In the October 2024 issue, Gun Tests shooters tested three 12 gauge shotguns that promised fast operation.
Contributing Editor Robert Sadowski’s North Carolina test team fired
- a Benelli knock-off, the Military Armament Corporation MAC 2 3-Gun model,
- a Stoeger M3K 3-Gun model,
- and a Tokarev TBP Bull Pup head to head.
Here’s a quick look at each one:
Military Armament Corporation
MAC 2 3-Gun 21000156 12 Gauge, $351
The MAC 2 ran well on all types of ammo, with no issues.
Recoil was more noticeable due to the weight, but tolerable.
The beveled loading port made reloading doubles and quads fast.
We would have liked a larger magazine release.
Stoeger M3K 3-Gun
36038 12 Gauge, $649
The Stoeger M3K 3-Gun had the least amount of felt recoil due to its weight.
This inertia-operated shotgun ran well on light- and high-power loads.
The beveled port made loading simple and fast.
Tokarev TBP 12FDE
21000128 12 Gauge, $279
The TBP choked when ejecting the Winchester shells, but it ran well on all other ammo.
Recoil is moderate. The Picatinny-style top and bottom rails chew up your support hand during recoil. Reloading can be awkward.
It had an awful, heavy trigger, but it was very maneuverable in tight spaces.
So if you’re in the market for an affordable shotgun that can run fast, check the Gun Tests website and see which of these 12 gauges might be right for you.
