New year, new gear, right? There are a multitude of reasons you may want—or even need—to buy a new shotgun in the new year. Each year we at GUN DOG anxiously await what new shotgun offerings will be introduced at SHOT Show 2023, and this year didn’t disappoint.

Best New Shotguns from SHOT Show 2023

Browning Citori Composite Shotgun

The legendary Browning Citori over/under shotgun loved by hunters and target shooters for over 50 years is now available with a composite stock and forearm. This Superposed direct descendant is built upon the same solid foundation but now outfitted with modern upgrades that provide the same rugged reliability, unmatched balance, and superior performance that Citori fanatics have come to expect. The new composite material provides all-weather construction, go-anywhere, do-anything versatility, and complete custom configuration on the adjustable stock, along with rubber overmolds to enhance grip and ergonomics.

$2,200 | browning.com

Benelli 828U Steel Shotgun

New for 2023, Benelli’s classically styled stackbarrel 828U meets advanced engineering and next-level technology in the 828U Steel. The new steel receiver, while slightly heavier than aluminum, will reduce felt recoil on heavy payloads and shift the balance point for smoother swings. The innovative and patented steel lock plate eliminates excessive wear and tear on the receiver and hinge, making it the top choice for over/under fans. The best part is the addition of Benelli’s BE.S.T. surface treatment to the barrels, receiver, and lock plate for superior corrosion and abrasion resistance. The 828U Steel is available in 3-inch 12- and 20-gauge models in 26-, 28-, and 30-inch barrel lengths and a five-pack of Crio®-treated chokes.

$3,400 | benelliusa.com

CZ-USA 712 G3 Shotgun

The crowd-pleasing, gas-operated 712 12-gauge autoloader from CZ is now better than ever in 2023. Enhancements to the previous generation include a handsome, durable matte black finish on the barrel and receiver that can be paired with a synthetic, camo, or walnut stock. A new, thicker recoil pad was added to save the shoulder on this already soft-shooting shotgun. Another attractive upgrade is the two removable pistons: A light-medium and a heavy-magnum for complete control whether you’re volume shooting at the target range or in the field cycling heavier game loads. The new kit is complete with five extra-long Active-Choke tubes and chrome-lined barrels for all-day shooting and consistent patterning.

$580-$680 | cz-usa.com

Caesar Guerini Ellipse Curve Gold Limited Edition Shotgun

With a special limited run available in early summer 2023, Caesar Guerini is bringing back a small batch of their Ellipse Curve Gold shotgun, specially designed for upland bird hunting. The expertly crafted, exquisitely ornamented work of functional art features gold accents on the engraved receiver with an Invisalloy surface treatment to protect your shotgun for generations to come. The Ellipse Curve Gold comes in 20- and 28-gauge with 28” barrels, with combo sets and left-hand stock options also available. The shotgun of a lifetime, this limited run will not last long and will be a rare gem if you’re lucky enough to get your hands on one!

$TBD | gueriniusa.com

Mossberg SA-28 Field Synthetic Shotgun

With growing popularity of the quick-handling, lightweight SA Series of sub-gauge autoloaders specially crafted for the field and the range, Mossberg has introduced their 28-gauge SA in a synthetic finish. The SA Series is known for its well-designed, gas-operated system that gives shooters lower recoil and reduces stress on the internal components leading to smoother cycling and more reliable operation. Featuring a five-round capacity and easy-load elevator, this sub six-pound gun comes in a 2 ¾-inch chamber and 26-inch barrel. This new 28-gauge addition to the SA Field Series sports a sleek and durable black synthetic stock and forend that complements the blued metal finish.

$721 | mossberg.com

Franchi Instinct Sideplate 16- and 28-Gauge Shotgun

In case you missed it last year, the Instinct Sideplate over/under in 12- and 20-gauge shotguns were met with instant success from seasoned bird hunters. For 2023, Franchi sweetened their Sideplate lineup with the additions of 3-inch 16- and 28-gauge models. Focused on elaborate scrollwork and exquisite engraving, the Sideplate series pays homage to the European gunsmiths of the golden era of gunmaking. Sleek lines and lustrous AA-grade walnut accented with ornate gold-inlayed game scenes and a gold-plated trigger complete the Italian tradition and fine craftsmanship for a shooting experience that is second-to-none.

$2,400 | franchiusa.com

TriStar Arms Viper G2 Pro Shotgun

America’s favorite value-based shotgun company just made a great thing even better with their new Viper G2 Pro series. Already well-known for being a dependable and durable semi-automatic shotgun, the new G2 Pro pinpoints enhancements toward user experience with larger controls and quicker handling to unlock next-level functionality. This upgraded model features oversized hardware, overmolded rubber grips on the stock and forend, an enlarged triangular safety, and an enlarged magazine well for easier loading. The new G2 Pro is available in a variety of gauge and finish combinations.

$855-$1,050 | tristararms.com

Stoeger M3500 Shotgun

Stoeger often steals the show with their performance-grade shotguns priced just right. For 2023, the M3500 is now sporting a slimmed down design for better operation and handling along with a thinner grip for feel-good shouldering and better downrange accuracy. Additional purpose-built upgrades include an oversized bolt handle, enlarged safety, and easier-to-grip magazine cap. With comfort in mind, Stoeger also added a new recoil pad, cheek pad, redesigned forend, and beveled loading port for quicker and easier reloading. The tried-and-true 3.5-inch 12-gauge M3500 is now offered in a large array of alluring camo patterns, a black synthetic, a distressed white Cerakote snow goose model, and a classic satin walnut finish.

$770-$930 | stoegerindustries.com

Syren Julia Field Shotgun

The head-turning Syren Julia was so popular—and sold out for most of last year—that Syren followed up the Julia release with the Julia Field model. With a gracefully styled sideplate that showcases a fantasy-style floral scroll engraving, the action is completed with rich, case color hardening and Syren’s Invisalloy protective finish to preserve your investment-grade gun for the ages. Made of deluxe-grade gloss oil-finished Turkish walnut, the beautiful and elegant Julia Field is available in a 20-and 28-gauge, or in a combo set made-to-order, complete with five nickel-plated, flush-fitting chokes and a lifetime warranty.

$6,250 | syrenusa.com

Retay Gordion Compact 20-Gauge Shotgun

Retay is bringing their premium shotgunning experience to smaller statured shooters with their brand-new Gordion Compact 20-gauge shotgun. Crafted specifically for women and youth shooters, the new design features a full-size 20-gauge frame with a shortened length of pull at 12.5” for a great-fitting gun that carries every other bit of reliability, accuracy, and speed as the rest of the Retay roster. Like their bigger brethren, the Gordion Compact features Retay’s Inertia Plus drive system and deep-bore drilled barrels that produce straighter shooting and better patterning. It is available in standard black as well as Realtree and Mossy Oak camo finishes.

$900 | retayusa.com

Mossberg International Gold Reserve Black Label 20-Gauge Over/Under Shotgun

Refined and well-appointed, the brand-new 20-gauge Black Label joins the Gold Reserve ranks in a distinctive category of top-shelf, affordably-priced over/under shotguns. Dressed to impress, the new 20-gauge Black Label has a polished black receiver with decorated accents, 24kt gold inlays, and a Grade A Black walnut stock and forend with cut checkering for optimal fit and feel. With a 3-inch chamber and 30-inch corrosion-resistant chrome-lined barrels, this beautifully styled double gun is ready for action in the uplands, wetlands, or 5-stands with a five-pack of extended Sport Set choke tubes.

$1,135 | mossberg.com

Stevens 560 Field Shotgun

The new hard-working, sleek-looking, 3-inch, gas-operated, 560 Field 12-gauge shotgun from Stevens is a real game-changer for wingshooters shopping for one of the best value semiautos. Made of a Turkish walnut stock and forend with a lightweight matte black aluminum alloy receiver, the new sporty autoloader from Stevens is bound to spin a few heads this season. Additional features include chrome-lined barrels, oversized external controls, a raised ventilated rib, and front fiberoptic sight to give shooters a bead-line to consistent shooting success. Both full-size and compact models are available for the best fit possible.

$500 | savagearms.com