Clay pigeon shotgun

[Scams]

I am looking for a shotgun for getting into clay pigeon shooting, but am not experienced in this type of shooting so I have some questions. If I show up with a tactical looking semi auto would that be seen as incorrect? I don't like the look of the o/u guns or guns with wooden furniture. The idea of semi auto appeals to me a lot for a shotgun, as I could use it for other things. I just don't want to show up with a benelli m2 and get funny looks all day. Also any recommendations for shotguns? Or is the m2 pretty much as good as it gets? Any info would be much appreciated. :)

[johngarnett]

If you use a section 1 shotgun on a proper clay range are you OK with terms of your FAC?

I don't think you can set up in a field and blag hand thrown clays from behind the hedge with a sect 1?

Be interested to hear?

JohnG

[Dellboy]

a lot of clay grounds aren't cleared for sec 1
Plus some don't really like autos because of the mess unless you pick up the empties

[saddler]

If you use a section 1 shotgun on a proper clay range are you OK with terms of your FAC?

I don't think you can set up in a field and blag hand thrown clays from behind the hedge with a sect 1?

Be interested to hear?

JohnG

I didn't spot any reference to FAC shotguns in the question(s)...just "tactical"

What are the conditions on your FAC relating to your own FAC sshotguns?

[Blackstuff]

As long as the person using the S1 shiotgun has the clay pigeon condition on their certificate thats the only 'extra' needed. AFAIK the land/shooting ground does not need to be 'cleared' in the same way as a you do with a rifle. Having a greater magazine capacity does not improve/alter the capablilty of the ammunition being used, over the same ammo in a S2 shotgun.

With regard to the suitability, this will depend on the club. I doubt a normal M2/semi auto would raise an eyebrow at most clay clubs, just make sure you observe the etiquette for picking up (or not) your cases. Using a 'tactical' looking gun might upset some dinosaurs but on the whole (in my experience) most people aren't bothered. I've used my M2 which is set up for PSG several times at my local clay club and another shooting ground. I've even used my BR99 at my local place and the club secretary who usually doesn't like semi-autos was desperate to have a go!

If you don't like wooden guns (i'm not keen either) there are a couple of 'black' O/U's out there, such as the Browning Cynergy Black Ice (i use one for clays) and theres a cheaper look-i-likey version of it made by Hatsan (i think).

Cynergy at top above M2;

[Blackstuff]

Damn, missed the editing window! Yes it is a Hatsan;

http://www.hatsan.com.tr/en_optima_silv ... hetic.html

[Kungfugerbil]

If you don't have a lot of experience with clays, the first step is to have a lesson. They're not expensive, can be done at most clay grounds and will set you off on the right path... Talk to the club instructor. While the old boys may tut at SAs, as long as you're safe and considerate (don't ping cartridges at other people and pick them up after you're done...) then crack on.

There's no need for a S1 for clays, you'll have plenty of time to reload between pairs.

If you must have a plastic gun, take a look at the Armsan A612 or A620 depending on your bore preference. You won't find a single bad review on them from press or punters and they are cheap as chips - the synthetic stock 12 bore can be had brand new for 369 quid with a set of multi chokes.

[kennyc]

theres a reason why most people who shoot clays a lot use O/U or SxS rather than SA and its efficiency ! they are just better suited to the job.

[Tony-c]

I love the Armsan a612s. Great value and looks every bit as good as any far more expensive shotgun if you like to look good.

[Kungfugerbil]

theres a reason why most people who shoot clays a lot use O/U or SxS rather than SA and its efficiency ! they are just better suited to the job.

You don't see many side-by-sides on the clay grounds these days...

If it was my 1200 quid to drop on a clay gun, it wouldn't be a Benelli M2, it would be a Beretta 686, Browning 525 or Miroku MK38, but the OP expressed a desire for a tacticool semi auto so they won't be on his short list :)