Best Home Defense Shotgun Upgrades: Stocks, Lights, Optics, & More

At heart, I’m a shotgunner. I love shotguns; I love the amount of lead they put per trigger pull. I even love the recoil and challenges that come with shotguns.

What I don’t love is the shotgun industry’s decision to desperately cling to the year 1999. We’ve seen handguns and rifles progress into the modern era, but shotguns remain largely ignored.

Attaching accessories can be difficult. The long length-of-pull stocks designed for bird hunting still rule the market, and the acceptance of optics on shotguns has been a slow drag.

Admittedly, a few manufacturers have started doing fantastic things with some of their new guns, but many shotgun owners will still have to do it themselves.

Over the years, I’ve found a few upgrades that I keep going back to on my shotguns to help bring them up to speed. If that sounds interesting to you, then let's dive right in!

Best Stock Upgrades

1. Magpul SGA - Best Overall Stock

Best Overall Stock

Magpul SGA

$104

at OpticsPlanet

Prices accurate at time of writing

$104 at OpticsPlanet

MidwayUSA (see price)

Magpul (see price)

The Magpul SGA stock blends an aggressive, pronounced pistol grip with an adjustable traditional-style stock, giving you the benefits of both worlds.

You can easily adjust the length of pull using a series of included spacers. An optional cheek riser allows you to adjust the comb, which is useful for use with taller red dots.

The pistol grip makes it easy to hold the gun up with one hand and to assume a close retention position. Both standard loops and QD cups are included, making attaching slings super easy.

Unfortunately, Magpul only produces the SGA stock for the Mossberg 500/590 and Remington 870. Aridus Industries produced an adapter to fit the stock to a Beretta 1301, and it’s apparently possible to make one fit a Winchester 1300, but that’s about it.

2. TactaLoad Flash 5 - Best Ammo Storage Stock

Best Ammo Storage Stock

TactaLoad Flash-5 Stock

$129

at Amazon

Prices accurate at time of writing

$129 at Amazon

Another stock I’ve become a fan of is the TactaLoad Flash 5.

This stock can be shortened or lengthened via a series of spacers and can also accommodate a fairly large recoil pad. The pistol grip is also a bit more traditional than the SGA.

But the real trick with the Flash 5 is the internal ammo storage built into the stock. It holds five shells and is ambidextrous. Unlike a side saddle, it keeps your gun fairly thin.

It’s surprisingly easy to use and fairly fast. I’ve had one on my Mossberg 590 for years and have yet to encounter any issues.

3. Mesa Tactical Urbino Stock - Best Pistol Grip Stock

Best Pistol Grip Stock

Mesa Tactical Urbino Pistol Grip Stock

$129

at Brownells

Prices accurate at time of writing

$129 at Brownells

The best upgrade I ever made to my Benelli SuperNova is the Mesa Tactical Urbino Stock.

These stocks integrate a stock and pistol grip and offer shooters a shorter length of pull for a variety of shotguns.

You get a 12.5-inch length of pull, sling ports, and the ability to add a cheek riser for optics use.

Mesa Tactical makes the Urbino Stock for the following shotguns:

• Benelli Supernova
• Benelli M1/M2/SBE3
• Benelli M4
• Beretta A300
• Beretta 1301
• Remington 1100/11-87
• Remington 870
• Mossberg 930/940

Best Shotgun Lights and Mounts

4. Streamlight TL-Racker – Best Integrated Shotgun Light

Best Integrated Shotgun Light

Streamlight TL-Racker

$140

at Amazon

Prices accurate at time of writing

$140 at Amazon

OpticsPlanet (see price)

Brownells (see price)

Weapon lights that are integrated into the pump are typically easier to actuate than separately attached lights, and the Streamlight TL-Racker is the go-to option for that setup.

These lights have a 1,000-lumen and 20,000-candela output. Making for a nice high-out beam with a long throw.

Each side of the TL-Racker sports a large single button that is extremely easy to press, and the pump itself is aggressively textured for good grip.

Streamlight only makes the TL-Racker for the Remington 870 and Mossberg 500/590 shotguns.

You can read more about the Streamlight TL-Racker in our hands-on review!

5. Nightstick SFL – Brightest Integrated Shotgun Light

Brightest Integrated Shotgun Light

Nightstick SFL

$168

at OpticsPlanet

Prices accurate at time of writing

$168 at OpticsPlanet

Amazon (see price)

Classic Firearms (see price)

The Nightstick SFL is another pump-and-light combo that offers 1,200 lumens and 10,315 candela. You can also get a model that includes an integrated green laser.

While it is brighter than the TL Racker, it doesn’t have as much throw. However, if you are using it indoors, the throw tends to matter less.

It has a rubberized texture that is okay, but I’d prefer something more aggressive. However, the SFL includes an optional hand strap that can secure your hand and make the push/pull recoil method easier.

If you are looking for a few more lumens, the Nightstick SFL is a great alternative to the TL Racker at a similar price.

6. Mesa Tactical Truckee Handguard – Best Handguard for Semi-Autos

Best Handguard for Semi-Autos

Mesa Tactical Truckee Forend

$119

at OpticsPlanet

Prices accurate at time of writing

$119 at OpticsPlanet

The Mesa Tactical Truckee is a semi-auto-specific aluminum handguard with M-LOK mounting slots that is available in a wide variety of lengths.

These handguards make it easy to attach all manner of accessories, including lights. I have the Truckee on my Benelli M4 and Mossberg 940, and I recently added one to my Mossberg 990 Aftershock.

Mesa Tactical makes the Truckee for the following shotguns:

• Beretta 1301
• Benelli M4
• Benelli M1/M2
• Remington TAC-13/V3
• Remington 870
• Mossberg 930
• Mossberg 940/990
• Mossberg 500/590

They are a little slick, so it might be wise to add M-LOK scales or an angled grip to improve your overall control.

7. Streamlight TLR RM 2 – Best Standalone Shotgun Light

Best Standalone Shotgun Light

Streamlight TLR RM 2

$142

at OpticsPlanet

Prices accurate at time of writing

$142 at OpticsPlanet

MidwayUSA (see price)

Amazon (see price)

The Streamlight TLR RM 2 is a 1,000-lumen light with excellent ergonomics.

It features a ramped rear button that is intuitive to use and helps prevent you from smashing your thumb when running a pump.

Streamlight also includes a remote on/off pressure pad that allows you to mount the light just about anywhere on the gun while still being able to activate it.

These lights are sturdy, lightweight, and great for the limited mounting space on shotguns.

You can check out more in my hands-on review of the Streamlight RM 1 and RM 2!

8. Streamlight Mag Tube Rail – Best Universal Light Mount

Best Universal Light Mount

Streamlight Mag Tube Rail TL

$19

at Global Ordnance

Prices accurate at time of writing

$19 at Global Ordnance

Amazon (see price)

OpticsPlanet (see price)

If you don’t want to spring for a dedicated handguard to mount your light, or you’re working with something outside of the Mossberg and Remington world, there is another option.

The Streamlight 69901 mag tube clamp is a simple polymer mount with a Picatinny rail that clamps directly to your magazine tube.

It is cheap and simple to install. Buy one, clamp it on, then add your weapon light of choice. It is about as universal and easy as it gets!

Best Side Saddles

9. Esstac Shotgun Cards – Best Value Side Saddle

Best Value Side Saddle

Esstac Shotgun Card

$12

at Midway USA

Prices accurate at time of writing

$12 at Midway USA

Amazon (see price)

Esstac (see price)

Shotgun cards are the current hotness when it comes to spare ammo storage on your shotgun.

These side saddles use a base velcro patch that attaches to the side of the gun’s receiver with sticky tape. The card itself attaches to the base with hook-and-loop velcro and holds anywhere from 2 to 7 rounds of ammunition.

Spare cards can be loaded and placed in pouches or bags, so you can snap a fresh one on if you empty the one on the side of the gun.

Esstac is the OG when it comes to shotgun cards. They are available in a multitude of sizes and camo patterns. They also have a handy little loop for drawing, removing, and even loading with.

These cards are cheap and effective. Once the elastic no longer retains the shell, toss it and buy a new one.

10. The Aridus Industries QD-C – High End Side Saddle

High End Side Saddle

Aridus Industries Universal Q-DC

$185

at Aridus Industries

Prices accurate at time of writing

$185 at Aridus Industries

Whereas the Esstac cards are cheap and simple, the Aridus Industries QD-C is a ridiculously over-engineered, but awesome, side saddle.

The QD-C is made to last and provides fantastic retention — it is the Cadillac of side saddles. 

Aridus makes a few different options, but the universal is the way to go. It attaches via a super-strong adhesive panel. Once the carrier is attached, it’s loaded with the loops. You can change the loops rapidly, and they're held securely.

The QD-C is crazy nice, super easy to use, and they even fit most AR magazine pouches, making it easy to carry spares.

Best Shotgun Optics

11. Trijicon RMR Type 2 – Best Micro Red Dot

Best Micro Red Dot

Trijicon RMR Type 2

$449

at OpticsPlanet

Prices accurate at time of writing

$449 at OpticsPlanet

Brownells (see price)

Amazon (see price)

The Trijicon RMR has long been the gold standard for micro red dots.

They are proven combat optics that are tough as nails. Weighing in at just 1.2 ounces, the RMR adds almost no bulk or weight to your gun when you use the right mount.

12. Holosun EPS – Best Enclosed Micro Dot

Best Enclosed Micro Dot

Holosun EPS

$399

at Midway USA

Prices accurate at time of writing

$399 at Midway USA

OpticsPlanet (see price)

Kygunco (see price)

If you want an enclosed emitter optic but still want the smaller pistol dot footprint, the Holosun EPS is your guy.

The Multi-Reticle System (MRS) version allows you to swap between three different reticle styles, including an awesome circle-only option that pairs well with buckshot patterns on most shotguns.

Holosun also has a motion-activated auto-on/off feature that helps bring the battery life to 50,000 hours.

13. Aimpoint Micro T-2 – Best Duty Optic

Best Duty Optic

Aimpoint Micro T-2

$951

at Midway USA

Prices accurate at time of writing

$951 at Midway USA

OpticsPlanet (see price)

Sportsman's Outdoor Superstore (see price)

When it comes to standard red dots, the Aimpoint T-2 is the ultimate duty red dot. These are bomb-proof optics, with crystal-clear glass and a crisp red dot.

They pair especially well with ultra low-profile mounts (more on that in a bit).

But beware, the best doesn’t come cheap. The T-2 is notably more expensive than other red dots in its class.

14. Sig ROMEO5 Gen 2 – Best Budget Optic

Best Budget Optic

Sig Sauer Romeo5 Gen II

$119

at Palmetto State Armory

Prices accurate at time of writing

$119 at Palmetto State Armory

Amazon (see price)

Primary Arms (see price)

If the Aimpoint T2 is a little rich for your blood, then let me suggest the Sig ROMEO5 Gen 2.

It may not be battle-proven like the T2, but it is a sturdy, well-built optic with good glass, shake-awake tech, and a great battery life.

The ROMEO5 also shares the T2 footprint, making it compatible with a variety of mounts. Not bad for around $120!

Best Optic Mounts

15. Aridus Industries CROM – Best Low Pro Optic Mount

Best Low Pro Optic Mount

Aridus Industries CROM

$124

at Aridus Industries

Prices accurate at time of writing

$124 at Aridus Industries

Some shotguns can mount Picatinny rails on top, then an optic on those rails.

However, those setups can lead to the optic sitting too high, resulting in a poor cheek weld. Bad cheek welds can lead to bad sight pictures and compromised recoil control.

The Aridus CROM mount fixes this issue by attaching directly to the receiver and allowing you to directly mount your optic to it rather than using a Picatinny adapter.

It is compatible with RMR and Aimpoint Micro footprint optics. The CROM also includes an integrated rear ghost ring or open sight for cowitnessing purposes.

16. Monstrum Tactical Grimlock Universal Shotgun Mount – Affordable Optic Mount

Affordable Optic Mount

Monstrum Grimlock Universal Shotgun Red Dot Mount

$24

at OpticsPlanet

Prices accurate at time of writing

$24 at OpticsPlanet

Amazon (see price)

If you are considering running a pistol-sized micro dot and are looking for an affordable mount, check out the Monstrum Tactical Grimlock.

The Grimlock uses a three-slot universal mounting system that allows it to be mounted to a wide variety of shotguns.

As for the optic mounting itself, you can choose between either a direct-mount RMR or RMSc footprint option.

Best Slings

17. Blue Force Gear Vickers Sling - Best Shotgun Sling

Best Shotgun Sling

Blue Force Gear Vickers Sling

$64

at Amazon

Prices accurate at time of writing

$64 at Amazon

Blue Force Gear (see price)

Brownells (see price)

I have piles of Blue Force Gear Vicker slings, many of which have found their way onto numerous shotguns of mine.

They are tough, strong, comfortable, and among the easiest slings to adjust. The only downside is they tend to get a little stiff over time and with exposure to the elements.

18. Magpul MS1 Sling - Best Value Sling

Best Value Sling

Magpul MS1 Sling

$25

at Sportsman's Outdoor Superstore

Prices accurate at time of writing

$25 at Sportsman's Outdoor Superstore

OpticsPlanet (see price)

Primary Arms (see price)

Magpul (see price)

The Magpul MS1 is a budget-friendly tactical two-point with a quick-adjust tab.

I use these on my “totally not a shotgun” firearms. They are easy to adjust, relatively comfortable, and hold up well.

19. Arbor Arms Dual Adjust Sling - Most Adjustable Sling

Most Adjustable Sling

Arbor Arms Dual Adjust Weapon Sling

$59

at Arbor Arms

Prices accurate at time of writing

$59 at Arbor Arms

Arbor Arms makes one of the most underrated premier tactical two-point slings —  the Dual Adjust Weapon Sling.

This sling’s name comes from the advanced slider at the front that combines the benefits of a closed-loop slider sling and a cam sling.

The closed-loop slider sling allows you to easily tighten or loosen the sling on the fly. Meanwhile, the cam slider lets you overtighten the sling to press the gun extremely close to your body, allowing you to keep the gun well out of the way if you need to use both hands for something else.

The Arbor Arms Dual Adjust sling may be slept on, but it is reasonably priced and a fantastic choice overall.

Other Considerations

There are two things I often swap out on the majority of my tactical shotguns. Both are small performance improvements that enhance reliability in tubular magazine-fed shotguns.

The first thing is the magazine spring. Most OEM springs are fine, but tend to be a little weak. I typically drop an extra-power Wolff spring in the magazine tube. Doing this is extra important if you add a magazine extension to your gun.

Wolff Shotgun Magazine Spring

$5

at Midway USA

Prices accurate at time of writing

$5 at Midway USA

I also like to add a low-friction follower in place of the usually cheap polymer follower included with the shotgun. Typically made of anodized aluminum, these low-friction followers help reduce drag in the magazine tube and improve feeding.

There are tons of aftermarket follower options, but I like the Aridus SMRT follower the best.

Aridus SMRT Follower

$40

at Aridus Industries

Prices accurate at time of writing

$40 at Aridus Industries

Meet the Experts

Pew Pew Tactical author Travis Pike wrote this article. Travis spent a lifetime shooting as a kid and later joined the United States Marine Corps, where he spent five years as an infantryman. His experience as a machinegunner, recreational and competitive shooter, hunter, and concealed carry instructor has given him unique insight into various weapon platforms.

Additionally, Travis has thousands of articles to his name across a variety of publications and has tested countless guns and other firearm accessories, with shotguns being his passion and specialty.

Final Thoughts

Shotguns are usually simple designs that tend to work well out of the box, but the industry has been slow to bring them into the modern age.

However, with just a few little fixes and upgrades, you can turn your shotgun into a better, faster, more reliable, and easier-to-use firearm.

What are your thoughts on these shotgun upgrades? Is there anything we missed? Let us know in the comments below.

And if you’re new to the good ol' scattergun, check out our comprehensive Shotgun Reviews page to explore different models, learn about more upgrades and gear options, and read detailed ammo comparison reports!