Double-Barrel Shotgun Triggers

by
posted on May 5, 2014
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
qa_ah2015_fs.jpg (37)

undefinedQ: I’ve hunted with a Remington 870 for decades, but now I want a double-barrel shotgun. Some come with mechanical triggers, others with inertial triggers. What’s the difference?

A: In a mechanical trigger system, the sear or sear selector mechanically switches to the second barrel after the first barrel is fired. If the first barrel fails to fire, the sear or sear selector will still switch to the second barrel. Mechanical systems are reliable but more expensive, and for this reason are found on modern, high-grade double-barrel guns.

An inertial trigger system depends on the inertia from recoil forces to reset the sear for the second barrel. Should the first barrel fail to fire or the shooter hold the gun too loosely, the sear or sear selector may fail to reset the second barrel. Inertia systems are very popular, and are found on many value-priced and standard-grade double-barrel guns.

Latest

Spandau RL Chris Olsen
Spandau RL Chris Olsen

New for 2026: Spandau Arms RL

Long renowned for its scatterguns, Spandau Arms has now entered the bolt-action rifle market with its Remington 700-pattern clone, dubbed the RL.

New for 2026: CZ 600+ ST3 American

CZ Firearms is off to a hot start in 2026 with a switch-barrel rifle system patterned off its successful Model 600.

CVA Expands Optima and Scout Lines for 2026

CVA is rolling out its new XP and XP‑SB Series, bringing updated ergonomics and enhanced adjustability to both its muzzleloader and single‑shot centerfire platforms.

Dead Air Silencers Unveils the Nomad Ti Over-the-Barrel Suppressor

This new .30-caliber suppressor from Dead Air goes over the barrel, to only add 4.6 inches to the end of your rifle.

Hot From SHOT: The Best New Hunting Shotguns of 2026

If you're back with us, fresh off of yesterday's SHOT show coverage, welcome back. If you're just checking in with us for the first time, be sure to go back and check out our roundups of the best rifles, optics and bowhunting gear to come out of the show so far this year. Today, however, read on to see the best shotguns of SHOT 2026, compiled by longtime contributor and diehard hunter, Brad Fitzpatrick. 

Nosler Whitetail Country Line Extensions

For 2026, Nosler has seen fit to extend its Whitetail Country line, and Phil Massaro likes their choices. Read on for more.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.