[daorhgih]

but how good is a BAIKAL, semi, 28", with 2 chokes, shoots up to 3 1/2 " magnums? Is this a trustworthy gun? Overall condition is 9-plus. It has some gold plating on some parts. Is it worth $200? Where do I look for reports from other owners or in magazines?

[ArmedBear]

They are actually pretty good guns, reliable with good balance. We have one in rental service at my club (now called Remington Spartan SPR 453).

They are also quite heavy. If you really want to shoot 3.5" magnums, that's a real plus. If you want a gun for something like grouse or quail, you'll soon want another.

I'd get one for 200 bucks in good shape, especially if I wanted a duck beater.

[daorhgih]

Thanks a bunch! Does the American brand-name mean that American accessories, like recoil-pads, chokes and mag extensions will work on the Baikal?? And yupp, I am interested in clays and ducks. I haven't bought it yet, as it is a "Mystery Gun" in the rack at the shop. The first price was $350, then it kept dropping. It'll be all mine in less than an hour!! Thanks again. Daor.:rolleyes:

[MikePGS]

Make sure you post pics :D

[ArmedBear]

This is the current incarnation: http://www.remington.com/products/firearms/shotguns/SPR_models/SPR453_autoloader.asp

They used to be imported by European American Armory under their real name, but Remington contracted to get all the production and put their name on it a couple years ago. Same exact gun, AFAIK.

It won't take the same choke tubes as an 1100, but they are available pretty easily. Not sure about recoil pad availability. A heavy gas-operated semiauto doesn't really need the best recoil pad, though. My 1100 has a hard plate and it's not a problem.