Is Mossberg a Smarter Shotgun?

Published on February 6, 2026
Duration: 11:11

This review compares the semi-automatic actions of the Mossberg 940 Pro SPX against the Beretta 1301 Tactical and Benelli M4. The Mossberg's action is noted for its intuitive, automatic chambering of rounds when the bolt is cycled, similar to rifles and pistols. In contrast, the Beretta and Benelli designs utilize a cartridge release lever, requiring an extra step to chamber a round but offering advantages like 'cruiser ready' storage and easier ammunition swaps. The video highlights that while the Mossberg action may be simpler for beginners, the Beretta/Benelli system provides specific tactical benefits for trained users, stressing the importance of familiarity with one's own firearm.

Quick Summary

The Mossberg 940 Pro SPX features an intuitive semi-automatic action that automatically chambers a round when the bolt is cycled, similar to rifles. In contrast, shotguns like the Beretta 1301 Tactical use a cartridge release lever, requiring an extra step to chamber a round but offering tactical benefits like 'cruiser ready' storage.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: Beretta 1301 Tactical Action
  2. 02:06Mossberg 940 Pro SPX Action Explained
  3. 05:07Benelli M4 & Action Comparison
  4. 06:24Pros and Cons of Shotgun Actions
  5. 08:47Conclusion & Viewer Input

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between the Mossberg 940 Pro SPX and Beretta 1301 Tactical shotgun actions?

The Mossberg 940 Pro SPX's action automatically chambers a round when the bolt is cycled, making it intuitive like a rifle. The Beretta 1301 Tactical requires pressing a cartridge release lever to chamber a round, offering specific tactical advantages for storage and ammo changes.

Which shotgun action is considered 'smarter' for beginners?

The Mossberg 940 Pro SPX's action is generally considered 'smarter' or more intuitive for beginners because cycling the bolt automatically chambers a round, similar to how rifles and pistols operate. This requires less specific training for basic operation.

What are the tactical advantages of the Beretta 1301 Tactical's action?

The Beretta 1301 Tactical's cartridge release lever system allows for 'cruiser ready' storage (where the chamber remains empty but the magazine is loaded) and facilitates quicker ammunition changes, such as swapping from birdshot to slugs, without cycling the entire magazine.

Does cycling the bolt on a Beretta 1301 Tactical automatically load a round?

No, on the Beretta 1301 Tactical and similar designs with a cartridge release lever, cycling the bolt after loading the magazine does not automatically chamber a round. You must press the release lever or pull the trigger to chamber the first round.

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