Skeet/Trap Shotgun Suggestions???

Oski

May 10, 2002 12:47

My wife and I want to start shooting skeet and/or trap. I need to buy a shotgun (I would prefer to buy one and share it) but really don't know what to look for. Any suggestions? I'm curious about the proper gauge, pump vs. semi-auto, choke considerations, barrel length and, of course, any suggestions you might have for specific models to look at. Thanks.

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  TaiChi

  May 10, 2002 13:16

  Oski,
  
  I will make a dreaded assumption that you are shooting the clay bird games for fun, not competion. If you currently own a shotgun take it out and try the games with it.
  The 12 ga. is the gun of choice for trap. A full choke, 30" bbl. and any action is the most often used.
  Skeet is shot with all four gauges, a more open choke and 26" bbl.
  One gun that could be ideal for both would be a pump or semi with a choice of different barrels and chokes. A Rem. 870 or 11-87 with a 26" bbl and 30" bbl.
  
  Hope this helps
  
  Steve

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  He Dog

  May 10, 2002 13:21

  It is generally thought that a shot gun must "fit" the shooter. To the extent that most of us shoot off the shelf pumps or autoloaders this is not necessarily the case, but it is true that a gun that "fits" will shoot more naturally and you will shoot better with it. Most serious skeet shooters shoot either autoloaders for reduced recoil or o/u doubles. Since you want to use the same gun for both you and your wife, you should find a dealer who can measure your reach and try to find a gun that is suitable for both of you to use.

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  Nighthawk

  May 10, 2002 13:26

  The Ruger Red label over and under is popular, I dont know how your wife feels about recoil,so the gauge is up to you mine came with several chokes one of them being skeet. Its a 12ga and lots of fun. I think you and your wife are going to enjoy your new passtime.
  
  Good Luck.
  
  Rugster

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  rsnyder55

  May 10, 2002 22:55

  Reming 1100's seem to be popular as are over and unders. If you go with the O/U, consider the differences between a field gun and the trap/skeet guns. A trap/skeet O/U is typically built on a heavier and more durable frame as a trap/skeet shooter will go through a lifetime of shells for a field gun in a year or two. I go through about 150 - 300 rounds a weekend. One exception to this is the Browning Citori.
  
  Sites for a trap/skeet are set so you rest the beads under the clay pigeon vs a field gun which typically covers the target.
  
  I prefer the O/U as with the amount of shooting you do, you will probably take up reloading and this way you don't have to worry about where the hulls land to break your concentration when you are shooting.

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