what semi-auto should I get?

I'm a little leary of a Saiga as a clays gun. While it can be done, it's not the best tool. How do I know? I did it.

OTOH, for reducing the threat level in the immediate vicinity, it's one of the better choices.
 
If an 1100 in 20 gauge of any description is beating you up, I would hesitate recommending any shotgun to you, because I do not know of anything that recoils less, except an 1100 in 28 gauge or 410. I say that having shot the majority of everything going. Maybe you need to shoot a Benelli Super Black Eagle 1 with the one piece wood stock and some 3-1/2" loads to gain some perspective.
 
Has the 1100 always beat you up? If not, I would tear it completely down and thoroughly clean it. I have one and when it gets really dirty it begins to feel more like a 12 than a
20. Replace the o-rings, clean and or replace recoil spring and lightly lube.
 
i guess if you want an all american semi auto... remington 11-87, which is what i would have chosen anyway... i havent liked winchester since they ruined their lever actions and quit producing the 1200/1300.. and theyre owned by a foreign company now anyway...

1100 and 11-87 have a ton of aftermarket though... keep it as a hunting shotgun, or make it into a semi automatic military style with a shorter barrel, top folding stock, etc
 
1. Check the recoil pad. Is it old and hard?
2. Add the weight like Jim says.
3. If you reload or want to get into reloading, try a softer shooting load but one that still cycles your action.
4. Get a pretty girl to rub your shoulder.
 
Keep in mind I'm not an experienced trap shooter / hunter, nor have I shot a bunch of different shotguns...

Just bought a Beretta AL391 used for $630, synthetic stock.

Like:

- you can adjust the weight of the front end (swing characteristics)
- shim between buttstock and receiver allows adjustment of comb / cast
- different recoil pads for LOP adjustability
- utoob disassembly, clean, reassembly videos from Beretta Service mgr

(^makes gun ownership much easier)

- recoil is a 'love tap' ... like an AR15, no joke
- something about Italian Beretta - they take pride in the performance of their firearms
- first time shooting trap, I was busting clays and sporting a big grin

Dislike:

- being a gas gun, the cleaning regimen is a bit more involved
- doesn't look "classy" like a Beretta White Onyx o/u (gorgeous shotgun)
- in fact, it looks like a toy from Mal Wart
 
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cleaned it good but will try replacing the recoil spring. the pad is hard and stiff, will replace it too. lots of good ole' debatin. like it!. JT
 
+1 for the Beretta AL390/3901. About the best bang for the buck out there in a name brand product. Reliable, good shootability and excellent resale value.
 
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