Every one has pretty much already their own favorite manufacturer of firearms and this is in no way telling you to change. I just want to show you the different slug guns that are available from some of the leading gun makers. These are obviously not all of them but just a selected few.
Mossberg 535 ATS Slugster Pump Action:
The 535's "All Terrain" flexibility is best appreciated in the field. It's chambered to handle 12 gauge, 2 3/4", 3", and even 3 1/2" magnum loads, for maximum stopping power. The Uni-line™ receiver design assists in fast target acquisition. With the Trophy Slugster™ cantilevered scope mount system, barrels can be swapped without disturbing a well-sighted scope. The sleek barrel profile, coupled with a shortened magazine tube, provides a comfortable balance and swing. A wide range of stock and barrel configurations are also available.
Mossberg 930 Slugster Autoloader:The 930™ handles 12-gauge, 2 3/4" and 3" ammunition with ease, from low brass target loads to non-toxic magnum rounds to the latest in sabot slug ammo. The smooth, contoured design and Mossberg Uni-Line™ receiver deliver instinctive eye/rib alignment for instant target acquisition. And this shotgun feels as good as it fires - each 930™ includes a complete set of specially designed spacers for quick adjustment of the horizontal and vertical angle of the stock, bringing a custom-feel fit to every shooter. A self-regulating gas system cushions the recoil. There's even an EZ-Empty™ magazine button when the day is done.
Remington 870 Express Slug Pump Action:Perfect for deer hunters wanting rifle-like performance in an affordable, yet dependable, shotgun package, the Model 870 Express Slug Gun utilizes fully rifled, heavy contour barrels to deliver devastating knockdown power with optimal accuracy. Available in both a 12-gauge and 20-gauge version, the added weight of the heavier slug barrel helps reduce the recoil of magnum slug loads while our cantilever system provides a solid scope mount platform that won't lose its zero like other mounts. These pump-action shotguns feature a non-glare matte finish on all exterior metalwork and all-weather black synthetic stocks and fore-ends.
Winchester Super X3 Cantilever Deer Autoloader:Its rifled 22" barrel is optimized in providing unequalled accuracy with 2 3⁄4" and 3" sabot slugs. The proven Active Valve System on the Super X3 System reduces recoil and cycles fast for incredible follow-up shot speed. The cantilever design makes it easy to attach an electronic red dot or conventional scope to the Weaver-style rail, or allows you to aim with the adjustable rear sight and the TRUGLO® fiber-optic front sight. The Cantilever Deer also features the durable gunmetal gray Perma-Cote™ UT (Ultra Tough) surface finish on the barrel and receiver. The bolt is plated with electroless nickel for reduced friction and extreme corrosion resistance. Dura-Touch® Armor Coating on the composite stock and forearm improves your grip in all conditions. Two length of pull stock spacers, drop and cast adjustment spacers and sling swivel studs are included.
Now 17 years ago when I bought my 12 gauge I asked around a bit and talked to a couple guys that I felt comfortable getting answers from. They had told me for one thing not to get an automatic because they tend to freeze up when it get's real cold and frosty, so I decided on a pump action. They also told me to get one that is lite (not heavy) so I got one with a synthetic stock. They told me to get at least a 12 gauge which is good for deer hunting, so I did.Back then I usually went with the word of others especially if I felt comfortable with their answers because basically I didn't know what I was doing. Now I am not saying that a wood stock is bad because maybe their not. Maybe they handle the recoil better. I'm not saying that automatics are bad because I honestly have never shot or owned one because maybe I was told the wrong thing but, I am saying that 12 gauges whether they are pump action or auto and whether they are wood or synthetic are the size shell that works for me at least.
The most important thing in my opinion is that you feel confident with the firearm you chose and that you can safely handle the firearm you chose. If you don't than you are not going to shoot to the fullest extent possible whether it is you or the gun.
8 comments:
Rick- I think you are right about a 12 gague they seem to be the best for deer hunting, but I know people who use 20 gague and also .410's. With the smaller guns you defiently need to be a better shot and you loose all of that knockdown power.
I personaly use the 870 super mag with a fully rifled barrel.I mounted a scope on it using the B- square scope mount like you did.
Ben, I too know of people using the 20 ga. and the .410. As long as your close they work fine.
Glad for your comments on the end of the list and Ben and your response. One question is answered - 12 ga. it will be. I'm leaning towards the barrel with rifling inspite of the difference in shell costs. I'm used to the Auto so lean that way.
Good stuff!
Gary, I am glad it is helping. Part 3 will be coming soon.
Wondering about your thoughts and opinions on having a 870 with a rifled slug barrel and an additional smooth bore 12 g barrel that could be swapped back and forth based on specific hunting needs? Thanks!
The Rabid Outdoorsman, any shotgun that allows you to swap barrels in my opinion is a good choice.
It agives you the availability to hunt heavy thick areas such as thickets where your shots are close ans also lets you hunt more open areas such as say crop fields where the distance is increased.
Good post Rick, but shotguns have come a long way, like pistols. Twenty five years ago, 'automatic' to most people meant 'malfunctions' - those days are so over. Period. Both semi pistols and shotguns are fully as reliable as any mechanism yet devised. An 1187 remington, or a Glock pistol will shoot all day long. period. The advantages far outweigh whatever disadvantages (such as cost) you can come up with. JMHO. Jack
Jack, I appreciate your valued input. Thanks!
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