Post
by Outlaw » Fri Dec 16, 2011 8:19 pm
Great topic !! Lot's of good answers here and it's a hoot to see what different folks like, it seems to me a gun is somewhat an extension of the owner and has a connection to them, whether that is a family passed on treasure, a special feel or fit, the first gun you shot, or the one you always dreamed of....they have meaning of some kind...it seems to me the perfect gun for anyone is the one that connects them with whatever that special thing is...could you shoot another gun better...maybe....could you get one fitted and run a jillion rounds through it and become great with it...sure...but the real test is the smile on your face when you use it...if it makes you the happiest then it's my guess it's the perfect gun for you. I have always appreciated tradition and the romance of the hunt and longing to connect with days gone by, with great dogs, great friends, great memories and of course that special gun. That being said, I have always had a soft spot for guns of yester-year and the lifetime quality that came with the "bespoke" pieces of finely crafted artisans, unfortunately my wallet and priorities of other committments have limited what might have turned into an obsession if given the chance. So while I can appreciate english doubles and others "bests" in SxS's, I have been limited to the more domestic classics and thusly my favorites are in no particular order:
Pre-1964 Win Model 12's- I have a '59 trap gun that I am pretty parcial to.
Browning Belgiums:
Superposed- my absolute favorite over and under hands down- a 1965 20ga/26.5" lightening in IC/MOD is my personal favorite-but the 12's are dandy too.
Browning A-5- The Light 12 Model in Mod/28" is a bulky but extremely accurate auto-loader with a rich heritage
Win Model 21- "The" American classic SxS...still on the wish list for someday.
Non Classic shooters in the arsenal that deserve merit as well:
Browning Citori Lightening Feather in 28" -a sub 7 lb 12 gauge that's a great shooter
Ruger Red label O/U 20 gauge- nice shooter in 20 Gauge....pretty heavy in 12 Gauge IMO
Benelli SBE-the original by HK Benelli with nice wood...very useful and reliable for anything and weighs 6.2 LBS, a nice field carry for an auto
Remington Wingmaster 870 LW Magnum 20 GA-- Just a really fun pump gun that's quick and light
I love to enjoy our heritage and think the best gun for you again, is simply the one you shoot and enjoy with a smile....PASS them on and keep tradition alive !!
"Most certainly there are no things in this world can equal the love of God, Family, Friends and a great Bird Dog."
www.OutlawGundogs.com