Versatile first shotgun?

DefaultAnthony

DefaultAnthony

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Hey,

I'm looking to purchase my first shotgun and would like some suggestions. I would like to stay on the cheaper side of things although really what I'm looking for is the best value.

A cousin is going to take me pheasant hunting, I would also like to try clay shooting and having something that could be used for home defense in the worst case scenario would be great.

So far I think I'm looking for:
  • 12 gauge
  • Interchangeable Choke
  • Pump action
  • Will accept 3" shells

I have no idea about barrel length or anything else. I think being able to shoot 3 1/2" is probably not necessary.

So any suggestions for me?
 
Besides an O/U, SxS and two autoloaders, I have a couple of 870's.

I don't know the exact current number, but with some 11 or 12 million sold since 1950, they have to be the most popular shotgun ever.

The 870 Express has reasonable value, but I would save up a few more bucks and go for the Wingmaster.
 
Yup, ain't no shotgun more versatile than a Remington 870.

Barrel length depends of course on what you're doing. For "all purpose" bird hunting I'd say the 26" would probably be a good all around length.

For home defense 14" or 18.5"
For rifled barrel/sabot slug 21" or 23"
For those trap weirdo's 28" or 30"
For fun silliness 8.5"

I'f I had to pick ONE barrel length it would be 18.5 ... but that's for ME. Others would probably choose differently.
 
Browning BPS PREDATOR HUNTER. It may be a discontinued model now, I don't know for sure. 20 1/2" barrel, bottom eject good for left and right hand, ghost ring and fiber sights, three chokes and the safety is in a great location. You can easily change out the barrel to different lengths too. Got one last Spring on sale for 30% off and gave it to my son for Christmas, wish I got myself one.

hXXp://www.wholesalesports.com/store/wsoo/en/Categories/Hunting/Firearms/Pump-Action-Shotguns/BPS-Predator-Hunter/p/62559
 
The 870 is great. But I'd personally recommend getting a semi automatic rather than a pump.

If you're looking for a versatile shotgun that can serve in most situations , having the ability to take a 2nd shot without delay would be considered a huge added value. Especially for clay pigeons and hone defence.

Keeping in line with the reliability of the 870, I'd recommend a Remington 1100 with a 26" barrel that takes remchokes.
 
Salibas007 said:
The 870 is great. But I'd personally recommend getting a semi automatic rather than a pump.

If you're looking for a versatile shotgun that can serve in most situations , having the ability to take a 2nd shot without delay would be considered a huge added value. Especially for clay pigeons and hone defence.

Keeping in line with the reliability of the 870, I'd recommend a Remington 1100 with a 26" barrel that takes remchokes.
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semi-auto for a FIRST shotgun ? I've always been undecided on that ..
 
Fit is everything in a shotgun. If the 870 fits you, it is a good choice.
Try before you buy.
Winchester SXP might be a better fit.
 
Just about every modern pump gun - new and used - easily meets your requirements. Forget about 3-1/2" chambers. 99% unnecessary.

Go to a gun store, handle all the guns they have. Then go to another gun store and do it all over again. Pick the one that feels most comfortable. Either a 26" or 28" barrel will work fine.

Oh, and for pheasant and clays, a choke of Imp Cyl or Mod at tightest is all you'll ever need. So don't discount a fixed choke gun either.
 
Beazer14 said:
You have no issues with cheap ammo or rust problems like so many folk seem to?
Click to expand...

Get a Wingmaster or Police and your good to go. Although, i do have an express model in the safe. I had to port/polish of this one and never saw rust on it. Rust is just poor maintenance IMHO
 
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