Big Bark, Bigger Bite: Smith & Wesson's M&P12 Bullpup Shotgun

New for 2021, S&W's compact home-defense scattergun is housebroken ... and loyal only to its owner.

by posted on August 17, 2021
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
Smith Wesson Bullpup

How much is that bullpuppy in the window? Smith & Wesson's latest entry into home defense, its brand-new M&P12 shotgun, is a compact, maneuverable "bullpup"-style 12-gauge shotgun with a bite that definitely eclipses its bark. Chambered for 3"-shells, the M&P12 is also able to accept your choice of  standard 2 ¾”, 3” magnum or mini-shell loads, giving you a variety of load options to best suit your home-defense needs. 

The M&P12's versatility continues with fully ambidextrous controls, so righties and lefties will be assured of easy, intuitive operation even under stress. The shotgun boasts an oversized action release and safety selector, both of which you can engage from either side of the firearm. One feature that NRA Women will certainly enjoy is the new M&P grip, with four interchangeable palm swell grip inserts to customize fit.

The M&P12 shotgun is built on a reliable, pump-action platform with two independent magazine tubes that feature load assist buttons to simplify loading and unloading. Each tube can hold up to seven rounds of standard 2-3/4” shells, or up to six rounds of 3” magnum shells. You can easily select the magazine tubes by using a simple push button selector, which gives you a visual cue as to which magazine tube is feeding the barrel. 

“Smith & Wesson has a long, storied history of making handguns for self-defense, yet no conversation around personal protection can be complete without mentioning the 12 gauge shotgun," said Kyle Tengwall, vice president of marketing. "With the introduction of the new M&P12, Smith & Wesson is able to offer our consumers a personal protection product in a variety of categories: pistol, revolver, rifle, and shotgun. Today, we’re excited to unveil the M&P12—a new category introduction for Smith & Wesson, and a firearm that’s purpose-built for protection and a blast to shoot at the range.”

The M&P12’s bullpup design delivers maximum maneuverability with an overall length of 27.8”, as well as M-LOK slots on the barrel shroud to easily accessorize with lights, lasers and more. Smith & Wesson ships the M&P12 with both modified and cylinder choke tubes, four palmswell grip inserts, a 15” cable lock, choke tube wrench and hard plastic, foam-lined case. MSRP: $1,165. Smith-Wesson.com

 

 

Latest

Rao Springtime Turkey Season Surprise Lede Istock 1248381746
Rao Springtime Turkey Season Surprise Lede Istock 1248381746

Spring Turkey Season Surprises

It is important for hunters to remember the threats that come with springtime in the woods.

New Gear 2026: Hunting & Outdoors, Safe Storage and Nifty Gifts

A combination of cool gadgets, gun storage options and unique gift items round out our coverage of our favorite finds from SHOT Show 2026.

His and Hers: Gifts for Outdoorsy Valentines

If your Valentine longs for chocolates or a dozen American Beauties—then this is not the gift guide for you. If he or she craves the outdoors, then read on!

4 Ready-to-Shoot Out-of-the-Box Rifle/Scope Combos We Love

Take most of the time and effort out of buying and mounting a scope with these rifle/scope packages.

The Truth About Knives for Self-Defense

If you’re going to carry a knife as a self-defense tool, you need to understand some critical considerations.

The Armed Citizen® January 30, 2026

There is only one way to respond if a mother is home alone at night with her baby—and an intruder breaks in.

Women's Interests



Get the best of NRA Women delivered to your inbox.