Sat down to buy a new shotgun today
 

Today I grabbed my computer tuned into Gunsinternational and clicked onto the shotguns site. I figure I've got $2K to spend without too much response from the boss. Might go to $3. First I looked at the Army Navy shotguns sight. I was really temped to order a WC Scott 12 for $1,800. A very nice 12 gauge, solid steel barrels, Skeet and extra full. Beautiful wood. I may still buy it. I am somehow drawn to buy guns like those owned by Ernest Hemingway. His favorite was an WC Scott gun not far from the one I want. But he also blew his brains out with his WC Scott which gives me a cold chill and drives me from owning such a gun. So I looked at Parkers....Now friends, Parkers are "spendy" as we say in Oregon. However I found an okay looking Trojan in 16 gauge. Not in the best of shape, but $2000 which is in my price range....but Trojans don't blow my shirt up...much anyway. I checked the Baker site and found several Bavarians (sp?). Not bad guns, and not too expensive. Those Bavarians are nice looking guns and I can get one in 16, which I like. So what would you buy? Also saw a beat up Fox Sterly for $650 in 16...not in the best condition, but I own a Fox Sterly and like them.

My suggestion is to pay $40 and become a PGCA member. You will then have access to the For Sale section on this forum where many nice guns at good prices have been, are, and will be listed.

Don’t turn up your nose at a Trojan, especially in 16ga. 2k seems a bit pricy however, especially in the condition you mention.

You could own a beautiful D grade 12 gauge Parker in your price range or a great “shooter” V grade 12 gauge for $1,500 or less.

Fox, Parker, L.C. Smith, Ithica. Set tight and keep looking and saving for what you really want. The fun is in the hunt! 12 gauge guns are going to be the best price point, but do you really want a 12? Do not forget to buy a gun that fits you and you can shoot well. If buying a 16 look for one that is 6lbs-4oz or a little less. Buying online, make sure the seller has a return policy just in case they missed mentioning a unexpectable flaw. Ask all the questions about the guns condition. Do the barrels ring, do they have any dents or dent repairs, are the bores bright. Is the gun tight on face and so on. Good luck with your hunt....(-: SXS ohio

One other suggestion ,you probably won't be looking at Damascus Barreled guns if you're new to buying Old Doubles but should one catch your eye with Damascus Barrels ask about the Bore Condition and the Minimal Barrel Wall Thickness as the early powders caused corrosion ,hence possible pitting ,this is especially important with the guns that are advertised with exceptionally clean Inside Bores ,which may have been honed and again make sure of the return policy to give you time to get the Wall Thickness Measured !

IMO the best deal on a 16 gauge out there right now is the Fox Sterlingworth. 28" barreled guns are everywhere and pretty darn cheap. Later Savage made guns will have a better chance of having more modern dimensions and also 2 3/4" chambers. Most of them will be under 6.5 pounds. They are pretty simple guns which is a good thing. PS. Finding ones with a good bit of case color and unturned screws will be a bit tougher, but they are certainly out there. 12 gauges are at give away prices, but the 16's handle much better in the woods imo.

A 12 gauge VH Parker or Fox Sterlingworth in high original condition would be my choice.

Keep looking. There are decent Parkers out there for under 2k. I also suggest to consider a Fox Sterlingworth or an A grade, and or a Lefever, or both.

Don't turn your nose up on a solid Trojan. They break birds and take game as well as a graded gun will. Personally, I like VH Parkers. Solid guns that shoot and shoot and shoot.... I have some higher grade guns only because they were at the right price. As WHO mentioned, join the PGCA and you'll have access to the "For Sale" forum where you are guaranteed to find some nice shotguns.