2 Types Of Shotgun Safeties: Which Is Right For You?

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Post on Mar 20, 2025

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2 Types of Shotgun Safeties: Which is Right for You?

Choosing the right shotgun can be a significant decision, but equally important is understanding the safety mechanisms it employs. Shotguns, being powerful and potentially dangerous firearms, require reliable safeties to prevent accidental discharges. This article explores the two primary types of shotgun safeties: crossbolt safeties and tang safeties, helping you determine which best suits your needs and shooting style.

Understanding Shotgun Safeties: A Crucial Aspect of Gun Safety

Before diving into the specifics of each type, it's vital to emphasize the paramount importance of safe gun handling practices. Regardless of the safety mechanism, always treat every firearm as if it were loaded. Familiarize yourself thoroughly with your shotgun's safety features before handling it, and consistently practice safe gun handling procedures.

Crossbolt Safeties: A Common and Familiar Design

The crossbolt safety is arguably the most prevalent type found on modern shotguns. It's typically located on the receiver, either just behind or in front of the trigger guard. To engage the safety, you slide the crossbolt – a small lever or button – transversely across the receiver.

Advantages of Crossbolt Safeties:

• Intuitive operation: The simple on/off design is easy to learn and use, making it suitable for both novice and experienced shooters.
• Accessibility: The location typically allows for quick engagement and disengagement, crucial in fast-paced situations like hunting or home defense.
• Robustness: Generally reliable and less prone to malfunction compared to other safety mechanisms.

Disadvantages of Crossbolt Safeties:

• Potential for accidental disengagement: Depending on the design and the user's grip, there's a small risk of accidentally disengaging the safety during the shooting process.
• Ambidextrous limitations: Some crossbolt safeties are designed for right-handed shooters, requiring a slight adjustment for left-handed users.

Tang Safeties: A Classic, But Less Common, Option

Tang safeties are positioned on the upper tang of the receiver, typically near the rear of the receiver, hence the name. They usually operate as a sliding lever or a rotating button. This design is often associated with more traditional or higher-end shotguns.

Advantages of Tang Safeties:

• Less prone to accidental disengagement: Due to their position and operation, tang safeties are generally less likely to be disengaged inadvertently during the shooting process.
• Sleek profile: They often contribute to a cleaner and more elegant look of the shotgun.

Disadvantages of Tang Safeties:

• Steeper learning curve: The operation might feel less intuitive than a crossbolt safety, requiring some practice to master.
• Accessibility concerns: Their location can make them slightly less accessible for quick engagement or disengagement, which can be a drawback in dynamic situations.
• Less common: Finding shotguns with tang safeties might be more challenging compared to those with crossbolt safeties.

Which Safety Type is Right for You?

The best safety type truly depends on individual preferences and shooting style. Consider these factors:

• Shooting experience: Beginners might find crossbolt safeties easier to learn and use.
• Shooting discipline: For hunting or sporting clays, where rapid transitions are needed, the speed of crossbolt safeties might be preferable. In home defense, the added security of a tang safety could be a plus.
• Personal preference: Some shooters simply prefer the feel and operation of one type over another.

Ultimately, the most important aspect is that you understand your shotgun’s safety mechanism and consistently practice safe gun handling techniques. Always prioritize safety above all else.

Conclusion: Safety First

Both crossbolt and tang safeties offer effective protection against accidental discharges, albeit with subtle differences in operation and accessibility. Thoroughly research the safety features of any shotgun before purchasing it, and don't hesitate to handle different models to experience the differences firsthand. Remember, safe gun handling practices are essential regardless of the type of safety mechanism your shotgun employs.