Shotgun for 3 gun

XLR8

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So out of the box, choice is between Remington versa max tac or Beretta 1301 tactical. Which one would be the best option for out of the box , no after market work
 
Having shot both outside of competition, I think I would give the edge to the versamax.

There are guys here though with a good deal of rounds through both of them
 
Why the 1301 tactical? If you're looking for a 3gu shotgun the competition model would be much more appropriate. Especially if you're looking for out of the box performance.
 
For 'out of the box' 'no aftermarket work' competition, it's a GM/Ford/Chrysler comparison. Pick the one that's available and within your budget. Everyone can tell you why they picked what they have.
 
This would be an even better choice imo and many claim it's the only 3gun shotgun you should consider if you want to be competitive. Just add a tube extension.

perf_shop_m2_3-gun.png


benelliusa.com/performance-shop/performance-shop-m2-3gun-edition
 
Unless the 1301 has an extended non-forked loading gate, you are going to chew you fingers up. The VM is essentially a benelli m4. The patent expired and rem started producing the VM.

When I strip my VM and my SBE2, the benelli has a nicer chrome finish on everything, but the parts are very similar. I did notice that the SBE2 is lighter, especially the bolt. So if you're not shooting light loads, I'd recommend an M2.

The 1301 gets great reviews, but it's gas system looks similar to a Moss berg 930. Not that there's anything wrong with either, but I prefer the VM and M4 gas system.
 
Loading port on the VM is quite large without any mods, since it's designed for 3.5".

However, if you could swing it, grab an M2. I have both and haven't gone back to the VM.
 
Sorry, I forgot to add that most sg's will need extended non-forked loading gates "out of the box". I used my VM with the stock port for 2 seasons though.
 
You might consider importing a 1301 comp in 21". I have "read" great reviews. I believe Prophet River brought a few in and they sold quickly. I'm betting if you brought one in and didn't like it you'd get your money back on the EE because they are extremely rare.
 
I myself was looking Into a 1301, I also considered the versamax but it's what my other shooting buddies are running and I can't help the urge to feel different, I was going to go for the 1301 tactical mainly because the last few years we have started shooting slugs at plates nearing almost 100 yards and I think Irons would be great for it.
 
No mods done? Thats almost impossible, unless you are load using the classic load 4, other wise bring a lot of bandaids. From the box the 1301 Comp is the most 3gun ready.
For Canada setting, SBE2 will be a good choice, 3.5 chamber ,its an M2 on steroids.
 
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No mods done? Thats almost impossible, unless you are loading using the classic load 4, other wise bring a lot of bandaids. From the box the 1301 Comp is the "most 3gun ready". Extended bolt release and bolt handle, 3.5 receiver
For Canada setting, SBE2 will be a good choice, 3.5 chamber ,its an M2 on steroids.
 
I just went through this myself and considered the following three:

- A tac. Ord. Modified Versamax sport
- 1301 competition
- M2 competition

I almost pulled the trigger on tactical ordinance Versamax but a bone stock OEM Versamax tactical won out.
It's a compromise with Remington's odd ommitance of labelling the barrel to take 3.5" shells even though it is chambered for it,
And the loading port could use some work, but the rest of what the others offer is there and then some right out of the box.

For the price (I picked mine up new for just over $1300 tax in) it is tough to beat.
I have no intention of shooting matches in the states, so for local Alberta shoots this will work. Besides, my manual of arms on a shotty needs wayyyyy more work than the gun.
 
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