Hey there! Jason Marsh here, owner of Wholesale Hunter. One of the most common questions I get from folks walking into the shop or browsing our site is: "Jason, I need a reliable shotgun, but I don't want to spend a fortune. What can I get for under $300?"
I love this question because it challenges the myth that you have to drop a thousand bucks to get a firearm that will protect your home or put meat on the table. The truth is, the market for budget-friendly shotguns is better than it’s ever been. Whether you’re looking for a rugged pump-action for the bedroom closet or a sleek single-shot for turkey season, there are some incredible "budget workhorses" out there.
In this guide, I’m going to break down the best shotgun under 300.00 options available today, compare seven of our favorites, and show you exactly what to look for so you don't end up with a "lemon." Plus, I’ll share some of our Wholesale Hunter secrets on how to save even more on ammo and gear.
Before we dive into the specific models, let's talk about what you should actually care about when you're shopping in the sub-$300 price range.
At this price point, pump-actions are king. They are mechanically simple, which means they are cheaper to manufacture without sacrificing reliability. You rack the slide, a shell moves into the chamber: it’s a design that’s worked for over a century.
You might find a few semi-autos under $300 (like some of the Black Aces models), but keep in mind they can be more finicky with lighter target loads. Single-shots are the most affordable and lightweight, making them perfect for youth shooters or dedicated small-game hunters.
If you want a shotgun for home defense, you want a shorter barrel: typically 18.5 inches. This makes the gun easier to maneuver in tight hallways. If you’re hunting birds or shooting clays, you’ll want something longer, usually 26 to 28 inches, to help with your "swing" and provide a better sight plane.
12-gauge is the standard for a reason. It has the most variety of ammo and the most stopping power. However, 20-gauge is a fantastic alternative if you're worried about recoil. For the specialized hunters, we also see a lot of interest in .410 bores. If that's your speed, make sure you check out our 410 slugs for sale to keep your stock full for the season.
Let’s get into the nitty-gritty. Here are seven shotguns that consistently punch above their weight class.
Often called the "working man's Mossberg 500," the Maverick 88 is legendary. It’s built in Texas and shares many parts with its more expensive cousin. The main difference is the trigger-guard mounted safety and a pinned forend.
The Stevens 320, imported by Savage Arms, features a rotary bolt design similar to the Winchester SXP.
Sometimes, simple is better. The Savage 301 is a break-action single shot that is incredibly lightweight.
Stoeger is part of the Benelli family, so they know a thing or two about shotguns. The P3000 is a no-nonsense pump that feels a bit more "premium" than some other budget options.
This is the "hunting" version of the 320 Security. It features a 26-inch or 28-inch barrel and a vent rib.
Black Aces has made a big splash by offering features that used to be very expensive. Their Pro Series often includes different stock options and magazine-fed capabilities.
A bit of a sleeper hit, the LKCI Vezir is a Turkish-made pump that is rugged and simple.
Look, I know you have choices when it comes to buying firearms. But here at Wholesale Hunter, we try to go the extra mile for our community.
First off, we offer free shipping on long guns. That’s right: when you pick out your new shotgun, the shipping is on us. We also know that a gun is only as good as the ammo you have for it. We offer massive bulk ammunition discounts: you get 5% off when you buy 10+ boxes of the same ammo.
And if you’re looking at a $299 shotgun but don’t want to pay it all at once? We’ve got you covered with Sezzle. It lets you split your purchase into 4 interest-free payments over 6 weeks. It’s a great way to get the gear you need now without stressing the bank account.
Don't forget to join our Customer Rewards Program. Every dollar you spend earns you points toward future discounts. It’s my way of saying thanks for being a part of the Wholesale Hunter family.
Once you’ve picked out the best shotgun under 300.00, you’re going to need a few more things to round out your kit.
Stocking up is the name of the game. Whether you need birdshot for the field or buckshot for the house, we have it all. And for those of you who also carry a sidearm, we frequently run deals on cheap 38 special for your revolvers.
If you're a "gear head" like me, you probably have more than just a shotgun in your safe. We carry a massive variety of parts, including kel-tec plr 16 accessories and other tactical upgrades for your favorite range toys.
A cheap shotgun will last a lifetime if you take care of it. Grab a cleaning kit and some high-quality oil. Because these budget workhorses often have "matte" finishes, they can be more prone to surface rust if you leave them in a damp basement. A quick wipe-down after a day in the rain is all it takes to keep them in top shape.
At the end of the day, the "best" shotgun is the one you have with you when you need it. You don't need a gold-inlaid receiver to protect your family or enjoy a Saturday at the range. The Maverick 88, Stevens 320, and the others on this list are proven tools that won't let you down.
Ready to find your next workhorse? Head over to our firearms section and see what we have in stock today. Between the free shipping, the Sezzle options, and our bulk ammo deals, there’s no reason to wait.
Stay safe out there, and happy shooting!
: Jason Marsh
Owner, Wholesale Hunter
Need help deciding? Check out our Sitemap or search our full inventory here. We’re always adding new stock and finding ways to save you money on the gear you love.
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