[DaleS]

I would like everyones opinion on this. I have not purchased a shotgun in over 20 years now. My last one purchased is Beretta
Model AL-1 12 GA Auto. It's been a great gun. But I'm getting the urge to buy a new one now, thus needing your opinions. I use my shotgun for Deer hunting using 00 buck shot as well as Turkey, Dove etc...I'm hung up on either a Benelli Montefeltro, Beretta AL-391 series or Browning and on the Brownings I'm not sure if the currant model Gold Classic series is as good as the the older A-5 series I hear everyone talk about. Anyway, am I confused or what ??? As expensive as guns are though I want to make my choice the right one because this will be my last shotgun purchase. ( well, maybe not ) one can never have one too many, huh.
This is my first post & really appreciate your thoughts.....
Thanks
Dale

[Dave McCracken]

My suggestion, try the various ones before picking. All the ones mentioned are good.

[PJR]

The Auto 5 isn't a favorite of mine so I can't compare it with the Gold. The main difference among these guns is action type. The Benelli is a recoil action and kicks a little harder than the softer shooting gas guns -- the Beretta 391, Browning Gold and your AL-1.

The Benelli is a simple, robust and reliable gun but it doesn't handle lighter loads as well as the Beretta. The Browning falls somewhere in between the two IMHO.

As Dave said the best thing to do is try all three. Were it me, I'd grab the Beretta but I shoot a lot of clay targets and want the reduced recoil. The Beretta also comes with a shim system that permits stock adustments for better fit. For hunting only, the Benelli sets a very high standard of reliability. I'd be happy with either.

Paul