Combination Hunting Weapons
Welcome to the section dedicated to the most versatile class of hunting weapons. Combination weapons are the choice of experienced and pragmatic hunters who value multifunctionality, lightness, and the ability to be ready for any situation. Unlike classic shotguns that have only smoothbore or only rifled barrels, combination models offer both options in one piece. This allows you to instantly switch between shooting pellets at short range and a precise bullet shot at long distance. In the Arm Elit online store, you will find proven models from leading European manufacturers, and our experts will help you understand all the details and buy a combination hunting weapon that will become your reliable companion for many years.
What is a combination hunting weapon?
A combination weapon is a type of multi-barreled firearm that has at least one smoothbore and one rifled barrel. This design is the pinnacle of gunsmithing engineering, aimed at creating one universal tool capable of replacing an entire arsenal. It was created for driven hunting in Europe, where during a single outing a hunter could encounter different types of game: from a pheasant flying up from underfoot to a roe deer appearing at the forest edge. With a classic shotgun, you would be defenseless in one of these situations. The combination model solves this problem, giving you the right to choose at the decisive moment.
The philosophy of one gun: the main advantage of versatility
Imagine a typical driven hunt. You are walking along a forest path, and suddenly a woodcock takes off noisily — a perfect target for a shot with pellets from a smooth barrel. Half an hour later, as you enter a clearing, you notice a fox grazing at a distance of 150 meters — here a precise shot from the rifled barrel is necessary. A combination weapon allows you to be effective in both scenarios without returning home for another gun. It is not only convenient but also increases the efficiency of hunting, allowing you not to miss valuable chances. You carry one gun, one set of cartridges, and are ready for any scenario.
Main types of combination weapons
Bockbüchsflinte (vertical barrel arrangement)
The most popular type of combination weapon: an “over-under” where one barrel is smooth and the other rifled (rifled usually on the bottom). Lightweight, elegant, well-balanced shotguns for long hunting trips on foot.
Büchsflinte (horizontal barrel arrangement)
An analogue of the Bockbüchsflinte in “side-by-side” format: barrels are placed next to each other. Valued by lovers of classics for their traditional appearance and handling.
Drilling (three-barreled shotguns)
From the German “Drilling” — “triple”: three barrels. The most common combination is two smooth upper barrels of the same caliber and one lower rifled barrel. Allows two quick pellet shots with a reserve bullet shot.
Rarer systems
- Vierling: four-barreled shotguns — rare, collectible, the pinnacle of gunmaking art.
- Einstecklauf (insert barrels): thin small-caliber rifled barrels inserted into a smooth barrel to temporarily convert it into a rifled one.
Legal aspects: how to buy a combination hunting weapon in Ukraine
According to Ukrainian legislation, combination weapons are registered as rifled. To purchase, you need a license to acquire rifled weapons. The procedure is identical to that for rifled carbines and includes:
- Reaching the age of 25.
- Passing a medical examination and weapons handling courses.
- No criminal record and no medical contraindications.
- Having a safe for storage.
- Submitting documents to the National Police and obtaining a purchase license.
With one “rifled” license, you legally own a weapon that combines the capabilities of both rifled and smoothbore.
Selection criteria: what to pay attention to when buying
- Type of weapon and barrel combination. For driven hunting — a light Bockbüchsflinte; for frequent group hunts — consider a Drilling with two smooth barrels.
- Choice of calibers. The pair should match your hunting targets. Popular combinations: smoothbore 12/16 gauge + .223 Rem, .243 Win, .308 Win, .30-06.
- Trigger mechanism (TM). Two triggers, one universal with selector, set trigger — choose a system you understand and find convenient.
- Barrel regulation and optics mount. Factory regulation must align the bullet and shot pattern center to one point at a set distance; a reliable optics mounting option is also important.
Arm Elit: your expert in the world of combination weapons
- Expert consultations. We will help you understand the systems and choose optimal calibers.
- Verified range. Only the best European manufacturers (Blaser, Merkel, Sauer, Krieghoff).
- Competitive prices. A wide selection of working and exclusive models at fair prices.
- Legal support. Consultations on paperwork and registration.
Buying a combination hunting weapon means choosing maximum efficiency and versatility. It is an investment in your hunting experience that will allow you not to miss a single chance and to get the most enjoyment out of every outing into nature.
Explore our catalog or contact Arm Elit specialists for consultation, and we will help you find that one perfect gun for all your hunts.