The basics...

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Mavrick12

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Mar 17, 2007
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Im trying to learn how to use a shotgun. It would help if I had one :eek:.
I have $175.
Action doesnt matter.
Just need reliabilty.
I would like it to pattern halfways decent (Ill trust you on that)
This will be used to learn on. Also will be my HD shotgun.

Allrighty THR members, work you magic.

P.S.
Yes, yes Ive read your stickies on patterning :neener:

Edit: I Would Like it to have a choke
 
May I suggest going here and reading about buying a good used shotgun.
Excellent Blog, chocked full of many other useful tips besides shotguns.

http://xavierthoughts.blogspot.com/

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Using the Search Function, here at THR also search the subject with
Dave McCracken, Lee Lapin, Okiecruffler, PJR, and Gordon for starters.

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If can, please do shoot some varieties of shotguns for gun fit and to see how these various guns work for you,

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More reading:

Shotgunning: The Art & Science by Bob Brister

Check the Internet book places for a good used copy.
 
you can find a used Remington 870 or Mosberg 500 for cheap. both are great guns and will last for a life time.

sm didn't say it but he recommends 28 gauge :D
 
For a new gun, the Mossberg Maverick 88 is in your price range. It'll work good for you, and I like the layout of the controls- the slide release is in a particuarly good place.

If you can find a used one in good condition, Remington 870s, Mossberg 500s, and Winchester 1300s are all great guns. New, the Mossberg 500 runs a bit above $200, and the Remington 870 runs around $230 for a base model.

Watch out for pawnshops and such trying to cheat you, though. Most pawnshops I have been in have outrageous prices (a beat up Mossberg maverick with a hacked off barrel and pistol grip is not worth $500, contrary to whatever they may believe)
 
read up online and acquaint yourself with the big brands, the models of such brands, and their costs. That way, you won't pass up a great deal. Also, keep in mind that any kind of pump shotgun that you've either seen or heard of will work greatly, but still try to find a good review for it. Also keep in mind of any perks or potential flaws of each.

Also, as said, go with the #8 or so shot loads, since they are about as cheap as surplus ammo for rifles. That way, you won't have to dish over huge wads of cash just to shoot melons and paper.
 
You can get a Charles Daly 12ga Tactical shotgun new for $165.00......., I picked one up a couple years ago just to have a cheap shotgun.
 
Look at pawn shops and gun shows for a used Remington 870 Express, or Mossberg 500, 500A, or 590, or Winchester 1200/1300. Preferably a Remington. These will be reliable, and you can get additional/different barrels if you like, than the one that comes with the gun. For example, one short barrel (18-22") for home defense, and a longer one (24-30") for hunting and trap/sporting clays.
 
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