What makes shotgun better than the other?

[Gonzofam]

I havent purchased a shotgun yet. I keep getting different opinions as to which type and style i should purchase. This will be a turkey and goose gun. I imagine if i got to a range with a buddy ill shoot skeet but not alot if ever. I was told by my brothers to get a semi auto over a pump. That i wont regret it. Ok. All the shotguns in the range from used to new were 4-700.00
I looked at several to see what was nice action wise and they all seem the same to me. So my question is what would make one better for me than the other? Mossburg, Benelli nova and a few others are nice camo shotguns in 12 gauge. I know reloading questions have exponential variables to answer a question. But i hope i can be made to understand the best way to make my decision. THANKS.

 

[Armored farmer]

Get a semi-auto that 'feels' right. Close your eyes and mount the gun, then open your eyes....you should be looking down the rib.

 

[jrdolall]

I prefer a Benelli Black Eagle if you are going to be hunting geese. For turkey I use a Mossburg pump that is about 20 years old but that is almost always a one shot hunt and the gun is lighter for carrying all day. For geese and ducks you will often need to shoot 3 times quickly so the auto is better and the same gun will do great, probably better, for turkey hunts. In the 4-700 range I doubt you can buy one of the top end duck guns like the Black Eagle at least not a new one. I have limited experience with other brands but the Benelli cycles very quickly and reaches out very well. You can do a quick Google search and it will show Browning, Benelli, Beretta, Winchester and Remington all having adequate guns for your purpose. Then just pick one in your price range and have fun. I would caution about buying a used shotgun for duck/goose hunting though. If they were used by a regular duck hunter then it is possible they took a lot of moisture abuse as well as sliding around in boats and 4 wheelers.

 

[303tom]

Get a semi-auto that 'feels' right. Close your eyes and mount the gun, then open your eyes....you should be looking down the rib.

I can do that with any shotgun.........

My recommendation, get your self a good single barrel or O&U 12ga.

 

[Gonzofam]

Thanks. But what really separates one from another? With shotguns because it is a minimal range gun, they all perty much get the job done? Stay within the trusted names and u really cant go wrong?

 

[mgmorden]

Thanks. But what really separates one from another? With shotguns because it is a minimal range gun, they all perty much get the job done? Stay within the trusted names and u really cant go wrong?

You already got your answer - its up to you if you accept it .

Fit/feel of a shotgun when you shoulder it is one of the main things that matters. If it doesn't shoulder right for you then nothing else will make it right. Find one that fits right.

THEN make sure it runs 100%. If not, continue the search.

 

[Owen Sparks]

The typical off the shelf shotgun is designed to fit the average man. If you are really tall or barrel chested and stocky none of them will fit.

 

[allaroundhunter]

My only recommendation aside from what has been said about fit is that you make sure it is at least capable of handling 3" shells. A semi-automatic really is not necessary.

The Benelli Supernova (12 ga pump, 3.5" chamber) with a comfortech stock will reduce felt recoil of the heavier loads. It sells for around the $575 mark around here, or buds has them for $538 + the transfer fee to your FFL

 

[BIGGBAY90]

Go to the shop, check them out and choose the one that you like for your purpose and of course (the shooter makes the gun)

 

[Fred Fuller]

It's sort of like the differences in pickup trucks - do you like Ford, Chevy or Dodge? Or why one brand of boots feel better to some people than other brands do. There are differences, perhaps minor differences, but differences nevertheless. So the selection process is purely subjective.

Find what feels best to you, and buy it...

 

[243winxb]

Steel receiver is better than an alloy one. Autos kick less. All should have a 3" chamber & screw in chokes. Pick a model that has been in producting for at least 10 years & currently made. Many models have come & gone in the last 40 years.

 

[petey156]

You can't go wrong with a Remington 1100. Or a Winchester sx3...

 

[Cuzzin]

So my question is what would make one better for me than the other?

If it runs and does'nt beat you up - it is a better gun than ALL the rest. Seriously - if you are looking at turkey and goose loads (maybe one of those macho 3-1/2" load guys?) - consider one of the Benelli ineritia semi autos. If you don't see any use for anything bigger than a 2-3/4" or 3" load - a pump is fine just pick one that fits you. If you want a do-all gun that can be shot at clays games and still shoot upland and wildfowl in volume (3 rounds is a volume i guess) - a good fitting semi auto in gas operation is a good choice. If two rounds is sufficient - find a well made over under that fits, pay a little extra, and keep it forever! Maybe find it a few friends to hang out in the gun safe with....