May 08, 2026
Things You May Not Know About Shotguns
Photo: One of the most recognizable modern movie shotguns is the customized lBenelli M4 used by Keanu Reeves in the John Wick.
Shotguns have been around for centuries, and despite all the modern firearms technology we have today, they still remain one of the most versatile weapons ever made. Hunters trust them. Homeowners rely on them. Militaries still use them. And Hollywood absolutely loves them.
But there are a few surprising things about shotguns that you probably never hear.
The Shotgun Has Evolved More Than You Think
Most people picture an old pump shotgun when they think about this firearm category, but shotguns have constantly evolved over the years.
One major breakthrough came in 1878 when Daniel Myron Lefever created the first hammerless shotgun. That design helped pave the way for the modern shotguns we know today.
And shotguns now come in almost every style imaginable: pump-action, semi-auto, double-barrel, magazine-fed, and even compact tactical models used by military forces worldwide.
There are even revolvers capable of firing both handgun ammunition and small shotgun shells. They may look unusual, but they've become increasingly popular because of their versatility.
Shotguns Can Do More Than People Realize
A lot of people underestimate how capable a shotgun really is.
Depending on the load, a shotgun can be used for bird hunting, deer hunting, competitive shooting, breaching doors, or home defense. That's a pretty impressive resume for one firearm platform.
Capacity also varies more than most people think. Traditional hunting shotguns often hold only 2 to 5 shells, while tactical models can carry much more depending on barrel length and magazine tube size.
And despite what movies sometimes imply, shotgun pellets can travel surprisingly far. Certain loads can travel over 200 yards under the right conditions, which is why safe handling and knowing your target area always matters.
Then there's Hollywood. One of the most recognizable modern movie shotguns is the customized lBenelli M4 used by Keanu Reeves in the John Wick fims. That shotgun helped introduce a whole new generation to tactical scatterguns.
Why Shotguns Still Matter Today
Very few firearms have stayed relevant as long as the shotgun.
Military forces still use them today for specialized operations, including breaching and close-quarters work. Hunters continue to rely on them because of their versatility in the field. And for many Americans, the shotgun remains one of the most trusted home defense tools available.
Even the controversial sawed-off shotgun has become part of firearms history and pop culture, though modern laws heavily regulate barrel length and ownership requirements.
At the end of the day, the shotgun has survived generation after generation for one simple reason: it works.
Whether it's protecting a home, putting food on the table, or stealing scenes in action movies, the shotgun continues to prove why it's one of the most iconic firearms ever made.
Fun Fact: The term "scattergun" became a popular nickname for shotguns because of the spread pattern created by multiple pellets fired from a shell.
Until next time, stay locked and loaded.
- Randy, Locked N Loaded
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