[Zoomer]

Am thinking of getting my son a gun for Christmas. Lord knows I have enough for myself..... Anyway, I am leaning towards a semi-auto 12 Gauge (Something I do not yet have....).

I am looking for some versatility with it too. My first shotty was an 870 express combo w/2 barrels. It still serves as my slug gun in Shotgun areas for deer hunting.

I imagine the gun will be used primarily for skeet field work, but I need to have the ability for the weapon to be used for upland game as well, as I have a new German Shorthair Pointer coming in 3 weeks. I would also like the option of putting slugs through it for deer hunting. I'm not opposed to getting a cantileavered barrel/optic combo for this purpose if need be.

One last request. It CANT be a Remington. Wont ever buy another one of their products again as long as I live. If you like them, more power to you but I wont entertain the thought of getting anoter Remy. Long story but suffice to say I dont like em.

Any suggestions?

Oh yea, I'm in a "good" place right now so while $ is a consideration I can afford a nice weapon as his first. Please dont suggest Krieghoffs or Perazzi....I dont have THAT much..

[indoorsoccerfrea]

how old is he? will he be able to handle the kick from a 12?

[mcwjr13]

Benelli Super Black Eagle II

I love mine and hunt everything from turkey to dove with it.

[oneounceload]

Depending on his age and build, a 12 may or may not work - before spending some bucks, why not take him to a gun club, rent a few in 12 and 20 and see what fits HIM.

The WORST thing you can do is get him a gun that doesn't fit right and beats him up - it won't be long before he won't want to go with you