Franchi SPAS-15
The Franchi SPAS-15 is a dual-mode 12 gauge combat shotgun manufactured by the Italian company Luigi Franchi S.P.A. DesignThe weapon is based on the SPAS-12, and has similar pump-action/semi-automatic firing modes. In semi-automatic mode, a gas piston drives a bolt carrier and rotating bolt. In pump-action mode, the same components are driven by sliding the fore-end backwards. Pump-action mode is required to reliably fire low-pressure (less lethal) ammunition such as tear gas rounds or less-lethal bean bags. Switching between firing modes is done by pressing a button above the foregrip, and sliding the foregrip slightly forwards or backwards. The barrel is chrome lined and features screw-in choke tubes.[4][1] Unlike its predecessor, the SPAS-15 is fed by a detachable box magazine.[1] The gun features either a fixed black wooden stock or a side folding metal stock. Both had the same pistol grip safety. Additionally, a semi-auto only variant called SPAS-16 was manufactured in small numbers.[1] Amongst Italian troops the weapon is known by the nickname "La Chiave dell'Incursore" (the key of the commando) because it is used to blast the locks of closed doors.[citation needed] LegalityIn Italy, the SPAS-15 is a common weapon for both law enforcement and civilians.[citation needed] In Canada, the SPAS-15 is classified as a Prohibited Weapon and cannot be legally owned or imported except under very limited circumstances.[5] In 1994, the United States banned the importation of the SPAS-15 with close to 180 shotguns imported, but later abolished the relevant regulations. Users
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