Cheap-o bolt 12 gauges, bargain or useless?

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Third_Rail

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I keep seeing H&R and Marlin/Glenfield 12ga bolt shotguns for $70-100, depending on conditions. Now, if they are safe to fire (gunsmith check and all) I love the idea of a bolt shotgun firing with full brass hulls. However, I notice that the wood is usually dented/scratched/plain old, and the barrel usually shows rust. Is there anywhere I can get a new stock/barrel, etc. and still be spending under $150 total for what I consider to be a novelty gun?
 
I'm a fan of bolt action shotguns. Although ccurrently I don't own any, over the years I've owned a few.

I believe they are a good value for a "repeater". Considering that a used single shot SG such as a H&R Topper will cost you in the $70-100 range bolt actions are a good value. One of the things I really like about the bolt guns is that most I've seen, and all I've owned, had attached Polychoke type devices. This makes them very versatile. Another ting I like about bolt action SGs is that the action is the same as most of my center fire rifles.

If you try any major gun parts place like Gunparts Corp (http://www.e-gunparts.com/) out of West Hurley, NY you should have no trouble finding a new or good condition stock for one of these classic guns. However, why not try to refinish it yourself. Its easy to do and lots of fun. Specially if you like working with wood.

Regards,

Rob
 
Third_Rail:

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The shotgun you have are reletively good shotguns. Many are beat up pretty badly, however, where I come from they are great for turkey shoots. Especialy with the full choke. I have one that I used, when I was much much younger, as my deer gun. It was scoped just like a rifle, used buckshot or slug and folks would cringe when I showed up at turkey shoots. It is a ZINGER.

jm
 
Looks like I'll be taking a closer look next time, and picking one out for myself! Thanks.
 
Perhaps you might want to consider a used Mossberg 695 Bolt Gun? I've had one for 3 years and am totally satisfied with the performance and accuracy of this gun. I bought mine brand-new for $199.00, and I'm sure they are available used in the price range you mention.

Just a thought .....
 
Ive been hearing about these bolt shotguns for a while, but havent seen one yet. Does anyone have a picture of one to give me a idea of what Im looking for? Seems like it would make a nice truck gun or bargain home defense piece, or just a fun range gun.
 
To All:
These shotguns are notorious for having a split stock, at the front locking lug. If this is the case, replace the stock. Some of the stock makers have inletted blanks.

1) if there is no split, glass the front lug.

2) if there is a split, replace, THEN glass bed the front lug.

I have attached a photo as requested

JM
 
I'm probably going to end up plugging the magwell and using it as a singleshot 12 ga boltgun. For fun and all.

Thanks for the warning on the front lug and the stocks!
 
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