I am looking to buy my first semi-auto. I am new enthusiast and looking to buy my first shotgun. I looking for used, right handed, 12 gauge. I will be using it in the range for sporting clays. If i have the money, I will go for the Benelli black eagle 3, read many good reviews about it.
Best Semi-Auto Shotguns for Beginners
- Thread starter darkpolice1001
- Start date
NZClaybuster
CGN frequent flyer
- Location
- Calgary, Alberta
Beretta 391 is pretty good value for money
- Location
- South Southern Ontario
Mossberg 940 field model, they do come up on the used market or on sale from dealers.
The gun you buy will be very dependant on your budget but since youve mentioned Benelli its apparent your willing to spend a fair dollar. If I was you Id not buy a Benelli SBE3. Especially if target shooting is the main intended purpose. 3 1/2" shells are not required even for hunting big birds. Do some research and youll find Benelli guns that are more suited to clays like the Super Sports. Owned both in 12 and 20 and they run flawless if maintained which is very easy. I have an SBE3 in 20 and its great for hunting but if its more for clays, Id be wielding something else. Ive had a Winchester SX3 for a very long time and its been great at everything I put it to use. Gun fit is more important than almost all the rest but reliability needs to be there as well.I had a Beretta Smurf gun that was an excellent gun and super reliable.
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Editted: sorry I was going to recommend a variety of tactical versions but then I re-read your post about clay busting. I have no experience in that subject.
I've just used my Mossberg 930 to shoot clays for funsies but I would never consider it for any sort of serious clay application as it's not choked.
I've just used my Mossberg 930 to shoot clays for funsies but I would never consider it for any sort of serious clay application as it's not choked.
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The Cats knows !
Just an addition to maybe help during use.
Whatever you choose, don't over oil it!
I loaned my win1400 (inexpensive made in 84) semi to a friend and it was the only shotty not to fail during their pheasant hunt. Beretta and Benelli failed at some point to eject etc or feed.
I mentioned they were maybe over oiled and the feedback I got seems I was correct. Wipe everything dry after cleaning/oiling.
Its a common mistake and one I made myself.
Good luck!
Whatever you choose, don't over oil it!
I loaned my win1400 (inexpensive made in 84) semi to a friend and it was the only shotty not to fail during their pheasant hunt. Beretta and Benelli failed at some point to eject etc or feed.
I mentioned they were maybe over oiled and the feedback I got seems I was correct. Wipe everything dry after cleaning/oiling.
Its a common mistake and one I made myself.
Good luck!
For clay target shooting ???? an M4 ....... seriously ... obviously you didn't read the OP's post about his intended use of the shotgun
If you can’t hit the clays with a 18.5” barrel, an extra few inches won’t help you bro…
Take this post for what it is… the truth.
What wrong with the m4? But it and you’ll love it.
No need to be a Debbie downer now.
Edit : sorry , I admit , I did miss the part where he asked specifically about busting clays . Maybe not the best choice perhaps, but I stand by my vote.
The M4 is a great gun but many clay clubs, including the two largest sporting clays clubs in Ontario, have minimum barrel requirements and the M4 falls below the limit.
To the OP, I'd second the advice on not choosing the Benelli Black Eagle. Most guns chambered for 3-1/2" shells are not ideal for clays. Best semi IMO is the Beretta A400 Xcel but you'd also be well served with a Beretta A300, Remington 1100, Winchester SX4, Browning Maxus Pro in 3" chamberings.
In my opinion theres better options available. They havent been made for a number of years and were a great handling gun but many guns are more relaible than an 1100. Take one apart and have the two rails pop out cuz the stakings failed and then fight to get the trigger back in while aligning the two pins. Or shoot a lot of shells and wear the receiver enough that it becomes a certifiable razor blade and finally has pieces break out and the forks on the bolt carrier drop through the missing rails and your guns FUBARRED. Im old and owned many 1100s and loved them but theyre not the greatest semi but definately one of the best handling like an 870. Ive owned just about every shotgun made because Im old and have shot clays competitively for over 40 years. If you like the feel of the Benelli or the Beretta or the Win/Browning then buy what you think fits you the best. Best bet is to go ta a club and handle shoot as many models as you can put your mitts on. If your close to me I can let you shoot a bunch of different guns and even an 1100 but the fit is more important. Im in south eastern ontario and shoot every Sunday and wednesdays in the summer.
I will take you in your offer one day!
According to the Remington website they are still making an 1100 Sporting.
https://www.remarms.com/shotguns/autoloading/model-1100/model-1100-sporting-series
I've owned a couple 1100s, one in 12 gauge and one in 28. We agree there are better options available but the 1100 is certainly not a bad choice.
They’re a natural pointing excellent handling firearm for sure. I’ve owned probably over 30 in different configuarations. Some specific target models in both trap and skeet as well as magnums and special field versions. Hunted with them for 30 years or so!
