Pistol-Gripped Shotguns: Compact, Versatile, Yet Challenging to Handle
Pistol-gripped shotguns, while compact and versatile, pose challenges in handling and shooting. Recent advancements in folding stocks by companies like Choate, Mesa Tactical, Tri-Star, CZ, and Benelli aim to address these issues.
Pistol-gripped shotguns, weighing more than 6 pounds and measuring 28 inches, can be unwieldy for extended use. They excel in storage, fitting into spaces like boat holds or motorcycle saddlebags, where traditional guns wouldn't. However, they lack the stability and support of a full stock, making them harder to shoot accurately.
Folding stocks offer a compromise. They provide the support needed for accurate shooting, especially for barrels longer than 18 inches, while maintaining compactness. Companies like Choate and Mesa Tactical specialize in these, with recent improvements by Tri-Star, CZ, and Benelli. Despite advancements, most defenders still prefer traditionally stocked guns for their stability and ease of use.
Shooting pistol-gripped guns requires technique. The most common methods are anchoring the pistol grip on the trigger-hand hip or bending the arms to align the gun with the shooter's line of sight. Both techniques require practice to minimize recoil injury and maximize accuracy. Even with a gun's wide pellet spread, missing the target is possible.
Pistol-gripped guns, with their compact size and versatile storage options, are valuable additions to one's arsenal. Recent innovations in folding stocks by leading manufacturers have improved their shootability. However, they still require practice and may not replace traditional guns for most defenders due to stability and ease of use.
