Finding shotguns "in stock:"

[RM]

I have been casually looking to buy a new semi auto shotgun- an under $1000 gun that I can use for both skeet and trap. So I have done some research online and found several different models which I'm interested in checking out. Unfortunately, I can't seem to locate stores which carry these guns. Example 1: a Remington 1100 sporting 12 guage-no one has one in stock. Also could not find one at a local gun show. Emailed Remington that I live in Maryland and could travel 50 miles to see one. So far, no response.
Example 2: I need a 14" or less Lop, so I want to check out Browning's Ladies Gold Sporting Clay. Again, can't find one to actually see and check for fit. I called Browning and asked where in Maryland or So. Pa. I could I go to see one. There were none in Maryland, and one in southern Pa. I called the gun shop in Pa., and it was already sold. I was able to find one Beretta Urika SC at a local gun show, but it was not a great fit. So I guess I'm wondering if others have this same problem- finding shotguns in stock to actually see and check for fit? Also, any suggestions would be welcome. (I think my next step will be to check out the upcoming gun show in Harrisburg, Pa. which has about 800 tables.) Thanks for any responses.

 

[Gila Jorge]

Actually I think your best bet would be to go to a shooting club
where skeet and trap and maybe sporting clays are actually shot. In
all likelihood someone there will have the guns you are interested in and by joing such clubs, members are able to acquire guns essentially at dealer's prices. But you need to know what you want in the first instance.
Also most shooters will be generally happy to let you test shoot their
guns. Often trap shooters who go through guns like a dose of salts through a goose usually have guns of all types for sale. You might just pick up one there. One final thought. The club rules where you shoot may prohibit you
from pciking up empties that hit the ground. Your own included. So I always favored over/unders because of this. To shoot very often means reloading at some point. So for these reasons I'd be looking at over/unders. Good luck and good shooting.

 

[Dave McCracken]

Check your PMs...