right Type Shotgun

There are some key factors to consider when choosing a shotgun…

What To Consider:

  • Intended Use: What will you be using the shotgun for?
  • Budget: Shotguns range in price from very affordable to very expensive.
  • Fit: The shotgun should fit your body comfortably.
  • Gauge: 12-gauge is the most versatile, but 20-gauge offers lighter recoil.
  • Barrel Length and Choke: These affect the shotgun’s pattern and range.

Here’s a breakdown of the different types of shotguns and their ideal applications:

1. Pump-Action Shotguns:

remington model 870 field master

Pump action shotguns are typically used for hunting, home defense, and recreational shooting

Pros:

  • Extremely reliable.
  • Relatively inexpensive.
  • Can handle a wide variety of ammunition.
  • Simple to maintain.

Cons:

  • Slower rate of fire compared to semi-automatics.
  • Requires manual cycling.


2. Semi-Automatic Shotguns:

mossberg 940JM Pro semi-automatic shotgun

Pros:

  • Faster rate of fire.
  • Can reduce the amount of recoil that is felt.

Cons:

  • More complex mechanisms, leading to potential reliability issues with certain ammunition.
  • Generally more expensive.
  • Require more frequent cleaning to ensure proper operation of the mechanisms.


3. Over-Under and Side-by-Side Shotguns:

Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon 1 over under shotgun

Pros:

  • Simple and reliable.
  • Two barrels allow for different loads in each barrel.
  • Aesthetically pleasing.
  • Often shorter than other shotguns, giving the shooter the ability to move better in tight spaces.

Cons:

  • Limited capacity (typically two shells).
  • Generally more expensive.
  • May require more practice for proper aiming, due to two barrels.


4. Single-Shot and Bolt-Action Shotguns:

savage 220 bolt action shotgun

Pros:

  • Very simple and reliable.
  • Inexpensive.
  • Bolt actions with rifled barrels make them a good option when hunting with slugs.

Cons:

  • Very slow rate of fire.
  • Limited capacity.

5. Lever-Action Shotguns:

Henry Side Gate Lever Action 410 Bore Shotgun

Pros:

  • Relatively fast rate of fire.
  • Unique and historical appeal.
  • Fairly easy to use.
  • Can fire a variety of ammo.

Cons:

  • Less common, so fewer options and potentially higher prices.
  • Can be more difficult to reload quickly.
  • Slower rate of fire compared to pump action and semi-automatic shotguns.
  • Can be prone to jamming if not maintained/cleaned properly.


Final Thoughts On Shotgun Types

Hopefully, this article has given you some insight into which shotgun would be the best for your budget and intended use.

As always, use proper gun safety practices and shoot straight!

triathlon bike seat position

What Is A Triathlon Bike? | Inside Info On What Makes Them Unique

on . Posted in Biking, Blog

Triathlons are often a solution for athletes who think one sport just isn’t enough.

Triathlons, which consist of a swim, cycle, and run event across varying durations, present a significant challenge in terms of endurance, strength, and mental toughness. And, while triathlons consist of running, swimming and biking, the bike component often accounts for around 60% of the race, regardless of the overall distance of the event.

Sounds difficult, right? Well, that’s because it is!

triathlon athlete on bike

What Is A Triathlon Bike… The Details

Let’s take a look at some the characteristics of a triathlon bike and what makes them unique from other bikes…

Seat position

The geometry of any bike has a significant impact on its purpose, and triathlon bikes are no exception. Triathletes need to be comfortable in an aerodynamic position for extended periods of time, in addition to being able to run long distances once off the bike.

triathlon bike seat position

Because of this, the seat tube angle and top tube length are the two key differences between triathlon bikes and road bikes, which are designed to recruit different muscle groups and provide comfort without sacrificing performance.

Triathlon bikes feature a substantially steeper seat tube angle than road bikes, often starting at 74 degrees and increasing to more than 80 degrees.

This huge push forward stimulates more glutes and hamstrings during the pedal stroke, sparing the quadriceps for the race’s run leg. It also enables riders to take an aggressive aerodynamic position and lower their frontal profile.



ironman riding bike

However, while this hyper-aggressive positioning is excellent for aerodynamics, it can also be challenging to maintain for long periods, particularly for people who lack flexibility and mobility in their hips and lower back.

To mitigate this, triathlon bikes typically have a somewhat shorter crank length than road bikes, and seats are designed to better accommodate the pronounced anterior pelvic tilt caused by bending forward.

These minor adjustments increase the hip angle, enhancing comfort and allowing riders to remain in that position for extended periods.

Triathlon bikes also have a longer top tube and an expanded reach. This adjustment is intended to stretch out the rider, placing them in a more aggressive, horizontal stance that increases their aerodynamics. This also helps to distribute a rider’s weight across both wheels appropriately.

Note: Triathlon bikes can be expensive, so if you’re looking to ease your way into owning one, take a look at these used tri bikes for sale at QR.



Aerodynamics

Triathlon bikes are not limited in the same way as time trial bikes are, allowing for significantly more imaginative designs. Now, the flip side is that triathlon bikes must have a lot of storage space, which adds more elements to the aerodynamic jigsaw.

Triathlon bikes use the same computational fluid dynamics and dynamic wind tunnel testing as road racing bikes, but in most cases, the testing is done when the bike is race-ready and equipped with fluid, tools, and food storage. Some manufacturers employ these tweaks and enhancements to improve the bike’s aerodynamics.

man riding triathlon bike

One way to improve aerodynamics is to use bigger tube profiles. The larger profiles allow the wind to pass smoothly along the bike, reducing turbulent airflow and increasing drag.

This is usually found on the front forks, downtube, and seat tubes. Other manufacturers will replicate this oversized tube profile by basically chopping the “tail” off an oversized tube profile, reducing overall weight, creating a stiffer frame, and simulating the same airflow.

Another way manufacturers increase a bike’s aerodynamic efficiency is to “hide” or integrate components such as brakes, wires, and storage. Triathlon bike brakes are often found behind the forks, inside the forks, or disguised behind the bike’s front fairing. They are positioned at the rear of the bike, either underneath the bottom bracket area or out of the wind in partial tube cuts on the seat stays. Internal cables are now standard on the majority of bikes, improving aerodynamics and lowering the risk of damage from environmental causes.



Another popular way to improve aerodynamics is to change the geometry of the frame. Some manufacturers have traditionally used a dipped downtube, which lowers the gap between the downtube and the front wheel, thereby boosting airflow.

Dropped seat stays are another common modification that limits the frontal area contacting the wind and thus reducing drag. Some brands have even removed the seat stays entirely, and now you can find triathlon bikes without seat tubes or seat stays.



Lastly, triathlon bikes also improve their aerodynamics by adding wheels. Although a deeper wheel profile is generally more aerodynamic, it makes the bike more difficult to handle because it is more susceptible to side winds than a shallow rim.

In addition to this, the additional material needed makes the ride harsher because it provides less compliance (comfort) than a shallower wheel.



Storage

Triathlon bikes used to have several after-market modifications, such as rear water bottle holders behind the seat, saddle bags, chunky food storage containers on the top tube, and sticky tape for attaching gel packets to the top tube.

Modern triathlon bikes have considerably more complex storage options built into the design, removing the need for retrofitting equipment.

Some bikes have a front hydration storage device designed with a frame to hold the same amount of water as a standard sports bottle while also increasing the bike’s aerodynamics.



Others have an integrated tool storage system that fits between the front and rear wheels, while others offer a ‘draft box’ that lies behind the seat tube and millimeters above the rear wheel to improve airflow while also providing excellent storage for parts, tubes, and tools.

Specialized brands have an integrated hydration system that sits within the extra-thick downtube and eliminates the need for water bottles.

Of course, all of these features come with a price, and more storage means a higher price.



Entry-level models often have basic cockpit setups with a classic fork, steerer tube, stem, and handlebar combinations, with no integrated storage systems.

This can be useful from a functional standpoint because it allows for simple adjustment and maintenance as necessary.

Top-tier versions, on the other hand, feature fully integrated cockpit layouts with various fairings, modifications, and integrated storage systems. This strategy improves aerodynamics and integration while making modification and maintenance more challenging.

Final Thoughts On Triathlon Bikes

There is no right or wrong triathlon bike to go for. It all depends on you and your preferences. Hopefully, this article has helped you understand what exactly a triathlon bike is and have gotten a starting point for the types of features that will be important to you on your triathlon journey!

 

Kifaru Shape Charge Backpack Review

Is This Backpack Worth It? | Kifaru Shape Charge Review

Is the Kifaru Shape Charge backpack worth all the hype (and the price)?

It certainly carries a hefty price tag, that’s for sure. But, you know the saying, “you get what you pay for.” Well, we wanted to find out if it was indeed worth the cost of admission… so let’s dive right in to what we learned!

 Kifaru Shape Charge Backpack Up Close

kifaru shape charge unboxing

Many backpack hunters will ask right away, “so how much does it weigh? Well, the Shape Charge weighs right at 4 pounds. Obviously, it packs up pretty tightly, but we wanted to take a closer look and see what it looks like inside and what kind of advantages it has for the backpack hunter, saddle hunter, or anyone that needs to carry their gear into the woods or mountains with them.

The Outside Of The Pack

Kifaru Shape Charge Backpack so well made
Kifaru Shape Charge Handle stitching

One thing we appreciate in hunting equipment, whether it be a deer stand, or archery equipment, or a backpack, is just the attention to detail. And we could tell right off the bat that not only has Kifaru put a lot of thought and effort into creating this backpack, but they’ve used high quality components and materials. Everything from the stitching on the MOLLE webbing to the material that they make the handles out of — everything is very high quality.


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Kifaru Shape Charge Zipper holders
handles on Kifaru Shape Charge


Kifaru Shape Charge MOLLE webbing on waist straps
Kifaru shape charge insert
Kifaru shape charge top pocket with key hook


Kifaru stretch tweave pockets
KIfaru shape charge zippers of main pouch

Kifaru Shape Charge MOLLE webbing stitching
Kifaru Shape Charge outer drink pockets

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Kifaru Shape Charge padded vented back

Inside The Pack

The Shape Charge is a 2,050 cubic inch pack.

Inside of Kifaru Shape Charge pack
Kifaru Shape Charge inner MOLLE webbing

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Kifaru Shape Charge Size Chart

Kifaru Shape Charge backpack with or without waist belt

Kifarua Shape Chart Sizing Chart

Experimenting With The Shape Charge

Now, I know we’ve got a lot of you saddle hunters out there, and this pack is used by a lot of saddle hunters. However, there are those who only hunt with climbing stands or use lock-ons/hang-on stands. So, we wanted to do is I wanted to see if this pack could handle a heavier setup.

Kifru Shape Charge Backpack with lock on and steps

After walking out in the woods for a little while with the Shape Charge backpack on with a lock-on stand and some steps (around 30 pounds total), we learned some things. The shaped molded insert in the back of the Shape Charge really does keep the weight off of your lower back and it keeps the pack from sliding down. That is definitely a plus.

This would make the Shape Charge very beneficial, even in the pre-season, for those hanging lock-ons, as it would give them the ability to strap on the stand and the steps and have both hands free.


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Final Thoughts On Kifaru Shape Charge Backpack

We absolutely love this backpack for hunting. You could tell that the folks at Kifaru put a lot of time and effort into thinking through not only what the hunter needs in the field, but also the overall quality, from the stitching, to the components and materials. Everything is crafted in a top-notch manner.

We are confident saddle hunters will appreciate this pack, but, if you’re someone who hangs stands before the season, it’s a great way to not only strap on your lock-on and your steps, but also have your hands free. And, we know from testing it that it can handle the weight of that and still stay off of your back, due to the molded insert inside of the backpack.

Happy and safe hunting!