12ga pump shopping

Evan B

Evan B

Bobber Downey Jr.
Staff member
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About 15yrs ago, my nice collection of shotguns and rifles walked away in the arms of (a now former) family member who decided they needed them more than I do. Since I was so hyper-focused on my disposable outdoor recreation income and limited time going towards fishing, I have taken way too long to start rebuilding.

I plan to get out for local ducks and possibly some chukar hunting with some friends this season. I've gotten some input from them, but why have a forum if I don't seek advice from even more people?

I'm really ONLY after utility in this purchase. I don't need the best, the lightest, the one that will get me the most cool points or anything of the sort.

I've had the Stoeger P3500 recommended as probably the best bang for buck. I don't want to spend over $500. What says the lot of you?
 
Maverick 88 is the common "very budget 12 gauge pump" suggestion you'll hear a lot. It's essentially a Mossberg 500 that isn't made in the USA. $250 for a "field" gun with a 28in barrel and a modified choke. $50 more gets you the same plus an additional 18in "security' barrel.

But if your budget stretches a bit further, probably get more gun for your money.
 
Skimr said:
Remington 870. Been around forever. What ever you get make sure it has interchangeable chokes. You don’t want to get stuck with a fixed choke when shooting steel for waterfowl. And don’t overlook used guns!
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This^^^^^^

The 870 has been around forever. I've had a couple and never have any problems, other than one being stolen! Whether you buy new or used, there is a high % chance you'll be happy with it. If you think there is any chance you'll ever want to turkey hunt (it's super fun!), try to get one that can use 3.5" shells.
 
I own 870 express, wingmaster, and Benelli. The Nova fits better, and is adjustable. The wingmaster is old and beautiful. The Express is not satisfying. You’ll never regret the Benelli.

And 3 1/2 generally shoot the same oz of shot (of the same size) as 3”. It’s kind of a push.
 
IMHO, to stay close to your budget look at the Mossberg 500. Accuset chokes, twin action bars, 3” chamber. If you can’t kill it with 2 3/4” ….well, you know. $545.00 MSRP
 
I've had many 870s including a Wingmaster. Was just curious if anything else has come up that may get a better bang for buck. It's definitely on my radar though.
 
Every once in a while you can find a used BPS…my dad has a couple and they are pretty badass too. I always liked the action on those more than my 870. I shoot a Maxxis now, and I’m never going back to a pump lol.
 
I have two BPS’s, 12 and 16 bore. Love ‘em. Bottom loading makes you a favorite in the blind, no spent hulls in your friend’s face.
 
There is a used BPS up on gunbroker right now. Tempting
 
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Mossberg 835, Benelli Nova. Either are right at or slightly above your price point. The 835 can be had with swappable barrels.
 
Roper said:
I have two BPS’s, 12 and 16 bore. Love ‘em. Bottom loading makes you a favorite in the blind, no spent hulls in your friend’s face.
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I'm really leaning toward a used BPS.
 
I used to have a BPS and really liked it. It’s a very heavy gun, so once it starts swinging it helps with follow thru. I got rid of mine due to the weight. Love the bottom eject. Found out the hard way, never ever ever store it wet. Mine rusted
 
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Skimr said:
I used to have a BPS and really liked it. It’s a very heavy gun, so once it starts swinging it helps with follow thru. I got rid of mine due to the weight. Love the bottom eject. Found out the hard way, never ever ever store it wet. Mine rusted
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Yeah may need to get a chukar gun that's a bit lighter. But hunting season is a long ways. I'm sure I'll convince myself I need a few more before then.
 
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trading my Wingmaster and a $100 in the mid 70's for a Browning A-5 turned out to be a stellar move, never went back to a pump after that.
 
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