Recommend me an Over/Under

[hunterdan]

Since my dad splurged a little and bought himself a Browning cynergy, I want to get myself something a little nicer. It will be used for mostly sporting clays, trap, etc and an occasional pheasant hunt once or twice a year. My budget is no more than $1100. I know, saving another 3-400 will get me a better gun, but it isn't in the budget. I decided I don't want a true field grade gun because of their weight, preferably in the 7-7.5 pound range. I was looking at the SKB 590 and cz sterling upland. I'm sure there are other guns out there that meet my needs, I just haven't found them yet. Not opposed to a used gun, but would like new. So, give me some more ideas on what to look at. Thanks

[ar15jules]

Most important in buying a shotgun is "fit". It can be a $30,000 Italian or German job, but if it doesn't fit, it isn't going to be worth a shit to you.

[WVBob]

I like the CZ's and you can look for a used Ruger.

[DavidTM]

Even consider the new Ruger Red Label. Here's a review from Shooting Times: http://www.shootingtimes.com/reviews...-label-review/

[hunterdan]

I have a line on an extremely good deal for a great gun, will keep everyone posted. I'm hoping I can make this happen before this deal passes me by.

[hunterdan]

I've finally decided on the franchi instinct l. It's not as fancy as the sl, but it's a pound heavier and features a case color receiver. Will be headed to tanners tomorrow to put a deposit down and hopefully have one in hand in a week or so.

[hunterdan]

Put a down payment on my shotgun. Should have it midweek or so.

[PA1936MN]

Those Franchi's are heavy as a hippo. Great guns but heavy heavy heavy.

[hunterdan]

The one I looked at felt like it was a good balance. It wasn't too heavy for field use, but it wasn't too light for target shooting. Reviews have it weighing in around 7.25 pounds.

[Guns N'at]

As mentioned it has to fit, or be fitted to you no matter the brand. I have owned a Browning Citori, Beretta Onyx, IZH 27, and Lanber 2087... All have their own personality and feel, but all shot well enough for me. The Lanber is by far the best bang for the buck; looks, shoots and feels like it should cost more. Another brand that I like a lot, but have never owned was SKB using a cross bolt lock. Seem very finely made of good materials, good fit and finish, nice strong lock-up. Personally, I have always wanted an Italian made boss action O/U, and maybe someday...

A big concern is after the sale service, warranty/non warranty repairs and parts. It can be very difficult to get off brand parts, so IMO, it may be best to stick with the major brands. I'm pretty handy working on firearms, still I know someday parts for some may be an issue. Seems new O/U's pop up all the time, and then the distributor shortly closes down, or the major brand drops the line... Think PMC Verona (F.A.I.R), Remington Spartan (Baikal IZH 27), Any of the EAA/Tristar/CD (Baikal/E. Rizzini/Sabatti or older Miroku Browning), and countless Turkish makes for some major US branded makers.

Good luck!