Why shotguns still decide close fights
Most box fights and final-circle collisions still end on a shotgun trade. Chapter 7 Season 3’s pool is small: learn Striker Pump well, keep Maven / Extending Focus as backups, and always cover mid-range with a Flex SMG.
See the full pool ranking in the weapons tier list, or build a hotbar in the loadout builder.
Last reviewed: August 1, 2026.
Current shotgun options
Striker Pump Shotgun
Default meta shotgun. Highest fight impact on a clean first shot, fast pull-out, poor range. Build or slide after every pump.
Best for: Builds, box fights, and anyone who can land the opener.
Maven Auto Shotgun
Full-auto forgiveness. Lower spike than Striker, better when you are spraying a moving target or playing Zero Build.
Best for: Inconsistent aim or messy third-parties.
Extending Focus Shotgun
Longest shotgun reach in the pool — ADS extends the barrel and tightens spread. Weaker first-shot spike than Striker, so it loses most box trades if you treat it like a pump. Use it for mid-range peeks, not as your default Builds shotgun.
Best for: Zero Build peeks and players who hate pump timing.
Chaos Reloader Shotgun (vault note)
Was the early-season boxfight king (stowed auto-reload + huge body damage). Removed from standard BR loot mid-season. If it shows up in an LTM or returns, take it for endgame boxes; otherwise ignore old tier lists that still rank it S.
Fundamentals that still win
- Crack with shotgun, finish with Flex SMG (Stinger if no Flex).
- Place cover after every pump shot.
- Do not chase beyond shotgun range without an AR (Surgical Burst / Warforged).
Quick pick
Striker PumpMaven AutoExtending Focus
Flex SMG- Default meta: Striker Pump
- New / inconsistent aim: Maven Auto
- Range-focused / Zero Build: Extending Focus
- Spray partner: Flex SMG