Rainbow Six Siege: The 10 Best Shotguns

In Rainbow Six Siege, shotguns hold a unique place in the arsenal of both Attackers and Defenders, offering unparalleled utility and close-range firepower. While not every shotgun in the game is a showstopper, the ones that shine truly dominate in the right hands. Defenders, in particular, tend to benefit the most from these high-damage, close-quarters weapons, which can double as tools for creating rotations or destroying soft walls.

Operators like Smoke and Mute often rely on shotguns, but this isn’t solely because of the weapon itself—it’s the synergy with their secondary firearms that balances their loadout for mid-to-long-range engagements. So, what are the best shotguns in Rainbow Six Siege? Let’s dive in and rank the top 10 shotguns that deliver both firepower and versatility!

#10: Super 90

The Super 90 is an underrated gem in Rainbow Six Siege’s shotgun lineup. This semi-automatic shotgun is a solid pick for operators like Frost, offering a great balance between fire rate, damage, and ease of use. While its range isn’t the longest among shotguns, it delivers consistent performance in tight spaces and excels at holding chokepoints or windows.

Its manageable recoil makes it forgiving for less experienced players, and its ability to create rotations adds utility to its offensive power. The Super 90 may not be flashy, but its reliability makes it a great starting shotgun for newcomers looking to master close-quarters engagements.

#9: SPAS-15

The SPAS-15 is a semi-automatic shotgun known for its unique ability to blend rapid follow-up shots with decent damage output. Used by operators like Caveira, it excels in aggressive, close-quarters situations where quick reaction time is essential. Its magazine-fed design allows for faster reloads compared to traditional pump-action shotguns, making it a versatile choice in fast-paced engagements.

While its range and spread aren’t exceptional, the SPAS-15 makes up for it with its high fire rate and ease of use. Players who prefer hit-and-run tactics or need to quickly down multiple opponents will find this weapon an excellent companion. However, pairing it with a reliable secondary weapon is key to covering mid-to-long-range encounters effectively.

#8: SPAS-12

The SPAS-12 is a powerhouse pump-action shotgun that brings both reliability and raw stopping power to the table. Available to operators like Valkyrie and Goyo, this classic weapon is well-suited for players who excel in close-range engagements, where its high damage output can quickly eliminate enemies with a single well-placed shot.

The SPAS-12 shines in defending tight spaces and chokepoints, making it an excellent choice for holding key areas. Its manageable recoil and predictable spread allow for precise shots, but its pump-action mechanism means slower follow-ups compared to semi-automatic options. To maximize its effectiveness, pair the SPAS-12 with a secondary weapon that covers medium to long ranges, ensuring you remain versatile in dynamic situations.

#7: M590A1

The M590A1 is a pump-action shotgun known for its balance of power, reliability, and ease of use. Available to operators like Smoke and Mute, it’s a staple choice for defenders who want to dominate close-quarters combat while also opening up the map with strategic destructibility.

What makes the M590A1 so effective is its consistent one-shot kill potential in tight spaces, combined with its impressive range for a shotgun. Its predictable recoil pattern and forgiving pellet spread make it beginner-friendly, while its ability to destroy barricades, walls, and hatches makes it a valuable tool for creating sightlines and rotation holes.

To fully utilize the M590A1, stay in areas where close engagements are likely, such as bomb sites or narrow hallways. Pair it with a strong secondary weapon, like the SMG-11, to deal with medium-range threats and maintain versatility throughout the match. Its combination of utility and lethality keeps the M590A1 as one of the most popular and dependable shotguns in Rainbow Six Siege.

#6: SASG-12

The SASG-12 is a semi-automatic shotgun that excels in delivering rapid-fire devastation at close range. Available to operators like Fuze and Tachanka, it’s the perfect weapon for players who prefer an aggressive playstyle and thrive in chaotic, close-quarters battles.

What sets the SASG-12 apart is its high fire rate and magazine-fed design, allowing you to unload multiple powerful shots in quick succession without worrying about constant reloading. This makes it an excellent choice for dealing with multiple enemies in tight spaces or holding down chokepoints. Its manageable recoil ensures that follow-up shots remain accurate, even during heated engagements.

While the SASG-12’s damage drops off significantly at longer ranges, its destructive power against soft walls and barricades gives it strong utility. This makes it a great option for both creating rotations and denying enemy movement. Pair it with a reliable secondary, like a pistol or SMG, to handle medium-range threats effectively.

To make the most of the SASG-12, stay mobile and use the weapon’s rapid-fire capability to overwhelm enemies before they have a chance to react. Its versatility and firepower make it a top-tier choice for aggressive defenders and attackers alike.

#5: M1014

The M1014 is one of the most balanced and reliable shotguns in Rainbow Six Siege, making it a popular choice for operators like Thermite and Castle. With its semi-automatic design, the M1014 combines power, speed, and ease of use, making it suitable for both newcomers and experienced players.

What makes the M1014 stand out is its exceptional fire rate and tight pellet spread, which ensures devastating close-range damage while maintaining some effectiveness at medium range. It excels in clearing rooms and taking down enemies in high-pressure situations, allowing for aggressive pushes or strong defensive holds.

Its magazine-fed system means that players can reload individual shells without fully depleting their ammo reserves, ensuring consistent firepower in prolonged engagements. While the M1014’s damage per shot isn’t the highest among shotguns, its rapid-fire capability compensates, making it ideal for dealing with multiple targets or quickly finishing off enemies.

The M1014 also shines in utility. It can destroy soft walls and barricades with ease, making it invaluable for creating rotations or opening lines of sight. However, its effectiveness diminishes significantly at longer ranges, so pairing it with a reliable secondary weapon or sticking to tight areas is key.

For players who want a shotgun that offers speed, power, and versatility, the M1014 is a top-tier option that holds its own in any situation.
 

#4: Six12/Six12 SD

The Six12 shotgun might not immediately stand out, but its performance makes it a formidable weapon in Rainbow Six Siege. While its individual shot damage is lower than some competitors, the smooth recoil control and semi-automatic firing mode more than make up for it, offering consistent performance in close to mid-range engagements. Its magazine-fed system allows for quick reloads, and although the six-round capacity seems limited, the speed of reloads ensures you’re rarely caught unprepared. The Six12 SD variant adds a built-in suppressor, making it ideal for stealth gameplay by reducing firing noise, which is particularly effective for ambushes or avoiding detection during firefights. Both versions excel at versatility, functioning not only as reliable killing machines but also as tools for creating rotation holes or soft breaches, making them valuable for both roamers and anchors. While the lower damage per shot compared to pump-action shotguns might demand more precision, its rapid-fire capability and ease of handling make it a standout choice for players who value mobility and tactical play. Whether holding tight angles or flanking enemies, the Six12 offers a unique blend of stealth, utility, and reliability.

#3: BOSG.12.2

The BOSG.12.2 is a unique and high-risk, high-reward weapon in Rainbow Six Siege, standing out for its extraordinary damage output and precision. With its two-shot capacity, this double-barreled shotgun requires players to have impeccable aim, as each shot can make or break an engagement. Unlike traditional shotguns, the BOSG.12.2 excels at medium to long-range combat thanks to its slug rounds, which deliver devastating power and pinpoint accuracy. Its versatility shines when paired with skilled players who can handle the pressure of its limited ammo capacity, making it an excellent choice for quick and decisive eliminations. However, the weapon’s slower reload time and lack of follow-up shots demand a disciplined playstyle. Best suited for operators like Vigil and Dokkaebi, the BOSG.12.2 is perfect for those who value precision, timing, and a tactical approach to engagements, offering a level of satisfaction unmatched by most other weapons in the game.

#2: M870

The M870 shotgun is a powerhouse in Rainbow Six Siege, known for its exceptional damage and reliable performance in close-quarters combat. With its pump-action mechanism, the M870 delivers devastating single-shot power that can easily eliminate enemies with well-placed hits. Its manageable recoil and consistent pellet spread make it a favorite among defenders who prefer an aggressive playstyle, particularly in tight spaces where precision matters most. Despite its lack of versatility at longer ranges, the M870 compensates with its ability to tear through soft walls and create sightlines or rotation holes, adding a layer of tactical utility. Operators like Bandit and Jäger are especially effective with the M870, leveraging its raw stopping power to control critical areas and shut down enemy advances. For players who thrive on high-risk, high-reward engagements, the M870 stands as one of the most lethal shotguns in the game.

#1: SG-CQB

The SG-CQB reigns supreme as the best shotgun in Rainbow Six Siege, thanks to its perfect balance of power, reliability, and versatility. This pump-action shotgun delivers massive damage at close range, capable of taking down enemies in a single shot if aimed properly. Its manageable recoil and consistent pellet spread make it a favorite among defenders who thrive in high-pressure, close-quarters scenarios. The SG-CQB excels not only in eliminating opponents but also in its utility for creating rotation holes and opening soft walls, providing significant tactical advantages for the defending team. Paired with operators like Smoke and Mute, the SG-CQB becomes even more effective, as these operators can combine its raw firepower with their utility gadgets to control chokepoints and dictate the flow of the match. Whether you’re holding down an objective or making aggressive plays, the SG-CQB’s unmatched stopping power cements its place as the top choice for shotgun enthusiasts in Siege.

Conclusion

Shotguns in Rainbow Six Siege offer a unique and powerful option for players who excel in close-quarters combat and value utility over range. From the versatile Six12 SD to the powerhouse SG-CQB, each shotgun brings its own strengths and playstyles to the battlefield, whether it’s breaching walls, holding tight angles, or delivering devastating one-shot eliminations. While some shotguns cater to beginners with easier handling, others require precision and expertise, rewarding players with unparalleled lethality. By mastering the right shotgun for your operator and strategy, you can elevate your gameplay and dominate close-range engagements. No matter your playstyle, there’s a shotgun in Siege that’s ready to help you make an impact.