durability of shotguns

modenar22 · February 11, 2008, 12:58 AM

Im thinking of getting a beretta 12ga in either over under or semi auto. What are the durabilities of these shotguns. which one would last longer. Would the semi cycle light loads? all your feedback would be greatly appreciated.

Buzzcook · February 11, 2008, 04:16 AM

Both will outlast you and probably your grand kids.

BigJimP · February 11, 2008, 02:07 PM

Most semi-autos have some problems cycling light loads - but if you keep them clean and well lubed (after every range trip) then most semi-autos will cycle loads down to 1200 fps even if they are only 7/8 oz in a 12ga.

Beretta Semi-autos have a lot of moving parts / gas parts, etc and they will wear over time ( but there should be no reason why you can't get 25,000 rounds of it without a rebuild ) or 4 boxes a week for almost 5 years. But if you don't clean it and lube it - I've seen Beretta semi-autos have problems at 5,000 rounds but that's not because its a bad gun / its a foolish owner in my view.

Almost any good over under Beretta, Browning - will cycle at least 25,000 - 50,000 rounds thru it with little or no problem. But again you can't ignore the maintenance.

skeeter1 · February 11, 2008, 02:30 PM

Quote:

"Both will outlast you and probably your grand kids."

I've got a pair of SKB double guns,

http://www.skbshotguns.com/

One with only a few thousand rounds through it (hunting) and one with at least 25K rounds (trap). A good double gun like the Beretta will last for a few lifetimes.

With a fixed-breech shotgun like a double, there's no worry about whether or not it will handle light loads. With a semi-auto, you're taking your chances.

February 11, 2008, 12:58 AM	#1
modenar22 Junior Member Join Date: January 6, 2007 Posts: 6	durability of shotguns Im thinking of getting a beretta 12ga in either over under or semi auto. What are the durabilities of these shotguns. which one would last longer. Would the semi cycle light loads? all your feedback would be greatly appreciated.

February 11, 2008, 04:16 AM	#2
Buzzcook Senior Member Join Date: November 29, 2007 Location: Everett, WA Posts: 6,126	Both will outlast you and probably your grand kids.

February 11, 2008, 02:07 PM	#3
BigJimP Senior Member Join Date: February 23, 2005 Posts: 13,195	Most semi-autos have some problems cycling light loads - but if you keep them clean and well lubed (after every range trip) then most semi-autos will cycle loads down to 1200 fps even if they are only 7/8 oz in a 12ga. Beretta Semi-autos have a lot of moving parts / gas parts, etc and they will wear over time ( but there should be no reason why you can't get 25,000 rounds of it without a rebuild ) or 4 boxes a week for almost 5 years. But if you don't clean it and lube it - I've seen Beretta semi-autos have problems at 5,000 rounds but that's not because its a bad gun / its a foolish owner in my view. Almost any good over under Beretta, Browning - will cycle at least 25,000 - 50,000 rounds thru it with little or no problem. But again you can't ignore the maintenance.