Gun Dog Forum

So I am looking to get my first O/U. I would be using it for some sporting clays, grouse, and possibly some shoot to retrieve trials. Like the looks of the Benelli 828U black. But I am open for recommendations.

I like field guns with a with a solid mid rib, your choice will probably catch weeds or branches between the barrels... just something to consider, it might not bother you, but would bug me.

That is not something i had considered

The Benelli O/U is an abomination IMO. Look at a proven O/U like a Beretta or Browning, or even a Miroku built gun. IMO, O/U’s should have a classic design.

Have a look at the Italian guns. Very well made and of a quality that defies the asking price.
http://www.italianfirearmsgroup.com/fai ... ns-hunting
http://qualityarmsinc.com Give John Boyd a call down in Texas. A great guy and very helpful and more knowledgeable than most humans.

All of the Miroku built guns are great. An old Winchester 101 is mighty fine as are the Miroku labeled ones.

The gun has to fit. Function over form.

I shoot a Winchester 101 12 ga. O/U. An old classic O/U, but a great shotgun with good balance.

I carried a o/u with separated barrels in brush for 30 years. never got a stick between the barrels. Valet lion. 10,000 rounds through it.

I just bought my first O/U after 4 years of drooling and debating between options. I agree with what others have said here. Number one is fit. You don't aim a shotgun, you point it. Bottom line if the gun doesn't fit you won't hit your target. Consider getting a proper gun fitting to find your stock dimensions. Number two I would also suggest you stick with a time proven design. Definitely check out Browning, Beretta, Winchester 101, Miroku (They made the Citori for Browning), Miroku made Charles Daly, Franchi, SKB or SKB made Ithica's, and Ruger Red Labels. Although a word of caution on the Red Label, they are heavy and no longer made so parts may be hard to find if something breaks. That being said a lot of guys love their Red Labels. For me Browning fits best so I ended up with a Citori, but for you maybe a Beretta or a Franchi will work better. Try to shoot the gun or at least a representation of the gun before you buy it. A lot of trap and skeet ranges have rental guns they may have the model you are looking for so you can try before you buy. Don't be afraid of used guns either. There are some deals to be had on used O/Us.

Ruger is making the Red Label again.

Meller wrote:Ruger is making the Red Label again.

They started back up again in 2013 but they were discontinued again in 2017. Still might be some new ones floating around in gun shops but no new manufacture.

Another consideration is the new CSMC Revelation.
A nice gun at a great price.

I use a Fabarm ELOS Deluxe 20 ga.

Meller wrote:Ruger is making the Red Label again.

If I may, no one knows me so I hope no one is offended but the sticks on red labels drop quite a bit. Before that gun is considered you need to shoulder one n see if you get a cheek weld

How heavy is the grouse gun you're using at present? As a non-grouse hunter, my understanding is a light gun is preferred. If you are looking at a 12g and you're using a 20 now, it may be a jolt for you. Or may be in coming years. Some of the recommended shotguns weigh a good deal in 12g. Something to consider if you're a heavy cover hunter.

I agree with the John Boyd of Quality Arms suggestion. Bought a 20g. Guerini Magnus from him.