Much to the surprise of its haters, the shotgun remains one of the best defense weapons at our fingertips. Its ability to fill a target with lead quickly makes it a true fight stopper. While the shotgun has been around forever, not much has been done to truly modernize the platform. That changes today, however, as Genesis Arms showcases their Genesis GEN012 Shotgun.
Genesis GEN-12 – Bringing True AR Ergonomics to the Shotgun
The GEN-12 is not just another AR-style shotgun. It is designed to feel like our well-known AR. Genesis builds it on a purpose-made GEN-12 DPMS-pattern lower. With just a glance, it looks like another rifle. Genesis categorizes the GEN-12 PDS as a personal defense shotgun and it would serve that need well.
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The platform uses a short recoil operation and cycles like a classic short-recoil rifle adapted to 12 gauge. That gives the gun predictable, reliable cycling across a variety of loads. The shotgun has a five-inch barrel and is only 26-inches long with the suppressor attached,
Free-Float Handguard
Genesis fits a free-float handguard to the GEN-12. The handguard uses M-LOK slots at three, six, and nine o’clock. Builders and shooters can mount lights, grips, or rail sections without any challenges. Feeding comes from detachable box magazines. The GEN-12 accepts 5 and 10 round magazines from Genesis. Drum and extended magazines also run in this boom stick,
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Genesis includes a HUXWRX VENTUM 12 K Suppressor with the kit. That setup keeps overall length manageable while lowering report and muzzle flash. Running suppressed reduces perceived recoil impulse and allows faster follow up shots. The suppressor also improves muzzle rise and sight picture. Controls follow AR ergonomics. You get a right-side charging knob, AR-standard safety, and a mil-spec trigger. The DPMS-pattern lower maintains common control geometry. That choice eases the transition for AR users.
Compact Stock
The stock is compact and adjustable. Genesis pairs an Adaptive Tactical style stock to the buffer tube setup. The package reduces bulk while offering a usable cheek weld. Ergonomics are well thought out. The GEN-12 places the controls where muscle memory expects them. The grip and controls feel familiar to AR shooters.
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The GEN-12’s full-length top rail accepts optics and backup sights. Genesis ships the PDS ready for modern accessories. Maintenance looks familiar to anyone who knows AR rifles. Field stripping requires attention to the short-recoil components but beyond that it is simple.
Genesis GEN-12
The Genesis GEN-12 is a nice move forward in the shotgun world. It is a good mix of our classic AR ergonomics and operation while bringing the power of a shotgun into the fight..
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For more information, visit Genesis.
Genesis GEN-12 Specs
| 5” barrel length |
| 20″ Overall Length without suppressor |
| 26″ Overall Length with suppressor |
| FDE Cerakote |
| Chamber 2 ¾” 12 gauge shells |
| Muzzle Thread: 1.375-24 |
| Short recoil operation |
| Free float handguard with single M-LOK rail at 3, 6, and 9 o’clock |
| Right side charging knob |
| GEN1 DPMS 308 patterned lower |
| Proprietary Compact Stock with two positions: locked closed, locked extended |
| Hogue rubberized grip |
| AR Standard Safety (non-ambi) |
| Mil spec AR Trigger |
| BLACK HUXWRX VENTUM 12 K Suppressor |
| MSRP $5320.99 |
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