Wing Shot Precharged Pneumatic Operates as Shotgun or Rifle

Cleveland, Ohio – -(Ammoland.com)- Air Venturi, an exclusive airgun, airsoft and ammunition importer of leading international airgun brands, astounds airgunners and airgun hunters alike with the announcement of the new Wing Shot .50 caliber precharged pneumatic (PCP) hunting shotgun.

Distributed by Air Venturi, the new Wing Shot offers hunters the choice of using either .50 caliber shotshells or .50 caliber bullets. Beautifully balanced and adorned with attractive engraving and a handsome hardwood stock, the Wing Shot is effective for wing shooting, small game, and large game hunting including predators, hogs and even trophy whitetail.

“Impressive performance and versatility in the field make the Wing Shot an excellent choice for airgun hunting,” says author, airgun expert and professional hunter Jim Chapman.

“Combine the airgun’s fierce power, high shot capacity, and outstanding balance with a surprisingly affordable price tag and you have a home run. This is the only production air shotgun on the market, and finally makes taking game on the run or on the wing a reality,” he added.

According to Air Venturi Director of Business Development, Paul Milkovich, “The concept for the Wing Shot smoothbore air shotgun was to provide unprecedented flexibility and convenience at an entry-level price. We’ve accomplished that and more with the first-ever mass-produced .50 caliber air shotgun. With 5 consistent shots per fill, the Wing Shot offers hunters the ultimate in airgun shooting enjoyment with their choice of using it as a shotgun or rifle,” said Milkovich. “Reliable power and ease of use are hunter’s friends in the field.”

As a shotgun the Wing Shot shoots specially constructed shells loaded with No. 8 shot at velocities of 1130 feet per second (fps). It delivers 360 foot-pounds of energy (fpe), and reveals a 12″ by 12″ spread at 20 yards. As a rifle it shoots at speeds of 760 fps and generates 235+ fpe.

For additional information about the Air Venturi Wing Shot air Shotgun distributed by Air Venturi, click here, or contact Marketing Manager, Kristen Coss by email: kristen.coss@airventuri.com, or phone: 216-292-2570 ext. 253 or Media Contact, Laura Evans by email: laura.evans@airventuri.com.

For up-to-date news and information from Air Venturi, sign up for email updates by emailing dealers@airventuri.com and letting them know you would like to receive exclusive, members only information.

Air Venturi is the exclusive US dealer/distributor for international airgun, ammo and accessory manufacturers such as: Air Arms, Beeman, Eun Jin, Evanix, Feinwerkbau, Haendler & Natermann, Sumatra, and Sam Yang. We also carry a full line of products from leading manufacturers including: AirForce, Anschutz, Benjamin, Beretta, Browning, BSA, Colt, Crosman, Daisy, Gamo, Hawke, Smith & Wesson, Tanfoglio, Umarex, Walther, Webley, Weihrauch, Winchester and many more.

By Tom McHale
Home Defense Shotgun Tips and Gear

USA –-(Ammoland.com)- While many debate what the Best Home Defense Shotgun is, it’s hard to argue that the shotgun doesn’t make an ideal home defense weapon.

While capacity in terms of shell count will almost always be less than that of a semi-automatic pistol or modern sporting rifle, each one of those shells delivers a whole lot more impact that most any other choice.

Kinetic energy measurements don’t directly translate to fighting effectiveness; they do provide an illustration of the difference in destructive power between various firearms.

Consider a few examples:

• A 9mm pistol cartridge with a 124-grain projectile traveling at 1,250 feet per second delivers 430 foot-pounds of energy.
• A 5.56mm 55-grain rifle round moving at 3,240 feet per second delivers 1,282 foot-pounds.
• A 12-gauge, 9-pellet buckshot load with rated velocity of 1,450 feet per second delivers a whopping 2,240 foot-pounds of energy.

That’s getting close to double the energy of a standard AR round over which the media incessantly frets.

Like most things, the decision as to whether to choose a shotgun for home defense depends on an evaluation of the tradeoffs that are important to you. The big factors boil down to better stopping effectiveness, higher recoil, and lower capacity. Which factors are most important to you?

If you decide to vote in favor of the shotgun, here are some things to consider when choosing the specific configuration for a home defense shotgun.

Home Defense Shotgun Ammo

Until you have to use it as a club, it’s the ammo and not the shotgun, that does the work. The shotgun is just the delivery mechanism.

The blessing and curse of the home defense shotguns or any shot gun, are the wide variety of ammunition types from which you can choose. At one end of the spectrum is tiny pellet and light recoiling birdshot. On the other end of the scale are giant hunks of lead called slugs. Just choosing a “home defense shotgun” is not enough. You have to make a careful and informed choice about the ammo that feeds it ( http://goo.gl/eP1NhG ) .

Here’s where things get interesting. Depending on the nature of your home, you might make very different ammo choices.

If you live in an apartment, you might need to be concerned with over-penetration through neighboring walls. Regardless of your personal danger, you’re still responsible if you launch buckshot or slugs into the next dwelling. Some folks prefer to use birdshot for this reason. Just be very careful that you understand what you’re sacrificing if you sway in that direction. At distances measured in feet, smaller birdshot will penetrate. However, when you start to get past 15 feet or so, the penetration capability begins to fail dramatically.

Yes, it’ll make a mess of an attacker, but may or may not stop them immediately.

If you live in an isolated location, you might choose slugs. They’re amazingly effective at indoor distances, but you can also shoot them accurately out past 100-yards should the need arise.

Personally, I prefer the old standby ammo for shotgun-based home defense – Buckshot ( http://goo.gl/eP1NhG ).

Make no mistake, it will penetrate walls like a hot knife through butter, so you need to know what type of pattern your choice of gun and buckshot produce. I keep my Beretta 1301 Tactical shotgun loaded with Federal Premium 8-pellet 00 buckshot with FliteControl wads. These loads deliver amazingly small, and more importantly, predictable patterns. It will keep all pellets on a torso target from a range of 50-yards from this cylinder bore shotgun. At indoor distances, the pattern will stay smaller than a closed fist. In other words, I know where those pellets are going to go when I pull the trigger.

Whatever ammo you choose for your situation, it’s imperative that you test it at the range, a lot, so you know exactly how it’s going to behave. Every time you load a new brand or style of ammo you’ve got to test again.

Home Defense Shotgun Action?

Like most topics over which we incessantly argue, the choice of action type isn’t nearly as important as we would like to believe. A semi-automatic won’t necessarily fail when we need it most. A pump-action won’t necessarily work every single time. A break-action may just have enough ammo capacity to get the job done. Again, like most things, the user familiarity and skill are far more important than equipment choice.

If you like semi-automatics, then great, use that. They’re easy to operate and direct less recoil back in your direction. Modern semis are plenty reliable for home defense. Be sure to test your choice of home defense ammo a lot before sticking that gun by your nightstand. A quality semi-automatic home defense shotgun will reliably cycle most any type of standard shells from birdshot to slugs. Be sure to keep it clean and properly lubricated so it will continue to work when you need it to.

If you prefer the design of a pump gun for its simplicity and manual operation, that’s fine too.

While the mechanism of a pump isn’t likely to fail, user error can be a problem. To prevent short stroking the action during the heat of the moment, be sure to practice regularly.

The only downside to a break-action side by side or over and under is the limited capacity. I rule those designs out for that reason alone, but if it’s what you’ve got, then run with it! Just be sure to think through, and practice, a strategy for quick reloads should the need arise.

A Pistol Grip Only – Doesn’t Cut It

Just to be clear, we’re going to talk about two types of pistol grips here. Here, I’m referencing a pistol only grip. These are the shorty models you see with no buttstock whatsoever. The only part of your body supporting and aiming these beasts are your hands.

They look awesome, scary and tactical, and do have practical applications.

Door kickers use them for blowing locks apart just before their buddies storm into a room. For general home defense, these designs rank pretty far down my list.

Why?

Try shooting one with any degree of speed and accuracy. Contrary to popular assumption, you do have to aim a home defense shotgun, and it’s easy to miss with one, especially at indoor distances.

Depending on your specific choice of shot shell ammunition, the size of your shot pattern 15 feet from the muzzle might be just a couple of inches.

The most controllable way to control one of these is to shoot it from a low position. And guess what? When shooting from the hip, you’re not aiming. In a home-defense scenario, the very last thing you want to be doing is launching buckshot in random directions, possibly putting family members at risk too. If you try to shoot these holding it up to eye level, they’re difficult to control as there is no structured support to handle the recoil. Getting off an accurate and fast second shot is not easy.

Would I choose this over a 9-iron or an un-ripened plantain? Certainly.

However, considering that the big energy delivered by a shotgun also translates to big recoil, it’s not as good of a home defense choice as it might appear. Handy and maneuverable? Yes. Controllable? No.

Pistol Grip vs. Traditional Grip

Speaking of pistol grips, one thing you may want to consider is a stocked pistol grip. Still a personal preference decision, a pistol grip (with stock!) can give you a little more control over the shotgun with your strong hand. While you don’t want to fire a home defense shotgun one-handed, even with a pistol grip, it may make it easier to do things like open doors or hold a flashlight in your support hand.

Many turkey hunting shotguns have pistol grips for a reason. The natural angle of your wrist lines up well with a more vertical grip, thereby eliminating strain. While the traditional shotgun grip is great for swinging through moving targets, you might find the pistol grip more natural for home defense scenarios where you’re carrying the gun and deliberately aiming.

One other related advantage to a stocked pistol grip configuration is that you might be able to make the whole shotgun shorter and more compact, and, therefore, easier to maneuver indoors. In the example Beretta 1301 Tactical shown above, I replaced the factory stock with a Mesa Tactical Urbino Pistol Grip Stock ( http://goo.gl/p4KQ3G ) . The original length of pull was 13.75 inches, but with the Mesa Tactical Urbino stock, the length of pull is now just 12.5 inches.

It’s about as compact as you can get with a legal length barrel.

A stocked-pistol grip allows you to maintain a more compact shooting stance. A traditional shotgun grip encourages your elbow to “chicken wing” to the side. Tucking your firing arm in close your body requires an unnatural bend of your wrist. You’ll find that the natural position of your shooting side elbow with a pistol grip configuration is much closer to your body. Significant? Maybe or maybe not, but it’s something to consider.

With all that said, the addition of a pistol grip stock isn’t a requirement for a home defense shotgun. I prefer it, but that’s just a personal preference. It’s something to try if you’re piecing together your ultimate home defense smoothbore.

Home Defense Shotgun Lights & Lasers

Light and lasers on a home defense shotgun? For personal defense applications, absolutely yes if you can.

Before you pull the trigger on a shotgun in the dark, you want to be absolutely sure of your target, right? Fortunately, there are nearly infinite options on the market for shotgun lights. You can get fancy and install an integrated light and forend. Or, you can duct tape a Mag-Lite ( tiny.cc/88nc3x ) to the magazine tube. A low cost and less kludgy option is to use a barrel and magazine tube clamp like those offered by Mesa Tactical. These allow you to add a dedicated light mount or a small rail section to which you can attach whatever you want. The Beretta 1301 shown in the photos here has a Crimson Trace Rail Master Pro ( http://goo.gl/9cPGnK ) integrated light and laser. I keep it mounted on the shooting side, so my support hand finger can easily reach the activation paddles.

Home Defense Shotgun Optical Sights

For wingshooting, optical sights aren’t so hot. For home defense, they bring a whole new dimension of effectiveness to low light shooting. You might consider an always-on red dot optic like the Aimpoint Micro ( http://goo.gl/ogPI7W ) . You literally can leave it turned on all the time, so it’s ready to go, day or night. Change the battery every New Years Day and you’ll never have to worry about the dot not being present. If you shoot a tight-patterning buckshot load like the Federal FliteControl ammo, you can be amazingly fast, yet precise.

Mounted correctly, you’ll be able to see your iron sights through the glass in the event that your optic goes down.

Home Defense Shotgun Ammo Holders

Like most of the other items on this list, Shotgun Shell Holders ( http://goo.gl/dRrT48 ) aren’t there to look cool. It’s on the list because home defense shotgun have low capacity to start with, and they’re insatiable ammo eaters once you start shooting them. Unlike a semi-auto pistol or rifle, sticking an extra magazine in your pocket (especially if you sleep naked) isn’t really an option with shotgun shells.

For illustrative purposes, I have the shotgun shown here equipped with Mesa Tactical receiver and the basic Mesa stock shell carrier ( http://goo.gl/HQiN3T ). Pick one style, the other, or both. If you’re on a budget, consider those Velcro shell carriers that stick to the receiver. While they may look low-budget, you’ll find that many serious shotgun fighters use these. You can carry some loaded strips in a pocket or magazine pouch.

When the one on the receiver runs dry, just rip on the empty strip and slap a new one on. It’s almost like changing magazines.

A Home Defense Shotgun Needs a Good Sling

Last but certainly not least is the lowly and often disrespected sling. Just like with your AR Rifle Sling, the purpose isn’t to be high speed and low drag. On the contrary, the real purpose is far more mundane. A sling is a holster for your shotgun. If you need to use your hands for other things, a proper sling allows you to simply let go of your home defense shotgun, and it will be secured, but still immediately accessible. I really like the Viking Tactics Original Sling ( http://goo.gl/9cM0sl ) for my rifles and shotguns. It’s got a brilliant quick adjustment mechanism which allows you to open it large for ambidextrous shooting or cinch it up right using one hand.

There’s a lot here, and the idea is not to build a 42-pound, mall ninja special home defense shotgun. The idea is to provide some food for thought about what options might make the most sense for you given your specific home-defense situation.

Whatever gear you choose for your kick-ass home defense shotgun, be sure to practice with it not until you get the operation right, but until you can’t get it wrong.

About

Tom McHale is the author of the Insanely Practical Guides book series that guides new and experienced shooters alike in a fun, approachable, and practical way. His books are available in print and eBook format on Amazon. You can also find him on Google+, Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest.

Want a second opinion? Check out Paul Markel’s Home Defense Shotgun Reality Check Video.

Paso Robles, CA –  -(Ammoland.com)- Weatherby Inc., legendary firearms manufacturer, is honored to introduce the Element Synthetic and Element Waterfowler Max-5 semi-auto shotguns.

In just its second year of production, the Element is quickly gaining a loyal following of shooters who prefer the clean, smooth, and reliable function of its “inertia operated” semi-auto action.

For 2016, Weatherby has taken the Element to a new level of performance with the addition of durable Griptonite synthetic stock and fore-end options, available in a matte bead-blasted finish or Realtree Max-5 camo.

The Element Synthetic and Element Waterfowler Max-5 are offered in 12- and 20-gauge, with 3” chambers, and 26in and 28in barrel length options. Both feature Weatherby’s Integral Multi-Choke System and are supplied with Improved Cylinder, Modified, Full, and Long Range Steel choke tubes, allowing shooters to tailor their shot patterns for any hunting application.

The Element’s inertia-operated action directs carbon and gas out of the barrel, helping to keep the gun cleaner and functioning smoothly. The chamber and bore are chrome lined for easier cleaning and greater corrosion resistance to withstand years of high-volume shooting. Other key features include a drop-out trigger system for easy cleaning and a ventilated top rib to provide a better sighting plane and dissipate heat waves. A fiber optic green bead front sight enables quick target acquisition, and the receiver is crafted from aircraft-grade aluminum alloy to reduce overall weight without compromising strength.

The bolt head and carrier are chrome plated for reduced friction as well as increased durability and corrosion resistance. A checkered bolt handle provides a sure grip. The Element series also features a dual-purpose bolt release, which functions as a means of releasing the bolt forward, and as a way to unload the shells in the magazine safely without chambering them.

For the ultimate in concealment, all exposed surfaces of the Element Waterfowler Max-5 are clad in Realtree Max-5 camo. Designed for maximum effectiveness and versatility, Realtree Max-5 is filled with cattails, reeds, cane, and grasses to blend into flooded marshes. In addition, corn, wheat, oats, and sunflowers help hide waterfowlers in open fields. Realtree® Max-5 has branches, twigs, and leaves that work in flooded timber, while open areas in the pattern mimic mud, water, bark, and shadows. All Max-5 pattern elements are strategically placed to create super-realistic tone, contrast, and shadow.

ORLANDO, FLORIDA –  -(Ammoland.com)- Black Aces Tactical (BAT), which recently took the gun world by storm with the release of its groundbreaking short barrel 12-guage DT model, is announcing the weapon’s availability at Shoot Straight Stores throughout Florida.

Earlier this year, American manufacturer BAT released the brand’s new DT shotgun featuring an 8.5″ barrel, SIG SB15 brace, 27″ OAL, Magpul RVG forward grip, 10-round BAT stick magazine, and optional folding brace or rail add-on.

Just in time for Christmas, BAT’s DT is now stocked at eight Shoot Straight locations including stores in Apopka, Casselberry, Clearwater, Fort Lauderdale, Fort Myers, Lakeland, Tampa and West Palm Beach. Customers in the Southeast have an opportunity to view the weapon in person before purchase, and without having to wait for a custom order direct from the manufacturer.

“We are thrilled to work with Shoot Straight, one of the top and most respected gun dealers in the country,” said Black Aces Tactical owner and CEO Eric Lemoine. “For our fans, the availability of BAT’s unique DT model in stores is an added benefit, as they can simply walk into any Shoot Straight location and see for themselves the precision in which this weapon is made, hold it in their hands, and take it home for Christmas.”

The DT Model is the highest quality short barrel available on the market, as it is not cut and welded. However, each integral component associated with shortening the barrel is done with billet materials, which have tolerances down to 1/1000th of an inch. The barrel clamp features a locking taper design that retains the OEM appearance and takedown screw. The action block is machined on five sides to allow the Magpul RVG hand grip to be able to be located left, right or center of the two 45 degree locations.

The model does not require any stamps, nor is it considered a short barreled shotgun under the NFA, or an AOW.

It is classified strictly as a “firearm,” which means a customer can purchase it from the dealer without months of wait time. In fact, the weapon includes copies of all associated ATF letters, as well as a copy of 27 cfr 479.11, page 89, which outlines the method of obtaining overall length. The addition of the SB15 SIG brace takes the DT Model above and beyond standard AOW 12-gauges. The proper use of the SB15 brace transforms a 12-gauge from wayward and difficult to control to stabilized and precise.

The DT model comes in a top quality MIL-A-8625 Type 3 hardcoat and can be customized in a variety of Cerakote color options.

Since 1979, Shoot Straight has grown to be among the top one percent of all firearms dealers in the nation and is the largest gun store chain and dealer in Florida, a state that ranks No. 3 in concealed weapon permits. Shoot Straight stocks and sells more guns than any other retailer in the Southeast, and now included Black Aces Tactical in its inventory. To find out more about BAT’s DT model at Shoot Straight locations or gun shows, visit https://shoot-straight.com.

Black Aces Tactical is a weapons manufacturing company based in Central Florida that is dedicated to providing the customer an heirloom quality, hand-finished shotgun at a reasonable price. All BAT weapons are made in America and come with a lifetime warranty, and each BAT shotgun receiver, internal, and magazine are custom built and machined. BAT’s expanding line includes nearly two dozen weapons and range in price from $499 to $1,825. The company holds three patents with a fourth pending. If you would like more information about the DT lineup and Black Aces Tactical, contact Eric Lemoine at 407-919-9783 or email sales@blackacestactical.com.

ACCOKEEK, Md. – -(Ammoland.com)- Franchi is showcasing the newest additions to its expanding line of Italian-made shotguns at the 2016 Great American Outdoor Show, which runs February 6-14 2016 at the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex in Harrisburg, Pa.

Inside the Franchi booth (No. 421), visitors will have one of the first opportunities to see the Catalyst, Franchi’s new line of shotguns designed specifically for women.

During the GAOS, female shooters will be able to shoulder both the Instinct Catalyst (over-and-under) and Instinct Affinity (semi-auto) to experience firsthand how Italian craftsmanship, a shortened length of pull and adjustments to the drop, cast and pitch can improve their shooting performance.

Sub-gauge extensions (28 gauge and .410 bore) of Franchi’s popular Instinct L over-and-under line will also be on display.

In addition to displays of new and popular firearms models, the Franchi Gear Store will also be located inside the booth offering deals on logo apparel.

For more information about the Great American Outdoor Show, exhibitor maps and other information, go to http://www.greatamericanoutdoorshow.org.

For the latest news and product information visit www.franchiusa.com .

Madison, NC – Remington Arms Company, LLC, (“Remington”) is pleased to announce that the V3 – a new 3-inch chambered, American designed and built shotgun that represents the return of America’s greatness in autoloading shotguns, is now shipping and available at retailers, dealers and distributors across the country.

The all new V3 shotgun blends Remington’s legendary pointability with the reliability of the revolutionary VersaPort gas system in a compact and lightweight platform. A match only made in America. The Remington V3 flawlessly cycles all 2 ¾ to 3-inch 12 gauge loads while reducing recoil to a level previously unheard of in autoloaders.

Unlike other gas operated semi-automatic shotguns, the VersaPort pistons are positioned directly in front of the receiver and its recoil springs are located inside the receiver to improve ergonomics and center weight and balance between the shooter’s hands – delivering superior balance and lively swing.

The heart of the V3 autoloading shotgun is the patented VersaPort gas piston system, an extremely-reliable, semi-automatic operating system consisting of gas ports and gas pistons for enhanced load versatility, while softening recoil and reducing maintenance. The VersaPort gas system self-regulates gas pressure based on the length of the shell, for reliable cycling no matter the load. From the lightest target loads to the heaviest magnum loads, the V3 is as comfortable on the sporting clays range as it is in the duck blind.

Additionally with its self-cleaning gas piston system, overall maintenance time and effort is significantly reduced. With fewer parts than conventional gas systems, not only is cleaning easier but there are fewer parts to maintain.

The Remington V3 is currently available in black synthetic and camo versions. All V3shotguns ship with three screw-in Remchokes™ (Improved, Modified, and Full chokes). The V3 shotgun is the new American autoloader, from Remington.

About Remington Arms Company, LLC

Remington Arms Company, LLC, (“Remington”) headquartered in Madison, N.C., designs, produces and sells sporting goods products for the hunting and shooting sports markets, as well as solutions to the military, government and law enforcement markets. Founded in 1816 in upstate New York, the Company is the nation’s oldest continuously operating manufacturer with its original Ilion, New York plant still in operation today. Remington is a privately-held manufacturer of firearms and ammunition products and one of the largest domestic producers of shotguns and rifles. The Remington Family of Companies has 12 locations across 9 states employing over 3,500 people and distributes its products throughout the U.S. and in over 55 foreign countries.

More information about the Company can be found at www.remington.com.

USA –  -(Ammoland.com)- Since its release, TriStar’s Setter S/T has been a go-to for shooters and hunters looking for their first over/under shotgun. Now, the company is expanding the popular line by adding .410 and 28 gauge options – each with their own dedicated frames.

The new .410 and 28 gauge Setter S/T shotguns will continue to provide shooters with the same quality features found in previous Setter S/T releases – including a solid frame for durability and strength, sealed action to keep out dirt, chrome-lined barrels, self-adjusting locking bolts, fiber optic front sights, and an elegant wood stock that is sure to garner compliments.

“Our Setter S/T line has become a favorite because it offers a reliable and solid-built over/under at an affordable price,” said TriStar Sales and Marketing Manager Ryan Bader.

“The addition of .410 and 28 gauges further solidifies the shotgun line as one that shooters and hunters should consider whether they’re looking for their first or their next over/under.”

Setter S/T in 28 Gauge

The Setter S/T .410 and 28 gauge both have a 3-inch chamber and include 5 Beretta®/Benelli® mobile-style choke tubes (SK, IC, M, IM, F). And like all TriStar Shotguns, the Setter S/T is backed by TriStar’s 5 Year Warranty. The MSRP of both the .410 and 28 gauge Setter S/T is $565.00.

Setter S/T .410 Gauge

• Barrel length: 28 inches
• Weight: 6.2 pounds
• Chokes: 5 extended Beretta®/Benelli® mobile-style (SK, IC, M, IM, F)
• MSRP: $565.00

Setter S/T 28 Gauge

• Barrel length: 28 inches
• Weight: 7.2 pounds
• Chokes: 5 extended Beretta®/Benelli® mobile-style (SK, IC, M, IM, F)
• MSRP: $565.00

Located in Kansas City, Missouri, TriStar Arms is a primary importer of quality Turkish shotguns and handguns. The company is driven by the same mission that it set out on since its inception – to provide high-performance firearms for hunters, recreational shooters and home defense at a fraction of the price and to deliver fast and friendly service at all times. Every firearm that TriStar Arms imports is rigorously tested throughout each stage of production to ensure that its customers receive value that can be passed down for generations.

For more information on TriStar Arms visit www.tristararms.com.

USA –  -(Ammoland.com)- The next genesis of game and competition shotguns has arrived introducing the Blaser F16 Shotgun. But don’t let platitudes and good looks fool you.

Only through the restless pursuit of perfection is it possible to create a perfectly balanced over and under shotgun with the lowest profile receiver on the market.

The exceptionally low center of gravity makes the new F16 extraordinarily pointable and dynamic. Innovative development processes were used in the monocoque construction providing the ability to give the borders of the receiver a softened appearance much like a round body game gun and further benefits the shooter with a seamless transition between barrel and receiver.

You will immediately feel the difference when handling the Blaser F16 Shotgun. A prerequisite to becoming a better shot!

Aside from the intuitive pointability, a newly developed tapered rib supports better peripheral vision and results in faster target acquisition. The Triplex bore design and the proven ejection ball system (EBS) borrowed from the championship winning F3 allows the shooter to focus on what is really important; Hitting the next target!

The mechanical trigger mechanism of the F16 is the direct interface between shooter and shotgun. With a crisp trigger pull of (1650 grams/3lbs 10oz) there is no delay between thought impulse and action. The Inertia Block System (IBS) adds to shooter safety and comfort by preventing the ability for the shotgun to fan fire or double.

Performance and reliability can only be attributed to the quality of materials used, individual craftsmanship and the relentless pursuit of technological perfection Blaser is so well known for.

From the clays field to your favorite hunting area the F16 has become the new Gold Standard for others to measure against. For more info visit: www.BlaserF16.com

German Excellence since 1957

By Norman Gray
Breaks down his choices of the best Shotgun Stocks or stock sets.

USA –  -(Ammoland.com)- If you visited any local firearms retailer in the past few years, you’ve undoubtedly noticed that wood has given way to polymer in shotgun stocks.

Firearms like all things have evolved and although wood is not completely devoid from firearms, it’s now an, “option,” and not the norm in some cases.

Even the humble scattergun, “county jargon for shotgun,” are far more versatile than ever before and versatility is one of my favorite go to words when dealing with any firearm.

Firearms of all types are coming with more options than ever before and the shotgun is no different in this aspect. Wood is beautiful when paired with a great metal finish, but wood is also weaker and prone to weather and field damage. This is where manmade materials make stocks and forends stronger and better for hard duty or field use.

Shotgun owners are modifying their existing shotgun stocks with custom gun stock sets that make them more versatile.

Depending on the stock set, they also allow the mounting of additional accessories so the shooter can customize the shotgun to their specific need or look.

As I’ve mentioned before, research and knowing what purpose or look you’re going for will be beneficial in choosing the right stock set. For example, I prefer pistol grip stocks, it is what I’m familiar with from their use in the military and my thumb doesn’t hit my nose anymore… don’t laugh, it’s happened to you! The thing to remember about shotgun accessories is that there is a large number of shotgun manufacturers and unlike the AR-15 who’s mil-spec parts and accessories are almost universal, shotguns don’t fit that criteria as well so you must check by manufacturer and model.

Shotguns by their very nature are deadly at short and medium ranges and some manufacturers state even at long range. I have grouped shots on a target the size of a dinner plate at 100 yards with a rifled barrel and Hornady SST 12 gauge slugs. Lightfield Ammunition boasts that their slugs combined Tarhunt’s RSG-12 Professional bolt action shot gun can shoot effectively out to 200 yards. High brass loads and buckshot deliver devastating amounts of energy on the target and with modern loads at ranges greater than ever before. All that energy from those 2 ¾”, 3” and in certain models 3 ½” shells is transferred directly into your shoulder. Having the right stock and forend can help alleviate some of that (pain) energy.

Since there is such a large number of manufacturers and models of shotgun stocks, I am thinking it would best serve the article to use the most popular models. Keep in mind that accessory manufacturers will build stock sets for models that have a proven “sales” track record. Depending on the shotgun’s age, manufacturer and model, you may not find a large selection of accessories if any at all. So you have only one option, buy a new shotgun that does, but don’t tell your wife, husband (or life partner) you read that here… Two highly recognized manufacturers of shotguns have an immense following, they are the Remington 870 and Mossberg 500 series. The two models alone in all their configurations are the Ford and Chevy of the shotgun world and what better place to start.

(5.) Advanced Technology Pump Shotgun Folding Buttstock

This stock does not come in kit form, but this type deserves mentioning because of its ability to allow you to stow your shogun in smaller places and use it where space restriction does not allow a full length shotgun. The Advanced Technology Pump Shotgun Folding Buttstock fits the 12 gauge Mossberg 500, Maverick 88, Remington 870, and Winchester 1200/1300 pump shotguns via a complete set of adapters and spacers. A simple push of a button enables it to fold up on top of the receiver while still allowing you to fire the shotgun. The latches are for use by left or right handed shooters and includes a swivel. The A2 style pistol grip permits great control while shooting with the stock in the stored position.

Keep in mind, if an all polymer shotgun stock is NOT what you’re looking for, there are other options like this available for a higher price that are constructed of steel, the tradeoff is better longevity and heavier weight, but a higher price tag.

The advanced technology – pump shotgun folding buttstock will run you $72.99 (as of this article pub date).

(4.) Hogue Overmolded Shotgun Stock & Forend Set

Sometimes just a simple change is very effective in adding effectiveness to your defensive or hunting shotgun and when combating recoil, a sure grip is highly preferred. Hogue Overmolded Shotgun Stock & Forend Set will replace your OEM (Original Equipment Manufactured) stock set and give you a very secure grip with their pebble texturing added to the grip areas. The name overmolded comes from Hogue’s use of a fiberglass reinforced polymer stock overmolded in rubber. This gives you a solid stock that is stronger than wood and it includes a cushioned recoil pad with a sling swivel stud.

Hogue’s stock sets come in standard and 12” lengths for smaller statured shooters or for use with body armor. They also sell kits for the Mossberg 500 (Mossberg Forend Adapter Nut is required for Mossberg 500/835 with 6¾” forend tubes) and Winchester 1300 and one set for the Remington 870 20ga (special order) and range from $59.99 to $67.99.

I have used Hogue for many years on handguns and I assure you they are tough and live up to their reputation for a secure grip.

(3.) Speedfeed Pistol Grip Shotgun Stock Sets

I have always preferred the Speedfeed shotgun stocks with a pistol grip. Not only does the pistol grip give you great control while firing they allow you to store extra specialty and/or less lethal rounds right in the stock. Speedfeed Pistol Grip Shotgun Stock Sets gives you the choice of any combination stock, speedfeed regular, pistolgrip or shortened. The TAC III allows additional shell storage in the buttstock. The TAC IV is solid stock and the TAC IV-S model is sized for the smaller shooters or body armor. All Remington 870 and Mossberg 500 models include the short, Law Enforcement (LE) forend and the Mossberg models only fit the guns with a 7¾” action slide.

There are other aftermarket companies who provide this type of stock so don’t worry if these do not fit yours. Speedfeed stock kits range from $99.99 to a $109.99.

(2.) Magpul – Remington 870 SGA Buttstock & M-Lok Forend Sets

Magpul has been leading the pack in polymer based firearms accessories, their magazines are in use all over the world and with our military. The Magpul – Remington 870 SGA Buttstock & M-Lok Forend Sets will convert your Remington 870 from the OEM stock to their hard polymer stock and forend, vastly improving the esthetics and toughness of your shotgun. The SGA stock easily replaces your factory stock utilizing the provided hardware. The LOP (Length of Pull) is adjustable from 12.5” to 14.5” via a ½” spacer system for smaller shooters or body armor. The SGA shotgun stocks use a pistol grip for control and a soft effective recoil pad, optional check risers can be purchased for a customized fit. The MOE M-LOK forend replaces the OEM forgrip and allows you to attach Magpul M-LOK accessories. You can purchase kits for the Remington 870 and Mossberg 500/590/590A1 in Black, Orange (Less lethal identification) Flat Dark Earth and Grey.

The kits for your Remington or Mossberg shotgun will run you $132.90 and it’s money well spent.

(1.) Fab Defense – Mossberg 500/590 Recoild Reducing Folding & Collapsible Shotgun Stocks

This shotgun stock replacement is not sold as a kit, so you’re free to add whatever brand fore grip you see fit. The Fab Defense – Mossberg 500/590 Recoild Reducing Folding & Collapsible Buttstock  is available for the Mossberg 500 and Remington 870 (through the Fab Defense website) and offers you aircraft-grade aluminum, steel, and MIL-SPEC reinforced polymer composite quality. The $253.00 price tag also offers some great extras, starting with the recoil-compensating system, much like a shock absorber for your car. The stock is fully ambidextrous and to release, simple push the button to fold or open the stock.

The shotgun stocks is locked open and held in place by a claw system and when folded spring tension keeps the stock locked up and free from rattling. The stock includes a storage compartment, adjustable to five positions, and a soft recoil pad. The grip also contains a storage compartment and is ergonomically designed to fit your shooting hand. Like my father always said, “you get what you pay for,” and this is designed for serious activities of the hostile kind.

Shotgun Stocks

I know that my choice of shotgun stocks may not be yours and there are many more options available than I couldn’t possible cover in one article. As a parting note, keep in mind that some of these stock and forend kits will require tools to complete removal and assembly. Read the items description carefully so you may purchase any tools at the time you purchase the kit. It’s aggravating as hell to get something you’ve waited weeks for only to find out you need to wait a few more for the tools.

Read the instructions, take your time with installation, and you will have a shotgun you’re proud to take to the range and show your friends.

Norman Gray ©2016 (POMA Member)

About Norman Gray:
Norman Gray has been involved in the shooting sports for well over 30 years. He has served in both active duty and reserve component of the United States Army as an Infantryman and was honorably discharged at the end of his service. Moving to Arizona, he began assisting his long time friend and mentor Bob Shell, an accomplished writer and author in his own right. Norman is freelance contributor with Handguns Magazine, Canadian Firearms Journal and Manzano Valley Outdoors. He is also a member of (POMA) The Professional Outdoor Media Association, the (NSSF) National Shooting Sports Foundation and a Life Member of the (NRA) National Rifle Association. Visit:http://www.unleaded-ink.blogspot.com/

This post Best Shotgun Stocks, My Top Five appeared first on AmmoLand.com Shooting Sports News .

U.S.A. –-(Ammoland.com)- As I packed my Mossberg 930 Pro-Series Waterfowler Shotgun for a recent duck hunt with the Alaska Expedition Co. owner Charles Allen cautioned me that duck hunting could range from bad on up to an Argentina level, just depending on the day. All I heard was Argentina and I was pumped.

For the hunt, I selected a Mossberg 930 Pro-Series Waterfowler 12 ga. with a 3-inch chamber. For ammo I packed along Federal Black Cloud shells. For calls I took along my Sure Shot duck calls and Simms Waders and boots. Don’t forget if you go to Alaska, your wading boots cannot have felt bottoms. Charles advised that we’d be living in waders all day so he suggested bringing a pair of fleece wading pants. We went with the Simms pants.

Mossberg 930 Pro-Series Waterfowler Shotgun

I planned on using my Mossberg 930 Pro-Series Waterfowler Shotgun mainly for duck hunting but I also took along some Federal slugs for bears. Sure, I also had my .44 mag but for in close calls I love a 12 ga. loaded with slugs.

People forget how devastating slugs can be. I’ve dropped bulls up to 2,000 lbs. like a sack of potatoes with a slug.

I love autos. The only problem with autos is that you have to get a well-made one. At least I do. On a good dove or pheasant hunt I’m usually desperately trying to keep my gun loaded and end up shoving in half shells and half feathers.

Then when hunting waterfowl you and your gun will most likely get wet and muddy. For instance Charles called me two weeks ago and said they’d encountered 55 mph winds and the forecast predicted 25 inches of rain over the six days in AK. Weather like that will be the ultimate test for a shotgun. Or said a little differently, if gear holds up in Alaska, it will hold up anywhere.

I thought he was kidding about the 55 mph winds, that is, until a few days into our trip we encountered 80 mph winds. That’s some serious wind. We had some nice days but most days it rained and some days it really rained. So, the moral to this paragraph is, you better have a shotgun that is going to be able to handle it.

Like I said earlier, I like autos. There are quite a few autos on the market but not that many reliable ones. That’s not the case with the Mossberg 930 shot gun. The 2nd morning I put it to the test. The guide dropped off Ron Spomer and myself at the blind before daylight. We set up decoys and jumped in our blind.

The guide then had to run over to another slough to call for some other hunters. Not 30 minutes after he left I dropped a duck and ran over to get it but stepped off a drop-off. To make matters worse I face planted into a weed bed and couldn’t seem to get up. My shotgun was already submerged and I had to use it to push up. I finally got upright but not before my shotgun got filled and my waders were trying to as well.

I stood up, poured water out of the barrel, opened the action and looked down the barrel to make sure there no obstructions and kept hunting. I guess that’s about as good a testimony as I can give it. My shotguns don’t always have an easy life.

The day before I’d dropped five ducks with four shots. Today with Ron present, well…………. let’s just say it wasn’t quite that good. He’s getting where he doesn’t believe any of my shooting stories. Hmm, maybe next time I’ll pour a 5-gallon bucket of cold mountain water down his waders and two hours later document his shooting abilities! But regardless, I guess the Mossberg is only required to keep shooting. It’s not guaranteed to hit everytime you shoot.

I can vouch for the Mossberg 930 Pro-Series Waterfowler Shotgun, it take a dipping and keeps on killing.

About Tom Claycomb

Tom Claycomb has been an avid hunter/fisherman throughout his life as well as an outdoors writer with outdoor columns in the magazine Hunt Alaska, Bass Pro Shops, Bowhunter.net and freelances for numerous magazines.

This post Mossberg 930 Pro-Series Waterfowler Shotgun appeared first on AmmoLand.com Shooting Sports News .

USA – -(Ammoland.com)- Winchester Repeating Arms has a long history of producing defensive shotguns all the way back to the First World War.

In close situations, nothing beats a reliable pump action shotgun for defense. Besides that, the “cha-chunk” sound of a live round being loaded in to the chamber of a pump-action shotgun is a sound no criminal wants to hear.

The new SXP Shadow Defender (black matte finish) and SXP Shadow Marine Defender (matte hard chrome plating) pump shotguns from Winchester Repeating Arms feature synthetic pistol grip stocks with textured gripping surfaces. Each is supplied with two length of pull spacers to adjust the shotgun to fit the owner perfectly, and two interchangeable comb pieces that enable them to dial in eye to optic alignment. A ribbed tactical forearm gives a firm grip for optimum control.

Both Super X Pump models are offered in 12 gauge and 20 gauge with 3” chamber. Alloy receivers are drilled and tapped for bases and rings. The SXP Shadow Marine Defender model features matte hard chrome plating on the barrel, magazine tube and slide arms for added resistance to wear and the elements. The SXP Shadow Defender 12 gauge has a suggested retail price of $449.99 and the 20 gauge version for $469.99. The SXP Shadow Marine Defender 12 gauge has a suggested retail price of $499.99 and the 20 gauge version has a suggested retail price of $519.99. Barrel length for all models is 18”. A cylinder choke tube is supplied.

Features:

• Synthetic pistol grip Stock with textured gripping surfaces
• Two interchangeable comb pieces
• Two interchangeable length of pull spacers
• Ribbed tactical forearm
• Hard chrome-plated chamber and bore
• Invector-Plus^™ cylinder choke tube
• 3” chamber
• Black chrome protection on bolt and other components
• Removable TRUGLO^® fiber-optic front sight plus brass front bead
• Alloy receiver
• Rotary bolt
• Crossbolt safety
• Inflex Technology Recoil Pad

 For more information on Winchester Firearms, please visit www.winchesterguns.com.

This post Winchester Super X Pump Shotguns, Cha-Chunk the Sound of Solid Defense appeared first on AmmoLand.com Shooting Sports News .

by Sam Hoober
Alien Gear Holsters' Sam Hoober reviews the TriStar Viper Max Shotgun, in the 3-½” semi-auto model in Reatree Max-5HD Camo.

USA – -(Ammoland.com)-The TriStar Viper Max Shotgun is new for 2017, and is a gas-operated semi-auto 12 gauge, but instead of the normal dry review, I thought I'd try something a little different.

You see, the TriStar Viper Max model I received is the Realtree Max-5HD camo model. Naturally, that means it's intended use is as a hunting shotgun.

Since I received it close to the opener of the spring turkey season, I thought I'd use it to do just that.

TriStar Viper Max Shotgun Specifications

• Magazine Cut-off Action
• Vent Rib w/ Matted Sight Plane
• Fiber Optic Sight
• 5 Round Magazine – Shot Plug Included
• Quick Shot Plug Removal
• Chrome-lined Chamber and Barrel
• Swivel Studs
• 4 Beretta Mobil Chokes (SK, IC, M, F)
• Reatree Max-5HD Camo Pattern

The Viper Max is actually manufactured in Turkey by Armsan, who calls it the Paragon Grande, but it's imported into the U.S. by TriStar and sold as the Viper Max. As mentioned, it's a gas-operated semi-automatic 12-gauge with a 3.5-inch chamber.

Like other gas shotguns, it has swappable piston rings depending on what kind of load you're running. The barrel and chamber are chrome-lined, which should ensure longevity. You can get it dipped in Realtree Max5 or black synthetic if you choose, and you get the choice of 26-inch, 28-inch or 30-inch barrel lengths.

The sight bead is green fiber optic. Indoors, the optic looks pathetically small but lights up like Christmas once afield, so it is – rest assured – more than adequate.

The gun comes with 4 chokes – Skeet, Improved Cylinder, Modified and Full – and is compatible with Beretta Mobil chokes in case you wish to upgrade or replace as needed.

TriStar also includes an extra recoil shim in case you need it – which you might. The stock is definitely on the thin side, which suggested to me when I unboxed it that I might be in for some lively times.

If there was a criticism I could make on the TriStar Viper Max Shotgun, the stock would be it as I generally prefer a big butt on a shotgun. Because that's what we're talking about here.

Break-in is a box of 3-½”, so I grabbed a box of Federal 3-½” #2 waterfowl and hit the range. I neglected to bring a tape measure to measure the patterns, but pellets were hitting at point-of-aim at 20 yards with no choke with roughly a 20-inch spread, give or take an inch or two. Shooting such loads is painful but tolerable in small doses. Trigger pull is light, at no more than 6 pounds and short, traveling roughly one-third of an inch.

However, it's a hunting gun…and that is exactly where I took it.

TriStar Viper Max, Turkish Gun, Turkey Hunting

To give the TriStar Viper Max Shotgun (it's actually manufactured by Armsan in Turkey; they call it the Paragon Grande Realtree Max5) a proper test, I took it turkey hunting. My friend and hunting partner – we'll call him M. – and his family have land and a cabin in the northeast corner of my home state, and they generously allowed me to hunt the property and rid them of one of the turkeys plaguing their deer feeders. However, I switched to a 3-inch Kent #5 1-¾ oz turkey load in lieu of the full-house loads.

After a number of pursuits of other birds and painfully close calls over the previous day, M. and I parked ourselves in an improvised blind underneath a downed tree at the base of a hill. The weather and hunting pressure (from us) had rendered the local turkey population immune to calls or uncommunicative, so we had to rely on lying in wait.

We heard several toms gobbling just up the hill from us but weren't moving, until M. alerted me to a tom that had walked out in the field behind me.

I made like a hole in the air and waited for him to walk by us, which he did, at one point being a mere 10 feet away from me. As he passed by clucking, I slowly inched my way into shooting position. Had I moved any faster or more violently, he would have been gone, but I was able to get the Viper Max up by the time he had gotten to about 20 yards in front of us and started to turn broadside to get a better look.

I set the bead on his head and pulled the trigger.

In the rush of the moment, I struggled to my knees while trying to bring the gun up for a potential follow up shot, which turned out to be unnecessary.

In the end, my prize was a gorgeous mature tom, weighing roughly 20 pounds with a fat beard and good spurs. His meat is in my freezer, and his fan and beard will go on the wall as a memento of a hunt where nothing went right until it finally did and by slim margins.

For this hunt, the TriStar Viper Max acquitted itself astoundingly well. The 7.4 pounds unloaded weight never felt heavy when carried in the crook of my arm or in the hand, even when sprinting uphill or trudging up and down the trails. It handles very well, easily acquires the target and recoil when shooting lighter loads than 3-½” shells was easily managed.

I wouldn't hesitate to recommend it as a hunting shotgun for someone looking to get a semi-auto that can handle both migratory fowl and upland birds, which it will do without breaking a sweat. MSRP is $730, but I've found a number of online retailers asking $100 less. For the features you get, it's close to the bargain of the century, as it's comparable in features to guns costing twice that amount or more.

I would have been hunting that weekend whether I used the pump gun I already own or this TriStar. Since it was the gun I brought, it played a part in what was – for me – a very memorable experience, and in that regard I will be a bit sad to see it go back. However, I can only hope that it will eventually find its way into the hands of someone who will be able to put it to use and have a few of their own.

Bonus TriStar Viper Max Shotgun Video Review from SundayGunday:

Sam Hoober is a contributing editor at Alien Gear Holsters, as well as for Bigfoot Gun Belts. He also writes weekly columns for Daily Caller and USA Carry.

This post TriStar Viper Max Shotgun in Reatree Max-5HD Camo ~ Review & Bonus VIDEO appeared first on AmmoLand.com Shooting Sports News .

By Mike Searson
Mike gives us a first looks at the Mossberg 590A1 Ghost Ring Shotgun in Kryptek Typhon Camouflage.

USA –  -(Ammoland.com)- Being a big fan of Mossberg shotguns for tactical use, we asked the company to send us out one of their newer 590A1s smoothbores. Initially this was to compare them to our older shot-gun models, but this one stood out on its own: The Mossberg 590A1 Ghost Ring Shotgun in Typhon Camo.

This looked to be what we refer to as a “kitchen sink model” as it comes with a number of upgrades over the more familiar 500 and 590 series of shotguns.

These are the 18” bbl models with a +1 extended tube to give true 7-shot capacity in a shorter gun. It is safe to say that while you could use these shotguns for hunting, they are designed for a more tactical or defensive purpose.

Mossberg 590A1 Ghost Ring Shotgun in Typhon Camo : The Good

The Mossberg 590A1 with the Typhon Camo comes loaded with extras from the O.F. Mossberg & Sons factory. No brass bead sight on this one, it comes with legit Mossberg Ghost Ring Sights and the 590A1's unique heavy barrel.

Other standard features on this model include an ambidextrous top mounted metal safety button, non-binding twin action bars, a positive steel-to-steel lock-up, dual extractors, a metal trigger guard, proper sling swivels and an anti-jam elevator for smooth operation.

The stock is a speedfeed type that stores 4 shells internally (two on each side). They are spring-loaded and come out with the touch of a finger. We have been running these stocks on our own Mossbergs since the 1990s. These used to be a costly upgrade for the typical Mossberg. It's good to see them as a factory item now.

Mossberg’s camouflage finish on these shotguns is known as “hydrographic dipped film,” or water-transfer printing. This process can be used on virtually any material because the film is applied when parts are dipped into a water tank in which the film to be applied is floating. Other manufacturers use it and we have had some experience in the past with these finishes. Some of these have been good; others not so good.

Aside from the finish, the new style forend caught our eye. Finally, a manufacturer is getting it and adding a railed forend to their tactical shotgun models. The forend is plastic and has molded in rails to attach flashlights, lasers, etc.

We ran a lot of Federal 00 Buck through this shotgun with no issues. Patterning is great on these models with the Ghost Ring Sights, because you can actually fire the shotgun more like a rifle.

Mossberg 590A1 Ghost Ring Shotgun in Typhon Camo : The Bad

Some folks like to complain that the 590A1’s receiver is milled from aluminum alloy. So is the lower receiver on an M16 or AR-15 and for increased durability, the bolt locks into a steel barrel extension. The aluminum receiver has never been a problem for those who know about firearm construction.

My only gripe about this shotgun is the coating. It looks spectacular, but I have not had the best luck with these hydro dipped finishes in the past. I prefer Cerakote.

Mossberg 590A1 Ghost Ring Shotgun in Typhon Camo : The Reality

In case it is not common knowledge, the Mossberg 590A1 was the only pump shotgun to pass the U.S. Armed Services Mil Spec 3443E Requirements back in 1990. The heavy barrel was included by a request from the Department of the Navy to prevent deformation if a hatch on a ship were to strike it as well as to dissipate heat. I will take the heavier bbl and aluminum receiver over a lighter barrel and a steel receiver any day of the week.

Now I may not be a huge fan of the coating method, but the Kryptek Thphon Camo looks good and appears to be effective. If I didn’t already have a USMC 21” version and a Border Patrol 14” model in my safe, this would be a keeper.

Mossberg 590A1 Typhon Camo (50775) Tactical Shotgun

• Caliber: 12 Gauge
• Capacity: 7
• Chamber: 3″
• Barrel Type: Heavy-Walled
• Barrel Length: 18.5″
• Sight: Ghost Ring
• Choke: Cylinder Bore
• Stock: Speed Feed
• LOP: 13.875″
• Barrel Finish: Kryptek Typhon Camo
• Stock Finish: Synthetic (Typhon Camo)
• Weight: 7 lbs.
• Length: 39.5″
• MSRP: $705

About Mike Searson

Mike Searson's career as a shooter began as a Marine Rifleman at age 17. He has worked in the firearms industry his entire adult life as a Gunsmith, Ballistician, Consultant, Salesman, Author and was first certified to teach firearms safety in 1989.

Mike has written over 2000 articles for a number of magazines, websites and newsletters including Blade, RECOIL, OFF-GRID, Tactical Officer, SWAT, Tactical World, Gun Digest, Examiner.com and the US Concealed Carry Association as well as AmmoLand Shooting Sports News.

• Home page: www.mikesearson.com
• FB: www.facebook.com/mike.searson
• TWITTER: www.twitter.com/mikesearson

This post Mossberg 590A1 Ghost Ring Shotgun in Typhon Camo appeared first on AmmoLand.com Shooting Sports News .

USA – -(Ammoland.com)-Set foot on a trap line almost anywhere and chances are at least one of the shooters will be using a Browning BT-99.

For 2017, Browning is adding a pair of new single barrel BT-99 models with an adjustable buttplate and comb.

The standard model features standard length of pull of 14-3/8” and the Micro version has a length of pull of 13-3/4” — ideal for small stature shooters.

Both models feature a Graco Pro Fit adjustable comb and buttplate pad to customize fit. The new BT-99 Trap will be offered in 32” or 34” barrel lengths. The Micro version will be offered with 30” or 32” barrel lengths. Both have a suggested retail price of $1,799.99.

Additional features:

• Steel receiver with blued finish
• High-post ventilated, floating rib
• Extractor-only action
• Satin finish walnut stock
• Ventilated trap recoil pad
• Beavertail forearm
• Vector Pro Lengthened Forcing Cone
• One Invector-Plus^™ choke tube
• Ivory front and mid-bead sights
• Micro models available qualify for the Browning Growth Insurance Program

For more information on Browning products, please visit the website at www.browning.com.

This post Browning BT-99 Trap Model Shotguns Are All New appeared first on AmmoLand.com Shooting Sports News .

USA – -(Ammoland.com)- Browning has added four new models to the Silver semi-automatic shotgun line. They are the Silver Black Lightning, Silver Matte Hunter, Silver Matte Hunter Micro Midas and the Silver Rifled Deer Matte.

All of the Silver shotguns feature the self-adjusting Active Value gas system that diverts gases to operate the action instead of adding to the recoil. When shooting light loads out of the Silver, most of the gases are used to operate the action. With magnum loads, only a small amount of the gas is necessary to operate the action. The remaining gases are vented out the top of the forearm and away from the receiver for cleaner, more reliable operation. The results are faster, more accurate follow-up shots and all-day shooting comfort.

The Active Valve also allows for a wide range of loads to be shot out of the same gun. The 12 gauge 3” models handle everything from 1 oz. field loads to the heaviest 3” magnums. The 3-1/2“ model is built with a similar range, shooting everything from 1-1/8 oz. field loads to the hardest hitting 3-1/2” magnum loads.

The new Black Lightning, Silver Matte Hunter and Silver Matte Hunter Micro Midas Silver models are ideal for hunting and sporting clays shooting. All the models have these features:

• Strong, lightweight aluminum alloy receiver
• Semi-humpback receiver shape
• Lightweight profile ventilated rib
• Three Invector-Plus choke tubes
• Brass front bead sight
• Inflex recoil pad

The Silver Black Lighting has these additional features:

• Gloss black receiver finish
• Gloss blued barrel finish
• Lightning-style, gloss finish buttstock and forearm made of Grade 2.5 Turkish Walnut

Suggested retail is $1,259.99

The Silver Matt Hunter and Silver Matt Hunter Micro Midas have these additional features:

• Silver/matte black bi-tone receiver finish
• Matte blued barrel finish
• Satin finish walnut stock
• Micro Midas model comes with one 14” stock spacer
• Micro Midas model is eligible for Browning’s Growth Insurance Program

The Silver Matte Hunter is available in both 20 and12 gauge with either a 26” or 28” barrel length. The Silver Matte Hunter Micro Midas also comes in 20 and 12 gauge, with a 24” or 26” barrel length.

Suggested retail is $1,149.99 for both models.

Browning’s new Silver Rifled Deer Matte shotgun combines good looks with exceptional performance for the serious deer hunter in areas where using a shotgun with slugs is mandatory.

The Silver Rifled Deer Matte has these features:

• Strong, lightweight aluminum alloy receiver
• Semi-humpback receiver shape
• Thick-walled, 22” fully rifled barrel for slug ammunition
• 3” chamber
• Satin finished walnut stock
• Cantilever scope mount
• Available in 20 gauge

Suggested retail is $1,339.99

For more information on Browning products, please visit the website at www.browning.com.

This post Browning Expands Silver Shotgun Line appeared first on AmmoLand.com Shooting Sports News .

USA –-(Ammoland.com)- If a hunter is looking for a high-performance shotgun that will set them apart in the marshes and timber, then Browning has just what they are looking for.

Two new shotguns introduced under the Wicked Wing banner in 2017 fit the bill in style and performance:

The A5 Wicked Wing and Maxus Wicked Wing autoloading shotguns.

Both guns feature a receiver finished in a durable Cerakote^® Burnt Bronze camo finish and the barrel is finished in Cerakote^® Burnt Bronze. Banded extended choke tubes and an oversize bolt release are also featured on these new waterfowl shotguns.

The composite stocks and forearms are coated in Mossy Oak^® Shadow Grass Blades camo pattern and protected with sure-gripping Dura-Touch Armor Coating. Both models will be offered in 12 gauge 3-1/2” and 3” models with 26” or 28” barrel lengths. The new A5 Wicked Wing 3-1/2” has a suggested retail price of $1,979.99 and the 3” version has a suggested retail price of $1,829.99. The new Maxus Wicked Wing 3-1/2” has a suggested retail price of $1,869.99 and 3” version has a suggested retail price of $1,739.99.

A5 features:

• Strong, lightweight aluminum alloy receiver
• Lightweight profile barrel with flat ventilated rib and fully chromed bore for corrosion resistance
• 3” or 3-1/2” chamber
• Recoil-operated Kinematic Drive System
• Shim adjustment for length of pull, cast and drop
• Vector Pro Lengthened Forcing Cone
• Three Invector-DS Banded choke tubes
• Inflex recoil pad
• Fiber -optic front sight and ivory mid-bead sight
• Oversize bolt release
• ABS storage case- more –

Maxus features:

• Strong, lightweight aluminum alloy receiver
• Lightweight profile barrel with flat ventilated rib and fully chromed bore for corrosion resistance
• 3” or 3-1/2” chamber
• Power Drive gas system
• Shim adjustment for length of pull, cast and drop
• Speed Lock forearm
• Textured gripping surfaces
• Vector Pro Lengthened Forcing Cone
• Three Invector-DS Banded choke tubes
• Inflex Recoil Pad
• Fiber -optic front sight and ivory mid-bead sight
• Oversize bolt release
• Magazine Cutoff

For more information on Browning products, please visit the website at www.browning.com.

This post Wicked Looks & Performance from Two of Browning’s Most Popular Shotguns appeared first on AmmoLand.com Shooting Sports News .

USA –  In 1925 John M. Browning designed, and Fabrique Nationale d’Herstal in Belgium built, the first B25 over and under shotgun — considered by generations to be one of the finest over and under shotguns ever made.

The B25 is still available from Browning as part of the John M. Browning Collection.

For 2017 Browning is introducing the B15 Beauchamp over and under shotgun as part of the John M. Browning Collection.

The storied gunsmiths of Fabrique Nationale d’ Herstal, Belgium, will exquisitely enhance each new B15, meaning that owners of the new shotgun can expect balance and reliability from precision engineering plus the finest of aesthetic finishes.

The heart of the new Browning B15 Beauchamp Over And Under Shotgun is the locking system and technical features shared with the legendary B25.

New and innovative elements include a low-profile receiver, performance enhancing mechanical triggers, back-bored Vector Pro Barrels and Invector-DS choke tubes.

The new B15 will be offered in four grades with a choice of exceptional engravings and wood grades. Varying buttplates and forearm styles are also availabe in the four grades of the B15.

Suggested Retail Prices:

• Grade B – $12,999.99
• Grade C – $15,499.99
• Grade D – $17,999.99
• Grade E – $20,499.99

For more information on Browning products, please visit the website at www.browning.com.

This post Browning Intros Exquisite B15 Beauchamp Over and Under Shotgun appeared first on AmmoLand.com Shooting Sports News .

Mike reviews the TriStar Cobra Force Pump Shotgun to find out if it is a true bargain or as the old saying goes, do you get what you pay for?

U.S.A. –-(Ammoland.com)- A pump action shotgun is often the first firearm most folks look to for self-defense and we tried out an interesting one by TriStar known as the Cobra Force. It is made in Turkey, where there is a history of capable shotgun manufacturing at a reasonable price.

It may not share the traditional profile of a pump shotgun that most folks are familiar with, but has a pistol gripped stock similar to the Benelli M1, a matte-black finish, 20″ barrel and is can handle 2 3/4″ as well as 3″ shells.

We assume it can handle the Aguila mini shells but were unable to try this out.

TriStar Cobra Force Tactical Shotgun

TriStar Cobra Force Pump Shotgun – The Good

Examining the fit and finish on the Cobra Force revealed a well-built scattergun. Picatinny rails adorn the top of the receiver the underside of the fore-end. This gives you options for mounting lights, lasers, scopes, red dot sights and anything that makes you a better shooter or improves your firearm for your conditions.

It uses a removable choke system that uses Beretta Mobile threads and ships with one extended choke tube for Cylinder Bore as well as a choke box and choke wrench. This is something we wish American shotgun makers would include on all of their factory shotguns as chokes; even on short barreled shotguns to make your shotgun more versatile.

The TriStar Cobra Force Pump Shotgun's barrel is chrome lined, which makes a lot of sense on a tactical shotgun.

The trigger pull came in at 5 pounds, which we liked a lot. This is another area where we get left in the lurch by US shotgun makers at times and we were glad to see someone take notice and address this shortcoming.

Ghost ring sights are installed at the factory. We definitely prefer these to brass beads unless we are shooting birds or clays. The fiber optic front sight can be picked up rapidly and it tends to make for a more accurate shooter. Using a weapon mounted light with a good throw on the forend will really light it up in the darkness as opposed to tritium which will wash out in conjunction with a light.

We like the pistol gripped stock and so will other shooters who learned on ARs, M16s, AKs, etc. Shooters who grew up shooting trap, skeet, sporting clays and are used to a more traditional buttstock will have a bit of a learning curve here but will be able to swing their gun with the best of them once they get it down.

Not all is a learning curve. The safety is located at the top rear of the trigger guard as it is on the Remington family of shotguns.

One feature we really liked about the TriStar Cobra Force Pump Shotgun is that the forend has a return spring. After firing the shotgun and pulling the forend rearward it ejects the spent shell like normal. The return spring acts as an assist to close the action and chamber a fresh shell. Reloading speed is definitely improved and it made for great fun while blasting clays and shooting targets while on our own.

However, we can see a problem with this which we will address in the next section.

TriStar Cobra Force Pump Shotgun – The Bad

The return spring in the forend can present problems if you find yourself shooting at an organized range or participating in a match as there is no way to lock the action open and show clear to a Range Safety Officer (RSO) or to simply leave it on the bench while other shooters go downrange to check targets.

It's not all bad news, though, this spring can be removed and you still have a very capable pump shotgun in your hands.

The only other downside is that its Uber tactical look may prohibit its use for hunting in some places or at least draw odd looks from the Deer Camp crowd.

TriStar Cobra Force Shotgun – The Reality

The TriStar Cobra Force shotgun represents a real value to the shooter in its build quality and performance. We found it is loaded with custom features while keeping the MSRP at around $400.

TriStar Cobra Force Specifications

• Gauge: 12
• Action: Pump
• Barrel Length: 18.5″
• Capacity: 5+1
• Chamber: 3″
• Choke Configuration: Mobilchoke
• Finish: Blued/Black
• OAL: 40.5″
• Recoil Pad Type: Rubber
• Safety: Crossbolt
• Sights: Fiber Optic Front, Ghost Ring Rear
• Weight: 6.5 lbs
• MSRP: $400

NUTNFANCY: $240 Home Defense Shotgun: TriStar Cobra Force

About Mike Searson

Mike Searson's career as a shooter began as a Marine Rifleman at age 17. He has worked in the firearms industry his entire adult life as a Gunsmith, Ballistician, Consultant, Salesman, Author and was first certified to teach firearms safety in 1989.

Mike has written over 2000 articles for a number of magazines, websites and newsletters including Blade, RECOIL, OFF-GRID, Tactical Officer, SWAT, Tactical World, Gun Digest, Examiner.com and the US Concealed Carry Association as well as AmmoLand Shooting Sports News.

• Homepage: www.mikesearson.com
• FB: www.facebook.com/mike.searson
• TWITTER: www.twitter.com/mikesearson

This post TriStar Cobra Force Pump Shotgun , Bargain Gun Loaded with Custom Features – VIDEO appeared first on AmmoLand.com Shooting Sports News .

Arizona –-(Ammoland.com)- For me the Remington 870 shotgun invokes fond memories of my youth as well as the rich history Remington has played in manufacturing quality firearms for sportsmen, law enforcement and military around the world.

If you ask most any sportsman what Remington produces, more than likely their response will be the Remington 870 Shotgun and 700 Series Rifle.

Their firearms can be found in homes, police cruisers and military armories, a solid testament to their 190 plus years of firearms design and manufacturing.

Brand loyal owners will enjoy the ammunition Remington manufactures in their favorite firearms for hunting and target practice. And while Remington is based in the United States their products are shipped to over 55 countries.

Two of their firearms have achieved a virtual cult like status among owners. The first is the well-known Remington 870 Pump Action Shotgun which has faithfully served on the front lines of Military and Law Enforcement communities for years. It has hunted afield for nearly a half century and has seen more than ten million manufactured.

The 700 Series Rifle that was designed in 1962 and has seen more than 5 million rifles roll off the assembly line in 40 plus calibers and over 900 SKU’s. And while there are other successful Remingtons on the market, you must agree their lineage is well founded and deserved but time marches on.

Remington Versa Max Shotgun
Remington Engineers are moving rapidly into the next century with new innovations in firearms manufacturing and materials and the Remington Versa Max is that forward thinking.

The heart of the Remington Versa Max is its gas system. The VersaPort gas pistons and seven gas ports self regulates based on the length of the shell.

A short shell allows the most holes to be exposed which enables more gas to cycle the action, but when using a 3 ½” magnums all but one hole is covered because the load is powerful enough to easily cycle the action.

The gas system allows the shooter to fire any type 2¾ to 3½ shot shell and the end result is flawless operation.

This also creates a buffer effect that reduces the felt recoil down to that of a 20 gauge in some cases and since it’s self-cleaning it gives you less down time, wear & tear and fewer parts.

What does the VersaPort do for you? More time hunting, less time worrying about your shotgun.

Remington’s newest semi-automatic shotgun offers the sportsman a dependable shotgun for all hunting and sporting uses. The Versa Max comes to you in Remington’s green hard case which protects your Versa Max while in the field and holds your owner’s manual and accessories.

The case includes four Wingmaster HD (High Density) Remington choke tubes in Flooded Timber (Improved) Over Decoys (Modified) Pass Shooting (Full) and Turkey/Predator (Extra Full). Also included is a choke tube wrench, that accommodates a 3/8 ratchet drive, very handy should you need to break lose a stuck choke tube.

A stylish trigger lock that covers the entire trigger, complete with two keys. A 3/16th Allen wrench for the cylinder plugs so you can remove the gas pistons and stock. Magazine plug, which reduces the 3+1 (2¾” and 3”) to 2+1 (3½”).

A HI-VIZ Sight key that slides between the first and second ring under the lite pipe, which allows you to remove it and change the color to personalize the shotgun to your taste. It comes with a green sight pipe installed (of course) and you get a white and red sight pipe as well. Three spacers to change your LOP (Length-of-Pull) of your stock from 14 ¼ to 15 ¼ inches and three sets of screws that measure 1¾” 2” and 2¼” so you have the correct length screw for the LOP spacer used. Two stock cast plates to adjust Heel drop and Cast to fit your shooting style.

Heel drop can be adjusted from 2 to 2.5 inches and cast adjustment can be made either left or right a quarter of an inch.

The Realtree HD AP Camo pattern was applied spot on with no visible wrinkles as you would expect from Remington and the fit and finish on all the parts was tight even after shooting 500+ shells from 2¾” field loads to 3½” turkey loads. As a general rule, I don’t clean my test guns until I’m finished testing, to see if I experience any firearm related stoppages, I did not. The four choke tubes screwed in and out very easily, even after shooting many rounds and only using the supplied choke tube wrench or by hand. The barrels vented rib has a small bead used for aligning on the sight pipe for accurate shots. I like this feature on shotguns I have found it helps my accuracy with birds of all types including the clay kind.

At about 8.2 lbs., the well balanced Versa Max is easy to handle, shoulder and acquire targets with the factory fiber optics. I have always liked the switch from the standard bead sight to fiber optics for clarity and their natural radiance in the field.

The Versa Max utilizes a synthetic stock and forend with grip panels strategically placed to aid in a firm hold in all weather conditions. The receiver is drilled and tapped with four screws for installation of a Weaver style or Picatinny rail to employ your favorite sights.

The trigger guard is large enough to easily handle gloved hands and the safety is enlarged to transition from safe to fire by feel. There are also redundant safety measures built into the Versa Max that require no input from the user as long as the shotgun is maintained in good working order.

The trigger broke between seven and eight lbs. and gives a firm but smooth release. Right next to the trigger guard is the cartridge release.

When activated it will release a shell from the magazine without firing the gun or allow you to lock the bolt open manually. You may also pull the bolt handle back and eject the unfired shell from the chamber and replace it with another type. Just drop in the new shell, push the bolt release and load the shell into the chamber.

This is useful feature if you’re hunting multiple seasons on different game that require different shot sizes or the use of slugs. The bolt release is located by the bolt handle, pushing it will release the bolt from its locked open position.

Forward of the foregrip is the magazine cap which has a sling swivel to match the one located on the stock. Turning it counterclockwise will allow you to remove the magazine spring retainer and plug. (The device which limits the amount of shells the shotgun magazine can hold) Simply push down 1/2” and turn clockwise to remove it, exercise caution as the spring is under tension. The amount of field stripping you do is in accordance with your skill and confidence with firearms. The simplest methods is the easiest, just remove and clean the barrel, but If you choose to go further all the advanced procedures for further disassembly are covered in the supplied operator’s manual.

I will go over the basic field stripping starting with placing the shotgun on safe and unloading all ammunition from the magazine and chamber and standing it upright on the recoil pad.

The bolt should be in the locked back position after unloading then remove the magazine cap. Remove the foregrip by removing it upward and off, then remove the barrel by pulling it upwards as well. You may then remove the gas plugs and pistons using the supplied Allen wrench. This allows you to clean the Versa Max, but if a more thorough cleaning is desired you may remove the bolt handle and bolt and disassemble it along with removing the trigger assembly for cleaning. No other disassembly is authorized beyond this point except by the factory or authorized repair facility.

Shooting the Versa Max is fun and with field loads; recoil is soft and easy for anyone to handle. A round of sporting clays with a couple friends sold the Versa Max on a friend’s younger son who shot a better score with the Versa Max than he did with his own shotgun. Did I mention he fell in love with it and wanted his dad to buy him one of his own?

I also wanted to use a revolutionary optical sight a good friend recommended to me that’s fairly new to the market. Red Ring is an optical sight designed especially for shotguns and is installed on any shotgun rib that measures between 5 and 11.5 mm. Best of all when you install it, there is no calibration or sighting in, just go out and shoot, it’s that simple.

What it does is help you become a better shooter by eliminating some of the basic problems associated with shotgunning. The sight is parallax free.

(PARALLAX means the difference between the view of an object as seen through the picture-taking lens of a camera and the view as seen through a separate viewfinder.)

The Red Ring automatically adjusts the intensity of the ring according to the available light, they call it Spot-Metering. It uses a built in range finder to let you know if you should take the shot thus helping you take more game or hit more clays. The sight sits low on the rib and adds very little weight so balance is not affected and if it becomes dirty in the field or range it can be washed off with fresh water.

It comes ready to install out of the box and comes complete with all the mounting hardware which consists of four spacers, two clamps and one Allen wrench. It took me all of five minutes to install as I had to change clamps and they recommend re-tightening the clamps after about 25 rounds, so you don’t donate it to someone else shooting after you. Turning the sight off and on is simple as two buttons and after registration you can USB interface with your PC for more advanced settings. Even the battery is easy to change and MSRP is $899.00 for the sight.

Ammunition Brand:Gauge:    Length:    Velocity:Oz. Shot:    Shot:Hits:

• Remington Nitro Turkey    12 Ga.           3”          1210      1 7/8      5           5
• Hornady Heavy Mag Turkey  12 Ga.    3”            1300     1 ½         5           7
• Federal Premium Turkey      12 Ga.          3”           1300    1 ¾          5         1
• Winchester Supreme Turkey  12 Ga.    3”             1300   1 ¾          5            0
• Hevi-Shot Magnum Blend      12 Ga.         3 ½        1200   2 ¼      5,6,7      21
• Kent Ultimate Diamond Shot  12 Ga.     3 ½        1200   2 ¼          5            8
• Remington Nitro Turkey            12 Ga.     3 ½        1300    2            5            11

All factory turkey loads were fired from the Remington Versa Max with the Wingmaster HD Extra Full Turkey choke at 30 yards. Number 5 shot was used to test consistency among all the loads for purposes of pattern testing. All factory ammunition was fired from a hunting position and test results reflect this Versa Max, other Versa Max shotguns will pattern differently, so you must conduct your own pattern testing before hunting.

From mild to wild Remington has 7 models of the Versa Max that will fit your style starting with the Realtree HD AP Camo, Waterfowl, Synthetic, Sportsman, Tactical and the Zombie Gargoyle Green or Zombie Pink Explosion, the last two are based on the tactical model. The synthetic model is a universal black Versa Max, while the Sportsman offers the consumer a cheaper alternative eliminating or changing six features making its MSRP $1,025.00. Then into the Tactical Versa Max with its high performance features like a Picatinny rail, forward barrel-clamp side rails and an extended 8+1 magazine and IC and Tactical Extended Choke Tube. For the coming Zombie Apocalypse, Remington gives you your choice of Green or Pink in the Tactical model for laying waste to any walking dead that venture into range.

Now don’t let the Realtree HD pattern fool you because the Remington Versa Max can wear many hats. I haven’t run into too many people who tell me they have so much money they can buy a different shotgun for each season. Some appropriate camouflage tape, duck or goose loads and the changing of a choke tube and you’re ready for the marshes because the Realtree pattern is only the outside of the shotgun. But if you are a die-hard duck, goose or turkey hunter, then pick the shotgun or pattern that suits your passion. If you plan on hunting many different types of game a black Versa Max may be in order, but however you look at it you will be using one of Remington’s best built shotguns that will give you many years of service and will most certainly be the envy of your son or daughter.

I would highly recommend the Remington Versa Max to anyone who enjoys a quality auto-loading shotgun, if I had one in my youth, there would be a lot less birds in this world. The Versa Max proves that no matter how far into the future we get, advancements in materials and technology CAN teach an old dog new tricks and shotgun technology has advanced to great heights. So the next time you’re out and about at your local gun shop, take a look at the Remington Versa Max and see if it’s right for you. Or maybe you know someone that owns one and they will let you hunt with it, either way you will not come home without birds because the shotgun failed to uphold its end of the deal.

Model: Versa Max Realtree

• Order Number: 81054
• Status: Available
• Gauge: 12
• Capacity: 3+1 (2¾” & 3″) : 2+1 (3½”)
• Barrel Length: 26”
• Chokes: 4 Wingmaster HD (High Density)
• Chamber: 3½” 12 gauge
• Extractor/Ejector: Spring Loaded Ejector
• Overall Length: 47 15/16
• Weight unloaded: 8.2 lbs.
• Weight with ammo: 3 – 2¾” thru 3 – 3½” about 8.6 lbs.
• Stock: Black Rubber Over molded Grip Panels (Stock and Fore-End)
• Drop at Comb: 1½” (Adjustable)
• Drop at Heel: 2 7/16″ (Adjustable)
• Length of Pull (LOP): 14¼ inches (Adjustable)
• Action: Auto-loading
• Barrel Type: 4140 Hammer Forged Steel, With Nickel Plated Bore
• Receiver Finish: Realtree AP-HD Camo Mil Spec Hard Anodized (MIL-A-8625F)
• Front Sights: HI-VIZ Interchangeable
• Rib: Tapered Target Style (Taper 10mm – 7mm)
• Warranty: The Versa Max Two Year Warranty Platinum Service Plan

Sources for Products Used in this review:

• Remington: Versa Max HD AP Camo www.remington.com
• Red Ring: Shotgun Sighting Systemwww.redringsight.com
• Sure Shot Game Calls: 1500 Box Turkey Call www.sureshotgamecalls.com
• Remington Nitro Turkey: 3” & 3½” www.remington.com
• Hornady Heavy Magnum Turkey: 3”www.hornady.com
• Winchester Supreme HV Turkey: 3”www.winchester.com
• Federal Premium Turkey Loads: 3”www.federalpremium.com
• HEVI-SHOT Magnum Blend: 3½”www.hevishot.com
• Kent Ultimate Diamond Shot: 3½”www.kentgamebore.com

About Norman Gray:
Norman Gray has been involved in the shooting sports for well over 30 years. He has served in both active duty and reserve component of the United States Army as an Infantryman and was honorably discharged at the end of his service. Moving to Arizona, he began assisting his long time friend and mentor Bob Shell, an accomplished writer and author in his own right. Norman is freelance contributor with Handguns Magazine, Canadian Firearms Journal and Manzano Valley Outdoors. He is also a member of (POMA) The Professional Outdoor Media Association, the (NSSF) National Shooting Sports Foundation and a Life Member of the (NRA) National Rifle Association. Visit: http://www.unleaded-ink.blogspot.com/

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ACCOKEEK, MD –-(Ammoland.com)-  Franchi’s Intensity, a 3 ½-inch semi-auto shotgun, received Outdoor Life’s Editor’s Choice Award for Shotgun of the Year at the 2014 NRA Annual Meetings and Exhibits in Indianapolis, IN.

Each year Outdoor Life's Editor’s Choice Awards are given to those products that score the highest overall in their category.

Franchi’s Intensity is a reliable Inertia Driven shotgun that Outdoor Life ranks as extremely good value in respect to both workmanship and performance. Available in either 26-, 28-, or 30-inch barrel lengths the Intensity features a ventilated raised rib, red fiber optic front sight and comes with a choke wrench and three choke tubes, including full, modified and improved cylinder. The Intensity is available in black synthetic, Realtree Max-5 and APGX and Mossy Oak’s Bottomlands camo patterns. Standing firmly behind every Intensity, Franchi offers an industry-leading seven-year warranty.

“To earn an Outdoor Life Editor's Choice award—which goes to the rifle and shotgun with the highest overall score in the gun test—is quite an accomplishment,“ said John Snow, Outdoor Life’s Shooting Editor. “The Franchi Intensity has not only withstood the demanding rigors of the test, but also excelled in every category we rate—design, performance and price-value.”

Outdoor Life, respected for presenting unbiased reviews, field-tests new gear for sportsmen, from shotguns and rifles to tents and sleeping bags. Outdoor Life’s unique test methodology utilizes a panel of experts who know shotguns inside and out, to test and rate an array of new models. Outdoor Life readers have come to view these awards as reliable, objective guides for purchasing gear that they can find anywhere.

SPECIFICATIONS: Name: Intensity Gauge: 12-Gauge  Barrel Length: 26” 28” & 30”  Chokes: IC, M, F  Sights: Red fiber optic bar  Finish:  Black synthetic, Realtree Max-5, APGX & Mossy Oak Bottomlands  Stock Material: Synthetic  Average Weight: 6.8 lbs. Overall Length: 47.25” 49.25” and 51.5” Length of Pull: 14.25”  Drop at heel: Adjustable from 2” to 2.5” Drop at Comb: 1.5” (Adjustable with shim kit)  MSRP: $1099 – $1199

For the latest news and product information from Franchi brand products visit www.franchiusa.com

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