Whether you're new to competition shooting or just looking to level up your three-gun game, the proper shotgun build can help you stand out from the pack. Here's how you can set up your shotgun for success and achieve a lasting competitive advantage.

How To Set Up A Shotgun For Competition

Building The Perfect Competition Shotgun

Many competitive shooting sports use time to measure each shooter's performance. Since the objective is to complete each course of fire as quickly as possible, speed and precision are of the utmost importance when selecting and modifying the shotgun you intend to use for competitions.

Shotgun Selection: Is Semi-Auto The Way To Go?

There are some individuals who choose to run pump action shotguns in competition with great proficiency. However, for the average shooter, a semi-auto shotgun might be the more effective option. A pump action requires greater coordination to deliver rapid yet accurate shots on target because each round is manually loaded by the user.

By contrast, semi-auto shotguns are fast and easy to use regardless of skill level - simply load up and shoot, no extra actions required. The key (as with any firearm) is choosing a model with a proven track record of reliability and excellent aftermarket support.

Always break in your shotgun by following the manufacturer's guidelines and test your competition ammo to ensure it feeds reliably before making any adjustments to your gun's gas system. A fine-tuned and well-maintained semi-auto shotgun can shave seconds off your time, making a big difference when it counts the most.

Competition Shotgun Mods

Once you've selected a base shotgun for your build, consider which modifications will have the most meaningful impact on your performance. This will vary slightly from shooter to shooter, so we've offered some suggestions to help you along your way as you set up your firearm for its competitive debut.

Extended Magazine Tube

Installing an extended magazine tube allows you to load as many rounds as the rules of your competition will allow. This means fewer reloads and shorter shoot times, plus lower risk of fumbling for extra shells as you attempt your best quad-load technique. We're not all meant to be professional shooters and that's perfectly alright.

TacStar 1081505 Shotgun Magazine Extension Benelli M2 Carbon Fiber Black Finish
TacStar 1081505 Shotgun Magazine Extension Benelli M2 Carbon Fiber Black Finish
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Lightweight Buffer Spring

For consistently fast follow-up shots, swap out your stock buffer spring with an aftermarket lightweight buffer spring that is designed for competition. Your shotgun will cycle more smoothly, with less overall movement that would otherwise impede your accuracy and transition speed.

Adjustable Stock With Recoil Pad

A fully adjustable stock empowers shooters to set their optimal length of pull, reducing the number of on-the-fly adjustments while firing and improving overall performance. Adding a recoil pad further enhances comfort during long days of shooting.

M4 Tactical Adjustable Telescopic Stock, For Benelli M4 Shotguns Clones, i.e. Panzer M4, Etc. Aftermarket, Made In Turkey
M4 Tactical Adjustable Telescopic Stock, For Benelli M4 Shotguns Clones, i.e. Panzer M4, Etc. Aftermarket, Made In Turkey
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Upgraded Sighting System

Finally, we recommend running a red dot optic or ghost ring sights on your shotgun. Either sighting system will aid in rapid target acquisition as you move through each course of fire. An electronic optic has the added advantage of allowing adjustments as lighting conditions change around you.

Holosun HE507CGRX2 HE507C X2 Black Anodized 1x 2/32 MOA Green Dot & Circle Reticle Includes Battery/Lens Cloth/T10 L Key
Holosun HE507CGRX2 HE507C X2 Black Anodized 1x 2/32 MOA Green Dot & Circle Reticle Includes Battery/Lens Cloth/T10 L Key
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The Most Reliable Semi-Auto Shotguns

Reliability is critical when selecting a shotgun for competition use. Watch our video to learn why semi-auto shotguns are just as reliable (if not moreso) than other shotgun action types and click here to shop our selection of semi-auto shotguns!