Need a self defense 12gauge that is reliable and dependable.

Need a self defense 12gauge that is reliable and dependable. So Im in the market for a 12 gauge. I want something I can go shoot for fun on occasion but I also want it primarily for defense. So I guess I want a tactical type of shotgun.

What brand/models are a good place to start looking at?

I like pump action. I want something I can put more than 4 shells in. And Im not fond of I guess you would call it "full sized" in that I don't want one with a long barrel that drags on the ground if I hold it at my side.

Shotguns were never my strong suit so I don't know who makes the best what.

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Winchester model 1897 12gauge

Your 97 almost certainly is chambered for 2 9/16" shells, not the 2 3/4" shells that are standard today. (That's fired length, not loaded length). Short shells are available, or you can load your own cut down hulls.

I have read that if the SN is below 568841, there is a possibility that the barrel is Damascus Steel. Then you should probably either use Black powder loads or hang the gun on a wall.

As far as the Maglite goes (not a bad idea, I'll have to remember that one), if the gun is choked Full and your others have less constriction, that may be the problem. I don;t know how tight the 97s were choked, but a Full would run about 0.694" at the muzzle.

DC

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