Shotgun fit

[Uncle Alvah]

I hear a lot about the importance of proper fit in a shotgun.

I'd like to try my hand at Sporting Clays, ans don't have a suitable shotgun.

Considering the array of shotgun styles available, how does one determine which fit the best and which do not?

I'm looking at a CZ Bobwhite S/S 20 guage, I really like the gun, but have no idea if it comes anywhere near being a "proper-enough" fit for me to use for both small game hunting and sporting clays.......

 

[ArmedBear]

Most Sporting Clays is shot with longer, heavier, smoother-swinging guns than a 20 Gauge SxS.

WRT fit, that's a pretty big question.

Essentially, though, when you shoulder the gun in the position you'd be in when shooting it, you should be able to hit what your eye sees without paying attention to the shotgun.

 

[oneounceload]

Fit is a compilation of many dimensions - not just the length of pull. The best way to get the correct fit is to get fitted by a competent stock fitter. You may get close with something off the rack, then again - you may not.

To start, I would go to your local club and borrow/rent as many different types as possible to see what YOU like as far as action type, barrel length, etc.

Once you have decided that X type of gun - O/U, semi, etc., then you look for a gun that YOU determine has that certain, subjective "feel" to it. Stocks can be adjusted in a variety of ways to tweak the fit - (this is where the fitter comes in).

For ME, I like an O/U type the best - I prefer the feel, I like the option of two different chokes for sporting clays, I like the balance. I also have other types, but that is MY preference. Yours might differ.

If you intend to shoot a lot, then do yourself a favor and get a quality shotgun - it may seem expensive at first, but if you shoot a lot, it becomes the least costly part of the equation. Good basic target guns from Browning, Beretta, SKB are, IMO, the entry level for a target gun in an O/U. Beretta, Remington, and to some degree, Benelli, are the better ones for a semi.