Newbie - Looking for a good starter pump 12g

ServusDeiVivi

ServusDeiVivi

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Hey all!

I just passed by PAL course and exam, and I was looking to get a nice starter 12G pump-action shotgun. I had a Charles Daly 301 in mind, but I'm hearing mixed reviews, especially around the customer service.

What are some good starter shotguns that I can get that are reliable, not too big (18.5" barrel preferred), and aren't too difficult to customize. Ideally between $250-$350.

Thanks!
 
What is your intended use for this shotgun? If you only want to shoot stationary targets, or for personal protection, an 18.5" barrel might be a good choice, but if you ever want to do some wingshooting, a longer barrel with interchangeable chokes, is far more suitable.
 
I would get a mossberg 500 with a 28” barrel. An 88 would also work. A used Rem 870 with choke tubes would be great. While most pumps fit me similarly, this can not be over looked. Some friends and range time will help lots.
 
Another vote for the maverick 88
I don’t mind the cheap Chinese and Turkish pumps for what they are but I find you have to monkey around with them a bit to get them/ keep them running right.
For a novice who just wants to shoot that sweet Mexican Mossberg will spice up your life. Splurge on a two barrel combo and it’ll be the last first gun you buy😉
 
I agree with all the comments and surely there will be one that you will find works for you.However I just purchased a used Winchester model 97 took it to the club broke 19/25 for a field gun not bad ,it was manufactured in 1906 ,wonder how many mavericks will be around in 120 years ...:)
 
reddog said:
I agree with all the comments and surely there will be one that you will find works for you.However I just purchased a used Winchester model 97 took it to the club broke 19/25 for a field gun not bad ,it was manufactured in 1906 ,wonder how many mavericks will be around in 120 years ...:)
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HA HA ! No you can count on that.:LOL:
 
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Ok, I will propose something different ..... and as a challenge to the Maverick 88.

I am proposing the Blue Line Pump and which is a clone of the Remington 870.

The Blue Line Pump is a rock solid shotgun for a very good price. And most parts are compatible with 870s .....


Blue Line Pump 12 Gauge Shotgun 18.5" 5+1, Accepts 870 Furniture ($349.99)
https://www.bullseyenorth.com/shop/...ge-shotgun-185-51-accepts-870-furniture-23203

Blue Line Pump Shotgun, 12 Gauge, 28" Barrel ($349.99)
https://www.bullseyenorth.com/shop/blue-line-pump-shotgun-12-gauge-28-barrel-29013
 
0faustus0 said:
Ok, I will propose something different ..... and as a challenge to the Maverick 88.

I am proposing the Blue Line Pump and which is a clone of the Remington 870.

The Blue Line Pump is a rock solid shotgun for a very good price. And most parts are compatible with 870s .....


Blue Line Pump 12 Gauge Shotgun 18.5" 5+1, Accepts 870 Furniture ($349.99)
https://www.bullseyenorth.com/shop/...ge-shotgun-185-51-accepts-870-furniture-23203

Blue Line Pump Shotgun, 12 Gauge, 28" Barrel ($349.99)
https://www.bullseyenorth.com/shop/blue-line-pump-shotgun-12-gauge-28-barrel-29013
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I appreciate the links! I've been looking at the Mossberg Maverick 88's all throughout here, so I appreciate something different to consider as well!

I've never heard of Bullseye North. Anything to be aware of buying from them?
 
ServusDeiVivi said:
I appreciate the links! I've been looking at the Mossberg Maverick 88's all throughout here, so I appreciate something different to consider as well!

I've never heard of Bullseye North. Anything to be aware of buying from them?
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Bullseye North is a sponsor and they are solid. I have placed countless orders with them over the years and never had any issues ...
 
Beware of Bullseye North. You go in the store for one thing and end up buying more. That, and they share a large parking lot with Princess Auto so you know where that's going.

I would stay away from a Mossberg or Maverick and buy a 70's- 80's vintage Remington 870. A newer barrel with interchangable chokes are not that hard to find.
 
maynard said:
Beware of Bullseye North. You go in the store for one thing and end up buying more. That, and they share a large parking lot with Princess Auto so you know where that's going.

I would stay away from a Mossberg or Maverick and buy a 70's- 80's vintage Remington 870. A newer barrel with interchangable chokes are not that hard to find.
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Why stay away from the Mossberg/maverick?

Both 870s and 500s (including 88s) are great, reliable, easy to maintain shotguns. The 500s/88s typically come in a little cheaper with their alu receiver. I prefer the safety placement on the 500s to the 870/88s.

I had an 88 combo with 28” and 18.5” barrels, great and solid, never skipped a beat. I sold it and bought an immaculate 500 with walnut furniture and a handful of chokes for the same price. I’m a sucker for walnut.

Shop around - good shotguns last for years and you can often find great deals on used ones.

Have a think what features are best for your usage - barrel length, choke interchangeability, safety position, parts/aftermarket availability.
 
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