Browning BSS.

OverUnder725

OverUnder725

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So, I got to thinking I may need to get one of these shotguns. I have a 725 field and a 725 Sporting, both in 12ga, and all of a sudden I realized I don't have a side by side in my collection. From what I can see on the Browning site, they quit manufacturing them in 1987. I am wondering what to look for when purchasing, any variants that may be more or less desirable, etc. I think I am mostly interested in a 12ga. Any information greatly appreciated.
 
Early BSS had a single non-selective trigger, less desirable.
They are a heavy double, particularly in 12 gauge, suitable for a waterfowl gun, but a brute to carry any distance in the field.
 
Most 12ga BSS ive seen are choked full/mod,not ideal for clays,and useless for waterfowl unless you buy very expensive shells,cause you cant use steel. they are very well made,but really to heavy for a field gun. That's why I sold mine,i really didn't have a use for it,but it was a very nice gun.
 
These are Japanese made guns. Why can't you use steel if the full choke barrel is opened up? I know people who are shooting steel through BSS shotguns with no issues.
I had one as well but I found it too heavy/clumsy for the field.
 
Nothing wrong with opening one up for waterfowl hunting. Would make a great blind gun even better if you can find one in three inch. I am still looking .Dutch
 
Bought a mid '80's BSS 28" 12 ga, was originally M/F and 2 3/4" chambers. Had a smith open it to mod/imod and 3" chambers, lots of steel there to work with, good for steel shot and death on wild pheasants. Don't mind the extra weight shooting 1 1/4oz lead 5's. I'm only 50 now, may carry the 28ga more when I get older.
If you want one, go for it. For waterfowl maybe a 30" model :)

DSC_0717_zpspwtoaxlf.jpg
 
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I've had both 12g and 20g BSS', found the 12 heavy and a bit bulky, absolutely love the 20g, which is build on a smaller frame. The 12g moved on to a new home, the 20 is a keeper. Both were 26", early Japanese built, non-selective trigger models, mod and full chokes.
There are also sporter models with English stocks and a sidelock version, these are more rare and therefore more expensive.

B
 
Mine must be pre '75. The serial number dating info on the Browning website bears no resemblance to mine. It's a non selective Japan manufacture. Weighs 7.5lb with 28" barrels. You're not going to find a 12ga, 28" barrelled modern SxS under 7lb unless you go to a Spanish built copy of a British game gun. 7.5 lb is no more wt than the 12 ga pumps and autos out there. If weight is a concern best go with a 20 ga.
Or a 16ga, "carries like a 12, hit's like a 20" ;)
 
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Win/64 said:
Probably not. Built like Tanks but with about the same weight. Definitely not a great carry Gun.
Click to expand...

Ever own one?

They are robust, but hardly a difficult carry in 20 or 12 gauge... and they are sweet shooters. A well built, solid field gun for many years of wingshooting.
 
Compare the 12 gauge BSS for weight and grace with any Italian or Spanish equivalent quality side by side of the same era, and you will find the BSS is an awkward heavy gun. I will go to my Bernardelli or AyA side by side guns for upland hunting.
As mentioned before, the one role that I see for a BSS 12 gauge is as a waterfowl gun, where it shines. The 20 gauge sporter is a little closer to reasonable dimensions, but I would slenderize the fat forend.
 
All about the right tool for the job. My AYA is 12ga, 6.5lb with 28" barrels and choked Skt and IC and gets the nod here at home for grouse and woodcock with max 1 oz loads. Just came back from a week in North Dakota were 30-40yd shots were typical and the BSS was perfect for Pheasant, Shartail and Huns with tighter chokes and 1 1/4oz loads of 5's and 6's. If I'm carrying 3l of water, a box of shells, dog first aid gear , phone, camera and hopefully a few birds, an extra pound of gun isnt a deal breaker. And the most important thing, it fits me well and I can shoot it well
 
The BSS was sold in an 'upland' version with 26" barrels choked IC and modified, plus an oil finished splinter foreend and straight English-style stock with nice checkering. Always liked those, never seen a used one for sale though.
 
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