After much self-debate over what my next firearm purchase should be, I have concluded that it should be an all-purpose shotgun.
I already own a home defense shotgun. It's a 12 guage with an 18.5 inch cylinder bore barrel without choke options. That is fine. Its purpose is simple and limited: to keep bad guys out of my house. I also have a 9mm pistol for the same purpose.
However, a friend introduced me to clay target shooting and I've caught the bug. Some sport shooting is in my future -- at clays primarily, maybe some upland game and turkey eventually, but I don't anticipate being any sort of competitive shooter.
Also, one of my goals is to introduce friends and friends of friends to firearms in general. The NRA has a mentor program that encourages members to invite friends to shooting ranges and teach them about firearms. I agree.
All that being said, I have a first choice of shotgun as my next purchase, with all above needs considered. It is a Browning BPS Hunter in 20 guage with a 26" barrel.
I know there are many other options. Probably too many in my opinion. That is why I'm starting this thread.
Questions:
How good are 20 gauge shotguns at breaking clays?
How good are they at downing upland game & turkeys?
What are the advantages/disadvantages of a 26" barrel and 28" barrel?
Are there better choices of make and model of shotgun, including price points, that I should consider?
Should I stick with the ubiquitous 12 gauge?
Comments and advice certainly appreciated.
I already own a home defense shotgun. It's a 12 guage with an 18.5 inch cylinder bore barrel without choke options. That is fine. Its purpose is simple and limited: to keep bad guys out of my house. I also have a 9mm pistol for the same purpose.
However, a friend introduced me to clay target shooting and I've caught the bug. Some sport shooting is in my future -- at clays primarily, maybe some upland game and turkey eventually, but I don't anticipate being any sort of competitive shooter.
Also, one of my goals is to introduce friends and friends of friends to firearms in general. The NRA has a mentor program that encourages members to invite friends to shooting ranges and teach them about firearms. I agree.
All that being said, I have a first choice of shotgun as my next purchase, with all above needs considered. It is a Browning BPS Hunter in 20 guage with a 26" barrel.
I know there are many other options. Probably too many in my opinion. That is why I'm starting this thread.
Questions:
How good are 20 gauge shotguns at breaking clays?
How good are they at downing upland game & turkeys?
What are the advantages/disadvantages of a 26" barrel and 28" barrel?
Are there better choices of make and model of shotgun, including price points, that I should consider?
Should I stick with the ubiquitous 12 gauge?
Comments and advice certainly appreciated.