Anybody know anything about SHOTGUNS?

[cheapthrillz]

You guys did a great job of helping my first handgun (I ended up getting a Glock 19C) and now I think I want to invest in a shotgun for the house.

I think i definitely want a 12 ga but I need it to function and shoot well. I would like to be able to shoot clays every now and then, but care nothing about hunting. But the main purpose of the gun would be for home protection.

I think I will get this gun used since the performance difference for a new shotgun is just about the same as a slightly used one. I would also like to find one for $300 or less.

Anybody want to comment on brand, barrel length, sights, finish, stocks, capacity? These are the things that I am unsure about.... maybe you guys could help me out. Please try to back up your opinions.

I don't want to hear "Get a Remington 870 because everybody likes it".... it should read "Get a ________ because it _________"

Thanks guys (and gals)!

[cheapthrillz]

Also, what should I look for if I go into a pawn shop or look at some used guns? Specifically, Good/bad wear and tear signs....functional ability... etc.

[Samckitt]

OK I won't say get a Remington 870 because everyone likes it, but I will say I have a Remington 11-87 & I love it. I can shoot cheap field loads right after a 3" magnum slug & mix & match all day long & it will kick them all out. I have used it for sporting clay shooting, running 100 shells through it in a couple hour period & not have any jam. I have used it for Skeet, trap, rabbit hunting, squirrel, deer, duck, goose. You name it. And never, not once has it jammed on me. I have never had any trouble with it. Now finding one for $300 may be tough. I have had mine for about 18 years, I got it when I was working at Wal-Mart & back then, new I got it for $319.

[Blown353]

For home defense... hmmmm.

A pump action is typically 100% reliable unless the operator forgets to cycle it or short-strokes it in a panic/stress situation. And we have the old argument of "the noise of someone working a pump action shotgun will scare off the intruder 3/4 of the time."

Automatics work well too... however, automatics can sometimes be finicky depending on the load used. Some are more picky than others. Example: some autos cycle 3" high base hunting loads just fine but might not cycle 2-3/4" low base reliably... or not at all. So if you buy an auto be sure to put plenty of your home-defense loads through it and also make sure you can manually clear a misfeed or a botched-ejection without having a second thought.

Wanting reliability and stopping power of the weapon above all else for a life or death home defense situation, I would buy a good pump and spend plenty of time practicing with it (clays, etc.) so when the time comes you don't malfunction and short-cycle it.

FYI, new Mossbergs are rather inexpensive, they're extremely reliable, and you can often buy them in combo-packs with a longer barrel for hunting/target use and also with a shorter 18" barrel that's better suited for swinging around in close quarters like a house. A full length 26-32" barrel and full stock can become very unwieldly and bulky in a house. Also, long mag tubes are a plus here. You can never have a weapon that holds too many rounds when your life is on the line (unless you can't hold it up... LOL)

Whatever you buy, before declaring it fit for "homeland security" use I would spend a lot of time with it to determine and test the reliability of both the weapon using your desired ammo and yourself.

[Young Gun]

you mention sights?

its a shotgun for self defense...you point and shoot, buckshot is gonna have a plenty nice spread that will do plenty of damage... I am gonna have to say that I love my 11-87 Sportsman, i have the 26 in barrel and its an auto...great gun...great for hunting and you feel plenty safe behind it...after a couple rounds of shooting clay I never had a jam...great gun...easy maintenance too...its around 600 though so its out of your price range...I would save up a bit for it though

[Restomod]

I bought a Remington 1100 20" used ,bought a +3 shot extension and the speed loader floorplate and combat bolt handle. Next I am getting the full stock with pistol grip and fore end. I guess I will have less than $450 in it....thats a lot better than a new Benelli M4 $$$$$$$.

[XLexusTech]

870 just do it everone like it for a reason :-)

[1969CamaroRS]

Mossberg 590A1 with Ghost-ring sights, speed feed stock, surefire weapon light. 9 Rounds in the shotgun and 4 more in the stock, hard to beat:
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/standard-1.jpg

[Blown353]

Mossberg 590A1 with Ghost-ring sights, speed feed stock, surefire weapon light. 9 Rounds in the shotgun and 4 more in the stock, hard to beat:


You sir have what I would consider the just about ideal home defense setup... original poster, take note.

I would prefer a pistol grip stock for a bit more control and "pointability" for non-shouldered shooting positions but a standard stock is just fine too.

[cheapthrillz]

Thanks for all the posts so far guys! Keep them coming....

So far:
Remington 870, 1100, and 11-87
Mossberg

I like the idea of having a pump shotgun, partly because they are cheaper than the semi's... also for the reliability.

[seekins]

Go to a store where you can handle a few of them. Some just fit better than others and everyone is different. 870's feel like crap to me, but the benelli fits great, even the cheaper one.

After tonight's election, buy one now.....

[bigvegan]

What they said about the 590A1.

If it's good enough for the U.S. Navy, it's good enough for you.

[JustinB]

If you are really green with firearms you should take some lessons from an instructor and get really comfortable with your glock. In a home defense situation I am grabbing my S&W .38 revolver. For info on shotguns check out shotgunworld.com. For clays I really like my Beretta 391 12g/28" barrel. The remington 1100 is also a good starter gun for clays. Both are auto loaders(semi-autos). If you dont mind recoil and want to drop some cash, Browing makes some killer over/unders. Just make sure you get something with removable chokes.

[Jim Nilsen]

If you are really green with firearms you should take some lessons from an instructor and get really comfortable with your glock. In a home defense situation I am grabbing my S&W .38 revolver. For info on shotguns check out shotgunworld.com. For clays I really like my Beretta 391 12g/28" barrel. The remington 1100 is also a good starter gun for clays. Both are auto loaders(semi-autos). If you dont mind recoil and want to drop some cash, Browing makes some killer over/unders. Just make sure you get something with removable chokes.

The S&W .38 is the only pistol I was ever able to just pick up and shoot and hit what ever I pointed it at. I could even hit the target by shooting from the hip. They are just firearm I would have for home defense myself. It's all in the feel and being an extension of your arm just like pointing your finger. Concealed carry passed in my county by 70%. So the demand is going to go up.
:twothumbs

[harshman]

870 because it works and quail taste real gud.
Taraus PT24/7 Pro .45 because I like to make smiley faces at 10 yards out.

[69LT1Nova]

Just like several other people, I own a Remington 870. Love it. You can beat the thing to death and it'll perform day in, day out. Plus, it's CHEAP! Benelli = $$. You won't worry about scratching up an 870.

Mossberg is another good cheap model. I've shot both the 870 and Mossberg back to back, and I prefer the 870.

[bwhinnen]

I loved my Remington 1100 when I could still own it here (no semi-auto or pump actions allowed in my state without a disability permit). Great balance and very easily pointable shotgun (which is what you want) don't worry about sights, the bead is enough as you want to point a shotgun not aim it. I had no troubles with pretty much every load I put through it.

[bobbaganoosh]

I have an 870 super magnum, never had a problem with it from any ammo. I've shot form 2 3/4 to 3 1/2 all different shot sizes with no issues. I've used it for hunting, gone to the range for target & sporting clays, and just flat out blasted sh*t for fun. For the price they can't be beat.

[amx2334]

I haven't purchased a shotgun in 20+ yrs. but here is what I remember.I would recommend a used mossberg over a new one. The action is already broken in and much smoother. The new ones felt a little sticky.
My personal favorite for hunting was the 870 wingmaster. It just felt right. I didn't care for the express at all though.

[novanutcase]

All the shotguns mentioned are very nice but for my money the Benelli Super 90 is the one!

It's made buy one of the most respected gunmakers in the world(Heckler & Koch) and it retains its resale value better than most any other shotgun out there!

I have the one below for sale. It's a semi-auto and shoots as fast as your finger can pull the trigger. VERY low hours on it and cleaned meticulously. Includes case. Do your research first then PM me!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/PICT00026-1.jpg

John

[BMF Machine]

OOOOOOOOOOOO........... I like that Beneli!

Winchester, Remington, Browning, Mossberg.... All great ShotgunS! Beneli, Berretta........


A twelve gauge is awsome no matter the make! Clays are easy no matter what you are shooting them with........(Twelve Gauge, I can not hit them with a pistol of coarse?lol)

[cheapthrillz]

Thanks for all of the replies guys...

I think that I will be getting a Mossberg 500 because of reliability and accessories.... It will probably be a used composite stock gun if I can find one for a good deal in good shape.

Thanks for all of your help.

[JEFFTATE]

Mossberg pump action with pistol grips.

[69LT1Nova]

All the shotguns mentioned are very nice but for my money the Benelli Super 90 is the one!

It's made buy one of the most respected gunmakers in the world(Heckler & Koch) and it retains its resale value better than most any other shotgun out there!

I have the one below for sale. It's a semi-auto and shoots as fast as your finger can pull the trigger. VERY low hours on it and cleaned meticulously. Includes case. Do your research first then PM me!

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/PICT00026-1.jpg

John

Very nice gun! :worship: I've shot this one, and it is smooth as silk. Just let the recoil pull the trigger for you. :machine:

[MrQuick]

I second the Mossbergs, 500's at Big 5 are low 300's.
590A1 with a pistol grip and maybe look into Knoxx stock.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

Also look into getting used ones. Try some of the gun sites that might be local in your area.

Prices have been going up on guns and ammo just this past month so shop around and look for sales.

[indebt69]

Winchester X2 gets my vote!!!! After a day of shooting clays with a pump, you'll want an automatic and ur shoulder will think you. Had a Benelli pump and after having an auto especially the X2, I won't ever go back to a pump!

[69LT1Nova]

Had a Benelli pump and after having an auto especially the X2, I won't ever go back to a pump!

Wuss. :wedgie:

Pump action is fun. :bsjerk: LOL!

[novanutcase]

Winchester X2 gets my vote!!!! After a day of shooting clays with a pump, you'll want an automatic and ur shoulder will think you. Had a Benelli pump and after having an auto especially the X2, I won't ever go back to a pump!

Yup! The semi-auto's are sweet!

John

[JustinB]

Winchester X2 gets my vote!!!! After a day of shooting clays with a pump, you'll want an automatic and ur shoulder will think you. Had a Benelli pump and after having an auto especially the X2, I won't ever go back to a pump!

The Winchester X3 also looks like a nice gun. If my memory serves me correct the Winchester X3 and Browning Gold semis (and they are considered semi-automatics or autoloaders) share alot of the same parts at a fraction of the cost.

[muthstryker]

i just bought a benelli M4 maybe you should look into one of those :P

my cousin has her gun dealer lic. so i get all my guns at cost.

[novanutcase]

i just bought a benelli M4 maybe you should look into one of those :P

my cousin has her gun dealer lic. so i get all my guns at cost.

Really? Do you think she could get me a fully auto, silenced H & K MP-5N? Just kidding! Navy issue only. But if she can......:fingersx:

John

[chicane67]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/Benelli_M3-1.jpg

Benelli M3 for me...

I had an M1 and upgraded to the M3. The M1 was great... but you couldnt limp wrist it... you had to stand into it. Great house shotgun... and with the pistol grip you could use your forward hand to open doors and clear corners without taking the shotgun out of your shoulder. But... like I said, the single mode idea didnt live up to what I wanted out of a single shot gun.

The M3 is the only shotgun that can shoot semi-auto and pump-action with the twist of the wrist on the fly. The ability to have both functions in one gun makes all the difference in the world. You can displace door breachers, bean bags (and all other non-leathal rounds), flash bangs and flares... no to mention that it will also take all 2 3/4 - 3+" high base to low-recoil tacticle loads. A big selling point is that even the most fraile woman can shoot an M3. To me that means the wife/girlfriend can use it if your not home. In fact my, at the time girlfriend... who was about a buck-o-9 soaking wet... could shoulder fire the M3 without issue.

Hey John... move out of Kalifornia and you can own anything you want. I can get you a 5N for around $10-12k... legally and with a tax stamp.

Sometimes... work is just work:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/CompLineup-1.jpg

[muthstryker]

Really? Do you think she could get me a fully auto, silenced H & K MP-5N? Just kidding! Navy issue only. But if she can......:fingersx:

John



Dont you live in cali? Those are littered on the streets just have to know who to talk to :rotfl:

[Tony_SS]

nvm... Im liking the mossbergs 500 too

[go-fish]

I use my shotgun for purposes other than home defense, I use the Sig Sauer for that.
You don't see scopes on shotguns alot but my Mossberg has a rifled barrel on it.
The round is basically a sabot inside of a shotgun shell (2100 fps/ 1" drop @ 100 yds.). I shot into balistic gel and the round measured .50 caliber. It makes a mess of hogs.

For home defense I like a smaller more silent weapon. I like holding a pistol close in CQC style (no long barrel to for a BG to grab when entering a room to investigate). Also, I do not want to give away my most valuble asset, element of surprise, by racking a shotgun.

[Restomod]

Go,Who makes that sabot round???

[GBodyGMachine]

Like shotgun-ing a beer? Oh yea, prefer beer bongs though. :firefire:
Oops, wrong thread!

[hotrdblder]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/Benelli_M3-1.jpg

Benelli M3 for me...

I had an M1 and upgraded to the M3. The M1 was great... but you couldnt limp wrist it... you had to stand into it. Great house shotgun... and with the pistol grip you could use your forward hand to open doors and clear corners without taking the shotgun out of your shoulder. But... like I said, the single mode idea didnt live up to what I wanted out of a single shot gun.

The M3 is the only shotgun that can shoot semi-auto and pump-action with the twist of the wrist on the fly. The ability to have both functions in one gun makes all the difference in the world. You can displace door breachers, bean bags (and all other non-leathal rounds), flash bangs and flares... no to mention that it will also take all 2 3/4 - 3+" high base to low-recoil tacticle loads. A big selling point is that even the most fraile woman can shoot an M3. To me that means the wife/girlfriend can use it if your not home. In fact my, at the time girlfriend... who was about a buck-o-9 soaking wet... could shoulder fire the M3 without issue.

Hey John... move out of Kalifornia and you can own anything you want. I can get you a 5N for around $10-12k... legally and with a tax stamp.

Sometimes... work is just work:

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/CompLineup-1.jpg
tom, how much is that set-up?

[go-fish]

Go,Who makes that sabot round???

The round in the picture is some old stuff before I found the Remington Accu Tip.
The black round in the pic is a Winchester Partition Gold which is a really good choice at 1900 fps with 385 grain and .50 cal. Before those I was using some really crappy Remington Copper Solids. Muzzle velocity on those was 1400 fps and had a a 3.5" drop @100. That was my first experience w/ sabot slugs and almost turned me off until I found the Partition Golds.
Now with the Remington Accu Tip I am more anxious than ever to get a deer witht the 835. I didn't shoot this one into ballistics gell but the advertisement on Cabella's I found says it is .58 cal, I figured it was .50 too.
I bought two 5 count boxes and blasted through them so none left to photo ( http://www.cabelas.com/prod-1/0061633216687a.shtml ).

Even though I knew I was going to take it in the shoulder I was glad I found better ammo and wanted to keep sighting in and shooting.

On the gun right now is just a 3-9x40 Leupold from Wally World but next year it'll probably be sporting a Nikon SlugHunter scope http://nikonsportoptics.intermediaoutdoors.com/stories/slug.php .

[Samckitt]

Go,Who makes that sabot round???

There are a few companies that make them, that one looks like a Remington to me.

Go to Cabelas.com & search for sabot, go to the 3rd page.

[go-fish]

tom, how much is that set-up?

Remember hotrdblder, the gadgets have specific functions but the gadgets don't make the shooter. Why they would ever need to produce M4 handguards with more than maybe 2 rails is beyond me.

I am not accusing Chicane or you of being gear queers here. If Chicane needs the extra tools on his weapon then he needs them, but remember, the only person you are going to find in the dark with a flashlight is someone wo does not want to kill you or does not have the means.

Speed, Surprise, and Violence of action are your pillars of CQC, not Speed, Surprise, Violence of Action, and Stuff Hanging Off Your Weapon.

Again not flaming, just learn your weapon in it's bare essentials and nevermind how many picatinny rails are on it. After that, and you are proficient enough and the need is great enough then go for the extras.

I say this because I see it at every range day, SF guys can get out shot by the grunt "support" guys because, yes, even SF guys can get the gear queer mentality and end up with a 15 lb. M4 not allowing them to be true.

[1969CamaroRS]

For any type of home defense a good light is required IMHO. You don't walk around with the light "on", you use it quickly to ID an intruder (and hopefully blind them for a second or so it takes) before taking action...

[go-fish]

My point was to beware of all the add-ons and not to get caught up on how cool it looks, all Tom Clancy and stuff.

In my opinion, if you see a silhouette and it doesn't fit the profile of someone who is supposed to be there then it is an intruder. You would either be able to see the silhouette well enough to not need a flashlight to positive ID or you would have to be searching with the light to see the intruder.

Of course, in my work environment we practice light discipline and live with a mentality that light, noise, and inattentiveness are bad things. Naturally it carries over into home time.

It is just a different way. And I again stress that I am not flaming, if you feel you need something tacked on to your weapon and it makes you more comfortable then do it. After all, you do not want to shoot blindly and not be comfortable.

I went through a course where you had to hold your sidearm upsidedown and pull the trigger with your pinky. The point was not to learn to shoot like that but to use your tools in every way and be somewhat comfortable doing things that would normally be out of the ordinary. We had to shoot laying on our back and some other funky stuff.

Point is, to each his own. I would feel more comfortable keeping my eyes at the same light sensitivity while going around the house than flashing short little bursts of light from a Surefire in closets and hideaways.
You are different and may choose another way, but again beware of doing stuff to your weapon because you think it looks cool and you saw this movie one time where Steven Segal had this tact out gun and it was really neato.

[BMF Machine]

Never spoken truer!

All I have on my Springfield match M1-A1 .308 is a weaver 16 power scope! Although the 4 inch shade is for looks?:headbang:

[1969CamaroRS]

Like this?

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

:rotfl:

[BMF Machine]

:lmao: I used to work with the shortest roundest ***** I ever met. I was either going to beat him senceless and get sued, or just quit. So, I quit and got a better job. Anyhoo, he had an ar-15 with two flashlights on each side, a sure fire laser, and a red dot scope? I told him he would make an easy target because he looked like a frigg'n christmas tree carrying that thing around.

[muthstryker]

Never spoken truer!

All I have on my Springfield match M1-A1 .308 is a weaver 16 power scope! Although the 4 inch shade is for looks?:headbang:




Nice, Thats what I would like to get next. What finish do you have on it?

[muthstryker]

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/11/CompLineup-1.jpg


Have that same surefire foregrip! Hows that aimpoint?

[cheapthrillz]

My point was to beware of all the add-ons and not to get caught up on how cool it looks, all Tom Clancy and stuff.

In my opinion, if you see a silhouette and it doesn't fit the profile of someone who is supposed to be there then it is an intruder. You would either be able to see the silhouette well enough to not need a flashlight to positive ID or you would have to be searching with the light to see the intruder.

Of course, in my work environment we practice light discipline and live with a mentality that light, noise, and inattentiveness are bad things. Naturally it carries over into home time.

It is just a different way. And I again stress that I am not flaming, if you feel you need something tacked on to your weapon and it makes you more comfortable then do it. After all, you do not want to shoot blindly and not be comfortable.

I went through a course where you had to hold your sidearm upsidedown and pull the trigger with your pinky. The point was not to learn to shoot like that but to use your tools in every way and be somewhat comfortable doing things that would normally be out of the ordinary. We had to shoot laying on our back and some other funky stuff.

Point is, to each his own. I would feel more comfortable keeping my eyes at the same light sensitivity while going around the house than flashing short little bursts of light from a Surefire in closets and hideaways.
You are different and may choose another way, but again beware of doing stuff to your weapon because you think it looks cool and you saw this movie one time where Steven Segal had this tact out gun and it was really neato.

Good posts! Thank you!

[chicane67]

Jake... which piece are you refering to, the shotty, the M4 or a device on the M4??

go-fish... "Gear Queer"... now that's comedy. Funny thing is... that isnt me in the picture (Im merely a blurry one in the back ground) and that specific picture is from a QRT... trainning the Navy boys. Gear queer's they can be.

Im not a big fan of bolt-on's either. One... they increase weight, two they increase complexity, three they add to the margin of applicable error... and then you have other items in which you have to carry to support these devices... like batteries and cables and such. Hell I dont even own a weapon mounted light. The only bolt on's I own are CT grips, long gun optics (NV related 1913 devices) and can's. And at this point... my Steyr SSG PII is the only thing with any bolt-on's... a 4.5x14x50 Mark IV LRT with a 4" shade/ARD and a LaFrance Specialties HFZ can. In fact the only other bolt-on I have... are the CT grips on my SA Officers Compact.

I agree with go-fish... it is much harder for your eyes to adjust each time you push the momentary switch. Discreation is best kept in the dark. Well that... and even one single flash it makes you a target. Work stuff is different... and usually accomplished in a different light spectrum all together.

Stryker... I'm actually a fan of ACOG. I personally feel that the AimPoint doesnt 'come up' as well as the ACOG does for my comfort and ability.

[hotrdblder]

the m3,with same grips etc

[go-fish]

Chicane, I am glad you didn't take me the wrong way. I am working on explaining myself better so people don't think I'm being an hassole.

The gut in the pic really isn't doing to bad, maybe he uses the light in another capacity other than combat???? If he feels like he needs it then good for him.

Pesonally, I carry too many flashlights on me to need one on my weapon. I have a mini-little Gerber light on 550 cord necklace and a surefire on my MTV.
If you feel your house is too dark when you hear a bump in the night you could get the Clapper or just set a couple chem lights next to your weapon and chuck them in the living room or down the hallway before you do your room clearing or investigeting.
I have outside light coming in and always leave the stove's exhaust fan light and living room "mood" lighting on in the night. If those lights are out then something is definately happening.
The most important thing is to know how to get around your house with no light. Practice with your eye's closed. You also have an advantage of knowing your home's layout better than the intrudor. Practice what your procedure will be. Entering a building for the first time you often have to make insanely quick and instinctive decisions on where your muzzle goes. Take advantage of your home turf.
Also, practice shooting, practice clearing your house (your wife will think your crazy), and have your stff together in case an intruder targets you (I had to quit sleeping nekid).

[Tony_SS]

Thanks for all of the replies guys...

I think that I will be getting a Mossberg 500 because of reliability and accessories.... It will probably be a used composite stock gun if I can find one for a good deal in good shape.

Thanks for all of your help.

Which 500 are you looking at? I've pretty much decided on them too for many reasons. I'm leaning toward the 500 Tactical Cruiser.

[chicane67]

Jake... When I picked it up a little over five years ago, I paid roughly $1100... and at the same time I was seeing them sold at the local gun shows here in Vegas for $995 to 1050. That was with a smooth-bore/non-choke barrel, ghost rings and pistol grip stock. But that was five plus years ago... and with the M3 no longer being produced (the new M2/M4 are all off of the NOVA platform now)... I believe they are running $1000 to $1600 new, from what I have been hearing. $650 to $1000 used, depending on condition of course.

go-fish... It's all good. My sarcasm gets in the way of clear conveyance at times. Not for me obviously, but its either everyone is s l o w e r that day... or maybe they just dont have to be at 9/10ths mentally when they work. IIRC that particular week was the 'Sure-Fire' bolt on week... where the boys got to test drive some new toys in their product line.

To further your 'know your house' explaination... hell, just have a couple of kids. They lay boobytraps around the house all the time. Its great for the unsuspecting perp... and at times... not so good for you if you are not in alert mode.

[go-fish]

I went to the gun store today to buy more of the Sabot slugs for the season and saw the Sig 556. I am a huge Sig Sauer fan and have yet to see the new rifle before. I got to check it out and was a little unimpressed. I did like the telescoping and folding stock. It was a little muzzle heavy. I don't really need it and don't like Sig enough to collect them like some people collect Air Jordan basketball shoes.

Speaking of kids Chicane, I would rather spend $1500 on a Dobbie. I had been thinking of one for along time because of my little girl. I remember when I was a kid my neighbors had one and when we were little guys she would watch over us like a sentinal. I had always had Labs and tey are great dogs, however, they are really incoherant and would rather play with the kid instead of watch them. Best one I had was a mix with Rottweiler, she was more protective. The Doberman though would sit from a distance and seem to be on watch and not interact with playtime.
We had a lab with my little girl and she was too playful with the baby so she went to my parents farm.
I just couldn't think of better first line defense than a Doberman Pinscher. What good is a weapon if a quiet intruder is standing over you when you wake up? Even if it is a little yapper dog it'll give you a heads up.

Looking at the Sig 556 I just realized that I had promised myself on my last deployment that I would get a Dobbie when I got back and decided that I better get one before I buy another firearm I don't need.

[cheapthrillz]

Which 500 are you looking at? I've pretty much decided on them too for many reasons. I'm leaning toward the 500 Tactical Cruiser.

I'm just looking around at pawnshops in the area for a good deal on mossberg 500. I'm not a huge fan of the polymer stocks and all, but I would settle for one if I can get a good deal on it. I just think that shotguns are very attractive with wooden stocks. I am looking for a 12 ga with exchangeable chokes. I just want a shotgun to go shoot skeet and have a shotgun in my house just in case I accidentally leave the glock in my truck or something....

[Tony_SS]

I decided to go ahead on one yesterday - my brother and I went looking and I made somewhat of an impulse buy but it's the model I wanted so I went for it.
Mossberg 500 Tactical Cruiser with the meat tenderizer for $339. The local shop was slammed in the middle of the day on a Tues and were darn near out of everything.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[harshman]

The local shop was slammed in the middle of the day on a Tues and were darn near out of everything.

I wonder why? :secret:

[go-fish]

God and guns. Well, you can count me in on the guns part.

[silverz28]

I'm not sure about shotguns but I know that this isn't the way to shoot them!
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[go-fish]

That's gonna hurt!

[cheapthrillz]

Just wanted to let everybody know that I broke down and bought a Rem 870 yesterday. I went on Friday of last week and shot clays with a bunch of my friends. They brought all of their guns so I got to shoot all of them and see which one I liked the most in my price range. I shot a Mossberg 500a, Remington 870 Express, Benelli Nova and super nova, Remington 1100 20 ga, and a 16 ga Winchester semi (which was a sweet gun, don't know much about it other than it is pretty old and shoots amazingly, although it was out of my price range).

Then I went to the pawn shops and was blown away at the prices of heavily used shotguns! I don't know if it was just the few that I went to or all of them in general, but they were WAY more than I was expecting. So then I went to Wal-mart (I despise wal-mart by the way) just to see the prices of some shotguns that they had, and of course they only carried muzzleloaders and pellet guns :banghead:. They told me to go to the wal-mart in a different town, so my roomate and I drove 35 minutes to the next wal-mart (thank god gas prices are down) to check it out. They had a few of the guns I was looking at. They had Mossberg 500's for $209 and Remington 870's for $277 (about $50-$100 cheaper than the pawn shop and they were brand new). So I got the fairly attractive cashier to get one of each. There is just something extremely hot about a woman putting a shotgun together!

Anyway, I dsecided on the 870 because it wasn't as clunky as the 500. The one I got has the composite stock and foregrip, and the reason I got it is because the wood just looked cheap and there was just something sexy about the composite. I guess I will save up and get a "pretty" shotgun later.

Again, thank you all for your help. I really appreciate it!

EDIT - I will try to get a picture and post it up...

[Tony_SS]

Congrats. Did you get any ammo? The guy at the shop suggested slugs for target practice by my father in law said slugs weren't good for the gun. Any suggestions for target practice and something good for home defense that won't blow though drywall and studs?

[cheapthrillz]

Congrats. Did you get any ammo? The guy at the shop suggested slugs for target practice by my father in law said slugs weren't good for the gun. Any suggestions for target practice and something good for home defense that won't blow though drywall and studs?

Thanks Tony. I picked up a value pack of #8, 2/34 inch shells, gonna go tomorrow and put a few through the gun to make sure it functions properly. If anybody hasn't seen the new styling of the 870 I would say that they are a great improvement IMO.

[chicane67]

Maybe next time... when we tell you to go get a Rem 870 from the begining... and you say that you dont want to hear "just go get an 870"... it will make more sense, to just take our collective word for it.

:poke:

[cheapthrillz]

I forgot to post a pic. Here is the gun I got:

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[critter]

I hunted for years. Then it turned into a situation that was too much trouble and I walked away, selling all my guns. Last fall I bought an 870 for the same reason you did. It'd dead on reliable and cheap. It sleeps under my side of the bed with a full load of 00 buckshot.

Good choice.

[MonzaRacer]

OK now learn how to remove the barrel, and for home defense get a slug barrel with rifle sights, what ever fits the gun is ok but typical 2 3/4 shells work great and it gives at least 1 extra shell or more. It looks to be either a modified, improved Cyl, or full choke. Now with Clays my 870 likes the , if I remember correctly , the improved cylinder barrel, but for home defense, I would alternate #8 and double ought (OO) buck shot.
Reason for a slug barrel, is try swinging that thing around a house. then put on the slug barrel.
OH and get a box of 00 and get you and anyone else who MAY have to use it and practice a few hip shots each.
Held from hip ,pivot body and where you look it pretty much hits.
First shot from the hip second from the shoulder, if you place them within a foot of each other from a distance of 20 ft ot less your good.
Also locate the button to decock it(it allows you to open it after puming in a shell), learn this, if you do have to shoot an intruder and are satisfied they are down and have been unarmed(kick gun away if you feel comfortable), WHEN cops are coming in, DECOCK and place gun away from your body. Friend almost got shot when plain clothes cops showed, few tense seconds till IDs got exchanged.
If your gonna shoot trap leave it, if it goes only for home defense pistol grip/fold out stock (ie tactical stock) makes nice addition. Now if anyone has a shot gun with pistol grip, regardless of brand, most if not all states say this is considered a pistol and most require a handgun permit.
Oh and practice. And if your so driven, develop a plan for checking your house if you so choose to if you think there is an intruder. always sweep opposite had to normal hand, ie if your lefty, sweep left to right, unless obstacles are near(here is where slug barrel is handy as they have to take it from you over just grabbing barrel and pulling oh and a sling helps just get one with clips and take off for trap).
Oh and as for AN Mossberg under 30 years old, I wouldnt own one of those loose a$$ POS unless I am trading it off.
Friend nearly had face damaged when an 80s Mossberg literally exploded in his face, yes breach and barrel. That thing rattled so bad he never got deer till he got a different gun. Quality has went up some since Remington bought hem ,but still cheap guns and they put out the cheap a$$ MAverick shotguns and those had severe barrel splitting issues.
Now grandfather had many guns(read hundreds) and I saw and felt old Mossberg over newer ones, like handling a cheap toy over a a Perozzi or Benelli or Remington or Winchester.
Now me I lead home defense with my P90 .45 ruger, one in pipe, 8 in clip and 2 more 7rd clips.

[wicked68]

I bought a Remington 1100 20" used ,bought a +3 shot extension and the speed loader floorplate and combat bolt handle. Next I am getting the full stock with pistol grip and fore end. I guess I will have less than $450 in it....thats a lot better than a new Benelli M4 $$$$$$$.


wow - that brings back memories. this had to be one of the best guns that remington made - I still have mine from when I bought it in 1980. I have not hunted with it much in the last few years but it has been a very reliable wing gun for literally my entire life. I got it when I was 13 and I hunted quail in south georgia last fall with it - still worked like a champ. I do take very good care of it - but have never had to service it at a smith or replace parts.

I suspect one day one of my sons will be using it as a reliable gun.

[cheapthrillz]

Got this one yesterday. Can't beat a Mossberg 500A for $90! I don't like the C-lect choke, but I can live with it... The wood is in very good shape and it doesn't look too bad for an older model (pre-1977).

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[Tony_SS]

I've been eyeing the Maverick they have up at wallyworld for $187. Perfect for clays! Maybe I'll buy it for myself for Christmas.

[cheapthrillz]

I've been eyeing the Maverick they have up at wallyworld for $187. Perfect for clays! Maybe I'll buy it for myself for Christmas.

Same action and gun basically. I've shot a few mavericks and they ALL cycled and shot more consistently than my 870 even though they're not the prettiest thing in the world....

[elacruze]

I have two Mossberg 500's. I love them both, one old and one ancient.
A couple points to ponder; The gun you bought is great for sporting, gives up a tiny bit in handling inside the house. But, hopefully you'll sport shoot it forever, and get good with the handling it has-and hopefully you'll never use it in the house.
Secondly, I go against popular opinion when it comes to house loads. I keep #6 birdshot in my house gun, because it is just as sure to stop a person in the same room as is a slug or #00 buckshot-but it's far less likely to go through your house and kill your dog, the neighbor's dog, or the neighbor. Consider that your home defense will likely be at point blank range so what comes out the barrel isn't critical to the intended target but may well be to accidental targets.

[68nate]

One thing I've always had to consider is where the safety is because I'm Left Handed. I have an 870 and Mossbergs. I love the Remington but rarely use it for hunting because to take the safety off I have to rap my finger around the trigger to push the safety off. My Mossberg is my home protection gun, for me it feels more natural with a thumb safety. Both great guns.