[mp510]

I am looking at this Saiga 12 that is comeing up for auction this weekend:
http://www.auctionflex.com/auctionimages/23431/11577/4055732_2VX0HXHEF.jpg

I see that the ones on the RAA site are externally threaded for choke tubes. Are any of the non-external threaded guns threaded for chokes?

The ad doesn't specify the bbl length. Would I be correct in assuming that this is in the 24 or 26" bbl configuration.

If it is fixed-choke, what were they originally offered in?

Also, I have heard it suggested that they kick more/ worse than even pumps. Is there any truth to that

[Geneseo1911]

I see that the ones on the RAA site are externally threaded for choke tubes. Are any of the non-external threaded guns threaded for chokes?
No. Izhmash uses external chokes.

The ad doesn't specify the bbl length. Would I be correct in assuming that this is in the 24 or 26" bbl configuration.

It should be a 19,22,or 24". I've never actually seen anyone with a 22 and it looks too long to be a 19.

If it is fixed-choke, what were they originally offered in?
Should be full

Also, I have heard it suggested that they kick more/ worse than even pumps. Is there any truth to that
No, so long as the gas valve is set correctly and the bolt isn't slamming into the trunnion.

That cute little rib on top is also fairly rare. Might be an older import. Something to look out for is the correct number of gas ports. Take a look at:
www.saiga-12.com
http://forum.saiga-12.com/

[Girodin]

Also, I have heard it suggested that they kick more/ worse than even pumps. Is there any truth to that

Definitely not in my experience. In fact I always note that one of the things I like the most about my S12 is that it is very soft shooting compared to many of the other 12 gauges I have/have shot including a variety of pump guns. Even the few times I have shot a magnum shell on gas setting 2 its still much softer shooting than the same round through a pump gun.