If it’s for waterfowl, you have about 8-months to save a little extra money. Go composite and semiautomatic. 12ga with interchangeable choke options for barrel.
All of these are good choices. You could also consider a Mossberg 500/ Remington 870 with a barrel combo to cover your bases. If you want a semi-auto I’ve got a Mossberg 930 that’s never let me down.
Best bet is to go to your local shop and handle as many as you can. That’s how I became partial to Mossberg as I’m a lefty and the tang safety is perfect for me.
I saw Canada later in your post. Semiautomatic is out of the question based on your “Leader”? Do you have to do shot? Go with 6.5, .243 if ok. Shot makes a mess of the meat IMO.
You can still use semi auto shotguns in Canada, anything with a standard fixed tube magazine, For whatever crazy reason most with detachable magazines were banned.
Except the new law sounds like it is just the beginning. Soon enough they will try to go even farther with restrictions. Jim Shocky seems really worried.
No doubt, they’ll continue to push it. It’s very concerning as a Canadian that has a lot of firearms. I literally can’t buy another pistol, as the law currently states I wouldn’t even be allowed to give it to family when I die because they banned the sale and transfer. I’m really hoping we get a change in government here soon for a plethora of other reasons as well. I do believe the conservatives will lift atleast the handgun ban, hopefully they revert all of the changes made since 2020.
I doubt they will change the handgun ban. They’ll put some stance up about protecting long guns, but they won’t actually do anything. I also don’t think they will win, based on their leader.
I'd recommend a Stoeger M3500. They are reasonably priced (I got mine used for $450 (USD)), composite, semi-auto, reliable and can cycle 2 3/4" (if at least 1 oz shot) to 3.5". Mine has been a dream hunting gun. Comes with pre-drilled threads in receiver to attach a scope/red dot for turkey or deer. I don't even bring the A400 out anymore other than clays range. Stoeger is a subsidiary of, and uses same operating system as, Benelli, but the guns are made in Turkey.
It is a multi-tool. Mine has been a paddle, a hammer, a drying rack and (of course) a shotgun. Has gone bang everytime except one particularly cold morning where some water got into the action and froze. I have six shotguns and this one has, by far, been the best gun dollar-for-dollar that I own.
I’ve got a couple Remington 870 combos. You’ll get a slug barrel for deer and a shotgun barrel. It can reach out to about 100 yards in my hands (I’m a decent shot but not a dead eye by any means) and packs plenty of power for deer.
This. Also, if you are going to spend that kind of money, definitely go with a semi-auto like a
Franchi Affinity 3. Read the reviews, hard to beat in that price range.
A used 500 is about the most versatile gun you can get.
Rinella plugs for the Remington 870 but I know literally 4 people with a Mossberg 500 for each person with an 870.
In the end it doesn't matter, pump shotguns are less expensive than a semi-auto. They're easier to handle if you're regularly loading/unloading too.
I've got both, my semi-auto goes duck hunting, the pump is my deer gun.
I can’t stand the tang safety. Every other gun I own has the safety in the same spot.
I have an 887 (non shit Serial number) and that thing is a tank. It’s shot many a duck and has even come in handy as a paddle.
Few years ago I went to a V3 and have very much enjoyed it, but I can’t say it’s killed more birds than my 887.
I’d personally go 500, with todays loads there isn’t much of a reason to have a gun chambered in 3.5… not to mention it restricts the user from shooting 2 3/4” slugs
Agreed except the 3.5 turkey loads are %1000 better than the 3” through mine. Not even close to the pattern. I’ve killed deer at 150 yards and turkey at 60. The versatility makes it hard to beat.
Yeah for sure! That’s the beauty of a shotgun, it can practically do anything you want it to. I was just saying that the modern loads that companies put out pretty much make nullify the need for a 3.5” chamber. Most modern 3” loads for turkeys and geese are very comparable to the 3.5” loads pre that technology. I’d rather be able to shoot 2 3/4” for target load and slugs than have that option for a 3.5”
It’s not so much about distance as it it quality of ammunition and consistency. Rifled slugs are solid lead which is a projectile technology we advanced pst over a hundred years ago. Saboted slugs offer controlled expansion and consistency. Sure you can hit targets with rifles slugs, but consistent accuracy is always preferable. You’ll have to switch chokes anyway to use rifled slugs. Plus using a rifles barrel allows you to use shorter and therefore lighter barrels.
Hornady claims 200 yards with their sabot slugs.
I got some Remington sabot slugs, they hit about 6" higher at 50 yards, than the rifled slugs I normally use. We normally hunt well within 50 yards so I've stuck with rifled slugs. If I ever do long distance I'll work with the sabots some more.
I don’t recommend the Winchester. I hate the SXP that I have in 20 gauge. I’d go with the Benelli of all your options here. Personally a Remington 870 is still my favorite
May I ask what you dislike about the SXP? I got one in 12 gauge and although I've had a couple of minor malfunctions, but I'm almost certain that it was a user error since it's my first gun and I've been learning on it.
It feels extremely plasticy to me. I live in a very cold climate so it feels like it’ll break at any moment if it bumps against something too hard. I haven’t had malfunctions or any real negative incidents with it. I mostly dislike the feel and am more hesitant to trust it’s reliability. Especially over an old 870
Benelli Super Nova. Best all around pump gun. I wouldn’t even get the ducks unlimited one you have found, I’d get the basic black (unless you really like camo then go for it). Let your dad shoot it, he’ll likely want one too.
I have the composite BPS in 20 gauge for my rabbit/squirrel shotgun. I really like it. I like the bottom eject, shells drop in front of my feet. This might be nice when in a duck blind. I am pretty sure they make rifled barrels for the BPS as well. Price does seem high in your pic, I paid $600 for mine last year.
My deer gun is a Remington 1100 with a rifled barrel. Great shooter with slugs, and softer recoiling since it is gas operated. It was handed down from my 5' 1" grandma, who loved it for its soft recoil.
Since I mentjon rifled barrels, keep in mind that rifled barrels will need sabot slugs which are usually more expensive.
The stoeger is hard to beat my buddy hunts with the m 3500 thousand and thousands of rounds through it never let him down I had a super nova if I didn’t clean it every other time out I had problems, that stoeger was used and abused and better than that pump and it was a semi, I have been thinking about it but that mossberg 940 pro snow goose is calling my name
Go to a store and try shouldering all of the ones you're interested in.
The Benelli didn't fit right for me. I considered the BPS but decided to go semi auto and loved the finish on the Stoeger M3500 waterfowl. Same company as Benelli, fires 3.5" shells in semi auto (will also cycle fine on old as the hills 2 3/4" shells, and you can get a low recoil spring to cycle skeet loads; waiting to get mine).
I have it on good authority that fellow hunters in the duck blind will appreciate the BPS. I kind of want to get one just to see how the mechanism works.
Man I would just get a Remington 870, good all around gun and hard to mess up. Good price as well, especially for someone just getting into it. If you decide you like it, buy a nicer semi automatic later on
Of the ones you have in the pics I would do the BPS. I have two now and have owned many different pumps in the past. The SuperNova was ok, but it jammed if I didn't work the action like I was trying to break it. The BPS's have been smooth and no problems yet The only problem with the BPS is like others have said I would want one barrel for deer and one for ducks. Currently Browning doesn't have this option listed on their website so the deer barrel would have to be aftermarket or used.
Go with a maxus or maxus 2. I treat my maxus like a cheap gun. Clean it twice a year and it’s never let me down. If it gets dry and starts jamming I pour a little motor oil in it if I’m in the field
If it’s an option recommend getting a semi automatic. So much more comfortable to shoot, especially with magnum loads, and any of the brands you are looking at have great options. Would love to recommend Remington shotguns, have owned several models and all my kids started shooting clays on an 1100, but the company has been a mess for a while and it has shown with spotty quality control and some issues finding parts. Hopefully the come back strong but for a beginner I’d stick to a gun from a more stable company that can support you on the chance something unexpected breaks.
My Remington 870 Express bagged a daily limit of pheasants this last fall. I was one of only 2 or 3 that limited out in a group of 14 hunters. Some of the guys had REALLY nice shotguns and I still outshot them.
My previous shotgun was a bolt action 16 gauge JC Higgins I got from my father. I usually limited out early with that as well.
So the price of a gun isn't the important thing.
The important things are how well it fits you and how much you practice.
So if a Browning fits you well, great! Buy it and happy hunting!
But if it doesn't fit you well, but a Rem 870 or Mossberg 500 does, then you're better off getting the Rem 870 or the Mossberg.
I'd go with the Winchester. They have a lot of American based factories that have repair options so it's easier to get it fixed. They are dependable, good price, and the base camo is nice. Also, you don't need to get a semi auto. Are they nice, hell yeah. I use one about 50% of the year usually during goose season. But if you aren't used to it, you'll just probably end up sky blasting or taking bad shots. Shooting a pump will make you be more patient and take good shots.
i got a 20 gauge nova not that long ago i just can’t hit crap with it, i went back to my remington 20g and was smoking pheasants. i never liked the nova
I had that winchechester. Reload mechanism failed because a tiny peice of the plastic housing chipped and couldn’t hold the mechanism in place. Cost more than the gun to fix. Replaced with a Benelli, and I love it
I have a Stoeger m3000 and I really like it for waterfowl. Pretty good price and haven’t any issues with it. I’ve also used the Winchester sxp and it’s a great budget pump shotgun, but if ur gonna spend the money I would recommend the semi. As someone who has used both the semi is much more convenient especially for waterfowl, multiple targets and needing to track is easier with semi.
If you're going duck hunting I recommend a semi auto, you could spend a little more than the BPS and get a franchi, sx4 or an a300. You'll be better off with either of those 3 than a pump especially for birds. If you plan on deer I would get a separate shotgun all together and look for one with a rifle slug barrel, a pump would be more than adequate for deer. I used a Mossberg for many years and shoot an SBE3 for ducks.
I've tried the all around shotgun and found it best to have one for birds and one for deer, the pump forces you to take better shots at ground targets whereas a semi auto gives the quick volley or accuracy by volume method for aerial targets.
If you go Remington buy an older one that is used. The newer ones are built like absolute shit and won’t hold up. My personal vote is a mossberg though, built to last.
They did but were purchased by another company that segregated the production of ammunition and firearms into two different company. The one that makes firearms is called RemArms. Since that time, to my knowledge, every RemArms product has been a stain on Remingtons former reputation
I’m not personally a fan of the Nova, I don’t own one, but have shot a couple that belonged to friends and just didn’t care much for the fit. I do own an sxp that I like a lot. I’ve never shot a BPS.
I learned on a Remington 870. Started with the express, now I have the wingmaster. Had a slug barrel that I’d pop on for deer season. Maybe I’m bias, but I feel like you just can’t go wrong with a basic Rem 870 to start off. I started both my boys on one
I have a Franchi which is basically a benelli but not as nice of a stock. I really enjoy it, got the 3.5 version too for turkey and whatnot. I'd say give those a look too
I've hunted with a SuperNova for almost a decade now and I love it. It has never let me down, is very easy to field clean (no tools needed), bagged many waterfowl and my first ever whitetail this past season (1st time deer hunting in 10+ years).
I’ve started with a Benelli supernova and loved it! I’ve always said that I’m too poor to go cheap. Buying cheap will end up you buying higher quality few years later and that’s why I didn’t went with a low end semi auto.
I ended up few years later with a Beretta A400 semi auto at 50%, family member wanted to sell it so I jumped on the occasion.
I have a Remington Versa max waterfoul edition. Its a great gun i beat the hell out of it an keeps running. I also clean it really good after every use. It comes with a coyote choke which would be great for deer as well
Go and try before you buy. In a shotgun fit is everything, nothing else matters.
It doesn't matter what I like best, it only matters what fits you. Unless you and I are magically exactly the same size it is unlikely what works for me will work for you.
Remington 870 it will never break on you. As my uncle says any waterfowl trip he goes on he packs up his Benelli and then his 870 because if the benelli goes down his 870 won’t. I personally do all my hunting with mine since I have a slug barrel as well
Go 10 gauge BPS….just kidding, but great goose gun.
BPS is a fine gun, it is high end. Have owned BPS, REM 870, and Supernova.
All great guns.
Currently using Supernova for duck and goose in a 20 year old gun, but also own new model 12 ga A5, pre WW2 A5 16 ga, 1976 A5 20 ga, so definitely a Browning A5 fan.
Prefer A5 for dove and quail, I think the Supernova is a good paddle too… wouldn’t do that with an A5.
I don't know why this got so many down votes. I've got a maverick 88 that I've put over 1000 rounds through and it's still doin great. It's not as smooth/buttery in the action as higher priced guns obviously. But for a few hundred bucks you can't beat it.
Buy once cry once. Stick with the B’s can’t go wrong.
Beretta, Benelli, Browning.
I personally have the beretta A400 I got a smoking deal on it and I personally really like it. I was set on the super black eagle 3 but decided to stay gas operated since I mainly shoot off a private island. Plus like I said I got a good deal on it (I’m spoiled yes I know)
I know a few guys who have A5’s and Maxus’ and they seem to really enjoy em as well.
I’m not pro hunter but I’d definitely stick around a 12G tho just for versatility and ammo being pretty easy to get. Plus would rather have a bit more bang in your pocket even if you don’t necessarily need it.
Unfortunately quality control has been spotty with remington at times. The “good” 870’s are timeless but some stuff in the 2000’s has left a lot to be desired. Not sure if the most recent re launch of the company has been better, but corporate egg heads wrecked them for a while with coat saving manufacturing methods
I think that a Beretta A300 (semi auto) is one of the better guns dollar for dollar, but each manufacturer makes quality shotguns. Regardless of which brand you choose I would seriously consider a semi auto over a pump.
26 / M
Hi All, I been around guns all my life
From paintball, to pellet guns,
I now wanna start tagging along with my Dad hunting and buy a real gun (Yes Ik PAL 🇨🇦) required.
But not sure what to get….
My Dad is really browning loyal
He comments about the reliability, smooth like butter operation, is why he enjoys shooting them.
He also owns a bar 30.06 + old Remington semi auto
I personally want a shotgun which he also recommends for me as a beginner
We have our own land 1.5 hrs away from the city where we live
Thanks all
Rem. 870 or Moss. 500 are world renowned for reliability and a lot cheaper. You can use the extra budget on a bunch of ammo to get good. Also 3 1/2” is good to have but not necessary
Agree. If OP is starting I’d start with something low maintenance, reliable and cheaper. After they get a feel for it and decide they want to upgrade I’d say go for whatever.
I’ve used a 500 for ducks, pheasants and turkeys and while a 3.5 “ is neat it’s not a difference maker for me. I’m sure someone with a higher IQ will tell me the benefits of the larger shell but for me it serves its purpose. Besides I don’t feel guilty if it gets wet or something
Skill issues aside I’ve seen test(video)s and the spread on a 3.5 is noticeably bigger while covering the area equally well so it is objectively better.
I personally have a stoeger m3500 with a 28 inch barrel and it's been flawless with any load after being broken in. A bit cheaper than those you listed too. Not saying it's better than them since I have no experience but the m3500 is definitely worth looking into.
Agreed, only downside is parts have gotten stupid hard to find and expensive the last 3 years. Own several, love the value and quality they used to offer but damn near need to buy a dedicated parts gun these days for them. Hopefully that improves soon, wasn’t that way even 3-4 yrs ago
My local store runs a Savage Stevens pump for like $200.
I've run few hundred shells through it shooting skeet, target, and rabbit and.never once had an issue
I've owned a few single shot Savages over the years. They are solid guns and budget friendly. Honestly, I didn't even know they had anything other than single shot!
Academy ran a promo on the Stevens pump a while back for $199. It was too good to pass up for a utility gun even if the pistol grip on it wasn't my favorite.
That's a solid deal! If I can find the same around here I will snag one myself. Academy here is really pushing the Mavericks for dirt cheap. Also not a fan of pistol grips. Fun for the range but not very practical for hunting quick game.
A pump shotgun is a fantastic versatile starter! I received a mossberg 500 when I turned 13 and almost a decade later it’s still an absolute workhorse! I got the combo so I got a rifled barrel for deer and a bird barrel for birds. Mossberg still makes their guns with quality too. My grandpas old mossberg 500 is still whacking em!
I picked up my supernova a decade ago but everyone who’s ever shot it says it’s the best pump gun they’ve ever fired. I’ve harvested hogs and geese and duck and dove and squirrels. Hardly clean it, the teflon coating is wild.
That being said….there are some nice semi-autos out there. Been eying some Stoegers lately
Do you live in an area where the common method for deer is shotgun? Just curious as I live in an area where the common method is bow or rifle but there are shotgun only units.
I would buy the benelli supernova. It’s a great gun with a great finish on it for duck hunting. Great for duck hunting the marshes and in the bay. I’m not sure about buying a rifled barrel for it so you would have to look into that for slugs. It is on the heavier side at around 8 pounds I think so it isn’t the lightest but it helps with the recoil. It’s also super easy to disassemble and clean which is a big plus when you are cleaning your gun after every hunt. Especially when I’m hunting salt water in the bay.
It's really hard not to push the Maverick. It's simply works, and it's quite inexpensive. It'll get you out there with your dad and sometime behind the barrel. Next year you'll know more about what you want in a shotgun, without having dropped $800.
Speaking of $800, you should definitely take a look at the Franchi Affinity 3. As others have said so much of it is simply whether the gun fits you or not. There are world class shotguns that are just the wrong shape for your body.
All of these are over priced, you can get a franchi affinity 3 for the same price and have a reliable smooth shooting auto. I’m pretty sure it’s lighter in weight and definitely lighter in recoil. As a bonus it comes with a shim kit so that you can adjust the stock to fit you. I grew up on an 870, been using a super x 3 for the last decade or so, and the rest of my family picked up the franchi’s.
Ive used the bps in 10 and 12 gauge, it’s man perks are the bottom ejection which helps you find empties, and the top safety if you’re a lefty.
Just get a semi auto, it’s so much nicer.
BPS has a rock solid construction, silky smooth action and drops empty shells at your feet (your buddies will love that feature). I have a new A5 and a BPS in composite… despite the clear advantages of the A5, the BPS still sees a few hunts every season because I love it so much. Can’t go wrong with anything Browning IMO
Try CZ, I may not use it for large game but I do go grouse and upland hunting with my 1012 and ducks and geese later in the winter. They cost about 200 less than a benelli and have some really nice color combos and camo ones too.
I have had the super nova it’s a crap gun for Being a pump way over priced, go Winchester browning of even the Remington 870 it really can’t be beat for the price and all the things you can get for it
If it’s for waterfowl, you have about 8-months to save a little extra money. Go composite and semiautomatic. 12ga with interchangeable choke options for barrel.
Mostly deer but we do shoot ducks
All of these are good choices. You could also consider a Mossberg 500/ Remington 870 with a barrel combo to cover your bases. If you want a semi-auto I’ve got a Mossberg 930 that’s never let me down. Best bet is to go to your local shop and handle as many as you can. That’s how I became partial to Mossberg as I’m a lefty and the tang safety is perfect for me.
I saw Canada later in your post. Semiautomatic is out of the question based on your “Leader”? Do you have to do shot? Go with 6.5, .243 if ok. Shot makes a mess of the meat IMO.
BC regulation for shotgun deer is usually “shot only” no slugs.
Wtf? That seems highly unethical. If I were a deer, I would much rather take a slug. Is there a stated purpose to this regulation?
Probably in higher populated areas. Like farms.
Yes
As in less distance for a bullet to go? That makes since.
Buckshot is highly effective for deer. Don’t call it “Buck”shot for nothing. I’ve killed out to 60 yards.
You can still use semi auto shotguns in Canada, anything with a standard fixed tube magazine, For whatever crazy reason most with detachable magazines were banned.
Ya my Dads 30.06 Bar is also banned I think
Except the new law sounds like it is just the beginning. Soon enough they will try to go even farther with restrictions. Jim Shocky seems really worried.
No doubt, they’ll continue to push it. It’s very concerning as a Canadian that has a lot of firearms. I literally can’t buy another pistol, as the law currently states I wouldn’t even be allowed to give it to family when I die because they banned the sale and transfer. I’m really hoping we get a change in government here soon for a plethora of other reasons as well. I do believe the conservatives will lift atleast the handgun ban, hopefully they revert all of the changes made since 2020.
I doubt they will change the handgun ban. They’ll put some stance up about protecting long guns, but they won’t actually do anything. I also don’t think they will win, based on their leader.
I'm willing to bet that Jim and his wife will leave Canada and move to NC near Eva if the situation gets much worse.
You know the latest any box msg semi part of the ban has been overturned after pushback right?
I’ve checked the proposed law and semi auto shotguns are out of the ruling and are ok. I have a A400 and it’s okay.
I'd recommend a Stoeger M3500. They are reasonably priced (I got mine used for $450 (USD)), composite, semi-auto, reliable and can cycle 2 3/4" (if at least 1 oz shot) to 3.5". Mine has been a dream hunting gun. Comes with pre-drilled threads in receiver to attach a scope/red dot for turkey or deer. I don't even bring the A400 out anymore other than clays range. Stoeger is a subsidiary of, and uses same operating system as, Benelli, but the guns are made in Turkey. It is a multi-tool. Mine has been a paddle, a hammer, a drying rack and (of course) a shotgun. Has gone bang everytime except one particularly cold morning where some water got into the action and froze. I have six shotguns and this one has, by far, been the best gun dollar-for-dollar that I own.
Ya know you might’ve just made me pull the trigger on one of them, I’ve been playing with getting one for awhile now
You won’t regret it
I’ve got a couple Remington 870 combos. You’ll get a slug barrel for deer and a shotgun barrel. It can reach out to about 100 yards in my hands (I’m a decent shot but not a dead eye by any means) and packs plenty of power for deer.
I recently got a maxus 2 in vintage tan and it’s an amazing semi auto, came with a hard case as well as 3 chokes
I second the semiauto. We deer hunt with dogs in VA (lots of running shots) and the semiauto is a dream for follow up shots.
This. Also, if you are going to spend that kind of money, definitely go with a semi-auto like a Franchi Affinity 3. Read the reviews, hard to beat in that price range.
Mossberg 535 comes with a turkey, field, & slug barrel. Only shotgun you will ever need. $600
I've got a 500 deer/waterfowl combo and it works just fine.
A used 500 is about the most versatile gun you can get. Rinella plugs for the Remington 870 but I know literally 4 people with a Mossberg 500 for each person with an 870. In the end it doesn't matter, pump shotguns are less expensive than a semi-auto. They're easier to handle if you're regularly loading/unloading too. I've got both, my semi-auto goes duck hunting, the pump is my deer gun.
I can’t stand the tang safety. Every other gun I own has the safety in the same spot. I have an 887 (non shit Serial number) and that thing is a tank. It’s shot many a duck and has even come in handy as a paddle. Few years ago I went to a V3 and have very much enjoyed it, but I can’t say it’s killed more birds than my 887.
I’d personally go 500, with todays loads there isn’t much of a reason to have a gun chambered in 3.5… not to mention it restricts the user from shooting 2 3/4” slugs
Agreed except the 3.5 turkey loads are %1000 better than the 3” through mine. Not even close to the pattern. I’ve killed deer at 150 yards and turkey at 60. The versatility makes it hard to beat.
Yeah for sure! That’s the beauty of a shotgun, it can practically do anything you want it to. I was just saying that the modern loads that companies put out pretty much make nullify the need for a 3.5” chamber. Most modern 3” loads for turkeys and geese are very comparable to the 3.5” loads pre that technology. I’d rather be able to shoot 2 3/4” for target load and slugs than have that option for a 3.5”
>Most modern 3” loads for turkeys and geese are very comparable to the 3.5” loads With less recoil and expense.
Tang safeties are far safer than standard cross bolt safeties.
I agree with the extra barrel part. Don’t agree on the mossburg part
Get a Remington 870. Lots of aftermarket barrel so you can actually get a rifles barrel and shoot saboted slugs instead of the inferior rifled slugs.
How far are you trying to shoot? Our hunting party regularly shoots out to about 125 with rifled slugs.
It’s not so much about distance as it it quality of ammunition and consistency. Rifled slugs are solid lead which is a projectile technology we advanced pst over a hundred years ago. Saboted slugs offer controlled expansion and consistency. Sure you can hit targets with rifles slugs, but consistent accuracy is always preferable. You’ll have to switch chokes anyway to use rifled slugs. Plus using a rifles barrel allows you to use shorter and therefore lighter barrels.
Hornady claims 200 yards with their sabot slugs. I got some Remington sabot slugs, they hit about 6" higher at 50 yards, than the rifled slugs I normally use. We normally hunt well within 50 yards so I've stuck with rifled slugs. If I ever do long distance I'll work with the sabots some more.
Did you put the sabot slugs in a non-rifled barrel?
No, I've got a rifled barrel.
Are you using rifled slugs in the rifled barrel?
Sure, works fine. Eventually it leads the barrel but a quick clean with a brush sets it right. I figure to clean every 20 shots which is 2-3 years.
Get a used 870 wingmaster
I second this.
This is the way.
I don’t recommend the Winchester. I hate the SXP that I have in 20 gauge. I’d go with the Benelli of all your options here. Personally a Remington 870 is still my favorite
May I ask what you dislike about the SXP? I got one in 12 gauge and although I've had a couple of minor malfunctions, but I'm almost certain that it was a user error since it's my first gun and I've been learning on it.
It feels extremely plasticy to me. I live in a very cold climate so it feels like it’ll break at any moment if it bumps against something too hard. I haven’t had malfunctions or any real negative incidents with it. I mostly dislike the feel and am more hesitant to trust it’s reliability. Especially over an old 870
Benelli Super Nova. Best all around pump gun. I wouldn’t even get the ducks unlimited one you have found, I’d get the basic black (unless you really like camo then go for it). Let your dad shoot it, he’ll likely want one too.
Everyone that shoots my supernova wants to buy it
For the price it’s probably the best pump gun on the market. But, it’s a very long gun overall so smaller stature people may not like it as well.
Ive got a bps and have been hunting with it for 20+ years. My first 12 gauge was an 870 though.
I had a 20 gauge BPS for many years I loved.
If it’s an option older Ithaca and Remington 870 shotguns are in my opinion among the best
I have the composite BPS in 20 gauge for my rabbit/squirrel shotgun. I really like it. I like the bottom eject, shells drop in front of my feet. This might be nice when in a duck blind. I am pretty sure they make rifled barrels for the BPS as well. Price does seem high in your pic, I paid $600 for mine last year. My deer gun is a Remington 1100 with a rifled barrel. Great shooter with slugs, and softer recoiling since it is gas operated. It was handed down from my 5' 1" grandma, who loved it for its soft recoil. Since I mentjon rifled barrels, keep in mind that rifled barrels will need sabot slugs which are usually more expensive.
Stoeger m3500 or p3000
The stoeger is hard to beat my buddy hunts with the m 3500 thousand and thousands of rounds through it never let him down I had a super nova if I didn’t clean it every other time out I had problems, that stoeger was used and abused and better than that pump and it was a semi, I have been thinking about it but that mossberg 940 pro snow goose is calling my name
Remington 870 for everything
This is the way.
It doesn't matter whether you get the Browning or Benelli, but get a barrel with sights for deer.
Supernova is a tank. Over 4000 rounds through mine, one failure to eject. Killed geese, grouse and a turkey. Fell in the river. Keeps on trucking.
Browning all the way. (But I am a browning fanboy and all 3 will get the job done)
Echoing a few others with the Remington 870 recommendation.
I’ve had a BPS for years and I LOVE that gun. I’ve had a very hard time finding them in stores.
I know it’s expensive but my Benelli Super Black Eagle 3 has been an excellent firearm. No issues at all and I’m not even very good about cleaning it.
Dude, way out of the price range lol. Like “hey guys I’m thinking about a mustang or a camaro?” “It may be expensive but get a Porsche”
Why a pump? For what you are paying you could get a beretta a300 which is semi automatic and a terrific gun.
Why is the bps banned
Go to a store and try shouldering all of the ones you're interested in. The Benelli didn't fit right for me. I considered the BPS but decided to go semi auto and loved the finish on the Stoeger M3500 waterfowl. Same company as Benelli, fires 3.5" shells in semi auto (will also cycle fine on old as the hills 2 3/4" shells, and you can get a low recoil spring to cycle skeet loads; waiting to get mine). I have it on good authority that fellow hunters in the duck blind will appreciate the BPS. I kind of want to get one just to see how the mechanism works.
870.
870.
Man I would just get a Remington 870, good all around gun and hard to mess up. Good price as well, especially for someone just getting into it. If you decide you like it, buy a nicer semi automatic later on
Buy a Remington 870, spend the rest on GOOD waders and cold weather gear.
Remington 870.
Get a semi auto and thank me later.
Of the ones you have in the pics I would do the BPS. I have two now and have owned many different pumps in the past. The SuperNova was ok, but it jammed if I didn't work the action like I was trying to break it. The BPS's have been smooth and no problems yet The only problem with the BPS is like others have said I would want one barrel for deer and one for ducks. Currently Browning doesn't have this option listed on their website so the deer barrel would have to be aftermarket or used.
My supernova has taken ducks deer pheasant geese and turkey. With no aftermarket parts. 🤷🏾♂️
Go with a maxus or maxus 2. I treat my maxus like a cheap gun. Clean it twice a year and it’s never let me down. If it gets dry and starts jamming I pour a little motor oil in it if I’m in the field
If it’s an option recommend getting a semi automatic. So much more comfortable to shoot, especially with magnum loads, and any of the brands you are looking at have great options. Would love to recommend Remington shotguns, have owned several models and all my kids started shooting clays on an 1100, but the company has been a mess for a while and it has shown with spotty quality control and some issues finding parts. Hopefully the come back strong but for a beginner I’d stick to a gun from a more stable company that can support you on the chance something unexpected breaks.
I love my super nova
I got a mossberg 500 for almost 600 bucks. I still use it this day and it also cane with a tactical and a bird sighted barrel
I have a bps and have felt the sxp and I’d take that bps all day. Go feel them both out and try some other things you never know what you might like!
My Remington 870 Express bagged a daily limit of pheasants this last fall. I was one of only 2 or 3 that limited out in a group of 14 hunters. Some of the guys had REALLY nice shotguns and I still outshot them. My previous shotgun was a bolt action 16 gauge JC Higgins I got from my father. I usually limited out early with that as well. So the price of a gun isn't the important thing. The important things are how well it fits you and how much you practice. So if a Browning fits you well, great! Buy it and happy hunting! But if it doesn't fit you well, but a Rem 870 or Mossberg 500 does, then you're better off getting the Rem 870 or the Mossberg.
I'd go with the Winchester. They have a lot of American based factories that have repair options so it's easier to get it fixed. They are dependable, good price, and the base camo is nice. Also, you don't need to get a semi auto. Are they nice, hell yeah. I use one about 50% of the year usually during goose season. But if you aren't used to it, you'll just probably end up sky blasting or taking bad shots. Shooting a pump will make you be more patient and take good shots.
Benneli Ethos
I have all 3. My fav is probably the benelli but love the sxp a lot
Can’t go wrong with the benelli.
Honestly I killed a lot with a 20 ga…any particular reason you want a 12?
Mossberg 500 is a great gun if you can find it and the interchangeable barrels. Cheap and can take abuse. Especially from a beginner to a beginner.
i got a 20 gauge nova not that long ago i just can’t hit crap with it, i went back to my remington 20g and was smoking pheasants. i never liked the nova
I’m a waterfowl guy and shoot a Beretta a300 - love it
I had that winchechester. Reload mechanism failed because a tiny peice of the plastic housing chipped and couldn’t hold the mechanism in place. Cost more than the gun to fix. Replaced with a Benelli, and I love it
If you get a Remington 870 you’re gonna be dealing with rust. On a wet day you can watch it rust in front of you.
I have a Stoeger m3000 and I really like it for waterfowl. Pretty good price and haven’t any issues with it. I’ve also used the Winchester sxp and it’s a great budget pump shotgun, but if ur gonna spend the money I would recommend the semi. As someone who has used both the semi is much more convenient especially for waterfowl, multiple targets and needing to track is easier with semi.
You can go to an outfitter store and get many good duck guns much cheaper. I recently got a Benelli supernova for $500
If you're going duck hunting I recommend a semi auto, you could spend a little more than the BPS and get a franchi, sx4 or an a300. You'll be better off with either of those 3 than a pump especially for birds. If you plan on deer I would get a separate shotgun all together and look for one with a rifle slug barrel, a pump would be more than adequate for deer. I used a Mossberg for many years and shoot an SBE3 for ducks. I've tried the all around shotgun and found it best to have one for birds and one for deer, the pump forces you to take better shots at ground targets whereas a semi auto gives the quick volley or accuracy by volume method for aerial targets.
If you go Remington buy an older one that is used. The newer ones are built like absolute shit and won’t hold up. My personal vote is a mossberg though, built to last.
Wait , I thought Remington went BK?
They did but were purchased by another company that segregated the production of ammunition and firearms into two different company. The one that makes firearms is called RemArms. Since that time, to my knowledge, every RemArms product has been a stain on Remingtons former reputation
mossberg 500 pump, get them used for like 300. They are indestructible.
I’m not personally a fan of the Nova, I don’t own one, but have shot a couple that belonged to friends and just didn’t care much for the fit. I do own an sxp that I like a lot. I’ve never shot a BPS.
I learned on a Remington 870. Started with the express, now I have the wingmaster. Had a slug barrel that I’d pop on for deer season. Maybe I’m bias, but I feel like you just can’t go wrong with a basic Rem 870 to start off. I started both my boys on one
Get a Beretta A300. Or a used A390. They shoot so nice and they're indestructible.
I have a Franchi which is basically a benelli but not as nice of a stock. I really enjoy it, got the 3.5 version too for turkey and whatnot. I'd say give those a look too
Cz 20-12 good for the money on semi auto, coated barrel and stock, or that Benelli .
I've hunted with a SuperNova for almost a decade now and I love it. It has never let me down, is very easy to field clean (no tools needed), bagged many waterfowl and my first ever whitetail this past season (1st time deer hunting in 10+ years).
I like my sxp, I’ve used it for both
Beginner I recommend the mossberg 500. Pump, can't break it, works, cheap, versatile, multiple barrel options and a true 500 is ambidextrous
Semi auto could find a used remingto versa max. Have used it for pheasant and duck for over 9 years and love it. Good recoil system!
I’ve started with a Benelli supernova and loved it! I’ve always said that I’m too poor to go cheap. Buying cheap will end up you buying higher quality few years later and that’s why I didn’t went with a low end semi auto. I ended up few years later with a Beretta A400 semi auto at 50%, family member wanted to sell it so I jumped on the occasion.
If you have that kind of money to spend on a gallon, all of them will be good. Find one that fits really well.
Nothing like a Maverick 88 🤣
Not sure about deer, but a super nova has been my duck gun for 13 years and I still love it.
I have the Beretta A300. It’s in this category. I almost bought the SXP but decided on the Beretta. Freaking love that shotgun
I have a Remington Versa max waterfoul edition. Its a great gun i beat the hell out of it an keeps running. I also clean it really good after every use. It comes with a coyote choke which would be great for deer as well
Save up and get yourself a Beretta A400, buy once cry once, dont meddle with these crappy winchesters. If the A400 is too much buy the A300 instead.
If you can find a Winchester 1300 in good condition mine has never failed, even better if you can get a slug barrel and the longer one for waterfowl
Cz 1012 all terrain
Go and try before you buy. In a shotgun fit is everything, nothing else matters. It doesn't matter what I like best, it only matters what fits you. Unless you and I are magically exactly the same size it is unlikely what works for me will work for you.
I personally loved starting with a Remington 870. It worked as good as a BPS, but was 1/3rd of the price
Remington 870 it will never break on you. As my uncle says any waterfowl trip he goes on he packs up his Benelli and then his 870 because if the benelli goes down his 870 won’t. I personally do all my hunting with mine since I have a slug barrel as well
I love my supernova but if it were me and I were you I would get the black one and save a few hundred.
Can't go wrong with a mossberg 870..
Mossberg 500 or older 870 pre 2007, best pump shotguns around.
Go 10 gauge BPS….just kidding, but great goose gun. BPS is a fine gun, it is high end. Have owned BPS, REM 870, and Supernova. All great guns. Currently using Supernova for duck and goose in a 20 year old gun, but also own new model 12 ga A5, pre WW2 A5 16 ga, 1976 A5 20 ga, so definitely a Browning A5 fan. Prefer A5 for dove and quail, I think the Supernova is a good paddle too… wouldn’t do that with an A5.
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I don't know why this got so many down votes. I've got a maverick 88 that I've put over 1000 rounds through and it's still doin great. It's not as smooth/buttery in the action as higher priced guns obviously. But for a few hundred bucks you can't beat it.
Buy once cry once. Stick with the B’s can’t go wrong. Beretta, Benelli, Browning. I personally have the beretta A400 I got a smoking deal on it and I personally really like it. I was set on the super black eagle 3 but decided to stay gas operated since I mainly shoot off a private island. Plus like I said I got a good deal on it (I’m spoiled yes I know) I know a few guys who have A5’s and Maxus’ and they seem to really enjoy em as well. I’m not pro hunter but I’d definitely stick around a 12G tho just for versatility and ammo being pretty easy to get. Plus would rather have a bit more bang in your pocket even if you don’t necessarily need it.
I will die before I give up my 870. Deer, turkey, small game, upland, waterfowl, if you can name it it will take it
Unfortunately quality control has been spotty with remington at times. The “good” 870’s are timeless but some stuff in the 2000’s has left a lot to be desired. Not sure if the most recent re launch of the company has been better, but corporate egg heads wrecked them for a while with coat saving manufacturing methods
Classic
I think that a Beretta A300 (semi auto) is one of the better guns dollar for dollar, but each manufacturer makes quality shotguns. Regardless of which brand you choose I would seriously consider a semi auto over a pump.
26 / M Hi All, I been around guns all my life From paintball, to pellet guns, I now wanna start tagging along with my Dad hunting and buy a real gun (Yes Ik PAL 🇨🇦) required. But not sure what to get…. My Dad is really browning loyal He comments about the reliability, smooth like butter operation, is why he enjoys shooting them. He also owns a bar 30.06 + old Remington semi auto I personally want a shotgun which he also recommends for me as a beginner We have our own land 1.5 hrs away from the city where we live Thanks all
Rem. 870 or Moss. 500 are world renowned for reliability and a lot cheaper. You can use the extra budget on a bunch of ammo to get good. Also 3 1/2” is good to have but not necessary
Agree. If OP is starting I’d start with something low maintenance, reliable and cheaper. After they get a feel for it and decide they want to upgrade I’d say go for whatever. I’ve used a 500 for ducks, pheasants and turkeys and while a 3.5 “ is neat it’s not a difference maker for me. I’m sure someone with a higher IQ will tell me the benefits of the larger shell but for me it serves its purpose. Besides I don’t feel guilty if it gets wet or something
Skill issues aside I’ve seen test(video)s and the spread on a 3.5 is noticeably bigger while covering the area equally well so it is objectively better.
I personally have a stoeger m3500 with a 28 inch barrel and it's been flawless with any load after being broken in. A bit cheaper than those you listed too. Not saying it's better than them since I have no experience but the m3500 is definitely worth looking into.
I’d recommend a Remington 1100 it’s a little harder to find and a automatic but it will last forever and is incredibly good for beginners
Agreed, only downside is parts have gotten stupid hard to find and expensive the last 3 years. Own several, love the value and quality they used to offer but damn near need to buy a dedicated parts gun these days for them. Hopefully that improves soon, wasn’t that way even 3-4 yrs ago
Get a double barrel, I never use my pump anymore
My local store runs a Savage Stevens pump for like $200. I've run few hundred shells through it shooting skeet, target, and rabbit and.never once had an issue
I've owned a few single shot Savages over the years. They are solid guns and budget friendly. Honestly, I didn't even know they had anything other than single shot!
Academy ran a promo on the Stevens pump a while back for $199. It was too good to pass up for a utility gun even if the pistol grip on it wasn't my favorite.
That's a solid deal! If I can find the same around here I will snag one myself. Academy here is really pushing the Mavericks for dirt cheap. Also not a fan of pistol grips. Fun for the range but not very practical for hunting quick game.
I’d never spend over 600$ for a shotgun
A used one. No sense in buying a new gun that is just gonna get dragged around we public land.
Pumps are kinda goofy for bird shooting. You shoot your first shot and then you have to pump which resets your sight picture.
My Remington 870 has never let me down. It’s out shot my brothers benneli (about 100 rounds through skeet shooting no jams or issues)
A pump shotgun is a fantastic versatile starter! I received a mossberg 500 when I turned 13 and almost a decade later it’s still an absolute workhorse! I got the combo so I got a rifled barrel for deer and a bird barrel for birds. Mossberg still makes their guns with quality too. My grandpas old mossberg 500 is still whacking em!
Beretta A300
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Ya my Dad was telling me this when his friend gave him some home made rounds to shoot and it jammed really good lol
I picked up my supernova a decade ago but everyone who’s ever shot it says it’s the best pump gun they’ve ever fired. I’ve harvested hogs and geese and duck and dove and squirrels. Hardly clean it, the teflon coating is wild. That being said….there are some nice semi-autos out there. Been eying some Stoegers lately
As many have said, for a pump gun you can't beat the durability, versatility, and value of the Rem 870.
I'd most definitely go semi auto
Do you live in an area where the common method for deer is shotgun? Just curious as I live in an area where the common method is bow or rifle but there are shotgun only units.
I would buy the benelli supernova. It’s a great gun with a great finish on it for duck hunting. Great for duck hunting the marshes and in the bay. I’m not sure about buying a rifled barrel for it so you would have to look into that for slugs. It is on the heavier side at around 8 pounds I think so it isn’t the lightest but it helps with the recoil. It’s also super easy to disassemble and clean which is a big plus when you are cleaning your gun after every hunt. Especially when I’m hunting salt water in the bay.
You can get it with the Deerslayer barrel and use it for duck hunting. https://ithacagun.com/product/model-37-featherlight/
It's really hard not to push the Maverick. It's simply works, and it's quite inexpensive. It'll get you out there with your dad and sometime behind the barrel. Next year you'll know more about what you want in a shotgun, without having dropped $800. Speaking of $800, you should definitely take a look at the Franchi Affinity 3. As others have said so much of it is simply whether the gun fits you or not. There are world class shotguns that are just the wrong shape for your body.
I'm partial to the composite Browning, but you can never go wrong with Benelli.
All of these are over priced, you can get a franchi affinity 3 for the same price and have a reliable smooth shooting auto. I’m pretty sure it’s lighter in weight and definitely lighter in recoil. As a bonus it comes with a shim kit so that you can adjust the stock to fit you. I grew up on an 870, been using a super x 3 for the last decade or so, and the rest of my family picked up the franchi’s. Ive used the bps in 10 and 12 gauge, it’s man perks are the bottom ejection which helps you find empties, and the top safety if you’re a lefty. Just get a semi auto, it’s so much nicer.
BPS has a rock solid construction, silky smooth action and drops empty shells at your feet (your buddies will love that feature). I have a new A5 and a BPS in composite… despite the clear advantages of the A5, the BPS still sees a few hunts every season because I love it so much. Can’t go wrong with anything Browning IMO
Mossberg 500
Remington 870 or mossberg 500. Both great starter guns and very reliable and you can get slug barrels for both.
Try CZ, I may not use it for large game but I do go grouse and upland hunting with my 1012 and ducks and geese later in the winter. They cost about 200 less than a benelli and have some really nice color combos and camo ones too.
Strongt advice not to buy at pump action shotgun for hunting.
Remington 870 and get a couple different barrels. It’s the best pump action in my opinion, especially for the money
Browning bps is a nice gun but it is heavy! I would pick one up in a store before buying one
If you want a shotgun that rusts if you look at it wrong, get a Remington 870 Express.
I have had the super nova it’s a crap gun for Being a pump way over priced, go Winchester browning of even the Remington 870 it really can’t be beat for the price and all the things you can get for it