Semi-Auto vs Pump Action Shotguns

History:

Shotguns are a category of long barreled firearms that shoot a thin-walled cartridge consisting of smaller projectiles or one large slug. Their action can be pump, lever, bolt, revolver, semi-automatic, or even fully automatic. Today, for the most part, pump or semi-automatics rule the landscape. In pump-action shotguns, the shell is loaded and extracted by sliding the forearm handle backward and forward to cycle the action. Traditionally, a feed tube under the barrel serves to store the shells and act as a guide for the "pump". More recently, firearm companies have created a plethora of shotgun variants for popular platforms such as ARs, AKs, and even bullpup designs that utilize magazine fed ammunition. In 1902, evolving from the pump design, John Browning's Auto-5 became the first semi-automatic shotgun to achieve success and would later go on to influence and inspire designs for more than a century. This design would go on to influence the semi -automatic design of all competing manufacturers, including Remington, Savage, and Winchester, among others. So, let's compare the pros and cons of each. The biggest difference between these two actions is the rate of fire. The pump-action is limited to being only as fast as the operator can cycle after each shot, while the semi-automatic can be shot essentially as fast as the shooter can pull the trigger. Ammunition capacity isn't really a pro or con for either these days, as many models now offer extended feed tubes and even magazines. Another benefit of the semi-automatic action is the reduced recoil the shooter feels, as energy from the previous shot is utilized to load the next round. In terms of reliability, there shouldn't be too much difference between the two actions when comparing a quality brand such as the Browning offerings shown below. The main benefit for pump-action is the price. By being less complex and having less parts, the overall price can be reduced considerably. Of course, by selecting a synthetic option, price can be reduced even further.

Browning 012212304 BPS Pump 12GA 28" 3" Black Synthetic Stock Black Rcvr

By replacing the foregrip and stock with a synthetic material instead of walnut, price can be drastically reduced. This features a forged and machined steel receiver, a convenient top-tang safety, and bottom ejection for ambidextrous operation.

Browning BPS Pump 12GA 28_ 3_ Black Synthetic Stock Black Rcvr

Browning 0118003004 A5 Hunter Semi-Auto 12GA 28" 3" Walnut Stock Black Aluminum Alloy

This is basically the updated version of the shotgun that started it all. Browning's A5 shotgun is a recoil-operated autoloader built to be reliable, fast cycling, and soft shooting. The Kinematic Drive is ultra-reliable and harnesses recoil energy which converts into the mechanical motion needed to operate the action. Built from lightweight aluminum alloy, the humpback receiver melds seamlessly with the rib to extend your sight plane. The barrel has a lightweight profile, ventilated rib, fiber-optic front site, and three Invector-DS choke tubes. Its stock features an Inflex recoil pad, textured gripping surface, and a pistol grip. The A5 also has a Vector Pro forcing cone. This Hunter model has a 28" barrel with a 3" chamber, a polished black receiver, and a walnut stock with a gloss finish.

Browning A5 Hunter Semi-Auto 12GA Walnut Stock Black Aluminum Alloy

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