The U.S. Army doesn't rely on shotguns as its primary firearm, unlike some police forces. However, specialized units and roles do utilize shotguns for specific missions. Understanding which shotgun, when, and why is key to understanding their limited but important role within the military.
The Primary Shotgun: Remington 870
While the Army doesn't issue a single, standardized shotgun across all branches, the Remington 870 pump-action shotgun has historically been the most common model employed. Its widespread use stems from a combination of factors:
- Reliability: The Remington 870 is renowned for its ruggedness and reliability, even under harsh conditions. This is crucial in a military context where malfunctions can be life-threatening.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Compared to more specialized or technologically advanced shotguns, the Remington 870 offers a good balance of performance and affordability.
- Versatility: The platform's adaptability allows for modifications and the use of various accessories, enhancing its effectiveness in different scenarios.
Specific Roles and Units Utilizing Shotguns
The Army's use of shotguns is highly situational. They're not standard issue for infantry soldiers on the front lines. Instead, their employment tends to be more specialized:
- Close-Quarters Combat (CQB): Shotguns are highly effective in close-range engagements, making them valuable tools for specialized units involved in breaching operations, room clearing, or hostage rescue scenarios. Think units like specialized entry teams or military police.
- Riot Control: In situations requiring crowd control or managing civil disturbances, shotguns (often equipped with less-lethal ammunition like beanbag rounds) can provide a more effective and less deadly option than other weaponry.
- Security Forces: Military police and security personnel may carry shotguns for base protection or other security duties. The effectiveness of a shotgun in close-range scenarios makes it a useful deterrent.
Alternatives and Modern Considerations
While the Remington 870 has been a staple, the Army is constantly evaluating its equipment. This means that other models might see limited use, depending on specific unit requirements and emerging technologies. Factors such as weight, ergonomics, and the availability of specialized ammunition also influence the choice of shotgun.
Ammunition Considerations
The type of ammunition used varies greatly depending on the mission. This could include:
- Buckshot: Ideal for close-range engagements where stopping power is paramount.
- Birdshot: Used for situations where less lethal force is needed, such as controlling animals or in certain crowd control scenarios.
- Slug rounds: Offer increased range and accuracy compared to buckshot, although with reduced shot spread.
- Less-Lethal options: Beanbag rounds and other less-lethal projectiles can be deployed for crowd control or other situations where minimizing injuries is crucial.
Conclusion
The Army's use of shotguns is niche, focusing on specific roles and units requiring close-range capabilities or crowd control. While the Remington 870 has been the workhorse, the Army’s equipment choices are always subject to change based on evolving needs and technological advancements. The emphasis remains on choosing reliable, effective, and cost-efficient firearms for their specialized applications.
