The Citadel Pup Scout FDE is a 12 gauge semi-automatic tactical shotgun (Citadel part no. FRPS1218-FDE) built around an all-metal upper receiver and forend for a gun that shrugs off hard range days and home-defense duty alike. Chambered for 3-inch shells and fed from a 5+1 capacity tube magazine, it pairs a compact 18.5-inch barrel with full-length Picatinny rail space for optics, lights, and other accessories. Finished in FDE Cerakote, the Pup Scout is built for shooters who want a rugged, purpose-driven defensive shotgun rather than a traditional field gun.

Key Specifications

• Chambered in 12 gauge for 3-inch shells, giving you access to the full range of standard and magnum defensive loads.
• The semi-automatic gas-operated action cycles each round automatically for fast, controllable follow-up shots.
• An 18.5-inch barrel keeps the shotgun short and maneuverable in tight spaces without sacrificing pattern performance.
• Feeds from a 5+1 round capacity tube magazine, putting five rounds on tap before a reload.
• The metal upper receiver and forend add rigidity and durability beyond what a polymer-heavy build offers.
• Full-length top and bottom Picatinny rails let you mount optics, lights, and lasers exactly where you need them.
• Fully ambidextrous mag release, charging handle, and safety selector make the Pup Scout equally fast for left- and right-handed shooters.
• An adjustable cheek rest lets you set the correct height for a fast, repeatable sight picture.
• Comes with folding front and rear adjustable sights that stow flat when you’re running an optic.
• Ships with three choke tubes so you can tune the pattern for buckshot, slugs, or field loads.

Frequently Asked Questions

What gauge is the Citadel Pup Scout FDE? It is chambered in 12 gauge for 3-inch shells.

How many rounds does it hold? The tube magazine holds 5+1, five in the magazine plus one in the chamber.

Is it optics-ready? Yes, the top Picatinny rail accepts a red dot or similar optic, and it also includes folding backup sights.

Buy the Citadel Pup Scout FDE 12 Gauge Tactical Shotgun

Whether you’re setting up a home-defense shotgun or adding a rugged range gun to the safe, the Pup Scout FDE delivers a metal-built, accessory-ready platform without punishing you for wanting Picatinny rail space and ambidextrous controls. Order yours from our Citadel lineup of semi-auto shotguns at Schaefer Defense, and we’ll get it moving fast from our Lubbock, Texas gun shop to your FFL.