Finding the best sporting clays gun under $2000 requires careful consideration of several factors. This price point offers a range of excellent options, but choosing the right one depends on your skill level, shooting style, and personal preferences. This guide will help you navigate the choices and find the perfect firearm for your needs.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Sporting Clays Gun
Before diving into specific models, let's examine the crucial elements to consider:
1. Gauge:
- 12 Gauge: The most popular choice, offering the widest selection of ammunition and a powerful recoil. However, the recoil can be significant for beginners.
- 20 Gauge: A lighter recoil makes it ideal for beginners or those sensitive to recoil. Ammunition is readily available, though perhaps not as diverse as 12 gauge.
- 28 Gauge: Offers the lightest recoil, making it very comfortable to shoot. However, ammunition selection is more limited, and it's generally less powerful.
2. Action Type:
- Over-and-Under (O/U): Known for their elegance and balance, O/Us are popular for sporting clays. They offer a consistent point of aim and are generally considered more accurate.
- Side-by-Side (S/S): These shotguns have a classic design and offer excellent balance. They can be slightly more challenging to master than O/Us due to the differing barrel placement.
- Semi-Automatic: Semi-autos offer rapid follow-up shots, which can be beneficial in sporting clays. However, they often require more maintenance and can be heavier than O/Us or S/Bs.
3. Barrel Length and Choke Tubes:
Barrel length impacts swing and maneuverability. Shorter barrels are more agile, while longer barrels offer more stability. Choke tubes allow you to adjust the shot pattern to suit various targets. A versatile set of chokes is highly recommended.
4. Stock and Fit:
Proper stock dimensions are crucial for comfortable and accurate shooting. A gun that fits poorly can lead to discomfort and inconsistent performance. Consider getting a professional fitting to ensure a comfortable and accurate setup.
Top Sporting Clays Gun Contenders Under $2000
While specific models fluctuate in price and availability, these brands and types consistently offer excellent value within this budget:
Budget-Friendly Options:
- Stoeger: Stoeger offers several reliable over-and-under and semi-automatic shotguns that provide excellent performance for their price. They're a popular choice for those new to the sport.
- CZ: CZ shotguns often offer a good balance of features and affordability, making them a strong contender in this price range.
Mid-Range Options (Often pushing the $2000 limit, depending on features and sales):
- Beretta (lower-end models): Beretta produces some high-quality entry-level shotguns that can sometimes be found within or near this budget range. Look for sales and clearance models.
- Browning (lower-end models): Similar to Beretta, Browning also offers models that might fall into this price range, especially during promotions.
Choosing the Right Gun for You
The "best" sporting clays gun is highly subjective. Consider attending a sporting clays event and trying out different shotguns before making a purchase. Rentals are often available at shooting ranges. Talking to experienced shooters and getting professional advice on fit will significantly improve your chances of finding a firearm that suits your needs and abilities.
Beyond the Gun: Essential Accessories
Don't forget the importance of accessories:
- Hearing and Eye Protection: Absolutely essential for safe shooting.
- Ammunition: Choose high-quality ammunition appropriate for your gauge and shooting style.
- Cleaning Kit: Regular cleaning is essential to maintain your shotgun's performance and longevity.
By carefully considering these factors and doing your research, you can find the best sporting clays gun under $2000 to enhance your enjoyment of this exciting sport. Remember that the most important factor is finding a gun that fits you well and that you enjoy shooting.
