Reviews of the 8 Best Rifles & Shotguns for Women in 2023

It’s no secret that firearms designs were historically (and still are) skewed towards the male physique, so shooting is a sport that should be enjoyed by men, women, and children alike.

However, over the last couple of decades, things have been changing with women and weapon use becoming much more prevalent. It can be seen in the large number of accessories and firearms that are now specifically designed for women. Considering this, I decided to examine the top rifles and shotguns for women on the market today in detail.

From there, it will be a mix of quality gun reviews from each category, while busting some myths along the way.

There Is No One Size Fits All When It Comes To Purchasing a Rifle or Shotgun!

There is no doubt that men and women come in a variety of shapes and sizes. However, the vast majority of gun manufacturers do not think this way.

Standardization makes production of factory-built weapons more cost-effective, and they sell very well because most of them are designed for the ‘average’ guy: male, 5’10”, 180 pounds, and right-handed.

As long as the gun fits, wear it! However, if a standard-sized weapon does not fit your physique, then you must make a choice.

Firstly, you can buy a ‘standard’ long gun and have it adapted to suit you. This is not easy and generally involves additional gunsmithing costs. Alternatively, you could buy a rifle or shotgun that is closer to your size.

Considerations when buying a rifle or shotgun

You can choose from a wide range of weapons if your physical dimensions make it comfortable to shoot a ‘standard’ size long-gun.

Having said that, a woman’s body features mean there are often some very noticeable differences to take into consideration. In general, women tend to have bodies that are narrower in frame than men. Additionally, many are characterized by higher cheekbones, slender necks, shorter arms, and smaller hands, among other factors.

There is also the factor of eye dominance (this, of course, applies to both sexes). A higher percentage of men and women have the right eye dominant. The key is to bite the bullet and learn to shoot left-handed rather than struggling to master right-handed shooting if you are cross-dominant, for instance, right-handed but your left eye is dominant.

Another potential issue arises here…

There are models that are suitable for lefties, as well as techniques to help them use a right-handed gun.

A review of the best rifles & shotguns for women will also demonstrate that there are some manufacturers who specifically make long-guns for women. These will be clearly shown, but ‘off-the-shelf’ models will also be included.

Since standard models also come with adjustability features, they can be adjusted to fit any adult, male or female.

Instead of mixing reviews and comments on the best rifles & shotguns for women, let’s separate them into two different categories.

Women’s rifles and shotguns

Women’s Best Rifles

Here are a few differences between four of the best women’s rifles you should know about.

Women’s hunting rifles are built differently. They are more compact and have shorter stocks than ‘standard’ rifles. Particular attention should be given to the stocks.

Unless you have a stock that fits correctly, it will impact on a comfortable shooting position. This has an impact on full control of the weapon and accuracy.

Consider the comb height next…

Having the correct fit in this respect will also help to absorb felt recoil. The heavier the recoil, the deeper the bruises will be!

Customization options include an adjustable trigger, an adjustable cheekpiece, and the mentioned comb height. Reducing recoil is achieved by shoulder positioning and overall shooting posture when in the ‘firing’ position.

In choosing a rifle, women should also consider its size and weight…

On long field sessions, carrying your weapon excessively will wear you out. The resulting tiredness will severely affect your concentration and accuracy.

Last but not least, you should consider the manufacturer when choosing a rifle. By and large, the best rifles are made by well-known manufacturers. Look for gun makers with an established track record. You want a weapon that is reliable, robust, and consistently effective.

Let’s move on to the rifle reviews!

The Weatherby Mark V Camilla Ultra Lightweight Rifle is one of the most stylish rifles for women on the market today

The Windham Weaponry SRC .223 REM/5.56 Semi-Automatic AR-15 rifle is the best AR-15 rifle for women.

Women’s Lightweight Rifle – Savage Arms – 11 Lady Hunter

The Browning X-Bolt Micro is the most durable rifle for women

One of the most stylish rifles for women is the Weatherby Mark V Camilla Ultra Lightweight Rifle

In addition to producing quality firearms, Weatherby is also one of the few companies that produce women-specific rifles.

Designed by women for women…

The Mark V Camilla model is an ultra-lightweight rifle that has been designed by women for women. The 240 Weatherby Magnum rifle in this review is the 240th edition of this family of rifles. Designed for right-handed shooters, it has a 24-inch barrel and four cartridges.

Bronze Cerakote is a quality finish that provides excellent wear and corrosion resistance, as well as increasing impact strengths and hardness. As far as optimal scope/eye alignment is concerned, it comes with a higher comb, with a shortened 13-inch length of pull and a slim grip with a gentle palm swell.

The industry’s shortest throw…

When compared to a typical 90-degree bolt throw, the 54-degree bolt throw is the shortest in the industry. This allows you to quickly chamber on follow-up shots, while also providing better scope clearance.

An ergonomic cant is built into the recoil pad. This nests into the way a woman’s shoulder is built, reducing recoil effectively. You can further reduce recoil by purchasing an additional Weatherby Accubrake ST. The felt recoil will be reduced by up to 53% with this.

In terms of accuracy…

All Weatherby registered Mark V rifles are guaranteed SUB-MOA accuracy. Therefore, they guarantee a 3-shot group of 99-inches or less at 100 yards from a cold barrel.

Weatherby’s factory or premium ammunition is valid for two years from the verified purchase date and to the original purchaser.

As for accuracy, the included TriggerTech trigger is designed for zero creep break, very short overtravel, and external adjustment. Precision cut stainless steel components provide consistent trigger pulls shot after shot.

It looks stylish, but you can also rest assured it performs well.

Rifle Weatherby Mark V Camilla Ultra Lightweight

Scheels has it for $1,949.99

ADVANTAGES

Quality Weatherby.

Women designed it for women.

Robust and tough.

LOP of 13 inches.

The industry’s shortest 54-degree bolt.

We guarantee sub-MOA accuracy.

Looks that turn heads.

The Cons: None!

Two Windham Weaponry SRC .223 REM/5.56 Semi-Automatic AR-15 Rifles – Best AR-15 for Women

Although this is an excellent weapon to get dirty with, don’t let the muddy girl camo monika deter you. It is simply the receiver’s look, which is coated over a black hardcoat anodized finish.

It’s an AR-15 that rocks!

The real appeal of this weapon lies in its .223 REM/5.56 semi-automatic AR-15 that has been designed specifically for women.

In addition to being 36-1/8 inches long and weighing just 6.3 lbs, the receiver is made from forged aircraft grade 7075-T6 aluminum that is robust and reliable for use in the most extreme conditions. M4 profile barrels are made from 4150 chrome molybdenum vanadium 11595E steel with a chrome-lined finish and a twist of 1:9.

Capacity is high…

Featuring a 6-position telescoping stock and an A2 flash suppressor muzzle, it is designed for right-handed shooters and comes with a 30-round magazine.

It also comes with a hard plastic gun case, a black web sling, and an operation manual, as well as a M4A4 flat-top upper receiver.

With Windham’s transferable lifetime guarantee, buyers can feel confident in their purchases.

.223 REM/5.56 Semi-Automatic AR-15 rifle from Windham Weaponry

Palmetto State Armory – $659

On Guns.com – $913.99

ADVANTAGES

Women’s AR-15.

You’re covered with Muddy Girl Camo finish.

Capacity of 30 rounds.

It’s a head-turner.

Lifetime guarantee that can be transferred.

The Cons

If you’re looking for an AR-15 rifle, there are no drawbacks!

Savage Arms – 11 Lady Hunter – Best Women’s Lightweight Rifle

Continuing my review of the Best Rifles & Shotguns for Women, Savage Arms is another company that designs rifles for female needs. This 11 Lady Hunter family of bolt-action rifles is ideal for long and enjoyable hunting sessions.

In this case, we are looking at the 7mm-08 REM caliber, which is a great choice for deer hunting. The very stylish oil-finished American walnut stock includes a raised comb that is custom-tailored to your contours. It is also available in three other calibers (243 WIN, 308 WIN, and 6.5 Creedmoor). A shortened draw length, slim grip, and forearm complement this.

Feels light and is light in weight…

One design feature that will give you the edge comes from the 1:9.25 twist, 20-inch barrel. It is built of carbon steel, button-rifled, light-taper, and has a different balance point to standard-built rifles. The result is a lighter feel with enough weight to absorb felt recoil.

Weight-wise, the 11 Lady Hunter weighs only 6 lbs, so you can take it anywhere, and the user-adjustable AccuTrigger makes it easy to use.

Easy to use and reliable…

It has a length of pull of 12.5-inches, a three-position safety feature, a detachable box magazine, and a four-round capacity. Designed for right-handed shooters, this quality rifle has an overall length of 39.5-inches.

Women looking for a stylish, lightweight, easy-to-use, yet highly reliable bolt-action rifle have come to the right place.

Lady Hunter – 11 Savage Arms

On Guns – $924.99

ADVANTAGES

It’s perfect for female hunters.

The comb is raised.

LOP of 12.5 inches.

Fore-end and grip are slender.

Safety with three positions.

There’s no doubt that it’s stylish.

The cons: None!

Women’s Browning X-Bolt Micro – Most Durable Rifle

I conclude my look at four of the best rifles for women with Browning’s X-Bolt Hunter family of guns, which has been extremely well-received by shooters of all genders. Although not specifically designed for women, it will certainly fit the needs of shooters with shorter stature.

With all the features of the full-size X-Bolt…

Browning’s top-quality, micro bolt-action rifle is chambered in 243-WIN. Though more compact than the full-sized Browning X-Bolt rifle, it offers all of the same features.

There is an aesthetically pleasing design with its Grade 1 wood satin finish stock and steel receiver with a blued finish. The 18 LPI checkering cut is also pleasing to the eye.

Browning’s typical quality…

Designed for smaller shooters, the composite stock is shortened with textured gripping surfaces and has a 12-inch length-of-pull. Overall rifle length is 38-inches including the 20-inch steel sporter free-floating barrel with a 1:10 twist. Weighing just 6 lbs, it has a length-of-pull of just 12 inches.

Also included is an adjustable feather trigger that eliminates creep and an effective recoil pad made from Inflex Pachmayr. Additionally, the bolt unlock button allows shooters to open the bolt when the safety is in the “safe” position. It comes predrilled and tapped to accept Browning’s X-Lock scope mounts. This has a capacity of 4+1 rounds, and the magazine is removable.

The Browning X-Bolt Micro is a stylish, highly effective, robust hunting rifle that offers reliability and accuracy.

Micro Browning X-Bolt

On Guns – $844.99

ADVANTAGES

Quality build from Browning.

A miniature version of the highly popular X-Bolt rifle.

Feature-rich.

LOP of 12 inches.

Weighs only 6 pounds.

Attractive.

The cons: None!

Here are four of the best shotguns for women

Anyone who loves shooting can use shotguns (and should). When it comes to application flexibility, they are hard to beat. Also, a shotgun with the right buckshot load is incredibly effective for home defense. If you want real stopping power, there is nothing better than a quality shotgun.

A highly versatile individual…

You can use them for target practice, clay shooting fun, competition, hunting, and home defense. With regular practice, you will acquire efficient handling and short range accuracy.

Regardless of gender, many shooters fear the harsh recoil of larger gauge shotguns. This does not have to be the case. With research and a good choice of shotgun model, felt recoil can be managed by everyone.

Before we get into the individual reviews, here are some pre-purchase tips.

What is the best shotgun for women?

In short, it depends! Ask a selection of regular female shotgunners this question, and their response will vary. This is because there is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ shotgun for women (or anyone else).

Some shooters will come firmly down on the side of a specially designed shotgun for women; others may suggest youth models. Those female shooters who have mastered the ability to handle standard off-the-shelf models admirably may also suggest that modifying the stock would do the trick.

Therefore, I would like to say…

This refers to the five points where a shotgun touches the body. These are the shoulder against the recoil pad, the cheek against the stock, the trigger hand on the grip, the trigger finger on the trigger blade, and the left or right hand on the forend.

The shotgun will be comfortable to shoot, easy to swing, offer minimal recoil, and provide unobstructed views down the barrel when these contact points are dimensioned correctly.

Here are three things to keep in mind when trying out a shotgun…

First, make sure the recoil pad rests comfortably between your shoulder and chest. This will save unwanted pain in tender areas. Second, the trigger blade should be easily accessible. Third, the forend should be slim enough to rest in your palm. If you get these details right, you’ll be amazed at the results of your shooting.

On the subject of women and shotguns, let’s take a look at…

Reviews of rifles and shotguns for women

Let’s dispel a few myths!

Whether well-intended or not, there are some standard (often universally believed) comments about women and shotgun use that need to be abandoned.

The only weapon that will do is a 20-gauge shotgun…

In the case of women, 20-gauge models are often a neat and manageable choice; however, there is nothing that stops them from using a 12-gauge for fowl hunting or a 16-gauge for game hunting.

Once again, you should weigh up your needs before making a purchase. Think about the applications you will use the shotgun for and compare ammo availability and costs.

One of the most important things you can do is try a variety of gauges and shotgun models. You should do this under the supervision of an experienced (unbiased!) shotgunner, so your tutor can help explain what you’re doing well and what you need to work on. In addition to helping you understand what different gauges/models have to offer, this type of tuition will also assist you in handling them effectively.

A youth shotgun model is the only model women can cope with/should buy…

Yes, smaller women (around 5 ft in height) may benefit from using a youth gun, but that doesn’t mean all women should be considered young.

Take a youth model for a test drive, but don’t consider it your only option.

The shotgun you choose must be as light as possible…

All hunters should consider carrying/shooting weight when going on testing long-day or weekend hunts.

Getting your shoulder hammered every time you pull the trigger with a gun that is too light is going to make your experience that much less enjoyable.

It is also far more likely that you will naturally flinch with each trigger pull and hence affect your accuracy. A heavier shotgun is easier to swing when hunting birds in flight, skeet, clay, or skeet. Again, you can assess a shotgun’s weight by trying different models. The type of gun that best suits you depends on your shooting style and your uses.

Fitting of guns

Before reviewing four of the best shotguns for women, it is important to consider gun fitting. It may cost a little, but a gun fitting is well worth the investment for greater comfort and control when shooting. With a snug-fitting, comfortable shotgun, you will have a much more enjoyable shooting experience.

The following are four shotgun models that will meet your needs. There is no better place to start than with one that has been specifically designed for women by women, the…

Stylish women’s shotgun – Franchi Instinct Catalyst

The most popular shotgun for women is the Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon I Sporting – Vittoria

The Mossberg 930 Pro-Series Waterfowl is the best semi-automatic shotgun for women on the market

The Winchester SX4 is the best quality shotgun for women

One of the most stylish shotguns for women is the Franchi Instinct Catalyst

With the excellent Instinct Catalyst model, Franchi’s renowned shotgun tradition and craftsmanship come to the fore.

Designed specifically for women…

A 12-gauge over & under shotgun designed specifically for women, the Affinity Catalyst is the sister model to Franchi’s Affinity Catalyst.

Throughout the redesign process, the drop, cast, pitch, LOP (Length Of Pull), and grip length are redesigned to make the shotgun much more aligned to a woman’s body. Performance is the priority (and this excellent shotgun does perform), but stylish looks are also important. The satin walnut finish oozes class wherever you wear it, so there are no worries there.

Fits like a glove…

With a 26-inch barrel, a 2 round capacity, and a weight of 6.8 lbs, this 12-gauge shotgun offers red fiber-optic front sights that allow you to easily and confidently focus on your targets. Female shotgunners who want a very snug fit will surely appreciate this top-quality gun. It comes with a 26-inch barrel and a weight of 6.8 lbs.

Catalyst for Franchi Instinct

$1,420.99 on Guns

ADVANTAGES

The renowned craftsmanship of Franchi.

Specifically designed for women, 12-gauge.

Adapts to your body.

It weighs 6.8 pounds.

Excellent performance.

Satin walnut finish is classic A-grade.

The Cons:  None

The most popular shotgun for women is the Beretta – 686 Silver Pigeon I Sporting – Vittoria

You can’t go wrong with Beretta. With a history dating back to the 16th century, they are one of the world’s oldest active firearms manufacturers.

The design is based on a legendary one…

This modified Silver Pigeon I shotgun features the legendary Beretta 686 action, which is highly popular with both hunters and competitive shooters.

I reviewed their 20-gauge over/under shotgun with a 28-inch barrel, 2-round capacity, and 7.9 lbs. This makes it easy to carry and handle, but the features that most impress come in many different forms.

For those with smaller hands…

At the mid-action of the barrels are two conical locking lugs that provide excellent locking strength and durability. A shortened “semi Monte Carlo” stock completes the classic design. In addition to the high comb, the reduced pistol grip is equipped with a 1mm checkering, making it ideal for shooters with smaller hands.

With its silver finish and engraving, it is a shotgun you will be proud to own.

The Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon I Sporting is made by Vittoria.

$2399 on Beretta

ADVANTAGES

The quality of Beretta is well known.

Women-specific.

Features of high quality.

The finish is very stylish.

The Cons: None!

The best semi-automatic shotgun for women is the Mossberg 930 Pro-Series Waterfowl

I am wrapping up my Best Rifles & Shotguns for Women reviews with a Mossberg semi-automatic shotgun that is worth considering.

Recoil is more than manageable…

The 12-gauge semi-automatic shotgun has a 5-round capacity and a recoil-reducing gas-vent system, making it easier to handle the felt recoil.

With a 48.5-inch overall length, including a 28-inch barrel with vent ribs, this top-quality shotgun is a very manageable 7.75 pounds.

Hunting-ready…

Besides the 3-inch chamber and fixed 14-inch length of pull, it comes with EZ-Empty magazine button, trigger guard, integrated cocking indicator, and rugged, tough-wearing synthetic stock, as well as a drilled and tapped receiver and interchangeable M, F, IC, Accu-Set chokes. A fiber optic front bead sight enhances accuracy.

The barrel and stock of this best waterfowl shotgun for women feature Mossy Oak Shadowgrass Blades finishes to match your hunting environment.

Waterfowl rifle Mossberg 930 Pro-Series

On Guns – $752.99

Check out Palmetto State Armory – $736.

ADVANTAGES

Mossberg shotguns are known for their quality.

Designed for hunting waterfowl.

Gas-vent system that reduces recoil.

There are three interchangeable AccuSet chokes.

Camo finish on barrels and stocks.

The Cons:  None

The best quality shotgun for women is the Winchester SX4

We will conclude our quality women shotgun reviews with Winchester’s Super X 20-gauge semi-autoloading shotgun.

The product is not specifically designed for women, but don’t let that deter you!

Despite the fact that the Winchester SX4 has received worldwide plaudits, it is not specifically designed for women.

It comes with a 4-round capacity and a 28-inch barrel featuring backbored technology and InvectorPlus choke tubes. It weighs just 6.1 lbs and offers speed, reliability, and excellent handling. With rapid cycling and a smooth swing, shotgunners will gain that accuracy edge.

Recoil is low…

Shooters can cycle a wide variety of loads thanks to the self-adjusting active valve. Thanks to QuadraVent technology, which also ensures cleaner operation, the overall design is of top quality, and the Inflex recoil pad reduces felt recoil.

The ergonomically improved stock, a smaller pistol grip, and superior textured gripping surfaces make it easy to maintain a consistent, solid, non-slip grip. The LOP (Length Of Pull) spacers can be adjusted to reduce LOP below 14 1/4″.

SX4 Winchester

$1,137 on Guns

On GunDeals, you’ll find the best deals

ADVANTAGES

From the start, Winchester quality.

Model that is highly popular.

Smooth swings and rapid cycling.

Active valve that self-adjusts.

The Inflex recoil pad is effective.

Spacers for LOPs.

It weighs just 6.1 pounds.

The Cons:  None!

Are you looking for more firearms and shotgun accessories?

We’ve reviewed the Best Handguns for Women, the Best Concealed Carry Purses for Women, and the Best Concealed Carry Holsters for Men and Women you can buy in 2023.

The Best Shotgun Scopes, the Best Tactical Shotgun Slings, the Best Red Dot Sight for Shotguns, or the Best Shotgun Lights are some great accessories for your shotgun.

What Are the Best Rifles & Shotguns for Women?

Women shotgunners have more choices than ever before when it comes to the best shotguns and rifles for women. I reviewed four from each category, and here are my top recommendations.

Women looking for a high-quality rifle will really appreciate…

Rifle Weatherby’s Mark V Camilla Ultra Lightweight

With a 24-inch barrel and four cartridge capacity, this 240 Weatherby Magnum is designed by women for women. With a lower LOP (Length of Pull) of 13 inches, you can adjust your scope/eyes to your taste thanks to the higher comb. Thanks to its stylish Bronze Cerakote finish, it looks as great as it shoots.

If you are looking for a top-quality shotgun, take a look at the magnificent…

Shotgun Franchi Instinct Catalyst 12-gauge Over & Under

This is another gun that is designed specifically for women and offers innovative features at a very attractive price. As part of a redesign, real thought is put into features like drop, cast, pitch, LOP, and grip length. The Italian style is not only yours, but you can add to performance. It’s one of the best-dressed shotguns on the market!