For those who want the power of a shotgun without the bulk, small shotguns are a dream come true. These compact powerhouses provide excellent defense and are often easier to handle in close quarters. Here are eight small shotguns that pack a serious punch, combining firepower with portability.
1. Serbu Super Shorty
The Serbu Super Shorty is built for close-quarters defense, offering an extremely compact design with either Mossberg 500 or Remington 870 foundations. With its stubby 6.5- to 9-inch barrel, the Super Shorty is known for its intense stopping power, even at short distances. It has a capacity of 2+1 or 3+1 rounds, and its short length makes it easy to store and conceal in tight spaces. For those who want firepower in a pocket-sized package, the Super Shorty fits the bill with impressive efficiency.
2. Mossberg 590S Shockwave
The Mossberg 590S Shockwave offers the power of a full-sized shotgun in a much shorter package. With an 18.5-inch barrel and a compact, hand-grip stock, it keeps all the versatility and power that Mossberg fans expect. This model can cycle various shell lengths – 1.75, 2.75, and 3 inches – allowing you to mix and match for maximum firepower or increased capacity. Its top-mounted ambidextrous safety and improved elevator make it a reliable option for quick operation, and with a capacity of up to 9+1 rounds, it’s a go-to for those who need serious firepower in a small frame.
3. Remington Model 870 Tac-14
The Remington Tac-14 is a compact version of the popular Model 870, known for its reliability and rugged build. This 12- or 20-gauge shotgun sports a 14-inch barrel and a pistol-style raptor grip, making it both easy to handle and extremely effective in close quarters. With a 4+1 round capacity, the Tac-14 is designed for home and personal defense, delivering the stopping power needed to halt any threat up close.
4. SULUN Arms SS 211 Mini
Designed to be one of the smallest shotguns available, the SULUN Arms SS 211 Mini packs serious power in a tiny over-under configuration. With a 10-inch barrel and a light 4.5-pound weight, it’s popular for close-range situations where size matters. Its 3-inch chamber gives it a decent amount of kick, and its compact design makes it easy to transport. While it’s not intended for precise long-range shooting, its compact frame is excellent for self-defense.
5. Mossberg 500 Compact Cruiser
Mossberg’s 500 Compact Cruiser is a mini powerhouse built for defensive use. The 500 model includes a 7.5-inch barrel and a 2+1 round capacity, while the 590A1 variant has a 10.25-inch barrel with a 3+1 round capacity. Both models include dual extractors and an anti-jam elevator, with an optional T3 polymer grip to help with recoil control. Weighing in at about 5 pounds, the Compact Cruiser is built to deliver Mossberg’s legendary reliability in a more portable form.
6. Bond Arms Century 2000
This pocket-sized powerhouse is a break-action derringer that brings shotgun capabilities to a highly concealable package. Chambered for .45 Colt and .410 bore, the Bond Arms Century 2000 has two barrels in an over-under configuration and a total length of just 5.5 inches. It’s easy to carry, making it perfect for concealed defense. With 3.5-inch barrels, it’s not designed for sustained firefights, but it’s great for delivering a quick, powerful shot when you need it most.
7. Smith & Wesson Governor
Although not a traditional shotgun, the Smith & Wesson Governor holds its own by chambering .410 shotgun shells in a small revolver frame. With the ability to also fire .45 Colt and .45 ACP rounds (with moon clips), it’s a versatile self-defense option. At close range, it delivers significant firepower with minimal overpenetration risk, making it perfect for home defense. While it lacks the brute force of larger shotguns, the Governor is a solid choice for those looking for shotgun-style firepower in a small revolver form.
8. Heizer Defense PS1 Pocket Shotgun
The Heizer Defense PS1 is an ultra-slim, break-action single-shot handgun chambered for .45 Colt and .410 bore. With an overall length just over 4.5 inches, it’s designed for discreet carry and packs a punch in a pocket-sized package. The PS1 is rugged, with a stainless steel frame and recessed ambidextrous controls to prevent snags. A storage compartment in the grip holds two extra rounds, making it a versatile choice for those looking for a truly compact shotgun-style defense option.
Compact Shotguns: Small Size, Big Power
Compact shotguns like these redefine what a shotgun can be, combining the firepower of a standard model with the agility of a handgun. They make for excellent personal defense weapons, especially in situations where maneuverability and concealment are key. These small shotguns often sacrifice capacity or barrel length, but they make up for it by offering rapid handling and serious stopping power.
Versatility and Defense Benefits
With these compact options, shotgun fans no longer have to compromise between firepower and ease of use. From home defense to personal protection in tight spaces, these shotguns deliver exactly what’s needed without the bulk. Their ease of concealment and portability make them especially valuable for those looking for a straightforward solution to staying protected.
Choosing the Right Compact Shotgun
Each shotgun in this list brings unique features to the table, so the best choice depends on your needs. Some are excellent for home defense, while others are ideal for discreet carry or quick handling in emergencies. Compact shotguns have become indispensable for those who need reliable firepower in a small frame, proving that bigger isn’t always better.
Gary’s love for adventure and preparedness stems from his background as a former Army medic. Having served in remote locations around the world, he knows the importance of being ready for any situation, whether in the wilderness or urban environments. Gary’s practical medical expertise blends with his passion for outdoor survival, making him an expert in both emergency medical care and rugged, off-the-grid living. He writes to equip readers with the skills needed to stay safe and resilient in any scenario.