A pump action shotgun is a type of firearm that uses a sliding mechanism to load and eject shells. When the shooter pulls the fore-end of the shotgun back and then pushes it forward, it chambers a new round and ejects the spent shell. This design allows for quick follow-up shots, making it popular for hunting and home defense. These shotguns are typically chambered for various gauges, such as 12 gauge or 20 gauge, and can fire different types of ammunition, including birdshot, buckshot, and slugs. Their reliability and ease of use contribute to their widespread popularity among shooters.