The best shotgun for you to buy is.... the *second* gun that you own. You don't know what you want until you know what you want, spend the real money on your second gun.
I bought an beretta 686 sp1 as my first shotgun, i tought it was way too mutch money at first but when i was in the shop getting hands on different guns i had a second tought. I need one shotgun, one for the rest of my hunting life so i spend in my case a good amount of money on my first and only shotgun. And I could not be happier about it 🙂 Sorry for my broken english...
My first was ordered from the Sears catalog...12ga Noble pump. It was a poorly engineered gun and I did not shoot it well. Tried my uncle's Wingmaster and I broke 24 or 25 targets at his trap range. He was the state champion. A few years went by and still a teen there appeared a Parker of 1908 with broken stock at a country auction. $42 later it was mine. Fixed the stock and it's still a joy to shoot. After many years, a lot of guns have found their way into my safe. Most are doubles. But none were more exciting than that auction find with my father who encouraged me to bid just a little more than I had intended. Don't know why I'm sharing all this, but there it is.
My first shotgun was given to me by my Grandfather. I still have it to this day, and is obviously, precious being my Grandfathers. It is a Rowland Watson boxlock non ejector. It has just had its second major restoration since I have owned it. It would never be an economic based restoration, but purely sentimental. There is now always a sense of occasion when I take it shooting, reminiscing of the first time I pulled its trigger at 11 years old under supervision of, "Grandad". Sunday evenings where very special, looking forward to shooting, board, tin cans, and pieces of cardboard, eventually, moving targets, by way of him throwing a weighted baked beans tin, etc. How do I value it? Priceless.
My first gun I found in my freinds grandads shed after he died,,,,,,,made a hammer for it in the metalwork room at school BINGO........Got a SGC about 6 months later , happy days
Just bought my first gun and this video sort of put me at ease. I was worried I'd made the wrong choice, got the wrong length, wrong calibre, wrong this that etc. I still am a complete novice and only shot a handfull of times. It's nice to know there's no definative answer and I should just see where the road takes me. Constrained by budget (whopping £500) I've opted for an older miroku based off some recommendations off friends (as well as jonnys glowing report some videos back), being a lefty whos only ever shot right handed guns hopefully it should feel more natural as well.
Im a lefty who has always shot right handed guns , then I bought a dedicated left handed gun n couldn't hit a barn door with it, went straight back to shooting righties, what ever works for you is the right gun
My first shotgun was a secondhand Beretta 686s. I’m so glad I bought it, nice gun. Not expensive, mostly a Silver Pigeon which everyone likes. I’d recommend them.
My fist gun was a 1914 cogswell harrison avant tout sandhurst. I bought that because it made me happy and that's what I wanted at the time. I used it for everything from cksys to driven game and rabbits.
Back in the day I also owned a GTI, personally I miss it. I think that going to a shooting school BEFORE a Newcomer buys a first gun is the best advice you can give someone. I think you're a great ambassador for the sport. Thanks for the videos.
Hi Johnny, I know this video is a couple of years old, with clay shooting, & game shooting being more accessible to more people today. Could you do a more up to date video of buying a first gun. Compared when I started shooting 40 odd years ago there is more choice therefore for people buying there first gun must be like going through a minefield. Keep the videos coming, always interesting.
Had a 28” barrelled 101 XTR as my first sporter. Did everything capably: Skeet, DTL and local sporting events. Had a Zoli skeet gun and an early Lincoln trap gun which were both junk. This is 30 years ago, so they might be better now.
My 1st shotgun was a Remington Model 11 12 gauge. Used for ducks, actually shot it one morning and tipped the boat over. Boy did it have the recoil. Awesome gun though. For clays 1st was Beretta 391 12 gauge, then a Beretta O/U 20 gauge. Then Beretta A400 12 gauge and finally The Browning 725 Sporting 12 gauge 30 inch barrels ported. This is the ONE that I will be sticking with for a long time. Have a good one and May God bless y'all.
My first gun was a Browning 525 Light Elite. Before I bought it I shoot for a year with friends, and had a go with a Beretta Silver Pigeon, a Browning 425 525 and 725 and a Webley and Scott. When I went to buy my own shotgun I'd had some experience with them and I just liked the feel of a Browning. So when I when shopping for my first shotgun I picked a number of Browning up and the 525 Light Elite just felt right. Its a lightweight shotgun, and it feels more like a rifle. I felt I could just shoot better with this, so I bought it. 6 years later I still shoot with this shotgun, and am very happy with it 👍
my first gun is a Turkish Huwlu Hawk. Here in Ukraine Berettas are quite pricy, so I got the Huglu. It looks nice, it feels comfortable. I'm sure this is not my last gun, but a way to start. Thanks for the video.
Shoot multiple guns, have fun. My son likes guitars and it gets complicated. The best bit of advice we had during that process was from a professional musician. Pick up, play and handle multiple pieces of kit before committing. Don't invest a ton of money to begin with and end up with too much gun to appreciate. You may like a gun, shoot for months and then pick up something else and then realise you didn't actually know what was good for you. If you can't afford the money for new that will be fitted to you, buying second hand can be a bit of a compromise. I've only been to a about 4 gun shops but they all had good advice and none of them wanted to sell me something that was beyond me. The being happy bit is the most important advice. Thanks.
bought my first gun this february solely for clay shooting. got me a 525s ( the "limited"edition one) .shot probably 3 thousand cartridges through it so far. Now am a bit confused. I currently plan on my first gun to be my "second gun" as well. i started thinking that an investment on a truly custom stock to my exact liking (thicker comb, monte carlo, pistol grip etc) would be a better investment than buying a new gun
Great that, I’m after my first gun once my licence comes through and the shops open, it’s hard to work out what’s right! Especially when my friend lends me his Kreighoff Parcours and that fits a treat 🤣
My first gun was a Classic doubles mod 90 28" barrels, bought from my instructor for £250. Fitted ok, shot it ..ok. Second gun was A Gti sporter! Had it fitted, the woodwork refinished. Feels good, looks good, give me a measure of confidence. Its MY gun and a keeper. Still have the Classic doubles, Stiil nice to shoot and a keeper. What else do I need? Also being a lefty off the shelf guns just dont feel right.
The first shotgun I bought at my choice was a Remington 1187 Special Purpose 3" Mag 12 guage 1990.It was a beast. Iwish I would have bought an O/U now that I think about it.
My first shotgun back in 77 was an old Larranaga boxlock, by happy coincidence it fits me like a glove & still does. If i traded it in i might get a box of cartridges for it. But its still my favorite!
I usually abide by the “buy your last one first” rule, but when it comes to sport shooting, I’ve failed. Here in 🇨🇦, it’s next to impossible to try before you buy, so you’re rolling the dice that the gun you shoulder a few times at the store is going to work for you at the range. In my case they did, but not truly.
I have an over under, I brought from some one who couldn't take it to the country he was moving to, and a side by side which is old, very well used and was given to me, as the owner didn't want it anymore. Both go bang when the triggers are squeezed, and that makes me very happy irrespective of if I bag something or not, or if I miss every clay. Great Video, and good to hear I got it right on both occasions even if it was by chance and good fortune. Thanks
Interesting down to earth advice, but for someone like me - totally new to shotguns - not enough basics were covered. For example, and bear in mind that at 70 years of age all I have ever seen were 1950s and 60s shotguns owned by then local farmers, Does one have a choice of barrel length? Importance? All the twelve bores I saw had two triggers - relevance? Do shotgun barrels wear out as rifle barrels do? (I have tried rifle and pistol shooting). How can one determine the extent of barrel wear if a factor? I tend to surround myself with as much vintage as possible. Could a vintage shotgun be as good as a contemporary one? Are double vertical barrels any better than side by side barrels? In what situations would a 10 bore be better than a twelve bore?
Just watched your video again great advice as usual. I was told to buy something like a Beretta/browning etc as it won`t loose as much when changing however I have found that purchasing a new gun creates the greatest loss irrespective of the make
I got my shotgun certificate 3 years ago. And my first gun I bought was a hatsan escort. I had all my grandfathers o/u's and I decided I needed a good gun for pest control. Still got it and still use it the most
I followed the 'Buy Once, Cry Once' rule and got my self the Caesar Guerini Summit Sporter as my first clay gun. I originally planned for Berreta Silver Pigeon I, a proven starter gun. But, I found my self keep walking back to the Guerini section and looking at it. Went back home to think little more. Then I watched your review referring the Guerini to Dreamy. Then I said my self yes that was it. It was dreamy and sexy. I really didn't want to regret not buying what my heart was beating to and decided to buy the Guerini. Lucky me, when I went back to the shop, I found exact same model that a rich lady traded in after 200 hundred rounds for more premium model. I ended up paying $1200 less than MSRP which was only $800 higher than I intended to spend. I'm a happy shooter with a clay gun fits well shoots well looks sexy and feels dreamy. Yep, I got lucked out on this one.
You actually helped me find my first gun, i was shooting a beretta for my hunting license training and gun permit in Denmark, and when permitted i god a SP1. Sporter based on your review. It kills pheasant and duck just as well as it smashes clay and I'm sufficiently avage to fit the gun just fine. I love it, and it's simple to take apart and clean
Your first gun makes you happy if it hits targets. A day at the range is frustrating and painful if you're missing targets for no identifiable reason. The same is true of a game gun that wounds game without clean kills. Good gun fit reduces the number of mysterious misses. In my view, leave fancy walnut/gold dog engraving/ejectors/ultra-long barrels for your second (or twenty-second) gun. The first gun should fit well and mount consistently, with the rib consistently positioned in front of the eye and the head consistently in a good position. All else can wait.
Well my first shotgun (not counting my single shot 410.) Was a remington 870 wingmaster mind I'm only 15 but if your here in the states I would buy a pump action cause they are very reliable and will run pretty much anything if you pick a reliable platform , yes you could buy a semi but not all are created equal semis are picky with shells and more complex to clean as with a pump easy to clean and if you pick a reliable platform like the remington 870 or mossberg 500 they have all kinds of stuff out there for them you could buy a rifled slug barrel for deer a 30 inch barrel for trap you could buy different stocks to fit you and they are simple to take apart but again that's just what I think.
Like this channel. I wish I didn't buy my first shotgun. First was a semi, A400 xcel. It's now my winter, bad weather gun. Sporting clays year around.. My second gun I got great advice from this channel. I had a budget that could have allowed me to spend thousands more than I did. I watched the 686 vs 692 video and completely knew a 686 would be everything I needed. Found a great 32' sporting 686 with grade 3 wood for what a regular priced sporting should be on a good sale.. thanks for a great channel.
My first one for years has been the GTS Special. It literally shoots where I look and hits what ever I look at. Now after many many years and shooting it. Im getting the newest B725. Why. Because it seems Browning just builds for my exact shooting style.
That was an excellent speech very clear concise and I agree completely with everything you said Johnny great job for helping the new shooter or one that's coming back to the sport
I'm getting my first lessons at a local shooting school after this lockdown so this is a very helpful video for me when I eventually get round to buying one so thank you.
I just seeing this video very good I hoip people get into Clays before Covid I wood take a couple of different guns and couple of different people most people with guns are extremely helpful and were I say West of Scotland most guns shops are very helpful and as for price by the best that you can afford with your personal circumstances everybody is different sometimes buying a second hand brand-name will keep your money Turkish makers make some really good guns affordable rate they are superb
Good recommendations Johnny, you're a completely different shooter from when you picked up your first gun. It's about the fit of gun, comfort, mounting & swing. Getting used to shooting with both eyes open. Targets generally moving so stance, mount & swing are very important.For anyone starting to shoot go to shooting grounds & take out a few guns & see how you get on. Instructors will be on hand to lend advice. (Some will naturally plug the big brands as they're getting commission from suppliers)At the end of the day if you're hitting targets don't care what gun you're holding.
Its very much like asking what pellets should I buy for my airgun you can put 2 guns identical side by side and they will both shoot differently it all down to what works for you
Just started to watch the video. My first gun was Baikal MP153. It's heavy It's sticks out like a sore thumb It works It works And it works I still have it. Plus the wood on mine is exceptional.
My advice would be to buy a nice one as your first. Because if you are a true gun person, you’ll never sell it. To a true gun person, they hold a lifetime of memories. I still remember the first shot, the first dove I missed with dad, the first pheasant, the first time shooting trap (badly) with friends and practicing enough to figure it out quickly. Heck, if I think hard enough, I can probably remember every critter I’ve gotten with that shotgun, including 9 straight doves only to miss a perfect low incomer that would have been 10 for 10 but I had to shoot it with number 11 as a hard left crosser. Probably the least expensive firearm I own but it was a quality if plain Franchi 48AL that’s given me perfect service for almost 50yrs now. Although I’ll generally grab something else, I probably shoot it as well as the nicer guns I’ve acquired. But at 6lbs, I’m not sure I’d want to take the beating of a 100 rounds like I used to! lol 👍🏼
My first was a Lanber 30 years ago and I sold it :( i bought another Lanber recently less than I sold my original lanber for. My children use it. It fits them and I am not scared if they damage it accidentally.
I have watched this clip several times as I am in that first gun elusive search. I see your point about older quality opposed to shinny new cheap guns. I struggle with fit in that I can’t get flat on the rib, it must be head shape. All I see is all of the rib and shoot high. I end up pushing my face into the Combe to see flat and hit something. Some feel good in the hand but view is terrible. I will hopefully get that eureka moment soon.
Can you do a video on buying a second hand shotgun? - what to look out for to get an idea of it's condition such as has it fired a million cartridges or will the action drop off?
I went in with a £1.5k budget when I got into shotgun shooting, convinced I was going to buy a Beretta or Browning, but neither fit or felt as good as I thought. I then picked up an ATA that fit and felt perfect and I hit 20/25 clays. Saved myself £1k by not buying a Beretta just for it being a Beretta. And being primarily an air gun shooter, I then went and bought the air arms S410 I'd always wanted with that £1k 🤣
Just buy a gun that makes you happy and gets you the results you want. Hence, I bought a side by side because you tempted me LOL but I need to sort out the calibre (supposedly 16 bore but with .700 and .710 bore diameter barrels) and looking at a O/U. Just need to find the one whose balance I like. B525 but center of gravity needs to shift more backwards and perhaps lose some weight (so guess I'll have to peek at beretta's).
My first self owned shotgun is side-by-side Baikal MP43 12g, that I bought after I watched the Baikal Side by Side Review video you guys made. :D I absolutely love it. The only criticism I have is that the insides of the action could be more smooth.
My advice would be buy it at a store. Then you can see how well it fits at the store before you spend your money. If you buy a shotgun online you may disappointed when it arrives in the mail, and fit is so important to good shotgun shooting.
I like the advice, don't care what your friends say or think, very true, they're not shooting it. Do you think the Sabatti eagle alpen is worth a look ?
That’s why I should own a roach belly’d B2G LWT Game with Teague multi choke conversion.......but do I? Nope because I ( my budget) get distracted ( blown) by interesting vintage stuff instead!
"I was no longer 5'7 I was 6'7..." as someone who has been 5'8 since I was 13 I actually feel lucky in this regard because what fitted me all of those years ago, still fits me to this day.
Great video as always, budget, fit/feel are most important, the second gun will always be something you know more about, forget field/sporting tags i mainly shoot winchester 101/ old miroku field grades and shoot very competetively with guys using p guns and the likes.
Great video alot of great info there. My first was a Webley and Scott 912k from yourself and I shot well with it although thinking of an upgrade soon tempted by a miroku of some description
Odd question, did a bit of pheasant shooting in my youth in Sussex and am thinking about taking up again...in America. Everyone recommends I buy a pump. Are pump action shot guns not popular in the UK? I have to confess they are a bit uncouth but they seem to work fine, be reasonably priced.
I just got my first gun yesterday,I turned 15 and a guy came to the gun store and wanted to rid of an old original Enfield smle, it was in mint condition. Got it for 60pounds 🙉.I live in south africa and even though I'm 15 I got my licences.
I applied for my SGC in June, in last part now I have watched this video a few times now. I have to say it's a bloody hard thing to choose your first gun, but I have decided I'll buy from the shooting school/club I go to. But still can't decide between second hand or Turkish.
Real Gun fit on first gun is paramount imo remember most shops (not tgs) are motivated by sales only and especially second hand guns you will often be told it fits when you are making your self fit it
Hey Jonny , I have a gti ultra sporter and would like to know more about them , comments on action and barrels etc , explication of back bored Price when new and so on , reckon mines a keeper .great video as always 👍
I'm waiting for my certificate to come in currently. But I have a deposit placed on a gun. A Miroku MK70 grade 5 sporter, and I cannot wait to get my hands on it. I hope I've made the right choice but I almost don't care.
A sporting or field can do both disciplines but would something modern looking like the beretta 690 black or external chokes be suitable on a game shoot or avoided if you want a one for all purpose. Sound video and advice.
Johnny as always thanks for another great vid! I'm looking at the RIZZINI S2000 and a used S1000 your opinion or a video would be greatly appreciated! Thanks from Oklahoma USA.
So if you're a slightly built, 5 foot 6", 64 year old fella with underlying health issues - is there any stigma attached in thinking a 16 or 20 bore would be more suitable than a 12 Bore?? The Ladies still seem to be able to hit the clays very well with these!!
The best shotgun for you to buy is.... the *second* gun that you own.
You don't know what you want until you know what you want, spend the real money on your second gun.
Bang on the money
The same is true of wives...(so I'm told 🤔)
It was for me my first O/u was the worst I had more confidence in my semi auto
I bought an beretta 686 sp1 as my first shotgun, i tought it was way too mutch money at first but when i was in the shop getting hands on different guns i had a second tought. I need one shotgun, one for the rest of my hunting life so i spend in my case a good amount of money on my first and only shotgun. And I could not be happier about it 🙂
Sorry for my broken english...
Unfortunately I have known for years that I want a Holland & Holland Royal Side by Side! And its £120k, so I'll never have one... but I would love to!
My first was ordered from the Sears catalog...12ga Noble pump. It was a poorly engineered gun and I did not shoot it well. Tried my uncle's Wingmaster and I broke 24 or 25 targets at his trap range. He was the state champion. A few years went by and still a teen there appeared a Parker of 1908 with broken stock at a country auction. $42 later it was mine. Fixed the stock and it's still a joy to shoot. After many years, a lot of guns have found their way into my safe. Most are doubles. But none were more exciting than that auction find with my father who encouraged me to bid just a little more than I had intended. Don't know why I'm sharing all this, but there it is.
My first shotgun was given to me by my Grandfather. I still have it to this day, and is obviously, precious being my Grandfathers.
It is a Rowland Watson boxlock non ejector. It has just had its second major restoration since I have owned it.
It would never be an economic based restoration, but purely sentimental. There is now always a sense of occasion when I take it shooting, reminiscing of the first time I pulled its trigger at 11 years old under supervision of, "Grandad".
Sunday evenings where very special, looking forward to shooting, board, tin cans, and pieces of cardboard, eventually, moving targets, by way of him throwing a weighted baked beans tin, etc.
How do I value it? Priceless.
My first gun I found in my freinds grandads shed after he died,,,,,,,made a hammer for it in the metalwork room at school BINGO........Got a SGC about 6 months later , happy days
I have just bought my first shotgun , I went for a Browning 525 o/u
Hi TGS, I am 54 now but I do still have my very first gun that I got just after my 15 birthday.
Thanks Johnny, brilliant vid. Just getting into clay shooting and finding videos like this very useful. Keep up the good work mate!
Just bought my first gun and this video sort of put me at ease. I was worried I'd made the wrong choice, got the wrong length, wrong calibre, wrong this that etc. I still am a complete novice and only shot a handfull of times. It's nice to know there's no definative answer and I should just see where the road takes me. Constrained by budget (whopping £500) I've opted for an older miroku based off some recommendations off friends (as well as jonnys glowing report some videos back), being a lefty whos only ever shot right handed guns hopefully it should feel more natural as well.
Great now take a year shoot at least 3000 rounds and then you'll know what you want and how to find what you want and what works for you
Well very likely you bought your forever gun then, older miroku 👍👍👍 made to a very high standard and shoot amazingly, enjoy
Im a lefty who has always shot right handed guns , then I bought a dedicated left handed gun n couldn't hit a barn door with it, went straight back to shooting righties, what ever works for you is the right gun
My first shotgun was a secondhand Beretta 686s. I’m so glad I bought it, nice gun. Not expensive, mostly a Silver Pigeon which everyone likes. I’d recommend them.
Brilliant video Jonny. You should have finished it at 'I don't know' then put out the full video later
Please do a video on buying a semi for clays. :)
Still got my first gun today, £300 escort magnum, perfect for rough shooting and clays
My fist gun was a 1914 cogswell harrison avant tout sandhurst. I bought that because it made me happy and that's what I wanted at the time.
I used it for everything from cksys to driven game and rabbits.
Back in the day I also owned a GTI, personally I miss it. I think that going to a shooting school BEFORE a Newcomer buys a first gun is the best advice you can give someone. I think you're a great ambassador for the sport. Thanks for the videos.
Hi Johnny, I know this video is a couple of years old, with clay shooting, & game shooting being more accessible to more people today. Could you do a more up to date video of buying a first gun. Compared when I started shooting 40 odd years ago there is more choice therefore for people buying there first gun must be like going through a minefield. Keep the videos coming, always interesting.
My first shotgun was a Winchester 101 XTR, cheap gun but did the job. I sold that after a few years and got a Beretta 682 Gold E
Had a 28” barrelled 101 XTR as my first sporter. Did everything capably: Skeet, DTL and local sporting events. Had a Zoli skeet gun and an early Lincoln trap gun which were both junk. This is 30 years ago, so they might be better now.
My fist gun was 1970s made soviet Izh-26 export. Bought it 4 years ago for 60 euros and still use it :)
My 1st shotgun was a Remington Model 11 12 gauge. Used for ducks, actually shot it one morning and tipped the boat over. Boy did it have the recoil. Awesome gun though. For clays 1st was Beretta 391 12 gauge, then a Beretta O/U 20 gauge. Then Beretta A400 12 gauge and finally The Browning 725 Sporting 12 gauge 30 inch barrels ported. This is the ONE that I will be sticking with for a long time. Have a good one and May God bless y'all.
You look very “American” with your Mossberg sweatshirt and baseball cap. Much love from California.
You mean scruffy?
@@tgsoutdoors yes
@@str3tchr - you never mention gender. No consideration for women vs. men?
I'm confused what to buy. Beginner skeet shooter.
TY
My first gun was a Browning 525 Light Elite. Before I bought it I shoot for a year with friends, and had a go with a Beretta Silver Pigeon, a Browning 425 525 and 725 and a Webley and Scott. When I went to buy my own shotgun I'd had some experience with them and I just liked the feel of a Browning. So when I when shopping for my first shotgun I picked a number of Browning up and the 525 Light Elite just felt right. Its a lightweight shotgun, and it feels more like a rifle. I felt I could just shoot better with this, so I bought it. 6 years later I still shoot with this shotgun, and am very happy with it 👍
my first gun is a Turkish Huwlu Hawk. Here in Ukraine Berettas are quite pricy, so I got the Huglu. It looks nice, it feels comfortable. I'm sure this is not my last gun, but a way to start.
Thanks for the video.
Huğlu is a great company with over 70 years history.
Shoot multiple guns, have fun. My son likes guitars and it gets complicated. The best bit of advice we had during that process was from a professional musician. Pick up, play and handle multiple pieces of kit before committing.
Don't invest a ton of money to begin with and end up with too much gun to appreciate. You may like a gun, shoot for months and then pick up something else and then realise you didn't actually know what was good for you.
If you can't afford the money for new that will be fitted to you, buying second hand can be a bit of a compromise. I've only been to a about 4 gun shops but they all had good advice and none of them wanted to sell me something that was beyond me.
The being happy bit is the most important advice. Thanks.
bought my first gun this february solely for clay shooting. got me a 525s ( the "limited"edition one) .shot probably 3 thousand cartridges through it so far.
Now am a bit confused. I currently plan on my first gun to be my "second gun" as well.
i started thinking that an investment on a truly custom stock to my exact liking (thicker comb, monte carlo, pistol grip etc) would be a better investment than buying a new gun
Great that, I’m after my first gun once my licence comes through and the shops open, it’s hard to work out what’s right! Especially when my friend lends me his Kreighoff Parcours and that fits a treat 🤣
My first gun was a Classic doubles mod 90 28" barrels, bought from my instructor for £250. Fitted ok, shot it ..ok. Second gun was A Gti sporter! Had it fitted, the woodwork refinished. Feels good, looks good, give me a measure of confidence. Its MY gun and a keeper.
Still have the Classic doubles, Stiil nice to shoot and a keeper. What else do I need? Also being a lefty off the shelf guns just dont feel right.
The first shotgun I bought at my choice was a Remington 1187 Special Purpose 3" Mag 12 guage 1990.It was a beast. Iwish I would have bought an O/U now that I think about it.
My first shotgun back in 77 was an old Larranaga boxlock, by happy coincidence it fits me like a glove & still does. If i traded it in i might get a box of cartridges for it. But its still my favorite!
I usually abide by the “buy your last one first” rule, but when it comes to sport shooting, I’ve failed. Here in 🇨🇦, it’s next to impossible to try before you buy, so you’re rolling the dice that the gun you shoulder a few times at the store is going to work for you at the range. In my case they did, but not truly.
I have an over under, I brought from some one who couldn't take it to the country he was moving to, and a side by side which is old, very well used and was given to me, as the owner didn't want it anymore. Both go bang when the triggers are squeezed, and that makes me very happy irrespective of if I bag something or not, or if I miss every clay. Great Video, and good to hear I got it right on both occasions even if it was by chance and good fortune. Thanks
Interesting down to earth advice, but for someone like me - totally new to shotguns - not enough basics were covered. For example, and bear in mind that at 70 years of age all I have ever seen were 1950s and 60s shotguns owned by then local farmers, Does one have a choice of barrel length? Importance? All the twelve bores I saw had two triggers - relevance? Do shotgun barrels wear out as rifle barrels do? (I have tried rifle and pistol shooting). How can one determine the extent of barrel wear if a factor? I tend to surround myself with as much vintage as possible. Could a vintage shotgun be as good as a contemporary one? Are double vertical barrels any better than side by side barrels? In what situations would a 10 bore be better than a twelve bore?
Just watched your video again great advice as usual. I was told to buy something like a Beretta/browning etc as it won`t loose as much when changing however I have found that purchasing a new gun creates the greatest loss irrespective of the make
First gun, AYA Yeoman sxs for £95. I only rough shoot/ do walked up. Suited me great, and I just love a sxs!
I got my shotgun certificate 3 years ago. And my first gun I bought was a hatsan escort. I had all my grandfathers o/u's and I decided I needed a good gun for pest control. Still got it and still use it the most
I followed the 'Buy Once, Cry Once' rule and got my self the Caesar Guerini Summit Sporter as my first clay gun. I originally planned for Berreta Silver Pigeon I, a proven starter gun. But, I found my self keep walking back to the Guerini section and looking at it. Went back home to think little more. Then I watched your review referring the Guerini to Dreamy. Then I said my self yes that was it. It was dreamy and sexy. I really didn't want to regret not buying what my heart was beating to and decided to buy the Guerini. Lucky me, when I went back to the shop, I found exact same model that a rich lady traded in after 200 hundred rounds for more premium model. I ended up paying $1200 less than MSRP which was only $800 higher than I intended to spend. I'm a happy shooter with a clay gun fits well shoots well looks sexy and feels dreamy. Yep, I got lucked out on this one.
You actually helped me find my first gun, i was shooting a beretta for my hunting license training and gun permit in Denmark, and when permitted i god a SP1. Sporter based on your review. It kills pheasant and duck just as well as it smashes clay and I'm sufficiently avage to fit the gun just fine. I love it, and it's simple to take apart and clean
Your first gun makes you happy if it hits targets. A day at the range is frustrating and painful if you're missing targets for no identifiable reason. The same is true of a game gun that wounds game without clean kills.
Good gun fit reduces the number of mysterious misses. In my view, leave fancy walnut/gold dog engraving/ejectors/ultra-long barrels for your second (or twenty-second) gun. The first gun should fit well and mount consistently, with the rib consistently positioned in front of the eye and the head consistently in a good position.
All else can wait.
Well my first shotgun (not counting my single shot 410.) Was a remington 870 wingmaster mind I'm only 15 but if your here in the states I would buy a pump action cause they are very reliable and will run pretty much anything if you pick a reliable platform , yes you could buy a semi but not all are created equal semis are picky with shells and more complex to clean as with a pump easy to clean and if you pick a reliable platform like the remington 870 or mossberg 500 they have all kinds of stuff out there for them you could buy a rifled slug barrel for deer a 30 inch barrel for trap you could buy different stocks to fit you and they are simple to take apart but again that's just what I think.
Like this channel.
I wish I didn't buy my first shotgun. First was a semi, A400 xcel. It's now my winter, bad weather gun. Sporting clays year around.. My second gun I got great advice from this channel. I had a budget that could have allowed me to spend thousands more than I did. I watched the 686 vs 692 video and completely knew a 686 would be everything I needed. Found a great 32' sporting 686 with grade 3 wood for what a regular priced sporting should be on a good sale.. thanks for a great channel.
My first one for years has been the GTS Special. It literally shoots where I look and hits what ever I look at. Now after many many years and shooting it. Im getting the newest B725. Why. Because it seems Browning just builds for my exact shooting style.
That was an excellent speech very clear concise and I agree completely with everything you said Johnny great job for helping the new shooter or one that's coming back to the sport
I'm getting my first lessons at a local shooting school after this lockdown so this is a very helpful video for me when I eventually get round to buying one so thank you.
In process of buying my 1st Shotgun. Found your vid on this subject extremely helpful. Thanks!
I just seeing this video very good I hoip people get into Clays before Covid I wood take a couple of different guns and couple of different people most people with guns are extremely helpful and were I say West of Scotland most guns shops are very helpful and as for price by the best that you can afford with your personal circumstances everybody is different sometimes buying a second hand brand-name will keep your money Turkish makers make some really good guns affordable rate they are superb
Learn to shoot clays with a Baikal O/U. I’m not saying it was rough, but a well-worn Remington 870 was a huge upgrade.
My first shotgun was one of those dubious spanish sxs' from the 80s. gotta love em
Good recommendations Johnny, you're a completely different shooter from when you picked up your first gun. It's about the fit of gun, comfort, mounting & swing. Getting used to shooting with both eyes open. Targets generally moving so stance, mount & swing are very important.For anyone starting to shoot go to shooting grounds & take out a few guns & see how you get on. Instructors will be on hand to lend advice. (Some will naturally plug the big brands as they're getting commission from suppliers)At the end of the day if you're hitting targets don't care what gun you're holding.
Well said sir… looking to buy my first and you hit the nail bang on the head. 👍
I've been using my late grandpa's Winchester 101 for a while and finally decided on a Silver Pigeon 1 for myself.
Its very much like asking what pellets should I buy for my airgun you can put 2 guns identical side by side and they will both shoot differently it all down to what works for you
My first was the benelli m2 comfortech semi auto. My 2nd which is my favourite is a mossberg 88 pump..cheap but lovely
Johnny you said tracking corners in the ceiling I do that after cleaning my gun sometimes lol
First a 4.10. Hammer. Next a cheap Spanish 20. My first 12 was AYA 4. If it fits and feels good, go for it.
Just started to watch the video.
My first gun was Baikal MP153.
It's heavy
It's sticks out like a sore thumb
It works
It works
And it works
I still have it.
Plus the wood on mine is exceptional.
My advice would be to buy a nice one as your first. Because if you are a true gun person, you’ll never sell it. To a true gun person, they hold a lifetime of memories. I still remember the first shot, the first dove I missed with dad, the first pheasant, the first time shooting trap (badly) with friends and practicing enough to figure it out quickly. Heck, if I think hard enough, I can probably remember every critter I’ve gotten with that shotgun, including 9 straight doves only to miss a perfect low incomer that would have been 10 for 10 but I had to shoot it with number 11 as a hard left crosser. Probably the least expensive firearm I own but it was a quality if plain Franchi 48AL that’s given me perfect service for almost 50yrs now. Although I’ll generally grab something else, I probably shoot it as well as the nicer guns I’ve acquired. But at 6lbs, I’m not sure I’d want to take the beating of a 100 rounds like I used to! lol 👍🏼
My first was a Lanber 30 years ago and I sold it :( i bought another Lanber recently less than I sold my original lanber for. My children use it. It fits them and I am not scared if they damage it accidentally.
I have watched this clip several times as I am in that first gun elusive search. I see your point about older quality opposed to shinny new cheap guns. I struggle with fit in that I can’t get flat on the rib, it must be head shape. All I see is all of the rib and shoot high. I end up pushing my face into the Combe to see flat and hit something. Some feel good in the hand but view is terrible. I will hopefully get that eureka moment soon.
Can you do a video on buying a second hand shotgun? - what to look out for to get an idea of it's condition such as has it fired a million cartridges or will the action drop off?
He has done one already a year or two ago, search tgs used gun should come up
first gun Lanber for sporting then a Miroku Mk 38 for trap both still in use .Always great videos .Cheers
I went in with a £1.5k budget when I got into shotgun shooting, convinced I was going to buy a Beretta or Browning, but neither fit or felt as good as I thought. I then picked up an ATA that fit and felt perfect and I hit 20/25 clays. Saved myself £1k by not buying a Beretta just for it being a Beretta. And being primarily an air gun shooter, I then went and bought the air arms S410 I'd always wanted with that £1k 🤣
Spot on with wine analogy. 👍👍
Just buy a gun that makes you happy and gets you the results you want. Hence, I bought a side by side because you tempted me LOL but I need to sort out the calibre (supposedly 16 bore but with .700 and .710 bore diameter barrels) and looking at a O/U. Just need to find the one whose balance I like. B525 but center of gravity needs to shift more backwards and perhaps lose some weight (so guess I'll have to peek at beretta's).
My first self owned shotgun is side-by-side Baikal MP43 12g, that I bought after I watched the Baikal Side by Side Review video you guys made. :D
I absolutely love it. The only criticism I have is that the insides of the action could be more smooth.
My first brand new shotgun was a Luigi Franchi SPAS 12. Last gun I bought was a Winchester Mod 23. Tastes sure do change.
Clever girl.
@@JohnSmith-yx8kf You don't have to be an asshole, but you chose to be? Why is that?
@@neodutch Dude, type into the youtube search bar 'Jurassic Park Clever Girl' - i can't believe you don't get that reference lol.
Very helpful thanks. Looking to get my first gun very soon
I’ve still got my first gun a Winchester 1300 20 gauge I was 11 it’s been in my possession for 42 years
My advice would be buy it at a store. Then you can see how well it fits at the store before you spend your money. If you buy a shotgun online you may disappointed when it arrives in the mail, and fit is so important to good shotgun shooting.
my first ever gun i bought was a KHAN ARMS selected double trap for 165 pounds.
I like the advice, don't care what your friends say or think, very true, they're not shooting it. Do you think the Sabatti eagle alpen is worth a look ?
BRILLIANT👍
Found your channel researching Turkish O/U's.
That’s why I should own a roach belly’d B2G LWT Game with Teague multi choke conversion.......but do I? Nope because I ( my budget) get distracted ( blown) by interesting vintage stuff instead!
I’ve changed my mind, Longthorne Sporter in 16 Bore,
"I was no longer 5'7 I was 6'7..." as someone who has been 5'8 since I was 13 I actually feel lucky in this regard because what fitted me all of those years ago, still fits me to this day.
Great video as always, budget, fit/feel are most important, the second gun will always be something you know more about, forget field/sporting tags i mainly shoot winchester 101/ old miroku field grades and shoot very competetively with guys using p guns and the likes.
My first gun was my grandads 20 bore beretta silver pigeon 3 which he gave me.
I like your entertaining and very informative style of presentation. Thanks.
Great video alot of great info there. My first was a Webley and Scott 912k from yourself and I shot well with it although thinking of an upgrade soon tempted by a miroku of some description
Odd question, did a bit of pheasant shooting in my youth in Sussex and am thinking about taking up again...in America. Everyone recommends I buy a pump. Are pump action shot guns not popular in the UK? I have to confess they are a bit uncouth but they seem to work fine, be reasonably priced.
I just got my first gun yesterday,I turned 15 and a guy came to the gun store and wanted to rid of an old original Enfield smle, it was in mint condition. Got it for 60pounds 🙉.I live in south africa and even though I'm 15 I got my licences.
I applied for my SGC in June, in last part now I have watched this video a few times now. I have to say it's a bloody hard thing to choose your first gun, but I have decided I'll buy from the shooting school/club I go to. But still can't decide between second hand or Turkish.
It’s a hard question. Some great Turkish guns about, but some belting used stuff too!
@@tgsoutdoors my SGC came today, and I have tickets for Shooting show in Harrogate tommorow. So having a recap
Q:How much should you spend on your first gun? A: “Yes”.
@Pugna Gotta stick with what works🙃
Real Gun fit on first gun is paramount imo remember most shops (not tgs) are motivated by sales only and especially second hand guns you will often be told it fits when you are making your self fit it
Facts
Hey Jonny , I have a gti ultra sporter and would like to know more about them , comments on action and barrels etc , explication of back bored Price when new and so on , reckon mines a keeper .great video as always 👍
You talk an awfull lot of sense John . Spot on .
Just bought my first gun it’s a Browning B525SL 30”
I'm waiting for my certificate to come in currently. But I have a deposit placed on a gun. A Miroku MK70 grade 5 sporter, and I cannot wait to get my hands on it. I hope I've made the right choice but I almost don't care.
Very sound and sage advice Jonny!
Great stuff.
Greener GP, 1970. Great fun. Sold it to buy an engagement ring. What a plum.
I'd have kept the Greener mate.
Cooey single barrel 12bore 12 quid and I sold my motorbike to marry my first wife God I miss that bike
@@paulbryan1013 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
@@manofkentcatapultsgunsando5069 You're not helping! 😭😭😭
@@ogstopper 🤐
buy a baikal , you can knock fence posts in with it & shoot with it afterwards
Great video and really helpful, thanks Jonny.
Amen brother feel and fit is every thing
My first one 410 .. but I look at pump one but I need 12g
Great video! Quick question for my second gun. Beretta 694, blaser F16, or Caesar Guerini Summit Ascent?
Great video thanks. Just wondering how many 15 quid bottles were consumed before filming 😉
A sporting or field can do both disciplines but would something modern looking like the beretta 690 black or external chokes be suitable on a game shoot or avoided if you want a one for all purpose. Sound video and advice.
My first gun was an AYA Yeoman O/U multichoke for about £400. Then I got a S/S a few months later and now am looking at a semi - auto
Alex........don't turn to the dark side . Next you'll be voting trump
@@union310 haha, thinking of using it purely for decoying
@@alexdavelis3010 I thought they for gunshops with point of sale flags hanging out the side 🤔
Applied for my license this was v useful thanks
Johnny as always thanks for another great vid! I'm looking at the RIZZINI S2000 and a used S1000 your opinion or a video would be greatly appreciated! Thanks from Oklahoma USA.
So my first choice of shotgun is a Browning B525SL but I’m possibly looking to change to a Baretta 694, what’s you view on this change ?
So if you're a slightly built, 5 foot 6", 64 year old fella with underlying health issues - is there any stigma attached in thinking a 16 or 20 bore would be more suitable than a 12 Bore??
The Ladies still seem to be able to hit the clays very well with these!!
It’s absolutely fine to shoot a 20. Just a smaller market to purchase from
AYAs are always a good pick though you can get some rather cheap English guns to.
I would love to see a review on a CZ All-American if you could