New to shooting, looking for recommendations

crisis

crisis

New member
EE Expired
Rating - 0%
0   0   0
Location
Halifax NS
Hey All;

New to shooting in general, taking my CFSC in April. Just trying to gradually feel out what would be right for me for my first shotgun when I have my PAL. In other words, seeking advice!

My ultimate goal is to hunt small game and fowl, although that is probably years away as I'm a city fella and I have very little experience in that side of things. I'd like to own only 1 or 2 firearms at any given time, preferably 1 that I can get to know and own for a long time (possibly forever). I'm the kind of person who likes to buy once. Some people talk about fit as well, so for info I'm 6 feet tall with longish arms.

With that in mind- I have very little shooting experience, but access to a very experienced person for help.

The kinds of things I'd like opinions on: new or used? brands/models (the 870 and 500 are two commonly mentioned)? Gauge recommendations (should I stick with 12)? Things to consider I haven't thought of? Pump, O/U, something else?

Thanks guys!
 
If you think you will only need two guns to cover your hunting needs get good ones and they will last you a lifetime with little to no problems. Get a good shotgun like a Beretta or a Benelli pump, and it will serve you well. A decent rifle such as a Sako, or a Browning will cover your center fire needs. There are also a lot of other good choices available, you'll have to see what fits your needs and budget.
 
You mention the Mossberg 500. I have a 535 3 1/2 chamber I picked up because I wanted to play with reloaded slugs. Works excellent, when it's wet and rainy it's the gun I use. Nothing but slugs last couple of years. Claimed 3 deer so far with her. I like my doubles also, must have 10 by now. I use many different rifles but last fall the CZ 527 carbine in 7.62-39 was one I used the most
 
Sounds like you got your PAL between posts 1 and 3...and they were only a few hours apart! :) So you HAVE your two guns already?

I don't know what you plan on hunting with the rifle, so I won't chime in there. However, the Remington 870 is a proven performer, especially the Wingmasters. An older one (2-3/4", shooting lead only=no migratory) probably represents the best value. A newer one shooting 3" and with Remchoke barrel will open-up your options in a big way. More $, but more versatility...and a gun that will outlast you if you take decent care of it. The only time I really deviate from the "870" advice is if you plan on shooting heavy steel 3"(+) shells at ducks/geese mostly. You'll be punishing yourself with a pump...any pump. That's where the semis shine. If that's the exception...I think the pumps are nicer for longer carries/small game. If you're small-game focussed...there are lighter guns/lighter gauges that do the job equally well.
 
New to shooting, looking a shotgun to hunt small game and waterfowl only and you are a larger frame individual and looking for quality. Beretta A400 XPLOR, Benelli SBE2, Supernova or Nova(depending on fit), Browning Silver Hunter or A5 would be what I would be looking at to start. Fit has to be deciding factor.
 
Just as a note- specifically looking for shotgun advice (hence the shotgun section) since a rifle would be further down the road for me. Thanks for the recommendations, guys! Lots to think about
 
For fowl get a 3.5" 12 gauge now that steel shot is required. If you want to buy once get a semiautomatic. I'd likely keep my choices to Benelli and Beretta as Maritime Storm stated. The Beretta kicks less but is gass operated. The Benelli is recoil operated and likely will last longer and function more reliably with less cleaning and less service.

For small game you may want to go with a 16 or 20 gauge but a 12 works.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom