need a good semiauto recommendation...under $500

[kmrcstintn]

I am seeking a good quality semiautomatic 12 ga shotgun with the following uses in mind...

trap, turkey, game birds; waterfowling and skeet later on

with the trap and skeet, I want the ability to use 2 3/4" low brass loads reliablly; with turkey and waterfowling I want the ability to use 3" loads without punishing recoil...3 1/2" chamber would be optimal, but I do not know of any semiautos that are chambered for 3 1/2" that can run 2 3/4" low brass reliably

I am limited to $500...not sure what is out there that is good quality and sturdy in this price range...thank you for your feedback

 

[Bowhunter57]

kmrcstintn,
Hands down, I highly recommend a Russian Baikal MP-153....or if the dealers in your area don't carry them, the Remington version of the Spartan 453 is the same shotgun.

I have one and love it! Barrel lengths are offered in 24", 26" and 28" (all have vent ribs), wood or synthetic stocks, gas operated/gas releived, adjustable gas operating system for the use of 3 1/2" or 3" or 2 3/4" shells. Unless Remington has corrupted the importing system of these fine shotguns, there should be 3 choke tubes that come with the shotgun.

Remington has the import rights ONLY, to the Russian Baikal shotguns.

I purchased mine 3 years ago for $350. I'd like to have some synthetic stocks, instead of the wood, due to the conditions that I hunt in for geese. Otherwise, I purchased a Terror extended choke tube in .675" restriction for goose hunting and it produces a 91% pattern inside a 30" circle at 40 yards using 3 1/2" Kent Fast Steel #BBBs at 1550 f.p.s.

If you like the way Remington shotguns "fit and feel", then the Baikal/Spartan shotguns are for you. Good luck with your choices!

Good hunting, Bowhunter57

 

[TheShootist1894]

Auto loaders

I use a Remmy 1100 2 3/4 for everything but waterfowl, i love it to death and hasn't failed me yet. . .

The 11-87 takes both 2 3/4 - 3" shells but i understand it is best to 'loosen them up' with heavier 3" shells, but this is second-hand info too
also plan on buying used in your price bracket

Now if you can quadruple your budget go for Benelli Super Black Eagle, the only autoloader I know of that eats any size shells, from old vintage paper to hot and heavy 3 1/2 inch steel HI brass

Hope this helps
Karl

 

[evbutler462]

May I suggest that you try a Stoeger 2000. Make sure it has the high viz red sight. This distinguishes it from the old design. The new models are totally different in quality,fit, and reliability.

I had one of the old designs. It is now probably the most improved gun of the year in quality and finish. It is light and with a Limbsaver, comfortable to shoot.

The Mossberg 930 is another option. They will cycle light loads as well as the 2000.

The 453 is rather heavy but has the reputation of being reliable with light loads after an extensive break in period.

 

[ArmedBear]

Mossberg 930 is a nice gun, and a bargain.

Spartan 453 I've had a chance to use had chunks taken out of the receiver by ejecting hulls. No thanks.

Used 1100 is a great gun.

Forget 3 1/2" unless you know exactly why you want them.

That said, it's hard to find a gun that will work well for both trap and skeet, to say nothing of turkey, game birds and waterfowl. There's more to a shotgun than the shot it fires. Weight, length, handling, etc. favor different uses.

 

[cota]

Baikal MP153/ spartan gunworks 453. they are reliable and fit me nice.

 

[Smitty in CT]

+1 Mossberg 930

Another vote for the Mossberg 930!!


I know...surprise, surprise!!

 

[okiewita40]

go with the Mossberg 935

I think it is what your looking for.

 

[silverlance]

remington model 11 for $250.
cut it down to 18.5 if you want the tactical length =P

 

[Smitty in CT]

930 combo at Dick's:

http://www.shoplocal.com/lid-2092712562prid-99270_-mossberg-all.fp

Standard Barrel with "standard" stock, Cantilever Scope Barrel WITH a scope, PLUS, an additional "Monte Carlo" stock (so you get the proper cheek weld with the scope barrel) ALL for $450 !!!!.

If I didn't just buy another one, I would seriously think about getting this one....