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Re: SKB 200E VS 385

Posted: Tue Feb 08, 2011 10:39 pm
by Dave Quindt
The 385 is going to be in general beefier than the 200. While I believe the action is basically the same, I believe the barrels were heavier and the stocks were of a fuller design; the growth of steel shot and the need for a 3" chamber being the driving reasons.

Without knowing the gauge, balance & swing is tough to judge. I prefer the Ithaca-era SKB guns over their closest competitor, the Browning BSS, as the Ithaca guns were IMO closer to a true game gun design & feel. The Brownings to me feel bloated, as do the 300/400 series post-Ithaca SKB guns.

Having said that, if you are looking for more of a target or waterfowl gun the 300 series is probably a better choice. The one well-known problem with the Ithaca guns was that the butt stocks liked to crack due to the scalloped receiver; as a result replacement wood is pretty hard to find. The receiver is still scalloped on the 300/400 guns, but I believe the wood is inletted differently; don't seem to hear about those guns cracking stocks, but there's not nearly as many of them out there either.

JMO,
Dave

Re: SKB 200E VS 385

Posted: Tue Feb 08, 2011 11:40 pm
by Dave Quindt
Howie,

Per the SKB website, the weight on a 28 gauge 385 is 6lb 13oz, 3 oz heavier than the 385 in a 20 gauge.

Most of the weights I see on 200s in 20 gauge are around 6 lb 4oz.

It's up to you if that makes much of a difference.

Dave

Re: SKB 200E VS 385

Posted: Wed Feb 09, 2011 8:31 am
by Vman
Howie, I have a 200 and it is a very nice little gun. It is my preferred Grouse gun. Very quick and balanced. Have not had any problems with it and don`t expect any. If the price is right it is a good gun to own.
I have not see seen the 28 ga.

Re: SKB 200E VS 385

Posted: Mon Feb 21, 2011 9:47 pm
by highcotton
200E hands down for me. They are much lighter and handle much better. New wood can be found at: http://macongunstocks.net/ithaca_shotgu ... ks_73.html