The Winchester Model 1300 Defender is unusual among US tactical shotguns in that, in addition to the traditional 12 gauge, it is also offered in 20 gauge. In North America, many experts have recommended that 20 gauge sporting guns be modified for tactical use by females and smaller framed men. The overall weight of the 20 gauge shotgun is also less than for a 12 gauge. The disadvantage to the 20 gauge is that the variety of ammunition available is far less than for 12 gauge. The military has not yet taken up this trend, but some police departments have.
The basic Model 1300 Defender is offered with polymer or wood furniture and an optional pistol grip. All Model 1300 shotguns have a light alloy receiver and a steel bolt carrier that houses a rotating bolt locking into a steel barrel extension. A Defender Combo with a five-shot magazine, a sporting barrel with screw-in choke tubes and wood furniture is also offered for those who desire a personal defence and sporting gun combination.
The Camp Defender features rifle-type sights for enhanced accuracy. A stainless steel version of the Model 1300 is also offered for marine or other hostile environments. This latter version not only has major components of stainless steel but key internal components are triple chrome plated for corrosion resistance. The Winchester Defender is marketed in Europe by FN HERSTAL. Their model is in 12 gauge, with the option of 457 mm or 356 mm barrels.
The Defender 8-Shot allows you to be prepared for any unseen obstacle that might come your way while in the backcountry. It’s easy to pack and carry, and handles both buckshot and rifled slugs easily. The rugged Defender 8-Shot features an eight-shot magazine capacity, 18″ cylinder bore barrel, non-glare metal surfaces and a lightweight composite stock and forearm. Removable front TRUGLO® fiber optic sight. Pistol grip and full stock included.
