Need suggestions about a good 20 gauge pump action shotgun.

[zach1791]

I want to purchase a 20 gauge pump action shotgun. I would like to get an old Winchester pump. I do not know much about 20 gauge shotguns and would like suggestions. If you know about the old Winchesters I would like any info you coud give. I don't want to spend more than $300 but I could possibly make an exception. Thanks in advance.

 

[BillCA]

I just purchased a Remington 870 20ga, synthetic stock, with a 20" barrel and screw-in chokes for $275. The Remington 870 is supposed to be the best, however I do like my Winchester 1300 "Defender" 12 ga.

Winchester's 1300 is available in 20ga with improved cylinder choke.
see: http://www.winchesterguns.com/prodinfo/catalog/detail.asp?cat_id=512&type_id=106&cat=012C

MSRP is $341 so you might be able to find it near $300 retail.

 

[kudu]

A good Remington 870 20ga would be your best bet, but there are any number of different kinds of older pumps out there. JC Higgins made a decent pump in large quantities that were sold in major stores under Sears and Western Field, Montgomery Wards, etc. Winchester 1300 has 20 gauges available, but I am not as familiar with them as others. Look around used gun racks and for sale papers, you may come up with a jewell.

 

[44-40]

A 1300 winchester,remington 870,or an ithaca

 

[gordo b.]

A new gun I'd look long and hard at a Benelli Nova 20, with choke around $299. Used I know where there is a beautiful Remington 17 20 ga 2 3/4" for $165. or a Remington Model 31L (5 pounds in 1948!) for $250.

 

[BillCA]

The Benelli Nova, as I recall, uses a carbon-fiber receiver which accounts for it's light weight. A friend has one in 12ga with 28" barrel and says it's as quick handling as a 20ga.

 

[deerhunter17]

you should be able to pick up a used Rem. 870 for under $300. I was at gander mountain Thursday and almost bought a Rem. 870 20 gauge, with a 28" barrell that could shoot 3" shells for $200.

 

[Nnobby45]

It's been a long time since I've taken my 870 12ga. chukar hunting. Didn't mind the heavier gun in my younger days, but climbing with the LW 20 is much easier.


The 870 20ga. Light Weight model has been my companion for a long time. Chukar, quail, sage and blue grouse---all upland game. It has a 21" barrel with screw in choke tubes, but I never change the Modified tube. (It actually shoots a modified pattern).