Summary
InHunt: Showdown 1896, shotguns have been among the most satisfying, though not the most versatile, weapons in the game. They excel primarily in close-quarters combat, delivering devastating power at short range - a true ambusher’s delight. However, with the recent2.0 update and engine upgrade, which introduced projectile ballistics and enhanced slug ammunition, their effectiveness has improved in terms of range, spread tightness, and headshot viability, despite the added challenge of bullet drop.
These changes have enhanced the versatility of shotguns, making them a more potent companion in a broader range of scenarios that a hunter may face in thisPvPvE extraction shooter, particularly in terms of PvP combat. Nevertheless, not all shotguns are created equal. With numerous options and variants available, it can be challenging for a shotgun to stand out and earn a coveted spot in a loadout. Here’s a look at the Best Shotguns inHunt: Showdown 1896, Ranked.
190
6+1 (8)
14m
21rpm
12.2s
425m/s
Cost
$238
The Terminus 1887 is a lever-action shotgun that offers a high ammunition capacity and delivers a respectable amount of damage. Although it may not inflict as much damage as other options on this list, its seven-shell magazine enables sustained firepower, making it well-suited for prolonged engagements against multiple adversaries. However, it suffers from an exceptionally long reload time, which can leave players vulnerable during critical moments when a reload is necessary.
Thankfully, being a lever-action repeating shotgun means it greatly benefits from the Levering trait, which is often essential for its effective use. Playing without Levering makes it difficult to use and somewhat cumbersome; for this reason, it is generally not regarded as a worthwhile choice, particularly for new players.
203
5+1 (6)
13m
23rpm
9.6s
$333
The Slate is a pump-action shotgun renowned for its high damage and impressive fire rate, balanced by considerable bullet spread. It is the faster of the two pump-action shotguns inHunt: Showdown 1896, with a fire rate of 23rpm. Within buildings, the Slate’s true potential is realized; its rapid firing speed makes it ideal for eliminating enemy teams in close quarters, providing a significant advantage in the confines of a boss lair - unless opponents are also armed with the same weapon.
Forplayers who enjoy hunting soloor favor shotguns capable of rapid fire while maintaining a genuine pump-action feel, the Slate stands out as a top choice. Its limited range, however, necessitates thoughtful engagement strategies, making it essential to consider the game’s many expansive environments.
210
4+1 (10)
20rpm
14.8s
$188
The Specter 1882 joins the Slate in the pump-action shotgun category. This long-barreled shotgun is characterized by a very tight bullet spread, making it deadly accurate at an effective range of 14 meters - especially when paired with slugs. The downsides to this shotgun primarily come with its partial reload mechanism, ejecting a bullet without fully emptying the magazine and squandering ammo. This makes the Bulletgrubber trait a somewhat inconvenient necessity. Plus, with an extremely limited fire rate of 20rpm, it demands patience and precision, transforming every shot into a high-stakes gamble; certainly not an ideal choice fornewcomers to the extraction shooter genre.
When utilized in the bayonet variant, performance significantly declines, leading to reduced damage, slower handling, and a considerable increase in bullet spread. This modification is rarely worthwhile; opting for the base gun is generally better.
218
1+6
16rpm
3.4s
450m/s
$66
The Romero 77, awarded at level one, is the quintessential shotgun in the game, known for its devastating long-range power. Unfortunately, as a single-barrel, breech-loading weapon, it requires precision; every missed shot can be punishing, and frequent reloading is necessary. Despite this drawback, its remarkable one-shot power and long-range capabilities, bolstered by its top-ranking muzzle velocity of 450m/s and cheap loadout cost, make it a favorite, especially for budget builds,early-game beginner loadouts, and players with a keen eye.
The Talon variant features a mounted stock blade, which increases recoil and reduces muzzle velocity, providing minimal advantage aside from enabling melee attacks in case of a miss. In contrast, the Alamo variant, equipped with a magazine and loader, enhances usability by allowing follow-up shots, although at a slower rate. For optimal performance, the Alamo variant is the preferred choice.
2+8
24rpm
4.7s
$150
The Rival 78 stands out as one of the most balanced shotguns in the game, featuring a powerful twin-barrel, break-action design that delivers high damage and packs a punch in close-range combat. With an effective one-shot range of up to 13 meters when using buckshot, it is highly lethal in medium-range engagements. What truly sets this shotgun apart is its ability to fire two shots in quick succession before reloading. Kills can often be secured before the enemy can react, and even if the first shot misses, the second shot can still achieve the desired outcome.
Combined with its respectable range, quick reload speed, and cost-effectiveness as one of themost affordable shotguns in a loadout, the Rival 78 is a dependable choice and a formidable option for novice and seasoned hunters.
194
4+1 (6)
10.7s
$600
The Auto-5, also known as the Crown & King, is a popular shotgun recognized for its effectiveness and versatility, even atop choice in the best buildsbefore the 2.0 update. This semi-automatic, long-barreled shotgun features a 5-round magazine with a staggering rate of fire of 24 rounds per minute. When positioned strategically at mid-range and with accurate shot placement, it can swiftly eliminate teams with multiple targets in view. As a long-barreled shotgun, the Auto-5 also excels at long-range shooting; when equipped with slugs, it transforms into a highly effective makeshift rifle, surpassing the Romero’s range and outperforming many traditional rifles, particularly within a 30-meter drop range.
Ultimately, this shotgun compels opposing players to engage actively, justifying its hefty price tag of $600 and the significant amount of ammunition required - it’s advisable to carry an Ammo Box when using this shotgun. It is safe to say that the Auto-5 can perform functions that no other shotgun can, demonstrating versatility at both close range and long distances, thereby securing its position at the top of this list.
