First hunting shotgun - advice needed - thanks!

[JohnCrighton]

Wife and I are interested in going out small game hunting, and many of the areas we are looking at only allow shotguns.

We'd like to get an inexpensive shotgun for this - type of action doesn't really matter too much to me - I just want to get into a shotgun that doesn't suck for as little money as possible.

Game will be squirrel, rabbit, and pretty much any other small game that is legal to hunt or that we stumble across here in Central/South Western Florida.

Would appreciate any advice on what to buy, why to buy that particular one, and any other pertinent advice - thanks!

 

[younganddumb]

20 gauge 870 from remington definatly dosn't suck can use as HD weapon and can getmany upgrades to "personalize"

 

[Snarlingiron]

Agreed, 870 Express, or used Wingmaster would be a great choice. I personally would opt for 12 ga. More ammo choices. Recoil, given equal payload and velocity is pretty much the same between 12 ga and 20 ga.

Just my .005 cents worth (due to recent stock market events).

 

[Dave McCracken]

Cheapest, used H&R or NEF single shot. In 12 or 20 gauge, suitable for most small game and wingshooting. $50-80.

Downside, kicks really well.

Not quite so cheap, used US made pump gun in 12 or 20 gauge. $100-200.

HTH....

 

[12Bravo20]

I agree with Dave, the NEF single shots are good guns. For a pump I suggest looking at the Maverick 88, Mossberg 500, Remington 870, and the NEF Pardner pumps. I have shot/owned all except the Pardner pump action and all are good guns.

 

[pinstripe]

I would suggest the H&R pardner pump. I have one and it is just the ticket. I paid $179 for it at academy sports. I was tired of seeing worn out pieces of junk police trade-ins selling for $169-$250, so I purchased this one (directly after leaving the gun show) and it has been good to me ever since.

I have owned several shotguns in the past, from winchester, remington, and others. This H&R pardner pump looks, feels, and operates just as good as all the rest. I would definitely buy another if that need ever arises.

 

[Mr. 16 gauge]

Another vote for the Mossberg 500 and the Remington 870 Express. If you can find one (used), I also like the Ithica M37 pump; it was a popular pump gun in it's day, so there are a lot of them around at reasonable prices.