10 Solid Hunting Shotguns You Can Buy for Under $800

10 Solid Hunting Shotguns You Can Buy for Under $800

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Hunting season’s right around the corner, and you don’t need to break the bank to bag a solid shotgun. Whether you’re chasing ducks, pheasants, or turkeys, these budget-friendly scatterguns get the job done without leaving your wallet empty. I’ve hunted with plenty of shotguns over the years, and last fall, I took a Mossberg 500 out for a pheasant hunt in South Dakota—man, that thing was a workhorse, even in the muddy fields. Here’s a rundown of the 10 best hunting shotguns under $800 that deliver reliability, versatility, and bang for your buck.

1. Mossberg 500 Field

This pump-action legend has been a go-to for hunters since forever. The Mossberg 500 Field is tough as nails, with a 28-inch barrel and a 12-gauge chamber that handles everything from light loads to 3-inch magnums. Its dual action bars keep the action smooth, and the tang-mounted safety is perfect for lefties or righties. I’ve seen this gun take a beating in the rain and still cycle like a dream. MSRP: ~$400.

2. Remington 870 Express

The Remington 870 is like the pickup truck of shotguns—dependable and customizable. This pump-action 12-gauge comes with a 28-inch barrel and a synthetic stock that laughs at bad weather. It’s a bit heavier than some, but that helps tame recoil when you’re blasting heavy loads at geese. With millions sold, it’s a proven performer for everything from doves to deer. MSRP: ~$450.

3. Winchester SXP Field

Winchester’s SXP Field is a pump-action 12-gauge that’s crazy fast—some call it the quickest pump out there. At just under 7 pounds with a 28-inch barrel, it swings smooth for upland birds and patterns tight for waterfowl. The Inflex recoil pad makes long days in the field easier on your shoulder. It’s a solid pick for guys who want speed without the semi-auto price tag. MSRP: ~$400.

4. CZ Drake

For an over-under that won’t cost you a kidney, the CZ Drake is a steal. This 12-gauge (also available in 20, 28, and .410) weighs about 6.5 pounds and comes with five choke tubes for versatility. Its simple design skips fancy engravings but delivers tight patterns and smooth handling for pheasants or clays. It’s a no-frills gun that punches above its price. MSRP: ~$600.

5. Beretta A300 Outlander

If you’re itching for a semi-auto, the Beretta A300 Outlander is your huckleberry. This 12-gauge gas-operated shotgun cycles 2.75- and 3-inch shells like a champ, and the self-cleaning piston keeps maintenance low. At around 7.6 pounds, it’s light enough for all-day carries in the uplands. The wood stock adds a touch of class without jacking up the price. MSRP: ~$750.

6. TriStar Trinity

The TriStar Trinity is an over-under that’s light, reliable, and easy on the eyes. This 12-gauge (also in 20 or .410) has a 26-inch barrel, chrome-lined chambers, and a fiber-optic sight for quick target acquisition. It’s a sweet choice for grouse or quail, with ejectors that make reloading in the field a breeze. For the price, it’s hard to beat this Turkish-made gem. MSRP: ~$600.

7. Stoeger M3000

Owned by Benelli, the Stoeger M3000 brings inertia-driven reliability to the budget crowd. This 12-gauge semi-auto handles 3-inch shells and weighs just over 7 pounds, making it a solid pick for waterfowl or upland hunting. It’s not as polished as a Benelli, but it runs clean even in nasty conditions. A buddy of mine swears by his for duck season. MSRP: ~$550.

8. Browning BPS Field

The Browning BPS Field is a pump-action 12-gauge with a bottom-eject design, making it a favorite for left-handed shooters. Its forged steel receiver adds a bit of weight (around 7.5 pounds), but that durability means it’ll last a lifetime. The 28-inch barrel and Invector-Plus chokes make it versatile for anything from turkeys to ducks. MSRP: ~$750.

9. Weatherby SA-08 Deluxe

The Weatherby SA-08 Deluxe is a gas-operated semi-auto that’s light (6 pounds) and easy to carry all day. This 12-gauge (or 20-gauge) has a 28-inch barrel and a walnut stock that looks sharper than most budget guns. It cycles smoothly and handles everything from light target loads to heavy hunting rounds. Great for guys who want a little style on a budget. MSRP: ~$700.

10. Mossberg International Silver Reserve

This over-under 12-gauge (also in 20, 28, or .410) is a solid pick for hunters who want a break-action without the hefty price tag. The 28-inch barrels come with five choke tubes, and the tang safety doubles as a barrel selector. It’s a bit heavier at 7.5 pounds, but that helps with swing-through shots on fast-flying doves. Perfect for upland or clays. MSRP: ~$650.

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