Forgive the new guy question.....(first of many, likely)

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Merck

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Hi all,

I'm a new shooter but am certainly getting hooked. Went out today for a lesson and some trap and had a great time. Only the third time I've been shooting but seems to just get better.

I'm enjoying the site and surfing for information. Doing my CFSC/CRFSC this week and applying for a PAL.

Here's a specific question..

Shot a BT-99 today (I like the break action guns for a couple of reasons). If one was to consider an O/U what would be the most comparable to the BT-99 for an O/U?

While I haven't tried skeet/other styles, I know I like trap so that would probably be where I'm starting and would like the option for doubles eventually, if I ever stop sucking.

Thanks!
 
Seems like sage advice. I have no plans to rush into anything and of course cost is an issue. Dropping a bunch of money on a gun doesn't make one good, I would assume.

Not many places have rentals so trying many different kinds could be a challenge. I suppose hitting the range and talking to people is the best way to make connections?

Also, I understand it takes a while to get the PAL once you apply so will be going with friends, etc and trying out some of there's.

I should say the reason I'm partial to the break action is that I shoot left and I like what I at least perceive to be the safety aspect.
 
Merck said:
I should say the reason I'm partial to the break action is that I shoot left and I like what I at least perceive to be the safety aspect.
Click to expand...

I was having the same issue, but you don't have to limit yourself to break actions. A lot of the more popular pumps and semis have left handed versions, although they can be hard to find and a little more expensive. Also some guns like the Browning BPS are considered ambidextrous (bottom eject, tang safety).
There are a surprising amount of options.
 
If your heart is set on an o/u then by all means go for it. Avoid the really cheap ones, they're cheap for a reason and may not survive 500$ worth of shells let alone 1500$. If you're after a trap gun then many of the older fixed full and full or mod and full field guns may be a great deal for you on the used market, allowing you to get a gun that will last a lifetime for a much lower initial cost. Don't discount the older Baikal's they can be had very cheaply off Tradex Canada and the EE.
I know you aren't taken with them but semi auto's and pumps are a much cheaper option and with choke tubes open up more of the clay games for you. I'm right handed and right eye dominant but am in the process of teaching myself to shoot left handed and I do not find the shell ejecting across my face distracting. I don't even notice it. You may also find a right handed gun suitable.
 
Good advice regarding not being in a rush. Lots of options out there. Try different guns till you find one that suits YOU.

I would avoid buying a cheap gun first. Buy quality and shoot it forever.
 
Thanks guys. Great forum for advice. Excited to start my course tonight and get the PAL app off. I'll take the advice and shoot as many different as I can. I've been looking at the BPS and will certainly try to find one to try out. Don't know anything about a Baikal but I'll keep my eyes open.

Cheers,

PS - If anyone know a resource in the GVRD for trying different guns (rentals, etc) let me know. I've got a few friends to borrow from but want to try all I can.
 
Go to the Vancouver Gun Club later this week ... the Canadian Trapshooting Championships are on. You will see a lot of trap guns there. You may be able to try all different kinds.

Many shooters will allow people to shoot their guns.

Don't rule out any kind of gun. I know lots of very good shooters that shoot Model 12s. Remember, your first trap gun, won't be your last. You need to consider how much you are going to shoot and buy a gun that will be able to stand up to that level. Many folks that shoot registered competition will shoot 200 or 300 targets per day for many days in a row. Some competitions, like the Grand American are 10 days and 2,800 targets. There are lots of great used guns out there that are good value and a great way to start in the game. Make sure you know the condition of a used gun before you buy it, as many can need major repairs, which could cost $400 to $800.

Take your time and don't be afraid to ask questions. The only really stupid question, is one that you didn't ask.
 
Don't apologize for asking questions, everyone started as a newb. There is a wealth of knowledge on this forum from what nuclear weapon is best for bear defence to skeet shooting. Some may flame you for not using the search function while others will simply provide an experienced based answer. I'd rather have someone ask the same question for the 100th time than go out and make a mistake. Welcome and enjoy your shooting sports.
 
As many have said, welcome!

To be honest, I still consider myself somewhat of a newbie when it comes to certain things... While I've had experience with some firearms (particularly the ones I own), there's a lot I haven't played with or shot. There are, however, people around that do have a wealth of information, so you're in good company.

Now, as for shotguns: I don't do trap or skeet, but I would like to get into it. However, if you want a "lefty" gun without buying a lefty gun, you could consider an Ithaca Model 37. Unlike a lot of other pump-action shotguns (Remington, Mossberg, etc), it both loads and ejects shells from the bottom of the receiver. This means you'll never have shells flying in front of your face (if you buy a right-handed gun) or your friend's faces (if you buy a left handed gun and let a right handed shooter try it).

As has been said before, the pump actions seem to be a bit more budget-friendly than an OU or SxS. But, it really depends on your wants and needs. Get out there and try some guns. DVC Ventures (in PoCo) has some "rental" firearms... I don't know what kind of shotguns they have, but they may have a couple. You may also consider hitting up the EE and seeing what's available in your price range, and maybe trying to find some reviews. While it won't tell you what gun fits you best, it might give you an idea of what's good and available to you, so you can narrow your search.
 
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Good advice guys thanks. Ill be sure to try what I can and shoulder a bunch.

Good call on the bottom eject. Ill look into the Ithaca. Was also hoping to try a BPS at some point.

Thanks for all the replies guys/gals.
 
I use my BPS for trap, do a couple of very non-serious rounds a week with it. The BPS is very smooth (or at least mine is) and it fits me will. You can pic up a good used one for around $500. The only thing that I don't 100% care for is that it is a pain to completely tear it down to clean inside, you don't have to do that much, if at all, but it is a pain.
 
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