Shotguns suitable for non-tox

[Les Becassines 0]

I am wondering if anyone has any ideas of a double gun that is suitable for steel shot. I don't like using it but I am concerned about changes is laws that seem inevitable and will force me to shoot non-toxic shot. In many states in the U.S. it is already required for snipe. Fortunately in my state it isn't, yet. I don't consider any of the other non-tox choices realistic alternatives due to the extreme cost. As of now to load three flats of lead, about what I shoot in a season, it will cost a bit under $150. To shoot the equivalent in an inexpensive steel load would cost $200. Bismuth or one of the ever higher cost non-tox would set me back close to over $2000. In the first year alone the cost difference would be substantial. I am looking for a 20 gauge double that will handle 2 3/4" loads with 3/4 oz of #7 steel. I hope you gentlemen over there can provide me with more help than I was able to get here. As long as non-toxic shot has been required someone has to be making something resembling a light game gun that will handle the stuff. Thanks in advance for any suggestions.

 

Skip

[SportingShooter 0]

To start off with, there are far more guns out there which can handle steel in 12 bore than 20 but they do exist.

 

Any of Beretta's Game guns in 20 will handle a three inch steel load, both high performance and otherwise.

 

Almost all new Game guns from reputable manufacturers will be able to take steel. If you are in doubt, drop them an email.

 

Browning, Beretta, etc etc

 

Regards

SS

[Les Becassines 0]

SS, I appreciate that. I hadn't considered a Beretta. I like the 471 well enough. One shop that sells upgraded guns in the states offers a case colored gun with 28" barrels and 2 triggers. A hunting buddy just got a 687 in a 20/28 gauge combo from him. I would trust a single trigger on a Beretta although I prefer two. Do you know if they still offer them with fixed chokes? I saw a pair for sale with 28" barrels choked mod/full. I would rather have something like that and get the chokes opened than have choke tubes. I am flexible on the triggers, but I'd like a straight stock. A splinter forend is mandatory. I think The CZ Bobwhite has all the features I want (except for the choke tubes) but I would prefer to get something a little better. They state that their gun is suitable for steel shot, as did SKB when I contacted them. Unfortunately neither Browning nor SKB list a double gun anymore.

 

With a little looking around I spotted something that other than gauge (and price) would be about perfect. In a 20 gauge version THIS GUN is exactly what I need.

 

Skip

[tom1cameron 1]

Beretta produce a range O/U steel proofed guns, as do browning

 

I know that Remington just released a special edition 20g ruffed grouse society gun that I think is steel proofed.

It is in their 2008 catalogue so should be available in the US.

 

Get a steel proofed gun that can take high velocity nitro steel loads and you wont look back

[Les Becassines 0]

Thank you Tom. I have a 20 ga Winchester 101 from Classic Doubles that I could use but I prefer to hunt with a double instead of an O/U. The choices for steel shot compatible O/U guns are almost limitless, just like they are for pumps and autos. I wish I was looking for one of those because I'd have plenty to choose from.

 

After looking further at the Berettas I don't care at all for the case coloring process that they use. I still think the gun is an option, just with a different receiver finish.

 

Skip

[SportingShooter 0]

There are not many quality guns in Side-by-Side which will be both 20 bore and proofed for steel.

 

The 471 Hawk, maybe one of those few, keep us posted if you find another.

 

SS

 

P.S I believe the Hawk is still made in fixed and multichoke, I'm not sure about double or single triggers.