The 5 Best Shotguns for Grouse Hunting | Allcocks Outdoor Store

Grouse hunting is deeply influenced by the terrain these birds inhabit. The dense cover they favour necessitates a light, compact shotgun and easy to carry in one hand while fending off branches with the other. The limited visibility in these areas calls for open chokes, as there's no need for a gun to shoot forty yards.

However, grouse guns are more than just hunting tools; they hold symbolic significance as well. Grouse hunters, more than almost any other uplanders, immerse themselves in the traditions and trappings of the hunt. This affinity for tradition is reflected in including several classic designs in this list of the 5 best grouse guns—though there's also a new classic to consider.

^ Some walked up grouse shooting in the highlands, these hunts advantage lighter shotguns ^

Our Worcestershire gun store offers a range of options, from budget-friendly to high-end, ensuring every hunter is prepared for the upcoming grouse season, regardless of preference or budget. We also offer shipping to any RFD in the UK, so you can conveniently browse our selection and have your choice delivered to your local gun dealer.

1. Beretta 687 Silver Pigeon III Field Shotgun – The New Kid on the Block

   Modern and stylish, the Beretta 687 Silver Pigeon 3 Field in 20 Gauge is beautifully proportioned and balanced, making it slick and highly printable. The low-profile action features tasteful game scene engravings with floral borders that extend to the top tang and trigger guard. As a Silver Pigeon, the 687 Field is a resilient workhorse, ideal for new and experienced shooters.

2. Benelli 828U Field Shotgun – Smooth Action and a Serious Looker

   When the world’s leading producer of semi-automatic shotguns turns its attention to creating an over-and-under, the result is bound to be innovative and beautifully engineered. The Benelli 828U is a groundbreaking 12-gauge shotgun that, despite weighing the same as a 20-gauge, offers significantly reduced recoil. The major innovation lies in its action, with an outer structure made of premium-grade milled aluminium and an internal steel locking mechanism for enhanced strength.

3. Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon I Field Shotgun – The Old Dependable

   The highly regarded Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon has been a favourite for over 30 years. The 2019 upgrades integrated with its proven functions result in one of the finest, value-for-money shotguns available today.

4. Blaser F16 Sporting Grand Luxe Shotgun – Premium Choice

   The Blaser F16 ranges ingenuity continues to amaze, offering a superb balancing system that caters to each shooter across various disciplines. Perfected balance is achieved through a balancer in the butt of the stock, with the option to attach balancer weights to the barrel.

For a truly personalized shotgun, Blaser employs their renowned adjustable trigger, meticulously designed to deliver one of the crispest triggers available today. The Blaser F16 range prioritizes comfort, featuring a generous palm swell, tapered rib, and the Blaser Comfort recoil pad, all of which contribute to fast target acquisition and increased confidence with every shot.

5. Yildiz SPZ ME Shotgun – Reliable Budget Option

   The Yildiz SPZ ME is a classic field gun design that offers minimal weight, firm handling, and reliability at an affordable price. It features multi-choked, steel-proofed barrels with ejectors, and a 2.75" chamber, and is finished with a Turkish walnut stock and gamebird engravings. Yildiz has built a reputation for delivering excellent value shotguns, making this an ideal choice for those new to the sport or anyone looking for a second gun that won’t break the bank. The 20-gauge is gaining popularity for both grouse and clay shooting, especially among smaller-statured shooters and youngsters, as it offers a lighter, more manageable option with reduced recoil.

Visit our Worcestershire Gun Store Today

Selecting the right shotgun for grouse hunting is as much about personal preference and tradition as it is about functionality. The five shotguns listed here represent a balance of classic design, modern innovation, and reliable performance, catering to seasoned hunters and newcomers alike. Whether you're drawn to the rich heritage of the Beretta models or the innovative engineering of the Benelli and Yildiz options, there's a perfect gun for every hunter. Visit our Worcestershire store or browse our online selection to find the ideal shotgun for your next grouse hunt, ensuring you're well-prepared for the season ahead.