Good General Purpose Shotgun

[Redhat]

So during my quarantine boredom I've started to consider a general purpose 12 ga semi-auto shotgun. I am interested in the least costly yet reliable model that could be used for limited wing shooting and maybe some clays shooting (since the National Shooting Complex is not to far from me).

Since I can't really go to the LGS's to put hands on any right now, thought I'd ask the forum what they like. Unless I find a really good deal, I'll probably try to hunt down a good used model.

From my on-line scouting, I think I may have it down to 3 choices:

Stoeger M3000

Remington V3

Mossberg 930

Any info on these or others appreciated.

[WobblyPossum]

From my on-line scouting, I think I may have it down to 3 choices:

Stoeger M3000

Remington V3

Mossberg 930

Any info on these or others appreciated.

Of those three, I’d pick the Remington. It’s the only one I haven’t heard bad things about. Have you considered the Beretta 1301? It’s probably the best general purpose semi auto shotgun available right now. It’s well vetted and there’s a gigantic thread about them on the forum. I don’t think it costs too much more than the Remington V3 either.

[Redhat]

Of those three, I’d pick the Remington. It’s the only one I haven’t heard bad things about. Have you considered the Beretta 1301? It’s probably the best general purpose semi auto shotgun available right now. It’s well vetted and there’s a gigantic thread about them on the forum. I don’t think it costs too much more than the Remington V3 either.

No I haven't but I'll certainly look into it. Just expected Beretta would be above my price range. I know the Stoeger has a rep for being vetted as well and the 930 has quite a following over on another shotgun forum.

[Lester Polfus]

What's your budget?

I've been looking into this pretty closely, and have concluded that if you don't want to spend Beretta/Benelli money for a semi-auto, you're better of buying a pump, at least when it comes to new guns.

The outlier might be a quality used Remington 1187, plus whatever people smarter than me reccomend.

[Redhat]

I think I can find what I want under $500. I usually look for a good used deal first.

I can do pump, as I have spent considerable time back in the day with those, but I want a semi to try out. Heck the last one of those I got to hunt with was a Browning Auto 5.

[Lester Polfus]

I think my earlier statement was tempered by the fact that I'm primarily wanting a defensive gun. Those will probably work "well enough" for wing shooting and such.

I'm curious about your results, so if you wouldn't mind sharing if you get something.

[Redhat]

I think my earlier statement was tempered by the fact that I'm primarily wanting a defensive gun. Those will probably work "well enough" for wing shooting and such.

I'm curious about your results, so if you wouldn't mind sharing if you get something.

Yeah I'm not looking for anything tactical. I'll let you know what I wind up with.

Just FYI, you can get a Mossberg kit with 28" hunting barrel and a 18.5" defensive barrel

[Tensaw]

If you happen to end up with a Mossberg (you should check out the 940 vis 930), try to ensure you get one withOUT a ported barrel. Those things just suck for whomever is in proximty to the shooter (like in a duck blind). They spit hot buffer out of the ports and seem to be ineffective at reducing recoil. No bueno. I think Mossberg finally wised up and stopped making those, but there seems to be a lot of new, old stock with ports sitting on dealer shelves.

[Rick R]

I’ve been shooting a Stoeger M3K for about two years now. Basically an M3000 with 24” barrel and a few other “competition” goodies. Apparently there were some issues with the inertia spring breaking early on but mine has shot 3 Gun, skeet, trap, sporting clays and I’d estimate round count over a thousand with zero malfunctions. Birdshot, buckshot and slugs all shoot faster than I can afford to shoot them.

If you find an older used M3000 the inertia spring for a Benelli can be used as a substitute.

[Redhat]

If you happen to end up with a Mossberg (you should check out the 940 vis 930), try to ensure you get one withOUT a ported barrel. Those things just suck for whomever is in proximty to the shooter (like in a duck blind). They spit hot buffer out of the ports and seem to be ineffective at reducing recoil. No bueno. I think Mossberg finally wised up and stopped making those, but there seems to be a lot of new, old stock with ports sitting on dealer shelves.

I think you're right. They don't list ported bbl's as a feature on the current specs for the all-purpose field hunting model. In any event, I wouldn't buy one anyway...no ports for me.

[Redhat]

I’ve been shooting a Stoeger M3K for about two years now. Basically an M3000 with 24” barrel and a few other “competition” goodies. Apparently there were some issues with the inertia spring breaking early on but mine has shot 3 Gun, skeet, trap, sporting clays and I’d estimate round count over a thousand with zero malfunctions. Birdshot, buckshot and slugs all shoot faster than I can afford to shoot them.

I've heard it's popular with some of the 3-gun crowd.

How would you compare speed of cycling and recoil vs a gas gun?

[Navin Johnson]

So during my quarantine boredom I've started to consider a general purpose 12 ga semi-auto shotgun. I am interested in the least costly yet reliable model that could be used for limited wing shooting and maybe some clays shooting (since the National Shooting Complex is not to far from me).

Since I can't really go to the LGS's to put hands on any right now, thought I'd ask the forum what they like. Unless I find a really good deal, I'll probably try to hunt down a good used model.

From my on-line scouting, I think I may have it down to 3 choices:

Stoeger M3000

Remington V3

Mossberg 930

Any info on these or others appreciated.

Another consideration is on the "other end". You will likely loose more money if you sell one of the above than if you sold a well vetted gun. I'm in the market also and the V3 is the only one of those I would look at (and it is not high on my list).

[Redhat]

Another consideration is on the "other end". You will likely loose more money if you sell one of the above than if you sold a well vetted gun. I'm in the market also and the V3 is the only one of those I would look at (and it is not high on my list).

Don't leave us in suspense...what is high on your list? :cool:

[Rick R]

I've heard it's popular with some of the 3-gun crowd.

How would you compare sped of cycling and recoil vs a gas gun?

My other gas gun is a Super X Model 1, my wife was shooting a Beretta 391. The recoil on the Stoeger may be a bit more, I think it cycles faster. It definitely runs a lot cleaner than either gas gun.

[Navin Johnson]

Don't leave us in suspense...what is high on your list? :cool:

1301 comp

[Redhat]

1301 comp

Yeah, I looked that one over last night. It's too far toward the tactical end for my use / likes.

I'm not concerned too much with resale value as what I'm looking for won't need to be sold or traded unless it's just a lemon.

[Redhat]

My other gas gun is a Super X Model 1, my wife was shooting a Beretta 391. The recoil on the Stoeger may be a bit more, I think it cycles faster. It definitely runs a lot cleaner than either gas gun.

I'm not familiar with the Super X, is that Beretta or Winchester?

[WobblyPossum]

Yeah, I looked that one over last night. It's too far toward the tactical end for my use / likes.

I'm not concerned too much with resale value as what I'm looking for won't need to be sold or traded unless it's just a lemon.

What’s too tactical about the 1301 Comp? It’s basically a black A400 duck gun with a shorter barrel (21” or 24” instead of 28”).

[Rick R]

I'm not familiar with the Super X, is that Beretta or Winchester?

A 40 year old Winchester, I believe they are up to Super X Mod 3 now. It was designed to replace the Model 12 pump in Winchester’s line up so it has a steel receiver and an odd gas system compared to the Remington 1100 that was its competition.

Edited to add,
I see they are up to a “Mod 4” now. See what happens when you get old? :D

[Redhat]

A 40 year old Winchester, I believe they are up to Super X Mod 3 now. It was designed to replace the Model 12 pump in Winchester’s line up so it has a steel receiver and an odd gas system compared to the Remington 1100 that was its competition.

And it's still truckin' along so it must be pretty good. You looking to retire it?

[Rick R]

And it's still truckin' along so it must be pretty good. You looking to retire it?

Nope.

It’s kind of my “Barbecue” shotgun with walnut stock, cut checkering and deep Winchester blueing. It has a special place in my safe due to the circumstances that led to its acquisition. As a PSA, the Mod 1’s have a synthetic bumper in the back of the receiver that needs replaced every couple thousand rounds. I think I have a spare, I hope somebody still makes them...

[Redhat]

What’s too tactical about the 1301 Comp? It’s basically a black A400 duck gun with a shorter barrel (21” or 24” instead of 28”).

Ok, from Beretta's web site:

- "The Beretta 1301 Comp semiauto shotgun is designed to win tactical competitions right out of the box."

- "Tactical stock"

- etc.

MSRP: $1275


I have no doubt it's an excellent gun for it's stated purpose.. I'm just looking for something else: a simple, reliable semi-auto that isn't likely to have a lot of rounds put through it.

[Redhat]

Nope.

It’s kind of my “Barbecue” shotgun with walnut stock, cut checkering and deep Winchester blueing. It has a special place in my safe due to the circumstances that led to its acquisition. As a PSA, the Mod 1’s have a synthetic bumper in the back of the receiver that needs replaced every couple thousand rounds. I think I have a spare, I hope somebody still makes them...

That sounds pretty cool. My cousin has his Dad's Browning A5, Light 12.

ETA - Just looked it up...that's a great looking shotgun.

[mmc45414]

The outlier might be a quality used Remington 1187, plus whatever people smarter than me recommend.
I think folks tend to overcomplicate this, I know I sure did when I started out! :o

This is not the ultimate gun, but IMO you would have a hard time finding something you could not do with this:
https://gunprodeals.com/product/REMINGTON-FIREARMS-29879-1187-SPORTSMAN-SEMI-AUTOMATIC-12-GAUGE-28-3-BLACK-SYNTHETIC-STK-BLACK?utm_source=wikiarms
And Remingtons are like Legos. Chokes are like $20 and readily available, alternative stocks are like $80 and readily available.

I now have two Berettas, but before I did I had an 1100 version of the above that I shot thousands of targets with.

The A300 is probably better, and the same price, if cheap accessories are not important to you:
https://gunprime.com/products/sale-beretta-a300-outlander-12-ga-nib-black-synthetic-24-12ga-j30tt14-gl-c4331e-863900669

ETA: There also seems to be some tendency to feel equipment inferiority when starting out doing clay shooting. In my experience, nobody cares. You are going to be a beginner and people will be helpful no matter what gun you have, unless they are assholes, and those people would still be assholes if you had a Perazzi.
ETA Again: Yeah, what he said!

I know that the Remington 1100 and 1187 are not on your list, but they would certainly do the job.

Okie John

[okie john]

I think I can find what I want under $500. I usually look for a good used deal first.

I can do pump, as I have spent considerable time back in the day with those, but I want a semi to try out. Heck the last one of those I got to hunt with was a Browning Auto 5.

I know that the Remington 1100 and 1187 are not on your list, but they would certainly do the job. I'd look for a deal on one that's cosmetically acceptable, then sell the existing barrel and put that money into the barrel(s) that you want.

I have a good LGS who has a ton of stuff on hand, and will sell just a stocked action plus as many barrels as you want. Can't do that under quarantine, though...


Okie John

[Redhat]

I know that the Remington 1100 and 1187 are not on your list, but they would certainly do the job. I'd look for a deal on one that's cosmetically acceptable, then sell the existing barrel and put that money into the barrel(s) that you want.

I have a good LGS who has a ton of stuff on hand, and will sell just a stocked action plus as many barrels as you want. Can't do that under quarantine, though...


Okie John

Re the 1100, I always wanted one of those since I was a kid. Is it true you have to change barrels to accommodate different weight shot shells / charges ?

My younger brother has a 1187. Says it runs fine unless he cleans it, then it short strokes...

[okie john]

Re the 1100, I always wanted one of those since I was a kid. Is it true you have to change barrels to accommodate different weight shot shells / charges ? My younger brother has a 1187. Says it runs fine unless he cleans it, then it short strokes...

I think so, but I know very little about the 1100. Back before the Remchoke system came along, that would have made sense. You'd change barrels to change chokes, so the gas port got changed at the same time. I think that the 1187 was designed to address that.

There are some good 1100 threads here, and much wisdom has been dispensed.


Okie John

[Gearqueer]

So during my quarantine boredom I've started to consider a general purpose 12 ga semi-auto shotgun. I am interested in the least costly yet reliable model that could be used for limited wing shooting and maybe some clays shooting (since the National Shooting Complex is not to far from me).

Since I can't really go to the LGS's to put hands on any right now, thought I'd ask the forum what they like. Unless I find a really good deal, I'll probably try to hunt down a good used model.

From my on-line scouting, I think I may have it down to 3 choices:

Stoeger M3000

Remington V3

Mossberg 930

Any info on these or others appreciated.

Redhat,

I’d urge you to wait until this pandemic dies down so that you can at least put hands on some samples at a LGS. Wingshooting shotguns are mostly about fit, and without getting into custom fitting, you may find that one brand may give you a warm fuzzy gun mount whereas another doesn’t fit you well. JMO since I haven’t shot either of the three you mentioned. With handguns and rifles I don’t think fit is essential, but with point-shooting shotguns it’s paramount. Good luck!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[mmc45414]

Re the 1100, I always wanted one of those since I was a kid. Is it true you have to change barrels to accommodate different weight shot shells / charges ?

I think so, but I know very little about the 1100. Back before the Remchoke system came along, that would have made sense. You'd change barrels to change chokes, so the gas port got changed at the same time. I think that the 1187 was designed to address that.
The 1100 is strictly 2-3/4" gun, the 1187 is 2-3/4" and 3" gun and the gas system is more broadly accommodating. I have not owed the 1187 personally, but the 1100 I had ran and ran and ran. Until you might choose to reload you will not have a worry. I ran a bunch of 1oz reloads through mine, and I may have also ran some 7/8oz loads, but that might have been fuzzy (might be twenty years ago).


My younger brother has a 1187. Says it runs fine unless he cleans it, then it short strokes...
All of the gas guns are a little sensitive to not having too much lube, it causes the crud to collect. Also, the 1187 might have one of the gas rings that can be flipped for heavier loads, not sure but might be worth some research.

[JTMcC]

If you have good pawn shops in your area, then cruise thru frequently. Some of the older semi's are solid reliable guns.
1100's and 11-48's do it for me, because I have them around and like the reliability with the loads I shoot.
Auto 5's and variants deserve some attention, so do 11-87's. I like the vintage look.

I trust Mossberg 590's but their semis are just to much of a crap shoot. I avoid Turkey made guns like the plague, on principle if nothing else.

Some of the Italian made guns already mentioned are very, very good but I tend to buy American made.

Older Remington 1100's are sleek, reliable, and awful purty to my eye. They mount/point better for me than any others, but I'm no wingshooter guru.

[Redhat]

Redhat,

I’d urge you to wait until this pandemic dies down so that you can at least put hands on some samples at a LGS.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk


Is there any other way to buy? Seriously, I don't do online ordering for guns simply because of what you said. I need to have it in my hands to look it over. And FWIW, the last purchase I made was a G26 Gen 4. I shopped for a little over a year to find the right deal. Don't see having to do that with the shotgun though as I expect some deals will be there after all this is over.

[Joe in PNG]

Once this is all over, prowling the used racks for a good deal on a Browning Auto 5 or Remington 12 deal might just be fun.

[vaspence]

For what the OP posted I'd recommend putting a Beretta A390 with a 26 or 28" barrel into consideration. Great shotgun for clays, etc. for the price and the couple I've owned have just run and run. And are still running for the guys I sold them to.

[sheepdog]

I also give a nod to the Remington V3. If you want to get a general purpose one, you might consider the 26" in lieu of the 28" as the balance is a little further forward because of the piston system forward of the trigger group on the barrel and lack of recoil spring in the stock. This will be a better balance of upland vs waterfowl or clay shooting.

You can also get an 18" barrel for it now and magazine extension if you want to adopt it for HD at some point.

[Redhat]

For what the OP posted I'd recommend putting a Beretta A390 with a 26 or 28" barrel into consideration. Great shotgun for clays, etc. for the price and the couple I've owned have just run and run. And are still running for the guys I sold them to.

Any idea what the used prices might be?

[Redhat]

I also give a nod to the Remington V3. If you want to get a general purpose one, you might consider the 26" in lieu of the 28" as the balance is a little further forward because of the piston system forward of the trigger group on the barrel and lack of recoil spring in the stock. This will be a better balance of upland vs waterfowl or clay shooting.

You can also get an 18" barrel for it now and magazine extension if you want to adopt it for HD at some point.

I don't do upland or waterfowl hunting...but I do like to shoot dove on occasion.

Any issues with how the V3 vents out through the handguards?

[OlongJohnson]

Once this is all over, prowling the used racks for a good deal on a Browning Auto 5 or Remington 12 deal might just be fun.

Too soon, boomer doomer!



Any issues with how the V3 vents out through the handguards?

Doesn't seem to be a problem for the 1301 and friends.

[Joe in PNG]

Too soon, boomer doomer!


An Auto 5 12ga is on my list of "missing heritage guns". Dad had one when I was a kid, but had to sell it during a bit of financial trouble long ago.
It joins the S&W .32-20 that my grandma let rust out after my grandpa died.

[vaspence]

Any idea what the used prices might be?

Good condition in central Virginia, $500 or so.

[Redhat]

Good condition in central Virginia, $500 or so.

That might work depending on condition...but they're mighty proud of their guns down here in San Antonio.

[Redhat]

Good condition in central Virginia, $500 or so.

I did a little research on Shotgun World Forum and the 390 was very highly recommended, especially for it's reliability and durability.

[oregon45]

Ok, from Beretta's web site:

- "The Beretta 1301 Comp semiauto shotgun is designed to win tactical competitions right out of the box."

- "Tactical stock"

- etc.

MSRP: $1275


I have no doubt it's an excellent gun for it's stated purpose.. I'm just looking for something else: a simple, reliable semi-auto that isn't likely to have a lot of rounds put through it.

Beretta's description of the 1301 Comp as a "tactical" shotgun is likely meant to differentiate it from Beretta's other "competition" shotguns that are designed to win clays competitions. The stock on the 1301 Comp is perfectly suitable for shooting aerial targets. It might not be the ideal trap stock, or the best sporting clays stock, but it is hardly unusable.

I wouldn't let Beretta's use of the word "tactical" take the 1301 Comp out of consideration for a "simple, reliable semi-auto that isn't likely to have a lot of rounds put through it."

[Redhat]

Beretta's description of the 1301 Comp as a "tactical" shotgun is likely meant to differentiate it from Beretta's other "competition" shotguns that are designed to win clays competitions. The stock on the 1301 Comp is perfectly suitable for shooting aerial targets. It might not be the ideal trap stock, or the best sporting clays stock, but it is hardly unusable.

I wouldn't let Beretta's use of the word "tactical" take the 1301 Comp out of consideration for a "simple, reliable semi-auto that isn't likely to have a lot of rounds put through it."

It's still packed with features and a price I don't need. It's seems built to be a tactical type gamer gun, which is definitely something I don't have a use for. Their description certainly differentiates it from their hunting guns.

[vaspence]

It's still packed with features and a price I don't need. It's seems built to be a tactical type gamer gun, which is definitely something I don't have a use for. Their description certainly differentiates it from their hunting guns.

I just bought a 24" 1301 Comp to use as a general purpose/hunting gun. It's black but doesn't jump out as anything tactical to me other than maybe the oversized bolt handle.

My thought is it agrees with Dagga Boy's definition of an inconspicuous sporting shotgun. It's the one on the left next to a 1301T and an 870PM. It's not a $500 shotgun but thought I'd show you it isn't all tactical type gamer either (not that I really have a grasp on the definition of that).

51524


51525

[Redhat]

I just bought a 24" 1301 Comp to use as a general purpose/hunting gun. It's black but doesn't jump out as anything tactical to me other than maybe the oversized bolt handle.

My thought is it agrees with Dagga Boy's definition of an inconspicuous sporting shotgun. It's the one on the left next to a 1301T and an 870PM. It's not a $500 shotgun but thought I'd show you it isn't all tactical type gamer either (not that I really have a grasp on the definition of that).

51524


51525

Last "tactical" shotgun I fired was a military 20" Rem 870 and it was not a fun gun to shoot.

[DIESEL]

I wouldn't hesitate on the stoeger. I spent a LOT of time deciding what to get when I made the leap to semi for my main field shotty. I ended up with the m3500(no reason to settle for 3" chamber) even after toting a buddy's Beretta A400 into the marsh a few times, for less than half the price the stoeger is hard to beat. I've only hunted one season with it but it took well over 100 quackers out of the sky in all kinds of conditions with out a burp! It also cycles target loads nicely. I've put everything from 2 3/4" 7 shot to 3 1/2" BB shot goose loads through it. love this gun.51569

[Redhat]

I wouldn't hesitate on the stoeger. I spent a LOT of time deciding what to get when I made the leap to semi for my main field shotty. I ended up with the m3500(no reason to settle for 3" chamber) even after toting a buddy's Beretta A400 into the marsh a few times, for less than half the price the stoeger is hard to beat. I've only hunted one season with it but it took well over 100 quackers out of the sky in all kinds of conditions with out a burp! It also cycles target loads nicely. I've put everything from 2 3/4" 7 shot to 3 1/2" BB shot goose loads through it. love this gun.51569

Thanks,

Is there anything you would like to see improved and what are it's strong points?

[DIESEL]

Thanks,

Is there anything you would like to see improved and what are it's strong points?


Strong points:
For shooting clays or hunting without the plug it's 5+1.
If you get the cerakote version the finish is durable and I like the look of the bronze.
Pretty simple to field strip and clean.
Very light weight without the stupid "recoil reducer" installed, actually just a weight increaser.
Comes with four chokes.

Really can't think of anything I would change to be honest.

ETA: in full disclosure I did have to put 50 hunting loads through it before it would properly cycle with target loads, I tried light loads right out of the box and first time it short cycled and jammed.

[Redhat]

Strong points:
For shooting clays or hunting without the plug it's 5+1.
If you get the cerakote version the finish is durable and I like the look of the bronze.
Pretty simple to field strip and clean.
Very light weight without the stupid "recoil reducer" installed, actually just a weight increaser.
Comes with four chokes.

Really can't think of anything I would change to be honest.

ETA: in full disclosure I did have to put 50 hunting loads through it before it would properly cycle with target loads, I tried light loads right out of the box and first time it short cycled and jammed.

Thanks, is it recommended by the manufacturer to break it in before using lighter loads.

BTW, I like the looks of that shotgun.

[DIESEL]

Yeah, I've never been real good at the whole follow directions thing.

[Redhat]

Yeah, I've never been real good at the whole follow directions thing.

Maybe it's to set the springs or something...IDK

[Rick R]

FWIW Beretta advised pretty much the same thing for the 20ga A400 we replaced my wife’s 12ga 391 with.

I think I broke the M3K in with heavy target loads. It hasn’t bobbled with 1oz slugs, buckshot, or the bulk target loads from Winchester or Federal. It did fail to lock the bolt back with some pretty wimpy 1 oz target loads a friend tried in it. When I bought a bunch of stuff from MOA he threw in a reduced power recoil spring because he was later than he thought necessary shipping it out (I thought he was quicker than 90% of custom guys). I haven’t seen a need to install it but I don’t use reduced loads much. I have yet to shoot any 3” ammo thru it.

[willie]

See http://cdnnsports.com

Look at Turkish semi auto ATA Neo. Never shot one. Have handled and liked. I place in same category as Stoeger semi auto shotguns. At $250 each, you can buy a second one if you like the first. CDNN guys are straight up. Ask if people complain. If you're cheap, buy an Academy Sports Mossberg Maverick Combo which comes with a short barrel and sporting length barrel. They work. You can't wear it out. For $500 you won't find a premium shotgun.

[Redhat]

See http://cdnnsports.com

Look at Turkish semi auto ATA Neo. Never shot one. Have handled and liked. I place in same category as Stoeger semi auto shotguns. At $250 each, you can buy a second one if you like the first. CDNN guys are straight up. Ask if people complain. If you're cheap, buy an Academy Sports Mossberg Maverick Combo which comes with a short barrel and sporting length barrel. They work. You can't wear it out. For $500 you won't find a premium shotgun.

No pumps for me this time around. Since I first started this thread, I've expanded my research a bit. Once things return to "normal" I have a feeling there might be some deals out there.

So far my list has grown a bit to:

Mossberg 930
Rem V3
Rem 1187
Stoeger M3000
Beretta A390 series

[willie]

Support on the Stoeger might dry up despite its association with Beretta. Remington products have had too many quality problems in recent years. Older models are good. Mossberg autos are a toss up in reliability. Famous people who shoot them are paid to do so and to sing the company song. The Beretta series mentioned is the only one allowing you to buy a shotgun with the knowledge that it will work reliably, has the promise of factory support, offers pride of ownership, and will retain its value.

[41magfan]

I think folks tend to overcomplicate this, I know I sure did when I started out! :o

This is not the ultimate gun, but IMO you would have a hard time finding something you could not do with this:
https://gunprodeals.com/product/REMINGTON-FIREARMS-29879-1187-SPORTSMAN-SEMI-AUTOMATIC-12-GAUGE-28-3-BLACK-SYNTHETIC-STK-BLACK?utm_source=wikiarms
And Remingtons are like Legos. Chokes are like $20 and readily available, alternative stocks are like $80 and readily available.

I now have two Berettas, but before I did I had an 1100 version of the above that I shot thousands of targets with.

The A300 is probably better, and the same price, if cheap accessories are not important to you:
https://gunprime.com/products/sale-beretta-a300-outlander-12-ga-nib-black-synthetic-24-12ga-j30tt14-gl-c4331e-863900669

ETA: There also seems to be some tendency to feel equipment inferiority when starting out doing clay shooting. In my experience, nobody cares. You are going to be a beginner and people will be helpful no matter what gun you have, unless they are assholes, and those people would still be assholes if you had a Perazzi.
ETA Again: Yeah, what he said!

I'll echo these suggestions with a slight edge given to the 11-87 due to readily available parts, accessories and product support. I've seen brand new 11-87 Sportsmans selling for $470.

[Redhat]

Support on the Stoeger might dry up despite its association with Beretta. Remington products have had too many quality problems in recent years. Older models are good. Mossberg autos are a toss up in reliability. Famous people who shoot them are paid to do so and to sing the company song. The Beretta series mentioned is the only one allowing you to buy a shotgun with the knowledge that it will work reliably, has the promise of factory support, offers pride of ownership, and will retain its value.

Maybe a TriStar Raptor?

[willie]

Allow me to avoid giving a yes or no answer to your question, and let me ramble. Eventually I will get around to shotguns. A large number of firearms importers have existed during the last 50 years during which I have owned several hundred guns. Importers come and go. After they die, product support dies with them. Sad truth is that in many cases these outfits failed to support their products when active. You and I could become importers. To cut expenses, our "support" might consist of hiring some airhead who does not answer his telephone and may or may not respond to emails. Probability is high that we would not maintain spare parts. Importers demonstrate some variation of what I described.

A very few Turkish factories make almost all of the many "made in Turkey" shotguns which are then stamped TriStar or something else. Product support varies from none to terrible to ok to excellent. I recommended that you buy a shotgun from CDNN. It is made in Turkey and its clones continue to be brought in by importers. However, the importer that brought this one in dropped this line. They would not even discuss product service. I suggested it because of cheap price.

I have no experience with TriStar shotguns. Now, if you wish to consider regular priced Turkish shotguns that have excellent customer support, then look at any Yildiz shotgun sold by Academy. Academy is the sole importer of this brand and has cut out the middle man. Further, Academy contracts with a world famous super shotgun smithing outfit in Houston to handle Yildiz customer support. In today's gun world you can't get screwed when you buy a NEW Yildiz shotgun from Academy Sports.

[Redhat]

I know who CDNN is, I usually order pistol mags from them.

Years ago, I had a CZ712 made by Huglu. Nice walnut and never had any trouble with it, but I didn't put a lot of rounds through it either. I just want one for occasional use.

[willie]

Academy also sells TriStar in addition to a clone of the CDNN offering. You would do well by locating an older but nice Rem 1100. They work, fit most people, and have an outstanding 60 year record. Those selling used guns negotiate, and that includes Cabella's.

[RONK]

We've had very good luck with the Beretta A300 Outlander,American made.We're just trying the Stoeger semis this year.Benelli,who imports the Stoeger has always been great with their customer service when needed.

[Nephrology]

I'd definitely go with an entry level beretta in this case (the A300 seems good). My experience with new manufacture remington products is extremely disappointing. I won't be giving that company my money again.

[OlongJohnson]

I no longer own any shotguns that are not Italian semiautos. If I find myself wanting to do shotgun things where I feel my ability to do them well is limited by the characteristics of the ones I have more than by my own suckage, I will probably look for a deal on another Italian semiauto, slightly used. Or maybe the Renegauge, if it proves to be as good as Mr. Kelley is saying.

[Redhat]

I'd definitely go with an entry level beretta in this case (the A300 seems good). My experience with new manufacture remington products is extremely disappointing. I won't be giving that company my money again.

Well if you wait a while their quality may improve as these things typically go in cycles. I've been reading a shotgun specific forum and the Remington V3 has a lot of love there.

I wouldn't mind finding a good deal on a used Beretta 390.

[Redhat]

See http://cdnnsports.com

Look at Turkish semi auto ATA Neo. Never shot one. Have handled and liked. I place in same category as Stoeger semi auto shotguns. At $250 each, you can buy a second one if you like the first. CDNN guys are straight up. Ask if people complain. If you're cheap, buy an Academy Sports Mossberg Maverick Combo which comes with a short barrel and sporting length barrel. They work. You can't wear it out. For $500 you won't find a premium shotgun.

I'm cheap...but not at a point where I would buy a Maverick pump gun.

[Redhat]

Academy also sells TriStar in addition to a clone of the CDNN offering. You would do well by locating an older but nice Rem 1100. They work, fit most people, and have an outstanding 60 year record. Those selling used guns negotiate, and that includes Cabella's.

If I came across a deal on a Rem 1100, I wouldn't turn it down.

[willie]

4,000,000 plus Remington 1100 shotguns have been made. Most were 12 gauge. I would not require the gun selected to have a barrel with choke tubes. Instead I would search for a great deal on a nice gun. Further, though I would prefer a barrel marked skeet, improve cylinder, or modified, I would not reject a gun having a full choke. External chokes like the old school Poly Choke work but seriously degrade a shotgun's value. An 1100 so equipped should be priced $75 less. Screw in choke tubes in theory offer versatility but are usually left home. My opinion is that improved cylinder is most desirable, then modified, and last full. 1100 reliability is dependent on an O ring, easily replaced and inexpensive.

[Gray Ghost]

I would not buy a semi-auto shotgun that was not made by Beretta, Benelli, or maybe Browning. I have seen to many cheap autos fail in the field. I run a Benelli Super Black Eagle II for ducks, geese, and turkeys. I have also shot doves with it, although I only use it for that if it is raining (otherwise I use my 20 ga Beretta Silver Pigeon II). The SBE2 cycles everything from cheap #8 doves loads to 3.5" turkey and goose loads without a hickup. It also comes wit a nice shim kit to adjust the drop and cast to suit you, and they make three different length factory recoil pads to adjust the LOP.

Now that the SBE3 has been out for a while, I'm sure you can find a deal on an SBE2. You won't regret it.

[Redhat]

I'd definitely go with an entry level beretta in this case (the A300 seems good). My experience with new manufacture remington products is extremely disappointing. I won't be giving that company my money again.

I keep hearing good things about the Rem V3, have you checked it out?

[Nephrology]

I keep hearing good things about the Rem V3, have you checked it out?

I have not. I know little about the V3. I'm still just burned on a 18" 870 barrel withe rifle sights I bought new. The front sight was very obviously canted. It went immediately back in the box and back to Brownells, whose return policy I have come to love deeply. I figure if they can't even get that right, I wouldn't trust them to build the rest of a gun, either.

[Redhat]

I have not. I know little about the V3. I'm still just burned on a 18" 870 barrel withe rifle sights I bought new. The front sight was very obviously canted. It went immediately back in the box and back to Brownells, whose return policy I have come to love deeply. I figure if they can't even get that right, I wouldn't trust them to build the rest of a gun, either.

There's a lot to be said for having a hands on look before you buy...at least Brownell's took care of you.

[Nephrology]

There's a lot to be said for having a hands on look before you buy...at least Brownell's took care of you.

Well, this was just a replacement barrel - not something I can commonly find in most gunstores usually, as far as I know. I figured I could order it like I'd order any other gun part online and it would show up in the mail and work as advertised but nope.....

It is too bad as both of my 870s are very nicely built.

[Redhat]

Well, this was just a replacement barrel - not something I can commonly find in most gunstores usually, as far as I know. I figured I could order it like I'd order any other gun part online and it would show up in the mail and work as advertised but nope.....

It is too bad as both of my 870s are very nicely built.

So did you ever get the barrel you wanted?

I wonder is Brownell's would check the barrel before sending the second one?

[Nephrology]

So did you ever get the barrel you wanted?

I wonder is Brownell's would check the barrel before sending the second one?

Nope, I just returned it and kept the refund. Couldn't really find another barrel that fit my purposes, so I just kept the bead sighted factory barrel. It was pretty disappointing to be honest.

[DDTSGM]

Nope, I just returned it and kept the refund. Couldn't really find another barrel that fit my purposes, so I just kept the bead sighted factory barrel. It was pretty disappointing to be honest.

After this pandemic is over, you might check out Midwest Gun Works, they have sold me several barrels, seem to have a pretty wide selection. I tend to like 21" Turkey barrels.

[Nephrology]

After this pandemic is over, you might check out Midwest Gun Works, they have sold me several barrels, seem to have a pretty wide selection. I tend to like 21" Turkey barrels.

That's good to know! I'm actually probably going to divest myself of most of my pump guns - just not very good with them and would prefer a semi-auto. But I will keep that in mind!

[P.E. Kelley]

I no longer own any shotguns that are not Italian semiautos. If I find myself wanting to do shotgun things where I feel my ability to do them well is limited by the characteristics of the ones I have more than by my own suckage, I will probably look for a deal on another Italian semiauto, slightly used. Or maybe the Renegauge, if it proves to be as good as Mr. Kelley is saying.


Thank you! I do not take that "endorsement" lightly!

On OP topic. Stoeger M3000 for the win. Fits into the durable and inexpensive perfectly.
Pick a barrel length and enjoy.

For the record, the Super X-1 shares noting with the succeeding generations. SX-2, 3, 4.

[Redhat]

Thank you! I do not take that "endorsement" lightly!

On OP topic. Stoeger M3000 for the win. Fits into the durable and inexpensive perfectly.
Pick a barrel length and enjoy.

For the record, the Super X-1 shares noting with the succeeding generations. SX-2, 3, 4.

Hey, thanks. I've whittled it down to the Stoeger and TriStar Viper G2.

BTW, have you done any shotgun reviews on your YT channel?

[DamonL]

Stoeger

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JBR96cNt0Zc

[Redhat]

After much reading and watching reviews, I went with the TriStar Viper G2, 12GA, 26" bbl in black synthetic.

If anyone's interested, here are my reasons:

- Price
- 5 yr mechanical warranty
- Company is in Kansas City, they also do any repairs. Customer service is reportedly very good.
- This model is gaining a good reputation for reliability
- Simple gas operated design (yeah I wussed out there, for softer recoil)
- If you need basic parts, they said they will send them to me.

I actually called them and the guy was quite happy to talk about their products as well as answer all my questions.