3 gun / IPSC standard shotgun: semi or pump?

[Gun Control Advocate]

If my wallet survives the holidays, I am thinking of getting a shotgun for the next season. Currently I don't have any, and know next to nothing about shotguns - have been shooting rifle primarily.

So, starting from a clean slate, would it be better to get a semi? I handled a few in store, and kind of liked Benelli M2. I can also find M1 fairly cheap locally. A pump would be even cheaper, but I am not sure if I am going to like the action.

 

[rifleman338]

It will all depend on what division you want to play in.

 

[Hanzo]

https://www.huntinggearguy.com/tips/3-gun-in-canada/

 

[adamg]

The only reasons I have heard that holds any water, on why someone would own or even shoot a pump rather than a semi, are that the pump is cheaper, and some people love the idea of a pump.

 

[Dexter Morgan]

" The only reasons I have heard that holds any water, on why someone would own or even shoot a pump rather than a semi, are that the pump is cheaper, and some people love the idea of a pump "

If you're talking about IPSC;

You shoot a pump because you want to compete in "Standard-Manual" division.
Your scores only count against others who are also shooting a pump shotgun.

If you're talking about Outlaw 3-Gun;

You shoot a pump because there's no legal limits to tube capacity.

 

[mcg0107]

I have a Benelli M4..does anyone use this gun in competition? Just wondering

 

[Onagoth]

Pumps can be annoying to operate in certain 3 gun stages and most 3 gun matches do not differentiate between pump/semi....so semi is generally advisable there and the M2 or versa max would be a great choice.

In IPSC, semi or pump is fine depending on what you like to shoot and what division you want to compete in.

 

[Onagoth]

I have a Benelli M4..does anyone use this gun in competition? Just wondering

Yes, although in the benelli line up the M2 seems to be much more popular

 

[Sniffer]

I have a Benelli M4..does anyone use this gun in competition? Just wondering

I have in the past and it was perfectly capable.

Only reason I still don't is that I got a good deal on the EE for a Tac Ord Versamax that is perfect for competitions.

I actually find the M4 better for slugs (ghost rings can be sighted in for elevation - my Versamax cannot and shoots high at 50) but the extra capacity and larger loading port make the Versamax the better gun overall.

 

[mcg0107]

I have in the past and it was perfectly capable.

Only reason I still don't is that I got a good deal on the EE for a Tac Ord Versamax that is perfect for competitions.

I actually find the M4 better for slugs (ghost rings can be sighted in for elevation - my Versamax cannot and shoots high at 50) but the extra capacity and larger loading port make the Versamax the better gun overall.

ok thks

 

[Gun Control Advocate]

Got myself an M1 Anniversary and a pile of snap caps :yes: