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New to hunting, best Shotgun???
#7900473
07/14/20 06:24 PM
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Joined: Jul 2020
Posts: 65
HTXdude123
OP
Outdoorsman
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OP
Outdoorsman
Joined: Jul 2020
Posts: 65 |
I’ve duck hunted a few times in my life and had to borrow a gun from my friends. Now I am looking to buy my first shotgun. I want something that will work as an all around gun. Something I won’t be embarrassed of to dove hunt with my friends and will be fine for ducks down the marshes along the coast. My budget is fairly low, $600 max. So far my top few ideas are: the Benelli Nova or Supernova, Remington 870 express, and Winchester SXP. I have also looked at some budget brands like ATA and Tristar but I don’t know how reliable they are. Can someone give me some advice on what is a good all around migratory bird gun that can take a beating and survive the elements while not being thought of as a cheap piece of junk? Thanks!
Last edited by HTXdude123; 07/14/20 06:26 PM.
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Re: New to hunting, best Shotgun???
[Re: HTXdude123]
#7900479
07/14/20 06:30 PM
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Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 4,075
aerangis
Extreme Tracker
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Extreme Tracker
Joined: Sep 2008
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Stoeger M3000. Cheap and reliable auto. It's inertia driven and works when a gas gun won't. I've hunted eiders in subfreezing sleet and that shotgun and a Benelli Super Vinci were the only two that were running after a half hour of hunting.
If you want a pump the Nova's are good shotguns. I dont particularly care for pumps as the forearms can and do get slippery. That, and Im an old fart and don't want to be racking a shotgun to shoot.
I'd start with an inexpensive shotgun. Over the years I've noticed a lot of folks get into hunting waterfowl then give it up for various reasons.
Thats my opinion, take it for what you will.
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Re: New to hunting, best Shotgun???
[Re: HTXdude123]
#7900481
07/14/20 06:34 PM
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Joined: May 2018
Posts: 1,090
2flyfish4
Pro Tracker
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Pro Tracker
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Posts: 1,090 |
The most important thing for consistent wingshooting is a gun that fits you. So first thing first make sure you and the gun match up.
Also check gunbroker, you can get some good used guns on there for much cheaper than buying new.
I have no experience with any of the guns you listed, except the 870, it will get the job done but would be a last resort for me.
Instagram - 2flyfish4
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Re: New to hunting, best Shotgun???
[Re: HTXdude123]
#7900529
07/14/20 07:33 PM
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Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 5,427
RayB
red bone Bob
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red bone Bob
Joined: Nov 2009
Posts: 5,427 |
There is time, and you must take it, to lay your hand on your dog's head as you walk past him lying on the floor or on his settle, time to talk with him, to remember with him, time to please him, time you can't buy back once he's gone" GBE
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Re: New to hunting, best Shotgun???
[Re: 2flyfish4]
#7900672
07/14/20 09:37 PM
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Joined: Jul 2020
Posts: 65
HTXdude123
OP
Outdoorsman
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OP
Outdoorsman
Joined: Jul 2020
Posts: 65 |
Thanks for the advice, I've shot all three before and their comforts are good. Just trying to get the most bang for my buck.
Keep it Safe, Keep it Clean, Aim High.
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Re: New to hunting, best Shotgun???
[Re: aerangis]
#7900676
07/14/20 09:39 PM
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Joined: Jul 2020
Posts: 65
HTXdude123
OP
Outdoorsman
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OP
Outdoorsman
Joined: Jul 2020
Posts: 65 |
I appreciate it! I'll look into the M3000. I haven't looked much at any autoloaders because the only ones I've used are brownings that are above my price range and I've never cleaned an auto. Thanks for the tip!
Keep it Safe, Keep it Clean, Aim High.
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Re: New to hunting, best Shotgun???
[Re: 2flyfish4]
#7900687
07/14/20 09:48 PM
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Joined: May 2010
Posts: 1,275
cos
Pro Tracker
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Pro Tracker
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The most important thing for consistent wingshooting is a gun that fits you. So first thing first make sure you and the gun match up.
Also check gunbroker, you can get some good used guns on there for much cheaper than buying new.
I have no experience with any of the guns you listed, except the 870, it will get the job done but would be a last resort for me.
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Re: New to hunting, best Shotgun???
[Re: HTXdude123]
#7900699
07/14/20 09:53 PM
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Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 3,866
texasdude28
Extreme Tracker
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Extreme Tracker
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 3,866 |
If you are going to hunt with others in a blind you should look into a Browning BPS. Ejects down, doesn't hit anyone beside you. Comes in wood or synthetic. You can find used ones very reasonably. Also makes a good dove gun.
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Re: New to hunting, best Shotgun???
[Re: HTXdude123]
#7900700
07/14/20 09:54 PM
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Joined: Jun 2015
Posts: 11,535
rickym
THF Celebrity
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THF Celebrity
Joined: Jun 2015
Posts: 11,535 |
Go hold as many as possible and buy what feels the best. Even better if you can shoot a bunch of them.
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Re: New to hunting, best Shotgun???
[Re: HTXdude123]
#7900737
07/14/20 10:25 PM
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Joined: Mar 2014
Posts: 1,005
Whack n stack
Pro Tracker
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Pro Tracker
Joined: Mar 2014
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I shot a Benelli Nova for many years before moving to a Benelli M2 and it is bulky but a great gun. It is now my backup gun and I would highly recommend it from your listed guns above.
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Re: New to hunting, best Shotgun???
[Re: HTXdude123]
#7900746
07/14/20 10:31 PM
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Joined: Aug 2016
Posts: 2,451
Dalroo
Veteran Tracker
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Entry level - Remington is an inexpensive, fine, reliable, pump. The Super-Mag Express is chambered for up to 3.5" shells.
Dalroo Deep in the Heart of Texas How about that Brandon!
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Re: New to hunting, best Shotgun???
[Re: HTXdude123]
#7900773
07/14/20 10:47 PM
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Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 4,511
syncerus
Extreme Tracker
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Extreme Tracker
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 4,511 |
I have a 10 ga BPS and like it a great deal. That said, I agree with the previous sentiment that shotguns are all about fit. Handle as many as possible and buy the one that fits you best.
NRA Patriot Benefactor & DSC Lifer
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Re: New to hunting, best Shotgun???
[Re: HTXdude123]
#7902302
07/16/20 02:17 AM
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Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 8,281
BradyBuck
THF Trophy Hunter
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THF Trophy Hunter
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 8,281 |
You said "best"
Beretta A400 Extrema
Second place tie for
SBE2
Browning Maxus
And if you get a good one the new A5.
I would say A5 hands down but quality control is hit or miss.
I was lucky to get a good one and I absolutely love everything about it.
HRCH Washita's Kimber Locked N Loaded GRHRCH Firefly's Rally The Troops MH
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Re: New to hunting, best Shotgun???
[Re: HTXdude123]
#7902330
07/16/20 02:54 AM
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Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 1,640
LeonCarr
Pro Tracker
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I voted for the Benelli Supernova, but here is my general thinking on shotguns:
Benelli, Beretta, and Browning have given me zero problems, pump or semiauto. YMMV, but "B" shotguns have been rock solid for me.
As mentioned fit matters more with a shotgun than any other firearm. Do some research on gun fit and try before you buy.
Just my .02, LeonCarr
"Whitetail Deer are extinct because of rifles with telescopes mounted on them." - My 11th Grade English Teacher
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Re: New to hunting, best Shotgun???
[Re: HTXdude123]
#7902360
07/16/20 03:22 AM
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Joined: Sep 2012
Posts: 4,011
68A
Extreme Tracker
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Extreme Tracker
Joined: Sep 2012
Posts: 4,011 |
SuperNova unless you can find a used A300.
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Re: New to hunting, best Shotgun???
[Re: HTXdude123]
#7902552
07/16/20 01:00 PM
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Joined: Dec 2013
Posts: 86
TBS12
Outdoorsman
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Outdoorsman
Joined: Dec 2013
Posts: 86 |
If you find an older wingmaster 870 then get that but a newer made 870 will let you down even as a boat anchor. Maybe i just had a bad apple but i won't buy anything Remington after '08
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Re: New to hunting, best Shotgun???
[Re: HTXdude123]
#7902758
07/16/20 03:20 PM
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Joined: Mar 2011
Posts: 1,046
nacgoat08
Pro Tracker
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Pro Tracker
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Posts: 1,046 |
You can't go wrong with a Benelli Nova or 870 as your "starter kit". Either way, it most likely won't be your last...Both of those will last your lifetime and probably the next and will serve as good back up guns or home defense in the off season. A benelli nova was my first shotgun years ago, but I currently own both.
I would also recommend a Stoeger M2000. You should be able to find a used one for less than $400-500 and.
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Re: New to hunting, best Shotgun???
[Re: HTXdude123]
#7902771
07/16/20 03:31 PM
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Joined: Jun 2015
Posts: 267
AZ_Hunter_2000
Bird Dog
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Bird Dog
Joined: Jun 2015
Posts: 267 |
Do not overlook the Beretta A300. Should be able to find one for close to your $600 budget. My A300 has been used for quail/dove/duck/geese without any issues. I also have an A400 so it gets the nod more often now, however, I still use my A300 several times each fall.
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Re: New to hunting, best Shotgun???
[Re: TBS12]
#7902797
07/16/20 03:50 PM
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Joined: Nov 2013
Posts: 2,255
Hunt Dog
Veteran Tracker
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Veteran Tracker
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Posts: 2,255 |
If you find an older wingmaster 870 then get that but a newer made 870 will let you down even as a boat anchor. Maybe i just had a bad apple but i won't buy anything Remington after '08 I think a lot of folks would say the same thing.
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Re: New to hunting, best Shotgun???
[Re: HTXdude123]
#7903104
07/16/20 08:53 PM
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Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 104
TDH
Woodsman
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Woodsman
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 104 |
Just saw an X2 in the classifieds for $600, low round count. Good gun, little heavy but good gun.
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Re: New to hunting, best Shotgun???
[Re: HTXdude123]
#7903138
07/16/20 09:17 PM
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Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 18,556
ducknbass
THF Celebrity
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THF Celebrity
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 18,556 |
In order Benelli Berretta Browning Winchester Mossberg Single shot new Englander Garage built shotgun powered by bottle rockets Remington
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Re: New to hunting, best Shotgun???
[Re: ducknbass]
#7903159
07/16/20 09:33 PM
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Joined: Oct 2019
Posts: 130
dk2429
Woodsman
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Woodsman
Joined: Oct 2019
Posts: 130 |
In order Benelli Berretta Browning Winchester Mossberg Single shot new Englander Garage built shotgun powered by bottle rockets Remington Yall are funny on here.. if ain't a B gun, it's hunk of [censored]
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Re: New to hunting, best Shotgun???
[Re: BradyBuck]
#7903176
07/16/20 09:46 PM
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Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 22,444
Superduty
"The Regulator"
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"The Regulator"
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 22,444 |
You said "best"
Beretta A400 Extrema
Second place tie for
SBE2
Browning Maxus
And if you get a good one the new A5.
I would say A5 hands down but quality control is hit or miss.
I was lucky to get a good one and I absolutely love everything about it. That browning Maxus is well over 600.00 bucks.
'It's Only Treason if You Lose."
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Re: New to hunting, best Shotgun???
[Re: dk2429]
#7903296
07/16/20 10:44 PM
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Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 18,556
ducknbass
THF Celebrity
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THF Celebrity
Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 18,556 |
In order Benelli Berretta Browning Winchester Mossberg Single shot new Englander Garage built shotgun powered by bottle rockets Remington Yall are funny on here.. if ain't a B gun, it's hunk of [censored] No I'd run a Mossberg or a Winchester. I wouldn't buy a Remington other than an old sportsman for dove hunting.
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