There are many talking points to be discussed when it comes to choosing the perfect zombie apocalypse weapon. For the sake of argument and simplicity, this article illustrates the benefit of choosing a shotgun for its versatility, economy of price and ammunition, multi-purpose nature, and ease of use.
Understanding the shotgun
There are three main types of shotguns: break action, pump, and semi-automatic. Break action are simple and reliable, but suffer in the reloading department. Semi-automatics can fire rounds quickly, but suffer in the maintenance department. The pump action shotgun is the sweet spot for your zombie offense plan. It’s reliable, efficient, and the sweet sound of a racking slide is a major morale boost when facing a few walkers coming in to your bug out spot.
The Art of Manliness offers an excellent article in understanding and using a shotgun.
Not to be overlooked of course, is the automatic shotgun, which this website has written about at length. The AA-12 shotgun is a favorite among gun enthusiasts and zombie hunters alike, although its restricted nature makes it a bit irrelevant for practical use.
Some may argue that a shotgun is not the perfect anti-zombie weapon. This can of course be argued to no end. However, you can perfect the shotgun by choosing the right model, ammunition, and accessories.
Versatility
A shotgun can be used for more than just killing zombies. The versatility of a 12 gauge allows you to shoot a variety of rounds including shot, slugs, flechettes, bolos, and flares. Stocking up a variety of shot can serve many purposes from decapitating zeds to alerting rescuers of your position. A shot from a gun once every minute is used as a marine distress signal.
A shotgun also makes an effective weapon for an unskilled member of your party, and one that will work well for defensive purposes. If portability is a concern, Mossberg makes a JIC model 500 (Just in Case), that can be broken down to core parts into an easily transported bag.
If you’re looking for something a little more maneuverable with a small form factor, Keltec has produced the Keltec KSG, a bullpup fed dual magazine pump action shotgun. A flip of the selector switch will let you toggle easily between slugs and shot for the extra special touch. The KSG serves more as a point weapon or for CQB maneuvers, but its small form makes it a swift weapon to draw as well.
Multi Purpose
Shotguns are easily modified via aftermarket products. Items such as stocks, grips, sights and rails will serve you well in producing a trusty shotgun that can be of use long after you run out of ammo.
Miniature survival kits can be placed inside a hollow stock or grip, and picatinny rails serve as mounting points for a knife, compass, flashlight or rangefinder.
Don’t forget the sling – the shotgun sling can be used to store more shells, and can be wrapped with the ever useful paracord.
Offensive Capabilities
Certainly not to be over looked are the offensive capabilities of a shotgun. Whether you choose new hotness such as the Keltec KSG, a pistol grip tactical, such as the Mossberg 500, or a wood stocked classic Remington 870, a 12-gauge is not to be reckoned with for those on the receiving end.
It’s not too hard to miss with a shotgun, although it can happen.
Choose Your Weapon
Keltec KSG
Keltec KSG
– KSG $880
Remington 870 Tactical
Remington 870
– 870 Express Tactical $379
Mossberg 500 Tactical
Mossberg 500
– JIC II $349
– 535 Tactical $499
The post Perfecting your Zombie Shotgun first appeared at The Undead Report.
7 million infected
You forgot the badass Benelli M4. LOL
Great article brother.
Semper fi
George
Colonel, Joint Zombie Eradication Force.
DMZ Tactical
Looks like I’ll have to update the article. I can’t mention every pump!
Awesome post, man!
I love Shotguns!
hey sam, long time no see, got a question about crossbows and whats the weakest one that could kill a zombie as just ordered a 50lb pistol crossbow
Hey Kyle. You should be good as long as you aim for the head!
Whether a rage zombie or a walking corpse, a headshot will take care of your zombie eradication needs. How large are the bolts?
6.5 inch