I've got it bad.
Once upon a time life was uncomplicated. Although I've always been interested in guns, I had simple tastes. As long as I had a couple of good 1911s, a couple of ARs, and a .22lr pistol and rifle I was largely content. (I do lust after a LRB M14 clone though.)
This all started about a week ago. I got the brilliant idea that it might be time for me to get a shotgun. I figured I needed to expand my firearms experience and that I should learn how to hit moving targets. I remembered the fun I had when I went trap shooting with my best friend a while back. So I did some research. I read a bit and perused old threads. I even asked a couple of questions on this forum. I found and was quickly smitten with the Beretta Silver Pigeon, an entry level but excellent quality O/U.
So what did I do? Having found my next gun, was I smart enough to leave well enough alone? Of course not. You can probably guess what happened, I continued with my research. I've been reading all about shotguns, trying to understand how they work. I've been reading about different gauges, different mechanisms, all sorts of things. I'm still a fair bit confused, but at least now I know which questions to ask.
The problem is that my research lead to pictures. Lots of pictures. Pictures of beautifully engraved guns with stocks of unbelievable chantoyance. These guns exhibit such fine craftsmanship that the quality is evident even in pictures. Most of these guns, like the Purdey Over & Under, are as good as unobtainable. Even if I do ever reach a point where I can afford to drop the coin on one of these masterpieces, psychologically I don't think I could ever take that step.
The problem solver in me wasn't satisfied with that cop-out of an excuse. I figured that there had to be a gun for the everyman who appreciates fine quality. It might not have exhibition grade wood, nor would every square inch of the metal be engraved, but there must be something special for guys like me. It would be a lively feeling, largely handcrafted piece with uncommon fit and finish. Not a best gun of course, but beautiful nonetheless and a treasured firearm to be passed down as an heirloom one day.
Enter the Spanish maker Aguirre Y Aranzabal, or AYA for short. AYA makes fine shotguns, and is a bit of a sleeper. I would never have found out about them if not for a short mention in one of Chuck Hawks' articles. According to Hawks, an AYA best gun is equivalent in quality to one from Holland & Holland.
Fortunately for me, AYA is not limited to producing best guns. They make a plainer, boxlock SxS called the Model N 4/53. I've been on their website for the past hour and a half, and trying to figure out when my next trip to Los Angeles is so that I can visit the nearest dealer. I can't explain why I want the AYA, but I can't stop salivating over the prospect of a lithe 6 lb., 29" barreled 20 gauge.
I know I'm being premature. I haven't even bought the Beretta Silver Pigeon and here I am thinking of reasons to buy the AYA. The first reason is that I know my wife will eventually want to go shoot clays with me, and she'll need a gun of her own to use. I love my wife and I want her to have the best.
Second, and even more unbelievable, I may save the AYA for when I have a mid-life crisis in a few years. I know that a $3500 shotgun is not an insignificant purchase, but at least it's cheaper than a boat, motorcycle, or convertible. It's safer too.Thanks for listening to the late night ramblings of a sick man. It comforts me to know that there are others that share my affliction.
