6 Goose Hunting Shotguns | Goose Hunting Shotgun Overview

This article is not going to tell you what the best goose hunting shotgun is. While selecting the right shotgun for goose hunting is a critical decision that hinges on a multitude of factors such as reliability, handling, gauge, barrel length, and price, it's an individual decision.

The goal of this article is to serve as a guide to help goose hunters choose the best goose hunting shotgun for your individual needs. Hopefully we equip you with the necessary information to make an informed decision whether you're going after Canada geese, speckle belly geese or snow geese.

Each of the 6 sections covers a different goose gun that offers unique features and strengths, catering to different preferences and requirements. This article will delve into the specifics of some of the best goose shotguns on the market, discussing their popularity, functionality in various conditions, and overall performance to help you choose the shotgun that aligns best with your hunting style and goals.

Remington 870 R81075 SPS Super Magnum Waterfowl 12 Gauge Shotgun

Overview:

The Remington 870 R81075 SPS Super Magnum Waterfowl, a reliable and versatile choice for goose hunting, stands out for its ability to handle a range of shells from 2 3/4" to 3 1/2" magnums.

It offers excellent value with features like a 28" vent rib barrel with Rem®Choke, synthetic stock, and a durable Cerakote finish. Renowned for its sturdy performance in harsh hunting conditions, this 12 gauge pump-action shotgun combines affordability with the trusted dependability that goose hunters have valued in the Remington 870 series for over 50 years.

Price Range: $599 - $750

Gauge: 12

Year Introduced (Remington 870 SPS Magnum): 1985

Why is the Remington 870 R81075 SPS Super Magnum Waterfowl 12 Gauge a Popular Goose Hunting Shotgun? 

The Remington 870 in general is many folks’ first shotgun. This nostalgic feeling is behind a lot of the popularity that comes with this shotgun. More than the nostalgia is its versatility, reliability and reasonably priced options.

It can handle 2 3/4”, 3” and 3 1/2” 12-gauge shells which makes it a great fit for all kinds of different hunting pursuits. For the goose hunting use case in particular, the Remington 870 is a great option because it can handle the harsh elements with the best of them.

There is story after story of folks dropping their Remington 870 in the mud and water and continuing to use it successfully for a full day of goose hunting. While many like semi-automatic shotguns for goose hunting, the Remington 870 Super Magnum Waterfowl shotgun will certainly get the job done and do so for well under $1000.

Shotgun Remington 870 R81075 SPS Super Magnum Specs:

 

Weatherby Element Waterfowl 20ga 28"

Overview:

First off, it's a 20 gauge, which is pretty cool because it packs enough punch for goose hunting, but it's easier to handle and doesn't kick as hard as the bigger 12 gauge. This makes it a great choice for all sorts of hunters, whether you're just starting out or you've been hunting for years. The 28-inch barrel is a good length too – it helps you aim better and hit those geese, even if they're a bit far off.

What's really great about this shotgun is how reliable it is. When you're out in the field, you never know what kind of weather you're going to get, but this gun can handle it. It shoots really consistently, which means you're more likely to get your goose.

Plus, it's got this cool camo look that helps you blend in with your surroundings. And you can switch up the chokes depending on where you're hunting or how far away the geese are.

Price Range: $621 - $718

Gauge: 20

Year introduced: 2016

Why is The a Popular Weatherby Element Waterfowl 20ga 28" Goose Shotgun?

The Weatherby Element Waterfowl 20ga with its 28" barrel is really popular among goose hunters. It's got this great balance - not too heavy, not too light - and it's super reliable, even when the weather gets rough. The shot patterns are consistently good, and it doesn't kick too hard, which is nice when you're out hunting for a while. You also get different choke options, which is pretty handy.

And the best part? It's a good deal for what you get, especially with Weatherby's solid reputation. It's just a solid, all-around choice for goose hunting.

Weatherby Element Waterfowl 20ga 28" Shotgun Specs:

Stoeger M3500 Waterfowl 3.5” 12 Gauge

Overview:

The Stoeger M3500 is a 12 gauge goose shotgun, and it's built with an inertia-operated system, which is pretty slick because it helps with smooth shooting and less kickback. This shotgun can handle the big 3.5-inch shells, which is awesome for goose hunting since those shells pack more power and range. It's got a 28-inch barrel for the waterfowl model (though you can find other finishes with a 26-inch barrel), which is a great length for accuracy without being too bulky.

The weight of the gun is about 7lbs 13oz, so it's sturdy enough to handle the power but not too heavy to carry around. The length of pull is 14 3/8 inches right out of the box, which is a comfortable fit for a lot of hunters. The drop at the comb (the top of the stock) is 1 1/2 inches, and the drop at the heel (the bottom of the stock) is 2 1/2 inches, making it a good fit for shooting comfortably and accurately.

Another cool thing is that it's drilled and tapped, so if you're into adding accessories like optics, you're all set. With its camo finish, it's not just practical but also looks the part for waterfowl hunting. All in all, the M3500 offers a lot of high-end features without the high-end price tag, making it a top pick for goose hunters who want a reliable, powerful, and comfortable shotgun.

Price Range: $829.99 - $899.99

Shothun Gauge: 12

Year Introduced: 2010

Why is The Stoeger M3500 Waterfowl 3.5” 12 Gauge a Popular Goose Hunting Shotgun?

The Stoeger M3500 Waterfowl 3.5” 12 Gauge is a favorite among goose hunters, and for good reasons. First off, this shotgun can handle 3.5-inch shells, which means it can pack a serious punch. That's perfect for goose hunting since they can be tough to bring down.

It's a 12 gauge, so it's got the power you need, but what's cool about the M3500 is that it's also known for being pretty reliable. You can take it out in all sorts of weather, and it'll still perform well, which is super important when you're out in the field.

Plus, it's got an inertia-driven system that helps with the recoil, making it easier to shoot, especially if you're firing off multiple shots. And, of course, it's got a camo finish, so you blend right in.

Stoeger M3500 Waterfowl 3.5” 12 Gauge Shotgun Specs:

Winchester SX4 Waterfowl

Overview:

The Winchester SX4 Waterfowl, is a highly regarded 12 Gauge semi-automatic shotgun among goose hunters. It stands out with its TrueTimber DRT finish, a camouflage pattern that excellently blends into typical waterfowl environments, providing stealth in the field.

The shotgun features a 28-inch barrel, an ideal length for balancing maneuverability with the accuracy needed for flying targets. Designed for right-handed shooters, it has a comfortable ergonomic layout that enhances handling during extended hunting sessions.

A notable aspect of this model is its 3.5-inch chamber, allowing the use of both 2 3/4" and 3 1/2" shells, which is versatile for different hunting situations. With a round capacity of 4 + 1, it offers a good balance between firepower and weight, with the gun weighing in at 7.125 lbs. This combination of features makes the Winchester SX4 Waterfowl a top choice for goose hunters seeking a reliable, effective, and comfortable shotgun.

Price Range: $859 - $1199.99

Shotgun Gauge: 12

Year Introduced: 2017

Why is The Winchester SX4 Waterfowl a Popular Goose Gun?

The Winchester SX4 Waterfowl is a popular shotgun among goose hunters for several compelling reasons. First and foremost, its renowned reliability in adverse conditions is a significant draw. Goose hunting often takes place in wet, muddy environments, and the SX4's robust construction ensures consistent performance even in these challenging conditions.

Additionally, the shotgun's ergonomic design and lightweight nature make it comfortable to handle during long hunting sessions, which is crucial for hunters who spend extended periods in the field. Another key factor is its recoil management system, which reduces the felt recoil, allowing for quicker follow-up shots and less fatigue.

The shotgun also comes with features tailored for waterfowl hunting, such as a camouflage finish that helps hunters blend into their surroundings and a barrel optimized for shooting at flying targets. All these attributes combine to make the Winchester SX4 Waterfowl a top choice for goose hunters who value reliability, comfort, and effectiveness in their equipment.

Winchester SX4 Waterfowl Shotgun Specs:

 

Mossberg 835 Waterfowl 12 Gauge Shotgun

Overview:

The Mossberg 835 Waterfowl, a 12 Gauge pump-action shotgun, is a robust choice for goose hunting enthusiasts. Its standout feature is the 3.5-inch chamber, allowing for the use of high-powered shells ideal for waterfowl hunting.

The 28-inch vent rib barrel, paired with the Accu-Mag choke set, enhances shot accuracy and pattern, crucial for targeting geese at varying distances. With a capacity of 5+1, it offers a good balance between firepower and reload frequency.

The overall length of the shotgun is 48.75 inches, with a fixed length of pull (LOP) of 14 inches, ensuring a comfortable and steady shooting stance for most users. The front fiber optic sight aids in quick target acquisition in diverse lighting conditions.

A key feature is its synthetic stock, finished in Mossy Oak Shadow Grass Blades camouflage, which not only contributes to the shotgun's durability in wet and rugged environments but also provides excellent concealment in natural settings. Weighing 7.75 lbs, it strikes a balance between sturdiness and manageability, making the Mossberg 835 Waterfowl a well-regarded firearm for hunters seeking reliability and effectiveness in their waterfowl hunting gear.

Price Range: $439.99 - $613.28

Shotgun Gauge: 12

Year Introduced:

Why is The Mossberg 835 Waterfowl 12 Gauge Shotgun a Popular Shotgun?

The Mossberg 835 Waterfowl is a popular choice among goose hunters for several reasons. Firstly, its 12-gauge chambering and ability to handle heavy 3.5-inch shells make it ideal for bringing down large birds like geese at various ranges. The extended range is particularly useful in waterfowl hunting, where birds may not always be in close proximity.

Additionally, the Mossberg 835 features a barrel specifically designed for waterfowl hunting, which helps improve shot patterns and accuracy. Durability is another key factor; this shotgun is known for its robust construction, capable of withstanding the harsh, often wet conditions typical in goose hunting environments.

Comfort is also a consideration—the 835 often includes features like recoil pads, which reduce the impact of shooting larger, more powerful shells. Furthermore, many models come with camouflage finishes, aiding hunters in remaining concealed in natural environments. All these attributes combine to make the Mossberg 835 Waterfowl a well-rounded, reliable choice for goose hunters who demand performance, durability, and versatility in their equipment.

Mossberg 835 Waterfowl 12 Gauge Shotgun Specs:

 

Benelli Super Black Eagle 3

Overview:

The Benelli Super Black Eagle 3 in 20-gauge is a favorite among goose hunters who like to keep things light yet effective. It's a semi-auto, so you can keep those shots coming, especially with its handy 3+1 capacity. The 26-inch barrel is just the right length for quick swings and accurate shots. Plus, it's chambered for 3-inch shells, giving you a nice range of ammo options.

Now, let’s talk comfort. This bad boy comes with a Comfort Tech 3 Recoil Reduction Stock so you'll hardly feel the kickback, which is a big deal when you’re out there all day. And those Crio Flush chokes? They let you fine-tune your shot spread whether you're shooting close or a bit farther out.

It's got a sleek black finish, which looks cool and holds up well in the field. The FO Red Bar sight is a neat touch too – makes lining up those geese a breeze.

At 5.8 lbs, it's not going to wear you out carrying it around, and with an overall length of 47.5 inches and a 14-3/8 inch length of pull, it's comfy for most folks to handle. All in all, the Benelli Super Black Eagle 3 is a great pick for hunters who want a shotgun that's easy to handle, easy to shoot, and tough enough to handle a day out in the wild.

Price Range: $1599.99 - $1899.99

Gauge: 20

Year Introduced:

Why is The Benelli Super Black Eagle 3 a Popular Goose Hunting Shotgun?

The Benelli Super Black Eagle 3 (SBE 3) enjoys immense popularity among goose hunters for several reasons. Firstly, its reputation for reliability is a major draw, especially in the demanding conditions of waterfowl hunting. The SBE 3's Inertia Driven system is known for its ability to cycle a wide range of shells, from light field loads to the heavy 3.5-inch magnums preferred in goose hunting, without compromising performance. This versatility is crucial for hunters facing different scenarios in the field.

Ergonomics and user comfort are other significant factors. The SBE 3 features enhancements like the Comfort Tech 3 stock and Combtech facial impact and vibration reduction system, which greatly reduce felt recoil, a key consideration when shooting larger, more powerful shells. This reduction in recoil not only improves shooting comfort but also enhances shot accuracy and follow-up shot speed.

The SBE 3 also stands out for its durability and resistance to harsh weather conditions. Its high-quality construction and finishes, like the corrosion-resistant Crio barrel and receiver, ensure longevity and reliability even in wet and muddy environments typical of goose hunting.

Additionally, the SBE 3's design and aesthetics, often with camouflage options, appeal to hunters who value both functionality and appearance in their hunting gear. These features, combined with Benelli's reputation for quality and innovation, make the Super Black Eagle 3 a top-tier choice for goose hunters seeking a high-performance shotgun that excels in various hunting conditions.

Benelli Super Black Eagle 3 Shotgun Specs: