I started out with a Browning A-5 and was about unbeatable with it at turkey shoots against some incredible AA shooters. I was especially good at back up shoots because I was such a quick shot. If I did miss my backup shooter had a normal shot because I was so quick. Next, I traded up to a Browning Broadway trap and could hardly hit squat with it becase I couldn't get down on the stock. I couldn't come close to hitting birds with it. I looked at a Browning classic straight grip 20 and it was even worse. I settled on a Browning 20 Superposed and used it for everything for 30 years. It fit. The 3" drop gun hated by some is no problem for me as I prefer 2 1/2" drop. 2" and it doesn't work as my facial bones get in the way. No one has mentioned yet those horrible 26" guns, instead giving the kudos to the 28-30" guns that "swing" so much better. My preference is for the 26". I am QUICK! I get on the bird QUICK and need less lead. I hit more birds because of just that. Light weight HELPS me be quicker.
Now that might not work for some folks. When I am 90 (God willin) it might not work for me. But it does now. I do not find it hard. I find it natural. I don't besmirch others for either their opinions or infirmatives. But those who are inexperienced should not listen to the opinions of others as it my be perfectly wrong for them as they experience life.
To me, a quick, lightweight gun is an absolute joy and the best gun I shoot. Let the others judge for themselves...and then be a bit more subdued about it. It will make you seen smarter (maybe more than you are).
As for wild engraving, I enjoy the art, but prefer fine scroll or conventional scenes more. The main problem with much of this (mainly Italian) art, is that many are by combined artists. Some do the scroll, some the background, and some the figures and the problem can be unbalanced art that LOOKS like it was pieced together.
As for photos: my old camera has given up the ghost as the battery died and is no longer available. My new camera is complex and came with no manual. They ask you to "download" the manual. I have dialup...SLOW dialup. I'll download it next week at work where I have high speed (civilized) internet.
