Do you know your hammer from your extractor? Here is a clear explanation of the functions of named parts of a shotgun, namely a side-by-side boxlock with side plates, based on the Anson & Deeley design. What is a boxlock shotgun? In a boxlock shotgun the inner workings, the “lockwork” …
Shotguns
Want to know more about shotguns? Our experts tell you which they recommend for different disciplines (for example gameshooting or clayshooting), look at different options for buying shotguns second-hand and review the latest shotgun models on the market or the classics that have been around a while.
If you’re new to shooting, you’ll discover some educational information on what the different parts of a shotgun are called, how a shotgun works and their history.
We regularly interview different manufacturers to talk about how their guns are made.
Owning a shotgun also brings a lot of responsibility, so you’ll find articles on safety and the law – for example, what you need to know about gun cabinets and how to store your gun safely when you’re on the move.
Every Shot would like to improve their technique, so you’ll also find useful tips on gun fit, gun mount and getting your stance when shooting correct.
Finally, and most importantly, we have a whole section on shotgun safety.
How a shotgun works
Lewis Potter looks at the inner workings of a shotgun to explain and illustrate how a shotgun works
How to choose the right shotgun and cartridge for pigeon shooting
Shotguns and cartridges for pigeon shooting First off, what sort of gun would be best for you out in the pigeon field? Invest in the best gun you can afford. This doesn’t mean you have to buy new, there are plenty of good quality second-hand guns around. A properly made…
31 things you should know about Baikal shotguns
So why do Baikal shotguns get such good press? They’re not beautiful. Maybe not, but Baikal guns achieve two things that shooters are looking for. They are inexpensive and reliable. Read our Baikal reviews here. Thanks to Baikal shotguns thousands of UK shooters have been able to afford to enjoy…
20 popular secondhand all-rounders
So you’re on the hunt for a reliable, good quality secondhand over under shotgun. Which is going to suit you best? Our experts recommend taking a look at the selection below. Why would you choose an over under shotgun? Many consider that an over-and-under delivers a better and more consistent…
A guide to buying your first gun
It's never too soon to start looking at guns with a view to buying your first and any dealer will be happy to reserve a gun until your certificate arrives
8 must-reads that will help when you’re applying for a shotgun and/or firearms certificate
Applying for shotgun and firearms certificates – 8 must-reads How to get your shotgun certificate. Let’s start at the very beginning (as the Sound of Music song goes). This useful piece will tell you how to apply, how long it’s likely to take, what police involvement might be and the…
Can you leave rifles and shotguns unattended in cars? Am I breaking the law?
I have just completed the DSC Level 1 and was told during the course that I am only allowed to have a rifle in my car while going to and from my stalking ground.
The revival of the 16-bore shotgun
In any article about 16-bores, one should do one’s best to avoid the standard cliche of using ‘sweet’ and ‘16’ together. Most writers find it impossible. Perhaps the best-known example was penned back in 1995 by American gun writer Michael McIntosh in his book Shotguns and Shooting. A chapter, called…
Do I need a gunsmith to remove a barrel dent?
Gunsmiths: A few days ago, while out roost shooting for pigeons, I accidently hit a low branch with the barrels of my Beretta 687 and banged the rib.
This is what you should know about shotgun barrels
What length shotgun barrels should I buy? I wish I had a pound for every time a newcomer to shooting has asked me that question. The answer is that it depends on a few variables and the wrong gun length could have significant implications on your success. Is height and…
How to buy a decent shotgun for under £500
If you're looking to buy a cheap shotgun, make sure you read this guide first
What’s the best shot size?
The best shot size has been debated for as long as guns have been throwing clusters of small lead balls at flying birds. We have two key issues to address. We choose shot to produce an acceptable compromise for the shooting we do and the gun we use. The ideal…
How to alter the comb on a shotgun
See how a gunsmith alters the comb on a Beretta Ultralight shotgun.
How many shotguns can I legally hold on my shotgun certificate?
I currently have two 12-bore shotguns on my shotgun certificate. Can you tell me how many shotguns I can legally hold? Also, how much smokeless powder can I store for reloading?
What does shotgun bore actually mean?
Despite modern techniques, the archaic system for setting bore sizes is still in evidence today. Lewis Potter traces the evolution of shotgun measurement
Do I need to keep my guns at home for a shotgun licence?
Shotgun licence: If I apply for a shotgun certificate do the guns have to be kept at my home address?
Turkish shotguns – definitely worthy of consideration and here is why
Buying your first gun is a genuinely exciting feeling and one of the great pleasures of taking up shooting as a new hobby. A first gun is almost always bought at the budget end of the market, which is now dominated by Turkish guns. It is a shift of power…
A close look at the Perazzi MX8 – a blast from the past
If you want to make money out of gun ownership, then go for a new “London Best” (preferably a Purdey, Holland & Holland or Boss), don’t shoot much — or not at all — and live long. This idea came to me when I reviewed a second-hand Holland & Holland…