doublegunshop.com - home Forums General Discussion DoubleGun BBS @ doublegunshop.com Best Value in a SxS

Hi all, what SxS would you say is the best value for under 2k, not including used guns and why?

Thanks!!!

Greg

I would consider looking at used guns

Sorry, but used is where it's at; especially at that price point.

Used for under 2k . . .

Bernardelli.

Webley 700?

Pre War German boxlocks, often found in high condition under $1,500. Older S x S shotguns generally are better made guns than any under $2,000 new stuff found today.

If I was buying and older gun I'd stick with English makers.

I find the Remington SPR220's a very good value at under $300. They are rough in fit and finish, but my friend and I both have them (12 and 20) and neither has had any problems. I think the SPR 210's (single trigger) are not as good a value and more likely to have mechanical problems. If you are looking for a bargain basement new SXS, I would not hesitate to recommend the SPR 220.

Next would be the Ugartechea Grade II at around $1400 (or used around $900). I have been very happy with mine, at least after an initial safety problem was repaired (which you can read about eslewhere on this board). For $500 more you can get the Grade III with ejectors and case coloring, but I don't think it is worth the extra cost. The nice thing about the Ugartecheas is they are very light and slim, and you get a largely handmade gun with a lifetime warranty. The service from Lion Country Supply is great too (although I have my doubts about their gunsmith).

Others in that price range are the CZ Bobwhite ($700'ish) and the Weatherby D'Italias (~$2100 form Cabelas), but they did not seem as nice as the Ugartechea to me. They are not as graceful and they just feel like mass-produced guns. That is not to say they are bad, however, and they may be what you are looking for if you want screw chokes.

The people here that recommend used are probably correct. You will get more for your money. But if you are still new to the game, like me, buying used can be intimidating. If that is the case, defintiely check out the Ugartecheas.

For a new, under $2k sxs, probably a Gold Label Ruger would do it. About half that will get you into a Turkish built CZ or DeHann. You might check into the new Turkish built Smith & Wesson which I saw for $2500 at a pricey range store and which may be right at $2k at a discount dealer. I was impressed by the S&W. But you can get a hell of a lot more for your money on the used gun market, if you're careful and educated. You can find brand new in the box 80's built Browning Side by Side (BSS) guns in 12g for 1200-1400 or in 20g for $2k. These guns are built like tanks, but beware, the 12g is a full 7 1/2 lbs (20g BSS runs 6 1/2 - 7 lbs).