The Shotgun reload drill that gets you back into the fight faster

Published on April 12, 2025
Duration: 1:01

This drill focuses on quickly getting back into the fight after a shotgun goes dry. It emphasizes loading one round into the chamber for immediate defense, followed by tactical reloads into the magazine tube from the bottom while maintaining muzzle discipline and situational awareness.

Quick Summary

A tactical shotgun bottom load drill helps you get back into the fight faster after your firearm runs dry. It involves loading one round into the chamber for immediate defense, then performing tactical reloads into the magazine tube from the bottom while maintaining muzzle discipline and target awareness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a tactical shotgun bottom load drill?

A tactical shotgun bottom load drill focuses on quickly reloading a shotgun that has run dry. It involves loading one round into the chamber for immediate defense, then performing tactical reloads into the magazine tube from the bottom while maintaining muzzle discipline and target awareness.

How do you perform a tactical shotgun bottom load?

After the shotgun is dry and the chamber is open, load one round into the chamber. Then, while keeping the muzzle downrange, grab shells from your carrier and use a 'thumb push' method to load them into the magazine tube from the bottom.

Why is it important to load one round into the chamber first?

Loading one round into the chamber immediately after the firearm goes dry ensures you have a round ready to fire for defense. This allows you to maintain a defensive posture while you complete the full magazine reload.

What safety precautions should be taken during a shotgun reload drill?

Always ensure the firearm is pointed in a safe direction and the chamber is visually and physically cleared before any loading. Keep your finger off the trigger until ready to fire, and maintain muzzle discipline throughout the drill.

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