Setup guide

Set it up right: shotgun accessories

A light, a sling and spare shells cover most of it. Here's the order to add things — and what to skip.

Checked October 18, 20261 sources
A weapon light, a shell side-saddle, a sling and a cleaning kit laid out on olive canvas

Most shotguns need very little to be ready for home defense. Add things in this order, and stop when the gun still feels light and quick to mount.

01

Weapon light

Add this first. You need to identify what you're aiming at in the dark.

02

Two-point sling

Lets you go hands-free to open a door, make a call or help someone.

03

Side-saddle shell carrier

Keeps extra shells on the receiver where you can reach them.

04

Red-dot sight

Faster aiming on optic-ready receivers. Practice with it before you rely on it.

05

Recoil pad

A softer pad or a stock spacer system can make a big difference in comfort.

06

Cleaning kit

A 12-gauge bore brush, rod and lube. Clean after every range trip.

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What to skip

  • Heavy add-ons you don't need. Every ounce up front makes the gun slower to swing.
  • Parts that change the legal classification. Adding a stock to a Shockwave-type firearm can change what it is under federal law[1] — read the SBS & NFA guide and your state's rules first.
  • Untested ammo. Whatever you add, test the gun with the load you'll keep in it (buckshot guide).

Sources

  1. American Rifleman (secondary)

Last checked October 18, 2026. Spotted something out of date? Send a correction.