Getting into shotgunning

[msiley]

So, I've decided to take the plunge and join you all in the world of shotgunning.
I've shot rifles all my life and am a decent shot. Two years ago I really
got into handguns and now I'm looking towards my first shotgun purchase.
From my experience with other firearms here is my path I'm
thinking of following:

1. Purchase (easy part) a Mossberg 500 or 930 (haven't finalized this yet)
with a 18.5 inch barrel and a longer barrel, probably 24-26".
Short barrel for SD and the longer for everything else.
Bead site, plain jane nothing fancy.
2. Practice a bit, get familiar with its operation learn about
shot patterns and ammo selection.
3. Once familiar with the operation get training.
There is a great local ex-LAPD SWAT trainer that gives
excellent training.
4. Shoot more! Shoot clays, trap, skeet.
Maybe purchase a rifled barrel and hunt with it.
5. Back to #2

Make sense?
Shotgun selection good for what I want it for (SD and sport)?
Does 2 barrels make sense or should I just buy one say 22"?
I figured a short barrel won't be optimal for clays.
Any different skill needed between Trap and Skeet?
Any book suggestions?

I've read the stickies here (101 and On fighting shotguns).


Thanks!

 

[orphanedcowboy]

Sounds like a good plan to me

 

[dak0ta]

Mossberg 590 Pump is more reliable. I'm reading about a lot of 930 problems on Shotgunworld. It's funny that they all started to pop up now compared to when ppl were bragging that they had no issues when they got them. So I guess durability may be an issue? Not sure, don't own one, just an observation. I do know though that the 590 will be more reliable if the SHTF.

 

[oneounceload]

Welcome to the most fun aspect of the shooting sports......one thing you'll find is that HD/SD is one aspect, trap is one, skeet another, sporting yet another, while upland birds, deer, turkeys and waterfowl are all different as well.

As you can see, shotguns have a variety that no other gun offers - the chance for a variety of fun is almost endless.

Decide on budgets, determine priorities. Realize that some guns may be able to "crossover" to other aspects, but each aspect has a dedicated type of gun that really works best.

Ask questions, have fun

 

[Dave McCracken]

Sounds like a good plan.

Search the archives, there's a lot of good info.

And hit the range. Many shotgunners will take some time and help out a new shooter.

 

[msiley]

Decide on budgets, determine priorities. Realize that some guns may be able to "crossover" to other aspects, but each aspect has a dedicated type of gun that really works best.

Definitely agree with that. I figure I'll start with the Mossy and branch out.
So many guns so little money.

 

[Virginian]

You're asking a bunch of addicts if you should take another hit !? Heck yea, jump in, the water's fine. Take up sporting clays and preserve hunting; that'll keep you off the streets at night. You won't be able to afford gas.

 

[msiley]

You're asking a bunch of addicts if you should take another hit !? Heck yea, jump in, the water's fine. Take up sporting clays and preserve hunting; that'll keep you off the streets at night. You won't be able to afford gas.

Hey Virginian! I went to Miami in your Oxford there! Originally from Cleveland OH, currently
imprisoned in California.

 

[Virginian]

Well, around the college it isn't that much different than Kali. It is just getting to where you can see the grass for the Obama campaign posters. They are still in an orgy of denial. Other than that it's a nice area. I guess you can tell I'm not originally from here.

 

[bootless]

Sounds like a good plan. Try bird hunting, you'll get hooked. Dove, quail, pheasant, duck, whatever. You ever see for "For the love of the Game" with Kevin Costner? Well when he pitches everything else around him goes blurry and quiet. That happens to me when I get on a covey of quail, it's pure heaven. Give it a try

 

[Tim the student]

I think two barrels will do you well.

Its a good time, I just wish I had more free time and more money.