Is It a Shotgun or Rifle?

by
posted on February 22, 2014
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
zent2015_fs.jpg (1)

Yes, clearly the gun I chose to use on a bear hunt some years back did its job just fine. But am I seriously suggesting that somehow qualifies a $225 slug gun for a spot in my “Top 10 Shotguns”?  Find out (if I’ve really gone off the deep end) when we post the entire list later this week here on AmericanRifleman.org.

One way or the other, it begs the question: Is a slug gun a shotgun, or some sort of bastardized rifle? I’m in the camp that if you’re shooting a shotshell-even one loaded with a single projectile instead of pellets-it’s got to be considered a shotgun. But I’ve got to concede this debate could go either way, especially when the slugger’s got a rifled barrel, as was the case with my bear gun.

So, two questions for today’s blog readers: 1) Is a slug gun a shotgun or a rifle? 2) What make/model is my bear gun? (Big American Rifleman salute to those of you who can ID it.)

Latest

Bergara B14 Stoke Rifle
Bergara B14 Stoke Rifle

Review: Bergara B14 Stoke Rifle

Fit, comfort and precision for those that seek top-shelf performance—but need a step-stool to get there…

NFA Sales Up 121 Percent In January

Following the implementation of $0 tax stamps as of January 1, NFA sales skyrocketed in January, leading many to dub 2026 as the "Year of the Suppressor."

Rifleman Review: Smith & Wesson CSX E-Series

Smith & Wesson's pocket 9 mm gets some upgrades.

The Hush-Points: Hi-Point Introduces Centerfire Pistol & Rimfire Suppressors

Long-known for making affordable guns, Hi-Point Firearms has branched out this year to make affordable suppressors.

Review: Assembling an AR-15 Lower Receiver

Building a high-quality AR-15 starts with selecting appropriate components.

Suppressors Deregulated in South Dakota

In a move anticipating a further reduction of restrictions, South Dakota has removed the law requiring the Federal stamp.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.