Shotgun Choice

[enfieldspares]

If going the side by side route the sensible choice would be an open choked AYA No4 in 12 or 20 bore. Or for something different if you wanted a slightly higher rib more akin to the sight picture of an O/U then a AYA Yeoman Ejector. The market for side by sides has all but collapsed so you've a massive choice for under £400 in these AYA guns. And £300 will get something very serviceable.

Why AYA? Simply that the spares inventory held by the importers ASI is second to none. Wheareas most all the other Spanish side by side makers of two decades ago such as now even Arrietta have all gone out of business. I would NOT advise a Webley 700 as it has no crosspin and in construction is inferior to the AYA No4. Need a new crosspin, ejector springs, top lever spring for an AYA and they are all in stock in the UK with ASI.

 

[iain b]

I’ve just upgraded my Huglu to a silver pigeon I adjustable stock. ( left handed, right eye dominant ). So as a first time buyer you should set your sights at 3" chambers superior steel proofed multi choke Under over. Barrel length is not too important, gun fit is. Make sure it fit. Maker not too important try to stay away from unknown brands. I know a lot of people with ATAs and very happy with them, you can pick them up second hand dirt cheap New for your budget. I would go new ATA if it fits, long warranty give you a few years to decide to upgrade. Stay away from autos or pumps till you know what your doing with them.
gun fit is the most important part.

 

[enfieldspares]

With regret I also agree that if steel is to come then for an over/under a three inch chamber in a moderate weight steel proofed gun is the way to future proof yourself.

Not to fire heavy magnum loads (thus the advice on moderate weight) but for such as Hull Cartridge's steel loads in three inch cases. So you get a true equal steel shot count as you would in a load of the same shot size in lead.

Also although the British Proof Rules are conservative to say the least I think the future will perhaps see acceptance of US SAAMI specification on pressures for steel loaded cartridges (if such SAAMI rules exist).

European steel Proof Rules handicap steel loads from being loaded to the same velocities as American steel loads I think?

So in future you may see a three inch chamber, steel proofed over under gun in a moderate eight pounds weight? Well moderate in weight for an over under that is!

 

[Tazz]

Second hand Beretta or Browning, they are bomb proof and you won’t lose much money when you come to sell them, go multi choke gives you more flexibility. Sem autos are a cheaper option but for a first gun I would go over/under