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Old August 14, 2001, 09:31 AM   #1
martin6
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Join Date: October 9, 1999
Location: Oklahoma City, OK, USA
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Newbie question: Suggestions for a light/fast 20ga. Auto for clays/birds

I'm looking for something light and fast, in 20ga., and with a Semi-Auto action. I will be using the gun for sporting clays and dove/quail. I'm not the richest guy in the world, so money is a factor. I'm real big on value (quality + reasonable price). Any suggestions? Thanks, -martin 6
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Old August 14, 2001, 10:52 AM   #2
Dave McC
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One of the 1100s in 20 ga may be the best lower cost solution.Others not as common nor as cheap would include the various Beretta and Franchi autos.All of these are around used, oft the best bet for lower costs. Still expect to pay at least $300-500.

Remington made an 1100 Special Field model with 21" bbl, straight grip and light weight that's much cherished by quail hunters.

HTH....
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Old August 14, 2001, 05:14 PM   #3
K80Geoff
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I agree, the best bet would be a Remington 1100 or the Beretta 390 series. These are both gas operated and both have an abundance of afermarket parts to make them handle better and work better.

The Beretta can be a bit pricey but it is a quality gun. My own personal opinion is that cheap guns tend to be more espensive in the long run. Nobody stays with the first gun they purchase.


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Old August 14, 2001, 06:00 PM   #4
Kingcreek
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I have an 11-87 Upland Special 20g. Light and fast 23" barrel and straight grip but I found it to be a little too light and fast for skeet. Nice quail gun tho. I bought a 12g 390 for clays. A good 20g compromise might be a 390/391 with a 24-26" tube.
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Old August 14, 2001, 10:17 PM   #5
PJR
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I put my hands on a Beretta 391 in 20 gauge recently and it was absolutely delightful. If I hadn't already put my credit card down on a Browning Citori Feather XS, the 391 would have been going home with me.

It's not the cheapest gun around and if higher priced Beretta is out of your range, the 1100 Remington is an excellent choice too. I stick with barrels no shorter than 26" and would recommend 28" with choke tubes.
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Old August 14, 2001, 11:55 PM   #6
Gary H
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Here is a light and supposedly reliable 20 ga. The Franchi Variopress 620. Comes in various forms and can be had for about $500, or less.



http://www.franchiusa.com/variopress/
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