The Franchi SPAS-12

The Franchi SPAS-12 is a dual-mode shotgun, meaning it can be used as a semi-automatic or pump-action firearm. The gun was designed to function primarily in semi-automatic, with the pump-action mode used to reliably fire low-pressure ammunition such as tear gas rounds or less-lethal bean bags. Switching between firing modes is done by pressing a button under the foregrip, and sliding the foregrip slightly forwards or backwards until it clicks into position.

The barrel of the SPAS 12 was externally threaded to accept a wide variety of attachments, from chokes to gas grenade launchers. One interesting and particularly rare attachment, called a "diverter", spread shot vertically or horizontally.[1] All barrel attachments are considered rare, and demand premium pricing on the secondhand market.The SPAS-12 was never terribly popular due to its excessive weight and complicated controls. Still, it developed a small following during its 21 year production run. Due to it being banned from import in the early 1990's, it has achieved status as a collector firearm in the United States.

Type Combat shotgun
Place of origin Italy
Service history
Used by Ireland, France, Taiwan, Thailand, Italy
Production history
Manufacturer Franchi S.p.A.
Produced 1979–2000
Specifications
Weight 4.4 kg (9.7 lb)
Length 1041 mm (41 in), stock extended
Barrel length 546 mm (22 in)
Cartridge 12 gauge 2 3/4 inch shells only
Action pump-action / gas-actuated
Rate of fire 4 rounds/s (semi-auto)
Effective range Dependant on ammunition used.
Feed system 8+1 rounds, internal tube magazine