Learn how to obtain Shotgun Parts and what they can be used for
Shotguns are a simple design overall in comparison to other firearms. That said, if you want to craft anything more than a makeshift Pipe Shotgun in 7 Days to Die, you will need specialized Shotgun Parts.
This guide will teach you everything you need to know about finding Shotgun Parts in 7D2D and how they can be best used.
How to get Shotgun Parts in 7 Days to Die
Shotgun parts are rare, specialized components specifically designed for making shotguns. They cannot be crafted, so there are only a few ways to get your hands on these valuable materials:
1. Scavenging

As with all advanced weapon parts, you can search for Shotgun Parts anywhere you’d expect to find a functional firearm. Gun safes, weapon bags, hardened chests, gun racks, and weapon crates are all great locations to find these components.
2. Scrapping

Waste-not, want-not. If you need Shotgun Parts, you can also scrap existing non-pipe Shotguns to reclaim a portion of their parts. These weapons can be found in the same locations as their parts, including the Double Barrel Shotgun, Pump Shotgun, and Auto Shotgun.
3. Trading

Some traders will carry weapon parts in their inventory for sale. This is typically the most costly method of collecting these components, but it can be much faster than trying to search for them if you have dukes to spend. Trader Hugh in the Snow Biome of Navezgane is typically your best bet to find what you need, as he specializes in weapons and ammo.
Tips for Farming Shotgun Parts in 7 Days to Die
These parts are not easy to find by any means. Fortunately, you’ll probably only need a few unless you’re crafting many turrets. But we’ve got you covered if you need tips to make your search more effective.
1. Shotgun Perks

With the addition of the crafting skill system in the A21 Update, players can now increase their chances of finding specialized parts for a certain weapon or tool by investing in its relevant perk. For Shotgun Parts, players should consider putting points into the Boomstick perk to increase the odds of finding what they’re looking for.
2. Gun Shops and Factories

Navezgane is dotted with numerous gun shops of various sizes, shooting ranges, and the coveted Shotgun Messiah Factory in the Wasteland Biome of Navezgane. These locations are great places to search for weapon parts of any kind in addition to ammo, armor, and explosives. Remember: The all-in-one brand for firearms in 7D2D is “Shotgun Messiah”, so any buildings or crates with that logo will likely carry weapon and ammo containers.
3. Government Buildings and Military Bases

Governmental buildings (such as police stations, fire stations, etc.) can be found inside and near the outskirts of cities and often conceal at least one gun safe or an entire armory in some cases. Additionally, the abandoned military bases dotting the countryside are bound to carry at least a few high-value weapon containers. Be careful, however, as these locations are often well-defended and swarming with armored and feral undead.
Using Shotgun Parts in 7 Days to Die
Shotgun Parts are specialized components specifically designed for use in shotguns. As such, they are used for crafting modern shotguns and turrets utilizing shotgun ammunition. The following 4 recipes can be crafted using this resource.
1. Double Barrel Shotgun

The Double Barrel Shotgun is a sawed-off, break-over, tier-2 shotgun with a short range and a wide spread. Though it can only carry 2 shells and is almost useless at range, this weapon can deal some serious damage in close quarters.
2. Pump Shotgun

The Pump Shotgun is a powerful tier-3 shotgun with a more sizable magazine tube. This weapon is designed for tight, close-quarters combat and excels at taking enemies apart if they get too close.
3. Auto Shotgun

The Auto Shotgun is a vicious tier-4 shotgun capable of fully automatic fire. With a replaceable drum magazine and increased control, this monstrous weapon is capable of ripping through hordes of enemies with ease.
4. Shotgun Auto Turret

The Shotgun Auto Turret is an advanced Trap that automatically targets and fires at enemies within its range of vision. These are easily some of the most useful traps in the game and are well worth the piles of shells and power these turrets require to function.
Final thoughts on Shotgun Parts
It’s certainly possible to make a functional shotgun out of nothing more than a hinged pipe and a hammer, but if you want a real weapon in your hands when you face the undead, you’ll need proper shotgun parts. It’s clear the importance of locating precision parts was not lost on The Fun Pimps when they designed 7D2D.
If you’re looking for more tips to help you get started in Navezgane, check out our 10 Tips for Getting Started or our 7 Days to Die Beginner’s Guide.