Southfield, Michigan — When it comes to fight-stopping capability, few tools rival a well-designed defensive shotgun. In 2025, one platform rose decisively above the rest. After comprehensive hands-on testing, Athlon Outdoors has named the Beretta 1301 Tactical C as the Ballistic’s Best 2025 Defensive Shotgun, earning top honors in one of the most competitive and demanding categories of the year.

The Defensive Shotgun category brought together six proven and popular platforms, ranging from semi-automatic gas guns to rugged pump actions. To determine a clear winner, Lead Evaluator Of Ballistic’s Best Defensive Shotguns, Fred Mastison assembled an experienced evaluation team that included his son Ranon Mastison and fellow shooter Mario. With nearly 70 years of combined shooting experience, the team put each shotgun through realistic defensive drills using Hornady-provided ammunition.

Rather than a static bench test, the evaluation focused on real-world application. Shotguns were scored across multiple categories important to defensive users, including recoil, reloading, ergonomics, trigger, sights, reliability, and overall performance. Each firearm started at a baseline score and gained or lost points based on how it performed during drills such as controlled pairs, extended strings of fire, emergency reloads, and slug transitions.

At the end of the testing, one shotgun consistently separated itself from the pack. The Beretta 1301 Tactical C delivered outstanding performance across nearly every category, finishing with the highest overall score. Its fast-cycling B-LINK gas system, rotating bolt, and updated Pro-Lifter made reloads smooth and intuitive. While the upgraded forend with aggressive knurling and M-LOK sections enhanced control and modularity. Evaluators also praised the shotgun’s recoil management, which earned it the highest average category score among all contenders.

Mastison summarized the outcome clearly: “After crunching the numbers, one shotgun clearly stood out in almost every category. The winner of the Ballistics Best Defensive Shotgun for 2025 is the Beretta 1301 Tactical C.” He added that while every entry performed well, the Beretta consistently delivered the speed, reliability, and shootability expected from a top-tier defensive shotgun.

About Ballistic’s Best
Ballistic’s Best is Athlon Outdoors’ annual awards series, evaluating more than 100 firearms and gear entries across multiple categories. Each product is subjected to real-world range testing, judged by veteran shooters, and scored on a detailed 0–5 scale across performance, ergonomics, value and more. The winners represent the best-of-class for 2025, the firearms world’s equivalent of a heavyweight championship.

About Bleecker Street Publications

Bleecker Street Publications is a leading digital media company covering firearms, survival, tactical gear, outdoor living, and skill-building for enthusiasts and professionals. Since acquiring Athlon Outdoors in 2023, Bleecker Street has continued expanding its portfolio with powerhouse brands including Athlon Untamed, RottenGunReviews.com, Athlon Outdoors,Ballistic,Tactical Life, Personal Defense World, Combat Handguns, and GAT Daily.

Whether it’s expert gear reviews, hands-on training guides, breaking industry news, or beginner-friendly resources, Bleecker Street Publications delivers trusted content for the modern firearms community.

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