Your perspective on handling?

[John Davis]

I do not claim to be a great shot. I have become somewhat competitive in trap. What I have found is, that above all else, the fit of the gun is what makes the real difference. If the gun fits you, then you are going to consistently hit targets. If it doesn't fit, you are going to struggle. Weight, choke, length of barrels, etc. only apply to the specific game you are pursuing or playing. If it don't fit, it won't hit.

[Andy]

Originally Posted by Mike Koneski

Andy, from all the reading and hands on experience there is one thing to remember when comparing American guns with Eurotrash and that is American shooters always wanted to shoot heavy/hot loads at their game whereas the Brits opted for much lighter shooting shells. Our hunting was walk up with or without dogs. The Brits did some walk up but mostly driven. Two completely different styles of hunting and two different styles of guns, for the most part. Along with that, reread Stan's post.

Thanks Mike. Maybe I'll just drive down and borrow a truckload of guns from you to see what I like Hi to Sam!

[Mike of the Mountain]

BWAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!! Now you're diggin' where the taters are!!

[Andy]

I really appreciate all the feedback. I had a fitting and Rich Cole do a semi custom stock on my Beretta field gun. I shoot it OK. It fits but just lacks something. The 28g Parker repro is close, and a lot lighter, but I shoot it better and it just feels "right" so I know what Stan is talking about. I'm not a great shot, or great shotgunner. I love being around guns I guess and now this Parker thing has me interested. My only real concern is buying something without handling it. I guess the "out" is that I could sell it, which means I have to buy smart. I am a bit perplexed as to why there are so many weights with different frame sizes, but I would assume because each was made to a customers requests?

[Keith Doty]

Stan is spot on about fit. I have a horrible ugly Winchester 1400, make a man cry to look at. It's been my salt marsh duck killer for many years. I shoot it well because it just fits me and I have shot it for years, it has become a body part extension. Doesn't matter how polished a shot you are, how nice or expensive a gun is, if it doesn't fit you well you won't shoot it like one that does.