Browning Citori Satin Hunter for general clay shooting

[Cymru1]

I am interested in taking up clay shooting (all varieties) and was looking for some advice on an over/under shotgun. I am complete newcomer to the world of shooting so please go kindly...

I have seen a Browning Citori Satin Hunter advertised that comes in just under $1500 (new) - about $300 less than a Citori Lightning. I have read that a Browning is a good choice for a general clay target gun but see that the Satin Hunter is chambered for 3.5 inch shells. I know I can use smaller length shells in it, but will the shorter shells have an impact on performance (accuracy etc). This is probably not going to be an issue in the short term but with kids and a wife I'm not planning to trade up anytime soon.

Your experienced opinions would be most welcome

 

[SCHNEIDERSAUTO]

go too range and try different guns . get 1 that fits !!!!!!! 30 in or longer barrels with tubes .brownings are o.k. . some guns safety comes on automatic . this a pain for sporting games . single select trigger is good . 3.5 in shells are over rated. most guys that have these guns dont shoot 3.5 shells because of felt recoil .

 

[hogiron]

3.5 in shells are over rated. most guys that have these guns dont shoot 3.5 shells because of felt recoil .

Nor are they allowed in 12 gauge trap shooting competition. You can shoot what you want, but the rules of trap don't allow anything larger then 2 3/4".
Who would want to shoot a 300 rounds of 3 1/2"?, let alone 25?

 

[Claybuster]

You can fire 2-3/4" shells in a 3.5" chamber without a problem.

You WILL have a problem if you fire a 3.5" at any clay club I've been to.

Most clubs limit ammunition to 2-3/4", no shot larger than #7.5, shot charges no larger than 1-1/4 ounce and nothing more powerful than a 3-1/4 dram equivalent.

Don't try and sneak any of the heavy stuff in either. It's pretty obvious when the gun goes off.

 

[Beretta687EELL]

Join a club close by that has a healthy clay target section. Where are you in Ontario? We can probably point you toward a good club, if you don't already belong.

Shoot all the guns you can lay your hands. Some will "feel" better than others. Determine your budget. Your first "target shotgun" won't be your last. A good used gun is good value, especially for a new shooter, if you buy it right you can sell it without taking a bath. Have someone that is knowledgeable about shotguns check it over before you commit to buying it. Some of those guns are worn out and will cost plenty to fix, but there are a few safe queens out there that are tremendous value. Once you get one, then you have to make it fit you and shoot where you look.

Takes time and there is a process, don't get impatient.

 

[Cymru1]

I should have mentioned that I have no intention of actually shooting 3.5s just wondered if the size of chamber would have any impact when shooting shorter shells. Thanks guys for the info - really appreciated (and Beretta687EELL - thanks for your offer to point me in the direction of a club - have made some initial contacts and waiting for the snow to die down a bit here in the aptly named snow belt so that I can go and take a look).

Also appreciate the comments re making sure the thing fits (maybe I am just a little impatient!)

Kind regards

 

[beretta boy]

I am interested in taking up clay shooting (all varieties) and was looking for some advice on an over/under shotgun. I am complete newcomer to the world of shooting so please go kindly...

Strongly recommend you head out to a Club ... and by all means try as many guns as you are able. Members are generally very accommodating in this regard when they know you are joining-up ... and looking for a new gun.

For a new O/U, I think I would lean toward a "Target" rather than "Field" model gun. In Browning, perhaps a 625 Sporter or an XS. In Beretta maybe a 686E.

Nothing wrong with a good used Browning 325, 425 or 525 or Beretta 682Sporter either. Concur with the 30" barrel recommendation.