Shotguns are primarily used for hunting small game with shot ammunition.
Self-loading shotguns (also referred to as semi-automatic shotguns) are shotguns where, after firing a shot, the empty cartridge case is automatically removed and ejected from the chamber and a new cartridge is inserted. Consequently, the shotgun is almost immediately ready to fire again after a shot. Since they usually also have a larger loading capacity than double shotguns or over-and-under shotguns, they are particularly popular among those hunters who want to fire many shots in quick succession. A distinction is made between recoil-operated and gas-operated shotguns.
Among more traditional hunters in Germany, self-loading shotguns are often frowned upon, as they are considered modern, American, and not ethically correct in the classical sense. However, their technical advantages are often overlooked.
Since they usually also have a larger loading capacity than double shotguns or over-and-under shotguns, they are particularly popular among those hunters who want to fire many shots in quick succession.
The costs for a self-loading shotgun vary just as much as with other types of firearms.
For example, you can purchase the Mercury Hunting Self-loading Shotgun Escort in new condition for under €400, while for the Sauer SL5 in the corresponding equipment class, you quickly pay ten times that amount.
The market for used self-loading shotguns also regularly offers interesting deals. If you're interested, you can find the right used self-loading shotgun on Gunfinder.de!
Anyone who has a valid acquisition permit (hunting license for hunters, firearms ownership card for sport shooters) can purchase a self-loading shotgun.
New and used self-loading shotguns can be purchased either from the gunsmith / firearms dealer of your choice or online. On Gunfinder.de, you can quickly find the ideal self-loading shotgun for you thanks to intelligent filters and great offers.