Best Duck Hunting Shotguns

Table of Contents

• What Makes The Best Duck Hunting Shotgun
• Benelli Super Black Eagle 3
• Beretta A400 Xtreme
• Winchester SX4 Waterfowl
• Mossberg 500
• Mossberg 835 Waterfowl
• Franchi Affinity
• Best Shotgun Gauge To Use For Duck Hunting
• The Best Waterfowl Shotgun Colors
• Choosing The Best Shotgun For Duck Hunting

Duck hunting and waterfowl hunting season is finally here! At least for me it’s time to go through and check all my gear from my waders, hunting chairs, duck decoys, but most importantly, my duck hunting shotgun! I have been duck hunting for years now and learned the hard way that having the right waterfowl shotgun is arguably the most important tool when duck hunting. Your duck calls need to be good enough to bring them in, your duck blinds need to conceal you enough so the ducks don’t get suspicious, but when it comes time to take the shot, you need a shotgun that will get the job done. With that being said, at Fin Feather Fur Outfitters behind our staff we have decades of experience waterfowl hunting so you know you can trust our list of the best duck hunting shotguns.

What Makes The Best Duck Hunting Shotgun

Duck and waterfowl hunting puts a shotgun through some of the harshest conditions you’ll find in the field. Unlike upland bird hunting, where you’re often in dry environments and carrying light loads, waterfowl hunters deal with water, mud, freezing temperatures, ice, and even corrosive salt spray. A shotgun that works fine on the skeet range can fail fast in a layout blind or flooded timber if it isn’t built to handle abuse. So before we go into some of the best duck hunting shotguns we’ll review what makes a great shotgun for waterfowl hunting.

1. Reliability :

   Above all, the gun must fire every time, no matter how wet, dirty, or cold the conditions. I have had guns freeze up on me when my blind cover wasn’t the best and nothing will put you in a bind when duck hunting more than not being able to reload your shotgun.

2. Corrosion Resistance :

   Durable finishes (Cerakote, nickel, parkerized steel) and synthetic stocks protect against rust and swelling. Like I said I have learned the hard way having barrels of shotguns rust on me after long weekend duck hunting trips in snow and rain.

3. Shootability :

   A shotgun should point naturally, swing smoothly, and balance well for tracking fast-moving ducks. When it comes to any shooting you want something that feels good in your hand, and has some natural comfort to it.

4. Pattern Performance :

   Consistent patterns with steel or tungsten loads are crucial for clean, ethical kills.

5. Recoil Management :

   Gas-operated systems, recoil pads, and properly balanced guns help tame heavy waterfowl loads.

6. Ease of Maintenance :

   Field stripping should be simple, so you can knock out ice, mud, and water quickly in a blind or boat. If you have duck hunted before you know these elements will get in your shotgun it is inevitable, so easily being able to clear your gun from these will help keeping you taking quality shots.

Just writing this article gets me fired up to be sitting in a silent blind, seeing the unique pattern of each snowflake exaggerated on the black background of my shotgun barrel, hunting buddies to each side of me silently waiting for shooting light to come up. If I were in the market of picking out a new shotgun for waterfowl hunting this season, these would be the options I pick, and why!

Benelli Super Black Eagle 3

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Benelli Super Black Eagle 3 Review

While a 28-gauge shotgun is not the most common for duck hunting, because 28-guage steel shot shells can be difficult to find, the Benelli Super Black Eagle 3 in 28-gauge offers a rare balance of lightweight handling and magnum-level performance. At just over 5½ pounds, it’s extremely easy to carry into the marsh or timber, while still capable of firing heavy 3″ waterfowl loads. In field conditions, the SBE3 is known for exceptional reliability, its inertia-driven action runs clean and cycles smoothly even in freezing weather, muddy blinds, and wet boats. Pattern testing shows even, consistent spreads with steel and tungsten when paired with the right choke, making it a strong performer for decoy hunting or medium-range pass shots. The Comfort Tech® 3 recoil system keeps the gun surprisingly manageable for its size, though hunters used to the higher pellet count of 12- or 20-gauge shotguns may find the 28-gauge somewhat limiting on geese or extended-range ducks. The black synthetic stock and corrosion-resistant finishes stand up well to water and salt exposure, giving it strong longevity in harsh waterfowl environments. While its premium price tag makes it more of an investment than budget duck guns, the SBE3 is best suited to hunters who want a modern, lightweight, and field-ready shotgun that delivers consistent performance season after season.

Beretta A400 Xtreme

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Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus KO Review

The Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus KO is built for serious waterfowlers who demand magnum performance, soft shooting, and weather-tough durability. Its Steelium Plus barrel and OptimaChoke HP system deliver consistent patterns with modern non-toxic loads when properly matched, while the A400 gas system reliably cycles heavy 3½" rounds, making this gun an excellent choice for heavy-load goose and mixed waterfowl use. The Kick-Off recoil mitigation system and ergonomic stock geometry substantially reduce felt recoil, improving follow-up speed and comfort during long days over decoys. Aqua Technology corrosion protections and oversized, weather-ready controls (loading port, bolt release, extended charging handle) make the A400 Xtreme Plus KO especially suited to salt, marsh, and muddy conditions. Tradeoffs include weight and price: it’s noticeably heavier to carry than smaller-gauge options and sits in a premium price bracket, so it best serves hunters who prioritize capacity, durability, and minimal recoil with magnum shells. As always, verify reliable cycling with the exact loads you’ll hunt with and pattern the gun at your typical engagement distances before hunting season.

Winchester SX4 Waterfowl

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Winchester SX4 Waterfowl Hunter Review

The Winchester SX4 Waterfowl Hunter in Realtree Max-7 is a purpose-built, mid-priced 12-gauge semi-auto tailored for duck and waterfowl work, its 3½" chamber and 4+1 capacity give it real magnum capability and flexibility for mixed waterfowl loads, while the 28" barrel and 7.2-lb weight deliver a stable, solid swing for decoy and pass shooting. The synthetic Realtree Max-7 stock and aluminum receiver reduce weight and add durability in wet, muddy conditions, and the hard-chrome chamber and bore are thoughtful corrosion-resistant touches that help the gun tolerate frequent exposure to water and salt. In the field the SX4 is known for smooth, reliable cycling as a gas-operated platform (especially when running properly sized waterfowl loads), predictable patterning when matched to the correct choke and shot material, and comfortable handling for long sits or repeated follow-up shots. The SX4’s balance of affordability, practical weatherproofing, and 3½" capability makes it an excellent option for hunters who want a dependable, feature-rich duck gun without stepping into the highest premium price tiers. That said, heavier 12-gauge magnum setups will still weigh more to carry across big marshes, and conscientious pattern testing with your chosen non-toxic loads is essential to dial in the best choke/load pairing before a hunt.

Mossberg 500

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Mossberg 500 Combo Review

The Mossberg 500 Combo 20 Gauge is a versatile and reliable pump-action shotgun, ideal for hunters seeking a multi-purpose firearm. With its 3" chamber, it accommodates a wide range of loads suitable for various game. The combo includes two barrels: a 26" vent-ribbed field barrel with dual bead sights for upland game and a 24" fully rifled slug barrel equipped with adjustable rifle sights, making it adaptable for both bird and deer hunting. The wood stock and blued finish provide a classic aesthetic, while the Accu-Set choke system offers flexibility in patterning. Weighing approximately 7 lbs, it strikes a balance between portability and stability. Users have praised its durability and ease of maintenance, noting its suitability for both novice and experienced hunters. However, some have mentioned that the pump action may require a break-in period to achieve optimal smoothness. Overall, the Mossberg 500 Combo 20 Gauge offers excellent value for hunters desiring a dependable, all-around shotgun.

Mossberg 835 Waterfowl

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Mossberg 835 Turkey / Waterfowl Combo Review

The Mossberg 835 Turkey/Waterfowl Combo is a versatile, all-in-one 12-gauge designed to cover both waterfowl and big game hunting. Its 3½" chamber handles heavy magnum waterfowl loads, while the included 28" vent-rib barrel provides excellent patterns for ducks and geese at typical decoy ranges. The 24" vent-rib slug barrel with adjustable rifle sights allows effective close- to mid-range slug or buckshot hunting, making it ideal for turkey or deer. The synthetic Mossy Oak Break-Up Country stock and camo finish are highly durable and resistant to wet or muddy conditions, while the Accu-Set choke system ensures adaptable shot patterns for varying hunting situations. Weighing around 7.5 lbs, it balances carry comfort with stability for recoil control, and pump-action reliability ensures consistent performance with minimal maintenance. Hunters benefit from a single shotgun capable of multiple roles, though the weight may be noticeable on long walks and the pump action requires smooth operation under heavy loads. Overall, the Mossberg 835 Combo offers excellent value as a dual-purpose shotgun for hunters who want both waterfowl and big-game capability in one package.

Franchi Affinity

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Franchi Affinity Left Handed Review – Best Left Handed Duck Hunting Shotgun?

The Franchi Affinity 12 Gauge Left-Handed model is a lightweight, semi-automatic shotgun designed for waterfowl hunters who need smooth handling and reliable cycling in a variety of conditions. Its inertia-driven system provides dependable operation with 3" shells while remaining easy to maintain, and the included IC, M, and F extended chokes allow hunters to fine-tune patterns for different shot distances and loads. The 28" barrel delivers solid swing and tracking, and the black synthetic stock with a soft comb and ergonomic design keeps the gun comfortable over long hunts, including early-morning marsh and flooded timber conditions. At approximately 6.5 lbs, it’s lighter than many full-size 12-gauge magnum options, making it easier to carry for extended periods without sacrificing performance. While the Affinity may not have some of the premium corrosion treatments of higher-end models, it still offers excellent durability and resistance to water exposure when properly cared for. Overall, it’s an outstanding choice for left-handed hunters looking for a well-balanced, reliable, and versatile waterfowl shotgun at a reasonable price point.

Best Shotgun Gauge To Use For Duck Hunting

The Best Waterfowl Shotgun Colors

When it comes to selecting the best waterfowl shotgun colors, choosing the right finish can make a significant difference in both concealment and durability in harsh hunting environments. Matte, camo, or muted finishes such as Realtree, Mossy Oak, or black synthetic are widely regarded as top choices because they reduce glare and blend seamlessly into marshes, flooded timber, and coastal wetlands, helping hunters remain undetected by wary ducks and geese. Bright or glossy finishes are generally avoided, as they can reflect sunlight and spook waterfowl, particularly during early-morning hunts. Beyond concealment, color choices often align with corrosion resistance and maintenance: black, earth-tone, and camo synthetic stocks paired with coated barrels tend to withstand moisture, salt spray, and mud better than bare metal or polished finishes. Experienced waterfowl hunters emphasize that a well-chosen shotgun color isn’t just about aesthetics, it contributes directly to stealth, comfort, and confidence in the blind, making it a crucial factor alongside gauge, action, and choke selection when selecting the best waterfowl shotgun for any hunting scenario.

Choosing The Best Shotgun For Duck Hunting

Choosing the best shotgun for duck hunting requires balancing reliability, performance, and field conditions to maximize success and comfort in the blind. Key factors include gauge, chamber size, barrel length, and action type, all of which influence pellet patterns, range, and follow-up speed. Semi-automatic and pump-action shotguns each offer advantages depending on the hunter’s preference and typical load sizes, while recoil management and ergonomics are critical for long days of shooting magnum waterfowl shells. Durability and corrosion resistance are also essential, as saltwater, mud, and cold temperatures can quickly degrade unprotected firearms. Experienced hunters also consider camouflage and color choices to stay concealed in marshes and flooded timber. Ultimately, the best duck hunting shotgun combines consistent patterning, dependable cycling, manageable recoil, and environmental resilience, allowing hunters to focus on their shots rather than their equipment. If you have any other questions, please click below to talk to our duck hunting shotgun experts behind our gun counter.

Talk To Our Duck Shotgun Experts