I’m getting into skeet shooting and am on the hunt for my first shotgun. I have a budget of $1000 and want to know what the best options are, both new and used. From what I’ve gathered, there are a few brands that come highly recommended, like Beretta and Browning, but I’m curious if there are other contenders that provide great value and performance.
Key Features I’m Considering
Weight and Balance - I want something that feels comfortable when swinging and aiming.
Action Type - I’ve heard that both over/under and semi-auto have their pros and cons for skeet shooting.
Adjustability - Length of pull and choke options, as I want to be able to customize it for my shooting style.
Reliability - It should function well whether I’m fired up at practice or at my first competition.
Brands I’ve Heard of
Beretta - I know they have some budget-friendly models that get good reviews.
Browning - Also thought to check their offerings, but I’ve heard they can get pricey.
Mossberg - I came across some options from them that seem to fit the price point and might be a good starting shotgun.
Any Recommendations?
If anyone has personal experience or advice on specific models that perform well for skeet shooting and won’t break the bank, I’d really appreciate it! I’m especially interested in hearing about any hidden gems that might not be as widely known.
I recently purchased a Beretta A300 Outlander, and I’m really impressed! It’s under $1000 and has great balance for skeet shooting. Highly recommend it!
I’ve heard good things about the A300! Another solid option is the Stoeger Condor. It’s affordable and great for beginners, though it can be a bit heavy.
I’ve shot the Remington 870 in skeet competitions, and while it’s a pump shotgun, it’s versatile. Just something to consider if you want a reliable option!
The 870 is definitely a classic! But for pure skeet, I’d go with a more specialized option like the Browning Citori. It can be pricey, but you can find good used ones under a grand.
Browning Citori is a great choice! I shot one at a friend’s place last month. Felt like a pro! Just be prepared to practice; it’s not as forgiving as some others.
Haha, I feel you! Have you guys looked at the Weatherby Orion? It’s a solid gun in the under $1000 range, but just curious about its weight. How does it compare?
The Weatherby Orion is a bit heavier, but it has a very smooth action. Some folks might find it cumbersome, but it’s worth it for the smooth performance.
Glad to hear that! It seems like it’s gaining popularity. But doesn’t it seem like every range has a different favorite? Sometimes I think we just need to grab what feels right!
Honestly, great point! The best shotgun is really the one that you feel most comfortable with. Just don’t get stuck trying to find the ‘best’ brand—test them out!
When choosing a shotgun for skeet shooting, consider barrel length. A 28" to 30" barrel is common because it provides a good balance between swing and accuracy. Plus, make sure it feels comfortable to you!
Weight is definitely crucial. Ideally, you want something around 6.5 to 7.5 lbs. It reduces fatigue during long shooting sessions. For new shooters, do try different weights before buying!
Absolutely! Also, don’t forget about choke systems. A good shotgun should have interchangeable chokes for better pattern control. What types have you guys used?
Fit is everything! If a shotgun doesn’t fit you, it can lead to poor shooting performance and discomfort. I recommend getting properly fitted if you’re serious about skeet shooting.
And don’t forget to consider budget! Finding a quality shotgun under $1000 can be challenging, but brands like Mossberg and Beretta have some great options.