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Quick Look
The Winchester 1300 Defender is a pump-action shotgun derived from the legendary Model 1200, introduced in the 1970s. Designed for rapid cycling and rugged duty, its rotary bolt system allows faster follow-up shots. While no longer in production, it remains a respected and affordable option among home-defense and law enforcement users.
Why It's a Top Choice
- Fast action cycling with rotary bolt design
- Durable and simple internal construction
- Lightweight for a pump-action 12 gauge
- Reliable feeding even with mixed shell types
- Proven track record in defense and patrol settings
Key Variants
Winchester 1300 Defender Marine
Features stainless-style finish for corrosion resistance, ideal for maritime or humid environments.
Winchester 1300 Defender Black Shadow
Includes synthetic stock and matte black finish, suitable for rough duty or weather exposure.
Winchester 1300 Defender Stainless
High-visibility alternative to the Marine model, with rust-resistant barrels and tubes.
Competitor Comparison Table
| Feature | Winchester 1300 Defender | Mossberg 590 | Remington 870 |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSRP | Discontinued | $500+ | $480+ |
| Capacity | 7+1 | 8+1 | 6+1 to 8+1 |
| Weight | 6.5 lbs | 7.5 lbs | 7.0 lbs |
| Optics-Ready | No | Select models | Aftermarket only |
| Trigger Type | Standard pump | Standard pump | Standard pump |
| Notable Pro | Fastest cycling pump-action of its era | Tank-like durability and modularity | Wide aftermarket and LE history |
| Notable Con | No longer in production | Heavier and bulkier | Older finish may rust more easily |
Best Use Cases
- Home defense
- Law enforcement and patrol backups
- Range training with pump actions
- Collectors of 1980s-1990s defensive shotguns
FAQs
Can I still buy the Winchester 1300 Defender new?
New production ceased in the mid-2000s; only used models are available on the secondary market.
What is the capacity of the Winchester 1300 Defender?
Standard magazine capacity is 7+1 in 2.75-inch 12-gauge shells, without modifications.
How does the action compare to other pump guns?
The 1300's rotary bolt and dual-action bars allow faster cycling than most pump-action shotguns.
