THE SPAS-12, The World's Most ICONIC Shotgun

The SPAS-12 is without a doubt the most iconic shotgun to have ever been made or designed. It's used in almost every video game and movie you can imagine. However how effective is this very interesting weapon? The SPAS-12 is without a doubt perhaps one of the worst designed shotguns to have ever hit the market
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[@luymateo1352]

I remember that in Half-Life the Spas-12 fired two shots at the same time because the creators thought the tube was another barrel

[@Knifegash]

ammo conservation be damned, you felt like a death-dealing god when you hammered that doubleblast, but that is pretty funny that valve mistook the magazine for a second barrel, where did they think the shells were stored then? In the balls?

[@stevesoucy5932]

@@Knifegash Gordon Freeman's badassery was all that gun needed to stay loaded. 😂

[@tb87670]

I remember this lol, and the mp5 had a grenade launcher

[@band1t-eats-batteries716]

I was so confused by it lmao. "Where the fuck does the other bullet come from?!"

[@mysterystainontherug6290]

@@tb87670 i honestly thought that was a real attachment for the mp5 before i learned about guns

[@SpartanBrix]

Italy has blessed the world with two things- glorious food, and glorious guns.

[@mikecianfrocco1250]

And italian women

[@Devilman666]

🤌

[@jwseibert1059]

Badass cars and motorcycles.

[@osocri4804]

We have more than two things my friend 😉 un abbraccione dall italia

[@blakecamden4292]

My brother in Christ don't forget the cars 😂

[@zachvalentino7515]

I always love when Mike says “if this is your only gun get out there and train with it” cause I just imagine this totally improbable scenario where the SPAS-12 is literally the only firearm that this metaphorical person has, and not gonna lie the longer I think about it the longer I begin thinking they may also have a pet velociraptor

[@gameragodzilla]

The SPAS-12 is the only shotgun I own so I got very familiar with it. lol I did, indeed, train a lot. And I also have Muldoon’s hat. Just missing the raptor.

[@brandondavis7777]

@@gameragodzilla Ford's got one they can sell you. It's not scaley, or bipedal, or a killing machine, though.

[@herbderbler1585]

@@brandondavis7777 ironically Ford's most notorious killing machines are not named after predatory dinosaurs/birds. Instead they're the bean and the equine. They do get an honorable mention for one that sounds suspiciously similar to grenade, so that's something.

[@nicholashodges201]

Given how much they cost and their popularity with "nongun" fps gamers, I can see it

[@Maddog3060]

I'm pretty sure a lot of us would like a pet velociraptor.

[@Nocturnal-nonsense]

Fun fact - the heat shield of the Spas12 was used in Aliens on the colonial marines primary weapon the M41a1. It was used as the 30mm under over grenade launcher receiver. To think the props department were tearing apart spas12s in order to make a movie makes me chuckle , given how rare they are now

[@THE_MOONMAN]

I mean, they're probably rare for good reason. If they worked well they'd probably be everywhere. Economics of scale and all that jazz

[@THE_MOONMAN]

That is funny though

[@HonorNecris]

The live firing props were built around full-auto Thompsons as well, imagine the cost to replicate one now.

[@symir833]

Thumb: does drill Charlie: does drill, fucks it up slightly Micah: claims he can do the drill better, redefines what an A-zone is

[@globmonkey200716102]

Well that escalated quickly

[@wethepeopleusa3132]

Noice comment 😂

[@cog7795]

@Hulk Hogan Or who did it.

[@brenttrent8811]

@Hulk Hogan o7

[@timewave02012]

@@hulkhogan5256 Maybe the real false flag was the friends we made along the way.

[@swamp1138]

I'll always remember how bad ass that shotgun looked in Jurassic Park. Sadly we never got to see it blast a raptor 😭

[@knrz2562]

O.0

[@joshuahagen2961]

Well if she wasn't such a clever girl, we might've 🤷‍♂️

[@Hybris51129]

Moral of the story: Always go into combat with your weapon fully readied.

[@knights722]

also in left for dead and half life

[@cccspwn]

Clever girl…

[@BB-yh5rd]

Garand and a few of his people were at a meet and greet yesterday, tons of people, he took time for every person and a genuinely nice guy. Love the channel.

[@ballsack8937]

That's flannel daddy for ya

[@xraystudios3693]

For a few seconds I was like "Damn, Garand is still alive? And going to meet and greets?" Then I realized you weren't talking about the weapons designer lol

[@danshorthouse]

Enjoyed the video!! 2 things to add that i wish you had noticed is… if the hammer is forward the loading gate will be lifting it each time you enter a shell and will be stiff and difficult! It was designed so you would load one in the side of the receiver and then into the chamber first so the hammer is back and this then makes the loading gate 300% lighter and just as soft as any other shotgun i have come across. Also when loading shells you only have to hold the round gate release button NOT the magazine disconnect button also! This is why your shells are difficult to get in or don’t always go in! As you are holding the disconnect button that will essentially cover the magazine opening!Honestly this shotgun is easy to load! As easy as a 870!!Yes the button is not convenient but easy. And to add when people say it wont cycle on low power ammunition its not really true,if the guns clean and piston oring in good shape along with the correct length shells (2/34-70mm) it works fine with any shell i have used including very low gram birdshot. I know its not your own gun so you cant know everything! This is more for people interested in buying one or need advice on there own. Anyway thanks and keep the videos coming! We love them :)

[@Reth_Hard]

I didn't know the SPAS-12 comes with a grappling hook, that's pretty cool.

[@GarandThumb]

i blame charlie for this

[@SuperiorDefense]

Issa vibe

[@joe125ful]

lol rly?Never played FPS games?

[@maddog7012]

If you ever need to mount a wall, just chuck your Spas up there!

[@joe125ful]

@@maddog7012 Well it was not designed for that its for one hand shooting.

[@ramadhanybintoro3819]

Spas 12 has two modes -Semi auto for moderate damage (left click) -Pump mode for heavy damage (right click) Combine this with a revolver and a crowbar, plus a certain orange suit, you'll set for fighting imminent threats

[@alexanderellis4059]

Half life 3 confirmed

[@lanefunai4714]

No, you need an Uzi and 1911 long slide.

[@SomeDude_TheOriginal]

"combine"

[@WORRO]

Got mine back in 1984-85 ish. Really always liked it. She sits in the safe now days but its nice to pull it out now and then. While loading on mine you only press the round shaped button. That other button you were pressing is a round catcher used to prevent a round from jumping into the loading gate area, Good video Thumbs up~John

[@johngalt2506]

I owned one in the 80s as well and I didn't have to depress the mag cutoff button either. I recall it being a bit of a pain to load but not as much trouble as they're having.

[@bugoutlife4435]

Thank you for coming to town. There was a long line of people at the store so I couldn't stay but thank you for all the content you produce and provide.

[@gameragodzilla]

I own a SPAS-12 myself. It takes a lot of time to understand how it works and what you need to do to maintain it and make it work, but once you get past that, it is a shotgun that’s pretty unique. Now as for why the SPAS-12 needs to hold down the bolt release, the reason is how the bolt hold open works. The carrier latch prevents the lifter from going up if the tube is empty, but also means if you want to access the magazine to load, you have to move the carrier latch out of the way. The Benelli M4, being a newer shotgun, had some extra pieces that keeps the carrier latch depressed so you can load. But it’s also why the bolt hold open and loading from the tube doesn’t work unless you either pull the trigger or hit the shell release. That being said, I found you can single load shells with your hand on the firing grip by cupping the shell in your palm, pressing the bolt release with your thumb, and them pushing the lifter up with the shell, then loading it in. EDIT: Also, don’t push in the magazine disconnect to load the shotgun. You just have to hold down the bolt release. In fact, the magazine disconnect would slightly block loading and make it more difficult to load. It is a pretty complicated shotgun, though, so not a rare mistake to make. Older semi auto shotguns all had the requirement to hold down the bolt release to load so people were used to it then, but now that it’s no longer necessary for modern shotguns, it’s outdated and archaic.

[@0dayExploit]

Hey, good to see you here too! You commented on my SPAS-12 video a bit back

[@gameragodzilla]

@@0dayExploit I know. lol I do wonder how the SPAS-12 would fare once people get more training on it, though what I’d like most is a modernized version that fixes some of the niggling issues.

[@0dayExploit]

@@gameragodzilla SPAS-15 was supposed to be that modernized version, but stupid AWB/GCA. Other than that, an upgraded Benelli M3 would be the closest thing, I think. Neither of those have the amount of style that the SPAS-12 has though

[@gameragodzilla]

@@0dayExploit Yeah, I’d love to have a SPAS-15. Fucking ATF. But even just a SPAS-12 with an updated gas system and removing the necessity to hold down the bolt release to load would be nice.

[@tullo5564]

@@gameragodzilla one question though, could you fire slugs safely with this shotgun?

[@the_fixer2593]

I love how the SPAS-12 in Half Life is a "Double Barrel Shotgun". Man, game devs in the 90's really did just slap anything together they thought was cool and didn't understand guns.

[@reddrake4451]

In thier defence the black Mesa universe runs on magic I mean how do you even hold a barnacle gun or better yet why dose the saw literally make you float from the recoil?

[@cpi3267]

smh he should've used the half life hecu camo during the intro

[@Definitelynotacelebrity]

Ever played black? Every gun is like that. Rails everywhere and flush fit mags with like 100 round capacity. Best of all I think the advertising called it “gun-porn”

[@jacopoabbruscato9271]

Fallout devs don't understand guns to this very day

[@-Zevin-]

@@jacopoabbruscato9271 Are you trying to tell me the laser rifles and plasma weapons aren't real! Next you are going to say the Broadsider man portable naval artillery cannon isn't a actual thing.

[@travisjacobs5581]

I was a Marine Combat Engineer, and we did use grappling hooks. I will never forget the look of awe on every grunts face when they heard that and thought we used them for climbing. We actually used them to drag on the ground and look for trip wires or ieds.

[@bradyknowzbest1149]

Congratulations on your move here too idaho, you are going to love it here!! Hope to see you around!

[@justincase992]

We had this shotgun in our arsenal at the US Embassy in Nassau back in the 80's (along with the Remington 870P). Nobody wanted it because you couldn't combat load it.

[@TPDManiacXC626]

Any chance it’s still there? I’m sure a lot of locals and tourists would love to rent and shoot it at a local gun range.

[@idunusegoogleplus]

​@@TPDManiacXC626 I don't imagine an embassy would be bothered to handle the hassle of renting out and collecting back guns.

[@chrisgs8727]

Thats why I sold mine..

[@tankiller9638]

Lmfao yeah never knew this went to fire one at a range that was renting one out…yeah, its not the best shotgun to be using under stressful circumstances. I personally rather have a 870 cause I can slam in 6 rounds in 2 seconds thanks to modern speed loaders, or about 8 seconds otherwise. Spaz…at least 15 plus just to top a tube

[@lindboknifeandtool]

@@tankiller9638 is a speed loader just a tube with shells you thumb into the magazine?

[@MercenaryJames]

SPAS-12 was forever burned into my memory thanks to Jurassic Park. Surprised you didn't recreate the iconic scene for the video! Put Charlie in one of those dinosaur costumes.

[@jamesphillips4599]

CLEVER GIRL!

[@wreython]

@@theproofisoutthere3884 I was about to say the same when I just found you comment. 1986 The Hitcher with Rutger Hauer. I remember seeing that hooked but and the "tacticool" front grip.

[@Fadaar]

oh man this totally sounds like an idea for him and Scott from Kentucky Ballistics to collab on

[@kevinwilson9589]

Ian on Forgotten Weapons beat him to it.

[@pops55650]

Schwarzenegger didn’t have a problem with the SPAS -12 in the Terminator lol

[@paulengle9245]

You have the best intros of anyone on You Tube. I always appreciate your creativity and ingenuity in your presentations! Thank you for your hard work, you are a true professional.

[@Garand_thu_mb]

Send a direct message🔝🔝 I've got something special for you!!!!!!!

[@TacticalCheesecake]

I own the fixed stock variant spas 12 and love the fact that I have a piece of firearm and pop culture history. The loading for the first time was a learning pain but afterwards I learned to load it fairly quickly. The only thing about my spas is the operation selector button being weird/stiff moving it from pump to semi but it's easy going from semi to pump 😅

[@gameragodzilla]

Remove the barrel and pump from the heat shield and check the gas valve as well as the channel within the pump grip. The way the conversion works is there’s a channel in the pump that the tip of the gas valve rides in. Moving the pump back turns the gas valve so the gas ports are closed, thus no gas is bled off during firing and the action stays locked. Moving the pump forward turns the gas valve the other way so the gas ports can now push gas onto the piston and cycle the action. If it’s stiff, I recommend spraying some CLP or lube onto the gas valve, which should loosen things up. If it’s particularly bad, SPAS-12 Project does have a video on disassembling the gas system for deeper cleaning. It does require a specialized tool to do it, though, and it’s a pain in the ass even with said tool so I recommend only doing it if absolutely necessary.

[@TacticalCheesecake]

@@gameragodzilla thanks! I'll try those out and see if the function is better afterwards. I'll post an update on it when I get a chance!

[@ajented3364]

Ah yes , my favorite trait in a weapon ,physicological fear

[@Carnefice]

as a board-certified physicologist

[@my9thaccount140]

Flamethrower operators have entered the battle.

[@mikewithers299]

🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@bryancollett1619]

The cinematics are what I come for.

[@HamFlare_]

e.

[@punished_gooner]

@Hulk Hogan thanks hulk

[@ghostman76015]

speaking of cinematics how about that moon landing??

[@joshuagibson2520]

107% not. They're gay as fuck.

[@albow4oops5]

Gross.

[@Khilton2000]

I was involved in the British Army;s trial of this in the 80's. looking at a replacement to swan off , used for taking doors off, car stopping. Awesome bit of kit

[@IAMFRESH]

I remember as a kid watching Jurassic Park when I first laid eyes on the SPAS-12. I’ve had love for it ever since🤝🏾

[@dannyviiperi1348]

It sure is amazing

[@creeplife2802]

You can't imagine the disappointment on a young boys face, when he brings out the fancy shotgun, you think he's about to layout a bunch of raptors, and boom, he dies lol

[@gearedmind]

“Clever girl...”

[@manuelsanchez5028]

I’m not super familiar on variants but it seems like the SPAS-12 could definitely benefit from a “gen 2” so to speak. Most of the issues could be simplified and make the shotgun much less obsolete. It’d be interesting to see how a dual operation shotgun could perform and be developed today.

[@servicerifle16]

Well there is the Benelli M3 which is a semi and pump still in production.

[@davidlocke1668]

Spas15 lol? 🤦‍♂️

[@ryguy9876]

It did get a Gen-2. It's called the SPAS-15 and not only did the 15 have better ergonomics, it kept the hybrid system and threw out the mag tube and replaced it with detachable box magazines. The problem is that the company, Franchi, went out of business a few years after release, so the only ways you can get your hands on one are to either be Italian police or to know a guy.

[@2KCamaroZ28SS]

Benelli M3 if you want a gen 2 version of a Franchi SPAS

[@Ziyoblader]

@@davidlocke1668 I just looked it up it doesn't look like a spas 12 it looks like a ordinary automatic rifle and gets rid of the foldable stock which 12 was known for it doesn't even retain its heat shield look

[@HDShayThePro]

That moon landing argument was funnny as AF! 🤣

[@thomaspotthoff3139]

I've had three of these through the years.. ( wish I still had one) Never ever had a problem loading quickly. I know they did have issues with them. mostly the safety.. Thanks Mike!!!! NOW I MUST HAVE ANOTHER!

[@joshrusak2908]

Reloading is not as bad as you made it look. With the stock unfolded, flip the gun upside down in your right hand like loading a normal shotgun. Using you right thumb, press only the bolt release, and load shells. Cycle the action and you are ready to fire. You don’t need to press the magazine cutoff to load. It’s not as good as the m4 but it is not as bad as everyone thinks. It does have a complicated manual of arms, but I love it anyway

[@mysticalmisfit33]

I figured it couldn't be that dumb

[@acpmasterrace3800]

This is true. The "combat button" on the side is all that needs to be depressed to unlock the feed ramp.

[@rickycinaz]

Yup I have a SPAS 12 it’s not that bad.

[@ivicamilosavljevic4706]

Maybe it's like an older Russian sami-auto shotguns...when there is first round chambered, ramp unlocks... I don know, just gesing...

[@Ajibica117]

I have owned my spas for a handful of years now and I’ve put roughly 4k through it with the desire to become effective with it, learn it’s failures and ultimately make myself and my example reliable. My gun is unlike any other spas and I like to think I am autistic enough to make it work as a defensive shotgun. Now as a student gunsmith at CST I can only hope to build a name as a specialist in the spas for my fellow owners. I sure to enjoy making hundreds of hours worth of efficiency modifications and dozens of parts!

[@ralphharrison6622]

good luck, i salute your determination.

[@patrickedwards7107]

Thank you this gives me hope

[@gameragodzilla]

I know SPAS-12 Project manufactures a lot of parts and upgrades for the gun, so if you can contribute further, I’d be a happy customer.

[@ghostface5559]

you can bump fire it on safe

[@gameragodzilla]

@@ghostface5559 Original safety, yes, but the new crossbolt safety, no.

[@luggnutz]

One of my Army buddies has one of those. Years later we were in the mountains at a public range circa 1999 many years before you could watch youtube and see this stuff, I had the SPAS-12 in hand (it's a brute, you better do your curls), and my glock in my thigh holster (yes it was that long ago). I start walking up and firing the same time obliterating the target and when complete, transition to my glock to finish it off. When done I clear the glock and holster it and then check that the SPAS-12 is clear. I turn around to walk back to our table and then notice that everone on each side is just staring at me mouths agape, my buddy and I were just cracking up.

[@leopoldsamsonite1750]

More familiar with the Law-12 but pretty sure the spas had it, the "magazine cut off button". I thought it was really interesting and practical. It allows you to push it and when you cycle it manually, or shoot, it will not load the next round and lock open. This allows you to direct load a specialized round, drop the bolt, shoot it and your OO buck from the mag loads right behind it.

[@ImperatorTheodosius]

SPAS-12 has it, too. They're having trouble reloading because they're pushing it in and obstructing the magazine.

[@chasefrancis8742]

Try keeping that thing fed under duress. No thanks.

[@donalddicorcia2433]

My Supernova has one. Comes in handy.

[@pyro1047]

A lot of shotguns had them, my semi-auto '54 Browning Auto-5 has one as well, along with a bolt release and a speed loading gate. Used to be pretty common on bolt action rifles too, usually military ones. When they first introduced magazine loading rifles in the military soldiers usually were banned from loading from the magazine, they had it loaded but used the cutoff and single loaded rounds. The magazine was only to be used when ordered by an Officer which was usually only given when enemies were getting a little too close or they were about to get overrun.

[@pyro1047]

A lot of shotguns had them, my semi-auto '54 Browning Auto-5 has one as well, along with a bolt release and a speed loading gate. Used to be pretty common on bolt action rifles too, usually military ones. When they first introduced magazine loading rifles in the military soldiers usually were banned from loading from the magazine, they had it loaded but used the cutoff and single loaded rounds. The magazine was only to be used when ordered by an Officer which was usually only given when enemies were getting a little too close or they were about to get overrun.

[@thedigitaldummy3098]

The amount of media this thing managed to work its way into despite its flaws is impressive. Modern Warfare 2, Jurassic Park, Girls Frontline, Half Life, Matrix, only the Desert Eagle comes to mind for weapons that have been able to do the same on looks alone. You can get her in Girls Frontline at level 70 for clearing the story and by god she’s worth it. Sabrina Franchi my beloved.

[@aaronbates4848]

It reminds me of the M202 Flash in that way. You might know it as the Grim Reaper from Black Ops. It was said to be a technical nightmare and never saw service, which is probably why it was so common as a prop! It's even featured in Star Wars!

[@killermouse01]

Lol it amuses me how two firearms that are nearly never used in reality for their flaws made it so far in pop culture for how "cool" they are.

[@derrek4991]

literal chinese advertisment

[@DatAsianGuy]

@@killermouse01 they just have this powerful presence, which makes them good especially for movies and videogames, where design language is obviously important to get across what something does. when you look at the desert eagle, you just now one bullet could fuck you up hard, even if it's not a lethal hit. same goes for the spas-12 design and on top it's a shotgun which already is seen as a powerful weapon.

[@434sbmrchevy]

Guys you kill me with your review. Just one of my issues I have, you guys state you need to press 2 buttons in order to liad it. Yes one button does need to be pressed in order to load, it's only an issue for someone that has no knowledge of the weapon at hand. The same cam be Saud just about any weapon. Give a person with absolutely no firearms knowledge, I. Sure they will fnd it difficult to load a revolver. That 2nd button is a magazine feed stop. In the event your next round needs to be changed. You simply press the tube cut off button and load your the ideal round of your choice, what other shotgun has that feature. Again we talking about a weapon designed in the 80's. Let's not fault the weapon for a person lack of knowledge on operating the fire arm. Like any other weapon, following the operation manhandled oractice goes long way. A semi auto hand gun operates different than a revolver, a pump shot operates different than a pump, a lever action, operates different from a mumps or semi auto. You have people with lack of knowledge going solely on reviews they see, not understanding the person reviewing the weapon may not be fully knowledgeable on the weapon and all orist errors are operator errors not the weapons. The Benelli M3 is the closest to the operation of the Spas. They took a great design and made it better. This is simply evolution gentlemen. Please be aware of the facts im stating. The only reason my spas 12 is no longer my go to is because of capacity. I own also the Utas 15 and Saiga 12. I love the fact of having 20 round drum. But I'd rather have a high capacity tube fed over a mag fed shot gut any day only do to the fact having to carry e Tra equipment magazine. In the event for what eve4 reason you are innthe shit and you are running Ning and gu Ning and you drop your mag, now you have a high in single shot. And it's easier to tactically reload a tube gu over a mag fed one. How many extra shot mag can you carry. I'd rather focus on just carrying extra ammo. So my Spas 12 is 2nd to the Utas 15 only because of capacity. Any issues I have had with short stroke the UTAS 15 waa user error not weapon error. So again let's keep it factual. And what killed the spas was the important band.

[@cheops1292]

I preordered mine in the 80s and had to wait almost a year for the first ones to be imported. I don't know what you are doing, or if your copy is defective, but mine loads VERY easy and quickly. you missed one of the features of the sights, it is not only a ghost ring (for 00 buck) but has a notch at the bottom (for slugs). the hook is to be folded off to the left or right when folded to be used as a side handle for shooting 2 handed, put in the position you had it in, for hooking on a car or truck seat and folded back for use as a carry handle. I have taken many deer with mine, and always take it hunting in bear country, just in case of unwanted visitors. for a combat shotgun I prefer a Mossberg 590, but the SPAS 12 would do, in case you're interested, the docs that came with mine called it a Sporting Pump Auto Shotgun 12ga or SPAS 12. it came with a takedown tool and the longest plug I have ever seen along with a heavy canvas sling. several years back, I was able to find all new o rings and Buffer for mine, made of much better material which has given mine new life. the barrel is also Chrome lined on mine.

[@frankrosatto4575]

1000% correct.. I own one and think I'm pretty proficient with it..had to totally rebuild it as buffer let go within 3 rounds when I first got it...lot of fun, great piece

[@RScamble]

Gordon Freeman reloads this gun like a boss. I guess you needed a PhD to do that smoothly.

[@stevenbobbybills]

Second barrel not included.

[@bmw328igearhead]

Gordon Freeman's was also a double barrel... apparently.

[@cpi3267]

@@bmw328igearhead that shotgun in HL was a modified spas 12 that black mesa made for it's security/expeditionary forces. That's my headcanon anyways, don't ask me how the thing would actually work XD

[@wayda8646]

Not only iconic in MW2 but the best movie ever made... Jurassic Park

[@RLtW88]

Clever girl

[@ryanweidner6828]

This guy speaks for me! Haha

[@logitech1928]

Hell yeah!

[@justinthyme1945]

Underrated character

[@dibingsdibingens8463]

Jurassic Warfare

[@maxwellschmid588]

How the hell did Arnold Schwarznegger handle this gun with one hand, and actually handle it with relative accuracy even when he was using full power blanks? Insane

[@LITTLE1994]

He was a very strong man back in the 1980s

[@jmarc1]

SPAS 12 owner here. You only need to push the round button to unlock the magazine well cover, not 2. The second serrated button is used for keeping a shell from leaving the magazine tube if the shooterwanted to load a specific round ahead of what's in the mag tube (e.g. less than lethal). This may have been causing some of the loading pain! I do agree that having to hold that round button is a pain too! I have the shot diverter too! RLTW

[@YouTubesucks..]

I struggled watching him try to use both buttons lol😂😂😂

[@2ndarymotion]

Today I learned you can also get Garand Thumb from a SPAS-12 shotgun. Thank you Dr. Mike.

[@MugenZeroX]

The way the spas looks, despite being a semi auto 12 gauge, it just radiates raw brute intimidation. It just looks like it's more powerful, probably why it usually is in video games lol Edit: if looks dictated performance, the Spas 12 looks like it can shoot down a fighter just by pointing it

[@Bru741iX]

Every time i see one, all i can think off is that the heat shield from the SPAS-12 was used to conceal the cut down M870 on the M41A Pulse Rifle from Aliens. That and the police station scene from Terminator.

[@stevenbobbybills]

"despite being a semi auto 12 gauge, it just radiates raw brute intimidation" Despite? Semi-auto 12 guages are generally intimidating as a rule.

[@MugenZeroX]

@Steven Bobby Bills you're right, I just mean there's plenty of other semi auto shotguns out there but damn if the Spas doesn't win the looks department

[@stevenbobbybills]

@@MugenZeroX I'm partial to the appearance of the Benelli M4 Super 90, myself.

[@MugenZeroX]

@Steven Bobby Bills it's definitely a gorgeous shotgun but there's something about the chonky spas boi

[@agustinsuarez8967]

0:33 The quiet of the classroom entering my school

[@ywgh4387]

11:27 btw in GTA Vice City it actually shooting in such horizontal pattern, and many gamers there considering that it's a bug in the game 😁

[@puremaga17]

I bought one when they were first released for

[@TheExplosiveGuy]

Honestly that $500 bucks back then was equivalent to $5000 in today's monopoly money lol...

[@AK4974U]

Who remembers 199$ aks. Back in pre 2010 and 2012

[@WavveBoi]

@@AK4974U I do and I regret not buying one at the gun show. Several boxes full of oiled up AKs from some god forsaken Balkan country. One hundred and fifty dollars each. "Meh" I say as I go oggle a G3 "I'll get one later". I think about that alot

[@mengx94]

Gobbless

[@shd_samurai9676]

A favourite of particle physicists worldwide.

[@awo4101]

Gordon doesn't need to hear all this. He's a highly trained professional.

[@justinmosiello751]

I love your content and have followed for years. I saw a few people already mentioned you don't have to hold down both buttons to load so I'm not going to beat that horse but the second button you were squeezing was the magazine disconnect. you hold that to prevent the next shell from loading into the action from the tube. The "quick safety" is actually an action release that allows you to open the action similar to a rem870 or other shotgun with a locking action. They could be used in combination, such as you want to fire a less than lethal/breach round/slug or oddball round but you have a tube loaded with 00 buck and you don't want to unload the entire tube just for a singular round that you will chase with buck anyway so you flip the action release, hold the disconnect, and lock the bolt to the rear ejecting the current shell and allowing you to hand load your shell of choice directly to the action. I have had my SPAS since 2016 and love it. It will shoot winchester low brass value pack out of it but it doesn't like "light load" or "low recoil". Keep up the awesome content though 🙌 when i first started watching your stuff it definitely inspired me to train better. Here is a vid from my insta of a buddy shooting cheap federal out of mine in semi auto. instagram.com/p/BWWJY_LASH8/?igshid=N2ZiY2E3YmU=

[@patrickfrey3935]

Why does the gravel kick from 4:54 sound exactly like minecraft lol

[@bobboo9871]

I don’t know about that early version of the Spas 12 with the lever safety but the later ones with the button trigger safety do not require depressing two buttons to load just the one on the left side and it’s loads smooth as butter when the tube is clean..

[@Hiroyuki-san]

I actually got the spas 12 before the covid and the absurd price upsurge, a gentleman was selling this full stock shotgun locally for $1500. My shotgun came with a cross bolt instead of a lever switch. Remember that little button that you need to not only release the bolt but load as well? Mine came with a aftermarket button that it kinda big but useful enough that you don't need to strained yourself with that little button did before. I was really stoked when I got it, but was surprised how much they're going for today, no plan to sell it since this shotgun was on my bucket list to get. =D

[@mikeroot2]

Your reviews are great, but the 3 of you interacting in videos is a friggin’ national treasure😂

[@ModelCitizenTube]

Love the paralegal loop hole talk. Thanks again for another masterpiece

[@LITTLE1994]

The Terminator 1/Jurassic Park shotgun. Loved using that weapon in the Manhunt video game.

[@submersedrox]

If you’ve ever ran around on MW2 using only this, go ahead and hit that subscribe button

[@thefrogking481]

What about those of us who only used Scavenger Pro with the tube?

[@predetor911]

This gun in Black Ops was ma shit.

[@randylahey1581]

@@predetor911 And the campaign has a version with dragons breath rounds, one of the coolest things I've seen in any video game

[@user-td1zo3tv9p]

Many gazillions of years ago when I was a young dinosaur myself and in the police academy, another cadet wanted to use his personal SPAS12 to qualify for the shotgun portion of our training. His personal example exemplified the word "SPAS" as in "spastic" because he had nothing but trouble getting the beast to function on a regular basis. I don't remember if he was able to qualify with that boat anchor but I DO recall thinking that WTH would any Rich Kid who could afford one in 1985 dollars want to be an AZ State Trooper for a puny paycheck? To this day I wondered if he stayed with the job and, furthermore, if he was ever able to qualify and carry that GREATGOBSOFGOOSESHIT.

[@Richardjohnson6969]

Under rated comment, extremely based.

[@JD-tn5lz]

Flip side to that, kudos to him for loving shotguns. Most modern recruits are scared half to death of shotties and always p*** out and take their carbines. Which is a bad bad thing up here in AK. Most of us "old timers" and also the born and AK raised still reach for 12ga first.

[@christopherreed4723]

I happen to know someone who was a DPS Trooper around that time. And I can picture her reaction to that debacle...🤦‍♂️

[@Richardjohnson6969]

@@JD-tn5lz I would also take a rifle over a shotgun for many instances. ESPECIALLY if I was a cop. Your reasoning is poor at best. Elaborate on why shotguns are better.

[@JD-tn5lz]

Richard Johnson...several reasons. I've seen .223 go clean through people, then through interior drywall, and out through exterior walls. There have been "friendly fire" incidents with cops too. Buckshot and even slugs won't penetrate 3A body armor....223 will. The mindset of "million dollars, million dollars" every time you pull a trigger is a necessary one. You are accountable for every round you send downrange, morally if not financially, or both. Second. Even though a .223 can actually kill a brown bear, it rarely provides a lethal (as in immediate death or incapacitation) wound rhe way a 12ga does. I have seen .223 actually sheer off a bear's skull into neverneverland. Yes, bears have been killed with .223, but the reason why it always is news is because it IS news...man bites dog, etc. I have shot bears with 12ga, it's highly effective when you do your part. Shootings are exciting. Even professionals send plenty extra downrange. There are always plenty of unaccounted for bullets at every LEO shooting I've investigated. It's a semi-automatic weapon that will usually fire as long as a very excited person will pull the trigger. There's almost always extras. 12ga pump users rarely shoot more than twice, often only once. If you hit your target square, you almost always know the fight is over before you send the next "million dollars" downrange. ARs are very reliable, but they aren't very rugged. Go hike a trail during a rainstorm, cross a swollen creek, go fall into the mud and suddenly you are legitimately concerned your AR may not work. Yes, I've seen that happen too. Remember, in most LEO and nearly all private person involved shootings, you don't have a platoon of Marines to back you up in case if your stuff breaks. Every thing has to work Every time. Frankly, 12ga are more intimidating to perps also. ARs should be, but for some reason they aren't. I have had people literally trip themselves and fall face first into the dirt when faced with my shotgun. Twice. Funny as hell and other cops thought I shot them. Didn't need to. The not needing to is an important plus...idiots will sometimes take chances against an AR (they obviously shouldn't) that they won't dream of against a shotgun. So should LEOs have ARs available? Absolutely yes. Is it usually the best tool for the job? Usually it isn't.

[@Codcj2]

Garand thumb receiving garand thumb from a spas 12 shotgun Noice

[@noadmre7493]

I'd argue the double barrel shotgun is the most iconic shotgun ever designed but hey its only been used since 1819 and used in thousands of films/video games/ and still used for hunting today.

[@kegluneq6306]

Ah yes, the one single recognisable model/manufacturer of double-barelled shotguns used in all those(?)

[@a.c.2499]

Someone needs to make a reproduction version. Edit: one that is actually reliable and easier to use.

[@alexwalker2582]

Like the SA-35, improved but enough parts compatibility to be able to say "That's a SPAS-12".

[@a.c.2499]

@@alexwalker2582 yes.

[@loganw6156]

I like how in Jurassic Park Grant takes a few shots and it jams/is inoperable. I think that fits with the gun and the theme (over reliance on complex engineering systems)

[@cluelessbird101]

I've read the book and watched the movie multiple times each, and I don't recall Grant ever using a gun. I don't think the SPAS was even in the book if I remember correctly, just the rocket launcher. And in the movie I don't remember Muldon ever getting a chance to fire the gun.

[@loganw6156]

@CluelessBird101 when they are in the control room Grant shoots at the raptor coming through the glass. It's fired off screen when they are on the phone with Hammond.

[@wiscokid9890]

Back in September, I started running. Push-ups for upper body. I'm not sure about my exact starting weight. I've lost 10-15lbs. I couldn't run more than maybe 5 minutes. Few weeks go by, and I could run ten minutes consistently. I'm 36 and have not done any exercising since I was 19. Dealing with pain as I go along. Hip,knee, and now my stupid left foot is bothering me. I must not be running correctly, lol. I have taken a break due to our short rifle season here in WI and I got sick. I've ran twice in the last 2-3 weeks. Start at a gym this week. Creating muscle the last couple months has helped at work tremendously! So, I will continue doing what I'm doing. My goal is to run 3 miles. Once I get to that point I will adjust time from their. Baby steps! I am the only provider for my family and can't afford to be hurt

[@mcklub]

the slow-mo sound of the spas-12 operating is so... GOOD

[@Ntmoffi]

Franchi also makes great Bolt action rifles but the Spas 12 is definitely what they're known for.

[@MyCatFooed]

Nice comment!!

[@sovietrussia3632]

@@MyCatFooed Nice reply!!

[@katarjin]

@@sovietrussia3632 nice shirt.

[@abbe9641]

The spas is up there with the jackhammer in how much sheer badassness it radiates.

[@Duhhwight]

*Wagner Group has entered the chat*

[@wisdomwolf7777]

Pease start doing more shotgun videos. I love shotguns they never get the credit they deserve, and are rarely talked about.

[@derrickgirone5859]

You don't have to hold both to load. But you do need to make sure the hammer is cocked that will make it so much easier to load. 1 side is a magazine cutoff the other is a bolt release you don't need to hold both you only need to hold the bolt release/loading door release. The magazine cutoff is so you can load less than lethal rounds while not feeding from the magazine. I have a spas and although it's not an m4 it gets way more looks than the m4 lol

[@angst_]

You only have to press the round button on the right side to release the loading gate. the 'button" on the other side is the magazine cutoff switch and pressing it might be why you're having trouble loading it? Otherwise something is wrong with your gun! It shouldn't be that hard,. I'd suggest cradling the gun under your right arm, hold the receiver with your right hand, press the load gate button with your right thumb, and load shells with your left hand. Fun fact, the reason the loading gate is locked is because it's integral to the loading cycle and locking the bolt open on empty. during operation the bolt gets held back by a tab on the rear of the loading gate, and the loading gate is held shut my a sidebar. When a shell leaves the magazine and presses the side bar that releases the loading gate, allowing it to be force upwards as the bolt return forwards.

[@frankstabler1920]

True. I wondered why he was pressing both buttons.

[@henrykelso7349]

Everyone remembers it being In Jurassic Park and sometimes the Terminator but shout out to the Hitcher (1986) using it in a great finale; a shotgun best used in the hands of the bad guys.

[@justin_ogre]

And The Wraith (1986) used by Charlie Sheens character to shoot up some cars in a garage

[@brianlawrance2493]

Hi you don't have to press two buttons ... you turn the over and press the round button to load shell the little button is a mag shut off so you can load a blank in the chamber and if have the right barrel end you can fit ganades and gas.

[@kalikasurf]

This SPAS12Thumb channel is the best on KZbin!

[@MDpolo]

This is one of my all-time favorite shotguns. I’ve owned one for many, many years and I will never get rid of it. Thank you very much for the video.

[@TylerDurdan241]

I had a SPAS in the UK many years ago, when we were "allowed" to have such things.Used it for PS courses of fire, I never had a problem speed loading it, I was actually complemented by an sf operative for my gun handling. it also cycled on bird shot, it never malfunctioned on me once always used auto, liked the low recoil. I liked it a lot. Interesting that GT doesn't rate it but I completely get where he's coming from, nice funny review 🙂

[@robertoferreira9154]

Hello from Portugal. Love your videos Garand Thumb. Can you make a video of the Fabarm STF12 ? I think that shotgun it's a excellent platform, use it in pratical shooting IPSC shotgun and also dual gun. For sure you will love it too.

[@metalbullets]

5:05 “That was actually 4 shots” I believe he was going for a Half-Life reference due to the fact that in that game you have a “both barrels” secondary fire option.

[@saltwatertaffybag]

The SPAS 12 is truly glorious. My uncle had one, he was on LAPD swat when SWAT itself as a concept was in its infancy. It was among the first "tactical" teams in the United States. Anyway, story was he took it out of the evidence locker and never brought it back. I think the closer to the truth story is that while the SWAT team was being formed they were testing and evaluating a bunch of weapons, and a bunch of them ended up walking out in officers trunks before inventory control was a thing. Statute of limitations is up, sue me

[@kevinm8865]

That's about right. Scumbags claiming to enforce law were/are themselves breaking it. Sad

[@a1b3do]

LAPD absolutely the filthiest police force in the country

[@justalurker3489]

Unsurprising, considering LAPD SWAT was formed in response to the Watts uprising. Basically they hired a bunch of cops from the deep south, those cops did some racist shit in LA, people in LA fought back, and LAPD called for California Guard backup and formed SWAT teams. Literal tanks showed up in LA in the 60s because they were so scared of the people they kept beating.

[@wraithwyvern528]

​Or heroic American bucks the law to rescue shotgun from government service and eventual destruction

[@justalurker3489]

@@wraithwyvern528 Heroic armed agent of the state as part of a unit formed to crack down on racial minorities

[@chancecurtiss9885]

love how much better this channel has gotten over time.

[@jakkrapholsingraksatrakul9378]

T800: "The 12 Gauge Auto Loader." Gun Shop Owner: "That’s Italian, you want pump or auto?"

[@robertmoore7199]

A year later now I'm busting my ass watching this one.. Thanks I needed a chuckle.

[@amdolfussussus1338]

God blessed SPAS-12, the beauty of many films. This thing may require some reworking to shoot and function, but dammit its worth it. Truly a classic.

[@kevinfitzpatrick5949]

The only thing that comes close is the mp155 Ultima

[@frankdrebin3988]

"Garand Thumb doesn't need to hear all this, he's a highly trained professional!"

[@thesaltycabbage]

Reading the manuals is important in the section loading and unloading in capitals and bright red "YOU WILL FIND LOADING MUCH EASIER WITH THE GUN COCKED" And you only need to press the carrier latch button. The magazine cutoff is for unloading.

[@musicman1088]

Love your videos btw

[@theblobconsumes4859]

It's indeed tragic how they made such an incredibly beautiful shotgun that also is so terrible.

[@randylahey1581]

Why is it terrible?

[@snaketv1715]

@@randylahey1581 Garand Thumb explained in the video exactly why. It is because you need to flip the firearm to load in shells which means you cannot keep it aimed down sight. If you need an better explanation, in call of duty you can aim with a weapon while reloading. With the spaz 12 because of the way you need to reload upside down, you cannot aim down sights with this firearm and reload at the same time. There are a few other reasons, but that is probably the main one.

[@randylahey1581]

@@snaketv1715 Ahh okay I only got to watch the first few minutes of the video so I didn't see him loading it. Sounds like a pretty shitty design

[@kevinmorrice]

@@snaketv1715 he alsop reloaded it wrong, you just hold the bolt release, not the disconnect

[@ToastytheG]

It's not terrible. Just obsolescent. I own one. It's perfectly reliable and not too hard to figure out if you give it time. If you want a terrible shotgun just look at the cobray terminator

[@doodlearmy2621]

I don't even watch comedy series anymore, because you three are top notch entertainment

[@801_adventure_trek4]

For those wanting the Franchi, buy the Benelli m4, it’s a lot better and it’s easier to train with. Also takes 3inch loads, the SPAS-12 is limited to 2 3/4.

[@malikswag60]

Glad to still have one of these

[@axo8932]

Looks like it runs flawlessly! I remember when these could be had for $500

[@JD-tn5lz]

Feeling old?

[@axo8932]

@@JD-tn5lz LOL, Sometimes

[@thepunisher8676]

The company that makes these things should definitely start making them again they'll make so much money in less than a year

[@Hybris51129]

Or at least license it out to another US company since they probably don't want to get hit by another "assault weapons ban" like they did last time.

[@ReSpark141]

@@Hybris51129 i love how they tried to get around it by claiming the spas 12 was a sporting shotgun

[@Soarerfox]

Import regulations in the usa today cannot have a folding stock or hold more than 5+1 on import. Thank the 1989 922r and 1994 aw ban

[@SmallDickNinja]

Love you dude, pushing 20K on the treadmill watching you, forgetting I was tired, going for 10 more !

[@laxplayer99]

Charlie if you go to mcdonald observatory they can bounce a laser off a reflector astronauts left up there.

[@macclark4112]

A Local Arms Dealer in Billings ,Montana had the Brand New SPAS-12 for sale in 91’. I looked it twice as I bought two NEW MAC-90’s. $1100 dollars new. The third time I was in there it was sold. By 1993 and the passage of the Crime Bill. The Price jumped to $3500 and no more were available from Italy because of the weapons ban.

[@mr.djdirkse1171]

I would say the double barrel shotgun is the most iconic in the world but the Spas 12 is the most aesthetically pleasing shotgun of all for damn sure.

[@thefrogking481]

For sure it ranks right up there with the beauty of Whoopie Goldberg.

[@lordfordification]

@@thefrogking481 hahaha I was about to say, it's one of the ugliest shotguns I've ever seen or shot.

[@12MRJERSEY]

The Benelli M4 is by far the most pleasing to the eyes.

[@ethancrawford8075]

No gun is as aesthetically pleasing as a fully engraved Westley Richards Double rifle.

[@lordfordification]

@@12MRJERSEY check out the Beretta 1301

[@alangrant9451]

I love the light hearted and humorous take to these videos. Just a few guys on the range having fun and we get to come along, hang out and have a great time.

[@mrpearson8166]

The most iconic shotgun is probably the Remington 870, but this one just has something special

[@ballsack8937]

I love the 870. I'm inclined to agree with your statement. When I think about it, the 870 has been in almost every shooting game that had a shotgun in it lol that and the 1014 are probably my favorite shotguns ever. Mossberg is my favorite manufacturer but that rem 870 is basically the shotgun Jesus would choose

[@qualitechh]

no, its the spas 12. made extremely iconic thru video games

[@mrpearson8166]

@@qualitechh I wasn't talking just about videogames, but about everything, including real life. 36000 SPAS 12 made vs more than 10M 870s, definitely more popular, and therefore, iconic once both of them are history

[@ballsack8937]

@@devinreavis8182 pretty sure Mossberg got chosen for price point. They make great shotguns but the military chooses on price to function not just function.

[@earthling_parth]

I used to love Spaz 12 and hoard it's ammo and shots in IGI and IGI 2. Love those games ❤

[@Hybris51129]

I remember years ago finding a SPAS-12 for sale in Norm, Oklahoma on Armslist. I was in contact with the guy and was about to finalize the sale when the town got hit by a big tornado. I never did get in contact with the seller again. Of the many shotguns made through this is the one I am looking to buy the most.

[@_Matsimus_]

“Clever garand thumb” *raptor screeches*

[@mizolafoufounna]

Everybody mentioning Jurassic Park but not The Terminator holding the SPAS-12 with one arm and exterminating cops LoL😋😋😜

[@salvatorehernwood]

The button on the right side is a magazine cut off button not a loading button. It is designed to be used so that you can manually load something into the chamber while stopping rounds from coming out of the tube. It should not be pressed when loading. That’s why it was so hard to load because they had to overcome the stop that they were pushing in. To load you just need to press the other button to release the gate/elevator and it loads easily. This gun is either defective or the operators are defective or both.

[@markusscholl4958]

If you want to have the same functions, semi and pump, the Benelli M3 Super 90 shotgun is the way to go. Well built and easy exchangeable barrel system.😊

[@ghostwolf4354]

Thank you for making this video. The SPAS-12 is my all-time favorite shotgun that I am never likely to own, and even less likely to ever fire - but just LOOK at it! It was also used in some of those action novels from the '80's.

[@chasefrancis8742]

It's a turd.

[@TheTherealdarkhorse]

I owned one it was a fun gun and yes its heavy on the front but that really helped manage rise. Shooting two at the same time was epic. Never once had a failure to eject or anything like that. It did fine with double odd buckshot and sadly was far more accurate with a slug than my Chinese AK47 at 100 yards.

[@BB-yh5rd]

I'm just trying to figure out if the intended goal of the shotgun was to exponentially increase misfires and self infliction of GSW.

[@TheTherealdarkhorse]

@B B Never had an issue. Even loading wolith practice was not so bad. Having one in each hand and squeezing as fast as you can was a lot of fun. So front heavy there was almost zero rise. Then they prohibited it I'm Canada for looking scary. The new model came out magazine fed and I'm sure was far better than original. Still far more accurate than a Chinese AK47 by a long shot. Pun intented. Lol. Great idea just not bug free. Still looks great in movies like jurassic Park, the matrix and Arnold's terminator etc.

[@TheTherealdarkhorse]

@B B If you listen to our Priminister it is a military grade assault weapon to kill as many people as possible in the shortest period of time. Canada's Criminister narcissistic meglomaniac tyrannical Nazi sparkle socks maggot POS who has made all semiautomatic and even single shot shotguns and 22 rifles prohibited because they are military grade weapons of war. Hitler wannabe 2.0.

[@jamesbyrd9514]

Recently got a Rossi Overland coach 12 gauge. Couple buddies started telling me I should have got a pump. Pulled the ol trusty Mossburg 500A , which I actually got for free. Then one brought up this guy.... call me old fashioned, but I'd prefer my Browning 2000 anyway of the week. ..when it comes to silver, I look for Itlay... when it comes to semiautomatic 12 gauges...... made in Belgium baby!

[@jorgelopezromero9622]

I love how the cinematic quality and hilarious script of the intros have become so par for the course that people don't even comment on it nowadays, so lemme just say it; THESE INTROS RULE.

[@darksu6947]

Are you related to the Zombie guy? 🧟‍♂️

[@jorgelopezromero9622]

@@darksu6947 Nope, it's a really common last name in Latin America. But who knows, we might be distant cousins

[@darksu6947]

@@jorgelopezromero9622 I was only asking because you look a lot like him. Hopefully you never turn into a zombie because you seem pretty cool 🧟‍♂️