BEST OVER SEMI-AUTO SHOTGUNS OF 2023

Over the past 3 years, we've had the opportunity to shoot, test, and review numerous semi-auto shotguns. To round out 2023, we've put together this list of our favorite semi-auto shotguns of the year. These are all guns that we've personally shot and reviewed, so the information you're getting is coming from real-life experience. This list covers guns for every category such as upland hunting, clay shooting, best all-purpose, and waterfowl hunting. We've tried our best to include guns with different operating systems and cover a wide range of prices. We also included 3 general categories that you'll find towards the end. These are the most innovative shotgun, the biggest surprise shotgun, and the fastest shotgun. Whether you agree or disagree with any of our 2023 picks we want to hear about it on the TFL Community!

Also, if any of these guns spark your interest and you'd like to learn more, each gun title has a link that will direct you to the shotgun's specific blog and video. If you'd like to shop, Reeds Sports is going to have the best price for any of these guns. Check them out! Its helps us out a ton! (REEDS SPORTS HERE)

Best Clay Shooting Semi-Auto Shotguns

#3 CZ 712 G3 Target Shotgun

The CZ 712 G3 Target Shotgun stands out as an excellent choice for clay shooting. Weighing in at 8 lbs, it provides a balanced feel with an adjustable comb for personalized comfort. The controls are intuitive, and with a trigger under 6 lbs, it offers a responsive shooting experience. Priced at $800 MSRP, it's a reliable and affordable option for clay shooters.

• 12 gauge
• Gas-Operated - Included Gas Pistons: Light (for target loads) and Heavy (for heavier hunting loads).
• Barrel Length: 30 inches.
• Weight: Approximately 8 pounds.
• Adjustable Comb: Easy-to-use feature for a personalized fit.
• Length of Pull: Fixed at 14.5 inches (aftermarket options available). (Add a FalconStrike for less recoil)
• Choke Tubes: Comes with five extended choke tubes. But of course, we'd recommend switching out for some Carlson's Choke Tubes
• Comes with shims to adjust drop and cast.

#2 SKB RS300 Target Shotgun

If customization is a priority, the SKB RS300 Target Shotgun is a standout option. Weighing 7 lbs 14 oz, this gun allows for extensive adjustments, from length of pull to drop. While it may not boast extravagant features, its reliability and customization options make it a solid choice for clay shooters. With a price tag of $1,176, it offers excellent value.

• 12 gauge (20 gauge youth model available)
• 3" chamber
• 30" (28, 26" also available in youth models)
• 7lbs 14oz 
• Length of Pull 13 1/2" but adjustable to 14 3/4" -  All the adjustable elements are amazing! (Add a FalconStrike for less recoil)
• Drop at Comb 1 1/2" Also vertically and horizontally adjustable 
• Drop at Heel 2 1/4" Adjustable with shims
• Cast is also adjustable
• Comes with 5 chokes (upgrade to a Carlson's Choke Tube)

#1 Beretta A400 Excel Multi-Target

Claiming the top spot is the Beretta A400 Excel Multi-Target. Weighing 7 lbs 11 oz, it strikes a balance between weight and performance. Boasting oversized controls and an adjustable rib, it adapts well to different clay disciplines. The gas system is both quick and reliable, with a comfortable trigger under 6 lbs. Priced at just over $3,000 MSRP, it's a top-tier choice for clay shooting enthusiasts.

• 12 gauge (gas driven)
• This A400 comes with three Optima HP chokes (IC, M, IM) - But of course, we'd swap that out with a Carlson's Choke Tube
• 3-inch chamber
• 32" Barrell
• Shotgun Weight is 7lbs 11oz 
• Length of pull is 14 1/4" and is not adjustable. (Add a FalconStrike for less recoil)
• The comb is adjustable up,down, and from left to right to get your eye centered on the shotgun
• Shims are available to change drop and cast
• Sports the Kick-Off recoil reduction system

Best Waterfowl Semi-Auto Shotguns

#3 Remington V3 Waterfowl Pro/Mossberg 940 Pro Waterfowl (Tie)

In the third spot, we have a tough choice between the Remington V3 Waterfowl Pro and the Mossberg 940 Pro. Both are exceptional in terms of reliability, light recoil, and a well-executed gas system. With both priced just over $1,000, the Remington V3 Waterfowl Pro, and the Mossberg 940 Pro offer a sturdy option for waterfowl enthusiasts. We love both of these guns very much. One unique difference between them is the gas system of the Remington. Instead of your typical cylinder piston, it has two smaller piston inputs that sit next to each other and send two skinny rods back to transfer recoil. Be sure to check out the Remington blog to learn more!

Mossberg Specs

• All 12 gauge, All 3 inch 
• All gas driven
• 28"  Barrell EXCEPT the JM Pro is 24"
• All come in around 7 pounds 
• Length of Pull adjustable from 13" to 14 1/4"  (Add a FalconStrike for less recoil)
• Comb and Heel are also fully adjustable
• All run the Accuchoke system (upgrade to a Carlson's Choke Tube)
• JM Pro comes with a magazine tube
• Chrome lined chamber and barrel

Remington Specs

• 12-gauge
•  Gas System (known as the versa-port system)
• MSRP: $1,139 
• 3-inch chamber
• The length of pull is 14" 
• Drop at comb is 1.5 inches
• Drop at heel is 2 7/16 inches - Drop and cast shims are available
• This shotgun comes with 3 extended chokes (Rem choke system) (upgrade to a Carlson's Choke Tube)
• 28" barrel 
• 7lbs 8oz
• The average pull weight of this trigger was around 5 lbs. Very happy with this!

#2 Franchi Affinity 3 Waterfowl Elite

Moving up in price, the Franchi Affinity 3 Waterfowl Elite secures the second spot. Weighing 6 lbs 14 oz, it strikes a balance between weight and functionality. With light recoil and excellent reliability, this shotgun, priced around $1,200 MSRP, provides fantastic value for those who prioritize inertia-operated systems. We've absolutely fallen in love with this Franchi shotgun.

• 12 gauge (Inertia operated)
• 3.5" chamber (Not typically my jam but wanted to keep it consistent)
• 28" Barrell (Some 26") 
• 6lbs 14oz
• Length of Pull 14 3/8" Out of the Box - This is not adjustable (Add a FalconStrike for less recoil)
• Drop at Comb 2 1/2" (Adjustable with shims)
• Drop at Heel 1" (Adjustable with shims) 
• Comes with 3  chokes (Short, Mid, Long) (upgrade to a Carlson's Choke Tube)
• This Waterfowl Elite comes with a very nice braided sling too

#1 Beretta A400 Extreme Plus

Taking the coveted number one spot is the Beretta A400 Extreme Plus. Weighing 8 lbs, it's a robust choice for the duck blind. With features like rubber grips, light recoil, and a superb trigger, it excels in waterfowl environments. Priced around $1,900, it's a top-tier option for those willing to invest in a reliable and durable waterfowl shotgun.

• 12 gauge
• 3.5" chamber
• 26", 28", or this 30" Steelium Barrell (Comes with Optima-Choke HP System and comes with 5 extended chokes) (upgrade to a Carlson's Choke Tube)
• 8lbs 
• Length of Pull 14 1/2" Out of the Box, with removable 1/2 inch spacer, and additional 1" spacer to get up to 15" length of pull (Add a FalconStrike for less recoil)
• Drop at Comb 1 1/2" (Adjustable with provided shims)
• Drop at Heel 2 1/2"

Best Upland Semi-Auto Shotguns

#3 Winchester SX4 Upland

In the third spot, the Winchester SX4 Upland is recognized for its lightweight design at 6 lbs 14 oz in the 20-gauge variant. Its user-friendly controls, easy handling, and minimal recoil make it an ideal choice for those long days in the field. Notably, it's the shotgun my wife recently used to successfully hunt sharptail grouse, showcasing its effectiveness in the Upland setting for shooters of all kinds. For many years we shot the SX4 as our show gun and can attest that it's also an absolute workhorse!

• 12 gauge (also available in 20ga)
• 3" chamber
• 28" Barrell (also available in 26")
• 7.2lbs
• Magazine Capacity = 4, 2 3/4" shells
• Drop at Comb 1 3/4"
• Drop at Heel 2"

#2 Retay Gordion

Surprisingly securing the second spot is the recently reviewed Retay Gordian. Weighing 6 lbs 2 oz, it stands out as an exceptionally light and well-balanced shotgun. While we initially encountered some cycling issues during the review, these concerns dissipated as the gun broke in. Priced at $999 MSRP, it provides an affordable yet impressive option for Upland hunters. We had a lot of fun and success shooting this beautiful shotgun. 

• MSRP: $999 for this walnut GreyCon version (synthetic version is $899)
• This is a 20-gauge "inertia plus" system (12ga available) 
• This inertia system is unique as it has a spring-loaded battery lock meaning that if you have a shell in the chamber, no matter how softly you close the bolt, its spring action will always keep the the bolt in battery.
• This also comes in a compact model that has spacers to adjust LOP
• The Length of Pull is 14 5/16" - Word on the street is that Retay will soon be adding a way to adjust the length of pull. (Add a FalconStrike for less recoil)
• Drop at comb, heel, and cast is adjustable with shims/spacers - If you'd like to learn more about this, check out the Masai Mara blog
• 28" barrel (26" available)
• 6lbs 2oz
• 6lbs 6oz average trigger pull weight
• This Gorion comes with 5 choke tubes. Check out Carlson's Chokes

#1 Benelli Ethos Cordoba B.E.S.T

Earning the top position for Upland semi-auto shotguns is the Benelli Ethos Cordoba B.E.S.T. Weighing 5 lbs 14 oz in the 20-gauge version, it offers an unparalleled lightweight and fast-handling experience. With remarkable ergonomics and a decent trigger at 6 lbs 10 oz, the Ethos Cordoba is priced at around $2,400. It's an investment that delivers exceptional performance in Upland environments. Its ain't purpose is upland but we loved shooting it so much that we'd consider it as an all-around gun as well.

• 12 gauge Inertia
• 3" chamber
• 28" Barrel 
• 7lbs 
• Length of Pull 14 3/8" (Add a FalconStrike for less recoil)
• Drop at Comb 1 1/2"
• Drop at Heel 2 1/4"
• Comes with 5 chokes (C, IC, M, IM, F) Extended BE.S.T Chokes - At this price, I assume it includes laser-guided technology to make sure you hit every shot. (upgrade to a Carlson's Choke Tube)

Best All-Purpose Semi-Auto Shotguns

#3 Weatherby Element / CZ 1012 (Tie)

Choosing the third spot was challenging, with two notable contenders - the CZ 1012 and Weatherby Element. The CZ 1012, priced at $749, offers excellent value for its ergonomic design and overall functionality. On the other hand, the Weatherby Element surprised us with its reliability and thoughtful features, even though it has a proprietary stock end. Both these shotguns present compelling options for those looking to balance performance and affordability.

CZ Specs

• 12 gauge Inertia
• Finished in "All-Terrain" which is green Cerekote hardware and walnut (Black synthetic and camo options available as well)
• 3" chamber
• 28" Barrel (26" available)
• 6lbs 8oz  
• Length of Pull 14 1/4" (Add a FalconStrike for less recoil)
• Drop at Comb 1 1/2"
• Drop at Heel 2 1/4"
• Comes with 5 chokes (C, IC, M, IM, F) (upgrade to a Carlson's Choke Tube)

Weatherby Specs

• 12 gauge - Inertia operated (lighter, cleaner)
• This one is in Max 5
• 3" chamber 
• 28" (or 26") Barrell 
• 6lbs 12oz
• Length of Pull 14 5/8" Out of the Box - Comes with only one shim to adjust
• Drop at Comb is adjustable with shims
• Runs integral multi-choke system (4 extended chokes) (upgrade to a Carlson's Choke Tube)

#2 Mossberg 940 Pro

Securing the second position is the Mossberg 940 Pro, a shotgun that has consistently impressed us over the years. With a reliable gas system, adjustable features, and thoughtful design elements, the Mossberg 940 Pro stands out as a versatile and efficient choice. Its affordability, coupled with a price point that hovers just above $1,000, makes it an attractive option for shooters seeking a high-performance, all-purpose shotgun. Plus, we had the honor of reviewing this shotgun with Jerry Miculek himself so if it's good enough for him, it's good enough for us.

• All 12 gauge, All 3 inch 
• All gas driven
• 28"  Barrell EXCEPT the JM Pro is 24"
• All come in around 7 pounds 
• Length of Pull adjustable from 13" to 14 1/4" (Add a FalconStrike for less recoil)
• Comb and Heel are also fully adjustable
• All run the Accuchoke system (upgrade to a Carlson's Choke Tube)
• JM Pro comes with a magazine tube
• Chrome lined chamber and barrel

#1 Benelli Ethos Cordoba B.E.S.T

Claiming the top spot as the best all-purpose semi-auto shotgun is the Benelli Ethos Cordoba Best. While initially intended for Upland and dove hunting, this shotgun's exceptional attributes extend its prowess to various shooting disciplines, including clays. Weighing 6 lbs 8 oz in the 20-gauge version, the Ethos Cordoba Best is a well-rounded firearm with an MSRP of $2,399. Its lightweight build, remarkable ergonomics, and overall performance make it our top choice for shooters engaged in diverse shooting activities.

• 12 gauge Inertia
• 3" chamber
• 28" Barrel 
• 7lbs 
• Length of Pull 14 3/8" 
• Drop at Comb 1 1/2"
• Drop at Heel 2 1/4"
• Comes with 5 chokes (C, IC, M, IM, F) Extended BE.S.T Chokes - At this price, I assume it includes laser-guided technology to make sure you hit every shot. (upgrade to a Carlson's Choke Tube)

General Categories: Most Innovative Semi-Auto Shotgun

Retay Masai Mara

In the realm of innovation, the Retay Masai Mara emerges as a standout semi-auto shotgun. This firearm introduces unique features that caught our eye during testing. Notably, the push-button removable trigger group is a noteworthy innovation, providing convenience in disassembly. The inertia plus bolt, designed to consistently return to battery, addresses a common challenge found in inertia-operated shotguns. Additionally, the ability to eject a shell from the magazine tube by pulling the bolt release toward you showcases the practicality that this shotgun brings to the table. The Retay Masai Mara's ingenuity places it as our top choice for the most innovative semi-auto shotgun.

• This is a 12-gauge "inertia plus" system (20ga available) 
• This inertia system is unique as it has a spring loaded battery lock meaning that if you have a shell in the chamber, no matter how softly you close the bolt, its spring action will always keep the the bolt in battery.
• MSRP: $1,669 in this "bold" series (which means it is Cerakoted)
• All 12ga models are 3 1/2" chambers - not our preference 
• The length of pull is 14 3/8" - Word on the street is that Retay will soon be adding a way to adjust the length of pull.
• Drop at comb, heel, and cast is adjustable with shims/spacers - This one is set up with 1 1/2" comb drop, and 2" heel drop.
• We appreciate that Retay has put a bit of effort into their manual, and kit when you get the gun to help get it properly fit for you. 
• 28" barrel 
• 7lbs 6.4oz
• 5lbs 4oz average trigger pull weight

Biggest Surprise Semi-Auto Shotgun

Mossberg SA-410

The Mossberg SA-410 takes the title of the most surprising semi-auto shotgun of the year. We did a combo review video along with the sa-20 and ended up loving the .410 much more. Initially, the .410 caliber might raise eyebrows for semi-autos, but Mossberg managed to create a firearm that not only functions reliably but also provides an enjoyable shooting experience. During testing, the SA-410 proved to be exceptionally fun, challenging preconceived notions about the .410 caliber in semi-auto shotguns. Mossberg's ability to deliver a reliable and enjoyable .410 semi-auto places the SA-410 in the spotlight as our biggest surprise of the year.

• 410 gauge (for turkey)
• Gas operated
• $902
• This turkey gun doesn't have a pistol grip 
• Comes with cheap pop-up removable sites
• 5lbs 15.6oz
• 14 1/4" LOP
• Pretty good feeling trigger so far - 7lbs 12oz average pull weight

Fastest Semi-Auto Shotgun

Mossberg 940 Pro

For those who value speed and responsiveness in a shotgun, the Mossberg 940 Pro claims the title of the fastest semi-auto shotgun in our testing. The Mossberg 940 Pro demonstrated exceptional speed and reliability, setting a remarkable standard. During extensive speed tests, the shotgun consistently outperformed others, achieving a swift cycle time. With a goal of shooting three clays in under 0.90 seconds, the Mossberg 940 Pro exceeded expectations, achieving a remarkable 0.87 seconds. This impressive speed, coupled with its overall reliability, solidifies the Mossberg 940 Pro as our top choice for the fastest semi-auto shotgun of the year.

That's all folks! Thank you for tuning into our best semi-auto list, and thank you for making 2023 another great year for TFL. We'll see you in the new year! Remember, if you agree, or disagree, we want to hear what you think of our picks! Chime into the TFL community!