Best Auto-Loader for $1500?

vancouverbc

vancouverbc

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I am not a shotgun guy at all but we're getting a retriever pup and l'd like to get into bird hunting. If you were spending $1500 on a 12ga auto loader what would be your top one or two choices? Looking for good ol reliable. I suppose $1500 is entry level in this category
 
I use an SX-3 for waterfiowl, which can be purchased for well under $1500. The Maxus is also a nice gun. But more imprtant than anything else, a shotgun needs to fit you, for you to shoot to your potential.
 
stubblejumper said:
I use an SX-3 for waterfiowl, which can be purchased for well under $1500. The Maxus is also a nice gun. But more imprtant than anything else, a shotgun needs to fit you, for you to shoot to your potential.
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Thanks yes I will definitely head to the LGS's and try before buying. Just curious what models people like and what they would buy
 
$1500 is a pretty good budget. You can get a Browning Silver Hunter for that. Pretty nice auto loader. The Beretta Outlander is also around that price point. I like the looks of the Sliver Hunter.
 
Browning maxus, A5, Benelli M2 or Vinci (used now that the dollar has fallen), Beretta various models, Winchester SX3, Franchi Affinity or Intensity and Remington Versa Max. Any of them should fill the bill for you, pick the one that makes you happiest and fits you best.
I have a Silver and it is very nice, but if I was replacing it today or looking to get the gun again I would have to pass on the Silver. I'd pick the SX3 or Maxus, the SX3 is practically the same gun as the Silver for less and the Maxus is only a touch more and offers a substantial step up.
 
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My friend recently bought a benelli super black eagle II and its one heck of a nice gun. It's so lite weight I almost thought the barrel was composite .taxes in he paid $2000
Very nice gun
 
Ok great thanks for a starting point. Off topic for a second, anyone shoot 10ga? I havent factored in gun or ammo availability or cost not sure its worth it even considering going down that road
 
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vancouverbc said:
Ok great thanks for a starting point. Off topic for a second, anyone shoot 10ga? I havent factored in gun or ammo availability or cost not sure its worth it even considering going down that road
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10 gauge in my opinion isn't really needed, unless you invest the time and effort into spending the time and money to develope the skills and find a load that patterns suitably for shooting past 40 yards. Then the 10 truly stands head and shoulders above the 12.
I'm not saying the 10 isn't a useful tool or even isn't an enjoyable experience, but it isn't needed and may be too much for many hunters and shooters. I suspect with your being new to shotguns and wingshooting the 12's versatility and cheap target loads will help you to refine your skills and get to a point where you can exploit the 10 if you still feel it is wanted.
 
Jim870 said:
10 gauge in my opinion isn't really needed, unless you invest the time and effort into spending the time and money to develope the skills and find a load that patterns suitably for shooting past 40 yards. Then the 10 truly stands head and shoulders above the 12.
I'm not saying the 10 isn't a useful tool or even isn't an enjoyable experience, but it isn't needed and may be too much for many hunters and shooters. I suspect with your being new to shotguns and wingshooting the 12's versatility and cheap target loads will help you to refine your skills and get to a point where you can exploit the 10 if you still feel it is wanted.
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Well said Jim thank you
 
I have been researching the same type of question for a month or two now and from what I have found the Browning Maxus or the Beretta A400 are two of the best shotguns for $1500 -2200. the rest is up to which fits you best and which you like more.
 
Barnard308 said:
I have been researching the same type of question for a month or two now and from what I have found the Browning Maxus or the Beretta A400 are two of the best shotguns for $1500 -2200. the rest is up to which fits you best and which you like more.
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I agree. I went with the Maxus and absolutely love it, but I can't say anything bad about the A400. The Maxus just fit me a little better, but I would love to shoot the A400 some day also.
 
I picked up a as new benelli sbeii for last fall, (black), great gun and $1400 shipped. I also have a Baikal semi that has been my waterfowl gun for years. It has never failed me and sure is priced right. It is heaver and not as fun to carry on a upland hunt. Fit is very important as Stubblejumper said. Try out any you can, check with friends and at local gun club. Good luck ,injoy the dog!
 
I have a beretta a400 and am really happy with it so far. I bought it on sale new for $1700 which is a little over the $1500 mark but worth it. Anything in your price range should be very good.
 
I'd go with a Browning...either Silver or Maxus. I prefer the traditional styling and semi humpback of the Silver, but the maxus is a sweet gun. If you buy new, you'll go over your $1500 on a Maxus nowadays.
 
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