What Shotgun Does the Military Use?
The military has been utilizing shotguns for various purposes, including breaching doors, providing less lethal options, and engaging in close-quarters combat. Over the years, different types of shotguns have been used by various branches of the military. In this article, we will explore the types of shotguns used by the military and their specifications.
Most Common Type of Shotgun Used by the Military
The most common type of shotgun used by the military is the manually operated, slide-action/pump-action type. Remington M870 and Mossberg 590A1 are two examples of pump-action shotguns that have been widely used by the military. Both of these shotguns are reliable, durable, and easy to maintain.
| Shotgun Model | Caliber | Action | Branch |
|---|---|---|---|
| Remington M870 | 12-gauge | Pump-action | US Armed Forces, Marine Corps, Army |
| Mossberg 590A1 | 12-gauge | Pump-action | US Armed Forces, Marine Corps, Army |
Shotguns Used by Specific Branches
Each branch of the military has its own preferences when it comes to shotguns. Here are some examples:
Marine Corps
- Remington M870: The Marine Corps uses the Remington M870 as its primary shotgun.
- Benelli M1014: The Benelli M1014 is a semi-automatic shotgun used by the Marine Corps for its reliability and accuracy.
Army
- Remington M870: The Army also uses the Remington M870, which is known for its durability and ease of maintenance.
- Savage Model 69E: The Savage Model 69E is a pump-action shotgun used by the Army for its reliability and accuracy.
Air Force
- None: The Air Force does not use shotguns as part of its standard arsenal.
Navy
- Remington M870: The Navy uses the Remington M870, which is known for its reliability and ease of maintenance.
Breaching Shotguns
Breaching shotguns are designed specifically for breaching doors and other obstacles. Here are some examples:
| Shotgun Model | Caliber | Action | Branch |
|---|---|---|---|
| Remington M870 Breacher | 12-gauge | Pump-action | US Armed Forces |
| Benelli M1014 Breacher | 12-gauge | Semi-automatic | US Armed Forces |
Less Lethal Shotguns
Less lethal shotguns are designed to be used in situations where minimal force is required. Here are some examples:
| Shotgun Model | Caliber | Action | Branch |
|---|---|---|---|
| Remington M870 Less Lethal | 12-gauge | Pump-action | US Armed Forces |
| Mossberg 590A1 Less Lethal | 12-gauge | Pump-action | US Armed Forces |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the military uses a variety of shotguns for different purposes, including breaching doors, providing less lethal options, and engaging in close-quarters combat. From pump-action shotguns to semi-automatic shotguns, each branch of the military has its own preferences when it comes to shotguns. Whether it’s the Remington M870 or the Benelli M1014, each shotgun has its own unique features and advantages that make it suitable for military use.