Opinions on my first potential shotgun purchase

[smak_daddy]

I am thinking of picking up my first shotgun. The only purpose would be plinking out to 25 yards, perhaps defense of the homestead if I was forced to. I will not be hunting with this firearm.

I have a chance to buy a Mossenberg Persuader, 18.5" barrel, 20 guage.

My shotgun experience is very limited. Any opinions or suggestions would be appreciated.

 

[manbearpig]

not a bad choice. keep in mind that because of the longer mag tube, you will not be able to put standard length barrels on it (if you ever decide you want to) -- but you can solve this easily later on by looking on fleabay for a standard length mossberg mag tube. IIRC i paid $10-12 for mine.
once you have the standard mag tube you can swap mag tubes and barrels quite easily.

if its ~$300 go for it. if its much more, then look on the EE for a used mossberg 590 instead (see them there for ~$400ish all the time), your money will be better spent.

 

[davemccarthy707]

I usually go for the 12gauge as the ammo is cheaper. My .02 cents.

 

[manbearpig]

i didnt even notice it was a 20 - had no idea they now make a 20 persuader.

 

[badboybeeson]

go with the 590a1

 

[rdelliott]

I gotta go with badboybeeson here; 590A1s are pretty spiffy shotguns.

 

[GGSmith]

My experience is that you buy the best you can afford and it will retain value and last a long time.

If I were to buy a shotgun of that type it would be a 870 police magnum. It has a nicer stock is of beter quality and has a much more durable finish than an 870 express.

 

[DATAM]

Mossberg shotgun is a good choice. I have always liked the location of the safety catch, much easier to use, and figure out if on safe or in fire position.

 

[RedDuc]

I thought my shotgun was too macho to refer to it as "Plinking with a shotgun"... is that like tweeking something with a hammer? or am I just too wimpy and uh... ummm nevermind.

 

[blueblast]

Go to a shop and handle a Mossberg and a Remmy. See which feels best, and which safety/slide release location you like. After growing up on 870's, I just find the Mossberg setup wierd, and I doubt I'll ever buy one for that reason.
But to each his own. Buy the best quality that fits the budget, and feels best off the shoulder.

 

[farmer47]

i would try out a few guns . remington 870 with chanegable chokes. mossberg equipped the same way . browning also makes a quality pump. try to get someone who has experience to help you because if the gun does not fit you you will not be as satisfied as you could be .shotgunning gets in your blood . you will find yourself taking it out for more than plinking as they are one of the most versatile guns you can own .best of luck whatever you choose and have fun .