SPAS-12

The Franchi SPAS-12 (Sporting Purpose Automatic Shotgun) is a selective-fire shotgun, which can be fired either in the normal semiautomatic mode, or manual pump-action mode for special rounds. The Franchi manuals and US BATF (Bureau of Tobacco and Firearms) list this as a SPORTING Purpose Automatic Shotgun, mainly because of gun control restrictions banning the import of certain weapons. Declaring the SPAS as a sports (i.e. hunting) shotgun instead of a security shotgun helped the BATF pass it for US import. Unlike other 12-gauge shotguns, the SPAS-12 accepts the smaller 2-3/4 inch length rounds (as opposed to the 3-inch rounds).

The SPAS-12 has a thicker, heavier heat shield than most shotguns to deal with barrel overheating, and a unique folding stock which has a hook for single-arm firing support. Because of its high rate of fire, the SPAS-12 can also be used for extremely close-quarters room clearing as well as door breaching. Current versions of the SPAS-12 can carry anywhere from 6-8 shells, depending on the size of the shotgun choke tube and the type of rounds fitted. A fixed stock version is also available.

The clearing teams among the Gurlukovich Mercenaries and the Gnome Army (in Metal Gear Solid: The Twin Snakes only) are equipped with this weapon, a very good choice for firepower in tight, enclosed spaces.