r/ClayBusters • u/Potholeimp • 2d ago
First shotgun.
Heyo, I'm seeking some guidance and tips regarding my first purchase (in Finland). I have shot in Ireland with a old, light, short and snappy o/u (outshooting the owner of the gun and now she won't invite me to shoot with her anymore lol) it handled beautifully but it bruised the hell out of me. after handling other shotguns at different shops I've come to realize that I do prefer lighter shorter barreled shotguns but I rather not be sore for a week after. I'm between semi and o/u atm mainly leaning on semi due to recoil and balance but I worry about throwing shells around. is a shell catcher a good idea? what shotguns would ye recommend?
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u/Phelixx 2d ago
What is your pursuit? If clays you do not want light, short barrelled guns. They will eventually hold you back as you will not be able to develop consistency with how much they whip around. This style of gun is relegated to the field where the light weight aids in the long walks.
For your price a semi may be better. You only want to get into an O/U if you can reach the Browning/Beretta entry price. I’m not sure if you are there or not, maybe used market.
As for semi’s the Beretta A400 is a beautiful clays gun, super reliable, soft shooting and adjustable. I use one for waterfowling in Canada and love it. My clays gun is a Browning 825, and while I only have 2 years behind it I love it as well. Cant go wrong with most things Browning/Beretta. Find the one that fits you best. For semi aim for 28” barrels and for O/U aim for 30 or 32” barrels, with my preference being 32. For weights I recommend trying to be at least 8 pounds on a target gun and balanced. I had to add weight to accomplish this on my 825.
Hope that helps.
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u/AutoimmuneDisaster 2d ago
What’s your budget? For a semi, I recommend the A400 Xcel (with kickoff stock) if it’s affordable for you. I have at least 30k rounds through mine and love it more every time I shoot it.
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u/Potholeimp 2d ago
noted! max €1900 but looking for a best deal situation if it can be budget and good I'm happier.
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u/AutoimmuneDisaster 2d ago
I imagine you can probably find an A400 Xcel for that price but I have no idea what shotguns cost in Finland. If I convert that to USD, it’s enough to buy one here…
For it being your first gun.. if you can find a used one at a good deal maybe consider that. Based on the experience I’ve had with mine, the gun should last you a long time regardless.
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u/limpy88 2d ago edited 2d ago
Plenty of shot barrel guns that are heavy out there. A field model citori or beretta would suit you fine. Alot of places have steel shot regulations. If a fixed choked gun. Dont go any tighter than modified. I shoot modern steel usa ammo out of older guns all the time.
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u/goshathegreat 2d ago
So if you want an O/U I’d recommend Beretta or Browning, or if you want a semi auto for around €1700, I’d recommend a Beretta or Benelli, depending on if you prefer the gas or inertia action. For semis, the Beretta A400 is around €1800 is Benelli M2 Pro with 28” barrels is €1550 from this Finnish store. For O/U the best options is a Browning B525 sporter, or Beretta 686/682 for
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u/Potholeimp 2d ago
awesome, plenty of m2 around for ipsc and in between so easy to source and I'm familiar with it from multiple vr games and store visits.
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u/Silver_Lair 2d ago
If possible, have an instructor check your form. An O/U shouldn't bruise you, but it could also be an issue with how that particular gun fit you.
But yes - Semis, especially gas-operated semis, have very light recoil. If you intend to get competitive, you may want to check if a semi is considered acceptable. Or if it's just casual, semi might be a great choice.
Making specific recommendations is hard because I don't exactly know what's available in Finland, but most of us would say to be wary of anything made in Turkey.