Shotguns have always had a strong place in American gun culture, and the 2000s were no exception. From pump-actions to semi-autos, certain models sold in huge numbers and became household names. But sales alone don’t always equal lasting quality. Some shotguns from that era still run flawlessly today, while others feel outdated or never lived up to the hype. If you’re curious which ones actually aged well, here’s a rundown of the best-selling shotguns of the 2000s and where they stand now.
Remington 870 Express
The Remington 870 Express was one of the most widely sold pump-actions of the 2000s. Affordable, reliable, and simple to maintain, it became a go-to for hunters and homeowners alike. Its steel receiver and straightforward design made it a favorite for anyone needing a dependable tool.
Over time, though, some later models showed quality control issues, especially after Remington’s decline. That said, older 870s from this period still hold up well, and many are still being used heavily in the field and at the range without issue.
Mossberg 500
If there was a pump-action that rivaled the 870 in sales, it was the Mossberg 500. Known for its ambidextrous tang safety and rugged design, it found a loyal following among hunters and defensive shooters. Its affordability helped it move in big numbers throughout the 2000s.
Unlike some competitors, the Mossberg 500 has aged remarkably well. Many owners still rely on their 2000s-era models today, and parts interchangeability has kept them easy to maintain. It remains one of the most practical and dependable pump-actions around.
Benelli Super Black Eagle II
The Benelli Super Black Eagle II became a best-seller among waterfowl hunters during the 2000s. With its inertia-driven system, it handled heavy 3.5-inch magnum shells with ease while staying reliable in the worst conditions. For duck and goose hunters, it became the shotgun to own.
Today, it’s still respected as a workhorse in the field. While newer models like the SBE III have replaced it, the SBE II remains relevant and continues to see heavy use. It’s one of those shotguns that holds value and reputation years later.
Winchester Super X2
The Winchester Super X2 sold well in the 2000s thanks to its fast-cycling gas system and reputation for reliability. It was especially popular among waterfowl and clay shooters who wanted a semi-auto that could handle high round counts without issue.
While it has since been succeeded by the Super X3 and X4, the X2 still holds up well for those who bought one. Its durable build and dependable cycling system mean many are still in use today, proving it aged better than some competitors.
Browning BPS
The Browning BPS wasn’t always the flashiest shotgun, but it sold steadily in the 2000s. Its bottom-eject design made it truly ambidextrous, appealing to left-handed shooters in particular. With steel construction and solid fit and finish, it earned a reputation as a pump that lasted.
Today, the BPS remains respected for its build quality. Models from the 2000s still run strong, and their smooth action and reliable feeding have made them guns that hold value. While not as common as Mossberg or Remington, it’s aged extremely well.
Benelli M4
The Benelli M4 exploded in popularity during the 2000s, partly due to its military and law enforcement adoption. Its gas-operated ARGO system allowed it to handle everything from light loads to heavy slugs without complaint. Civilian shooters picked it up quickly once it became widely available.
Two decades later, the M4 hasn’t lost its edge. It remains one of the most respected tactical semi-auto shotguns, with many 2000s-era models still running flawlessly. Its staying power proves it wasn’t just a trend—it’s a design that aged into a legend.
Mossberg 590A1
The Mossberg 590A1 found a strong following in the 2000s thanks to its military approval and rugged build. With its heavy-walled barrel, metal trigger guard, and bayonet lug, it felt tougher than the standard 500 and appealed to those wanting a heavy-duty pump.
Even now, the 590A1 is one of the most trusted defensive and duty shotguns around. Many who bought them in the 2000s still use them heavily without a hiccup. It has aged better than most and continues to be a top choice for serious use.
Stoeger 2000
The Stoeger 2000, while not as refined as its Benelli relatives, sold well because of its affordability. Using an inertia-driven system licensed from Benelli, it gave budget-minded hunters a chance to own a reliable semi-auto without breaking the bank.
While not as polished as premium models, the Stoeger 2000 has held up better than expected. Many still run reliably today with minimal maintenance. It aged surprisingly well for its price point, though newer Stoeger models have since taken over.
Remington 11-87
The Remington 11-87 carried momentum into the 2000s, with plenty of sales among hunters and clay shooters. Known for its versatility, it could cycle everything from light target loads to heavy magnums, making it a popular all-around semi-auto.
Over time, though, the 11-87 began to feel outdated compared to faster, lighter semi-autos. While many 2000s-era guns are still in use, they haven’t aged as gracefully as some competitors. They work, but they don’t quite hold the same appeal today.
Browning Citori
The Browning Citori over/under shotgun sold steadily throughout the 2000s. Known for its craftsmanship and versatility, it became a staple for clay shooters and upland hunters. Its quality finish and balance helped it stand out in a crowded field.
The Citori has aged extremely well. Models from the 2000s still hold high value, and their performance hasn’t been outpaced by newer designs. If you bought one during that era, you likely still have a shotgun that feels every bit as good today as it did back then.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
