For some time now, I've had my eye out for a light 12 gauge field gun with 2.75" chambers at a price that would not have me fretting that the tiniest scratch or bump would jeopardize a major capital investment. I know of a couple potential candidates, both at 6.25 pounds and offered by reputable dealers. I'd be tempted to go for either of them if the other weren't available. Buying both is unfortunately not an option at this point
One is a Webley & Scott 700 with 28" tubes for a little over $2k. I haven't talked to the seller for details on condition and vintage; it looks like it's been shot a fait bit but taken care of, with a few stock dings, 80% case colors left, and sound, unaltered barrels
The second gun is a "Cabela's Hemingway" (V. Bernardelli) from 1986 with 25.5" (65 cm) barrels described as being in "near new" condition. It's going for $1600.
Barrel length aside and assuming condition as described, does anyone have experience or opinions about these options? I've read a number of threads on this board and elsewhere praising both guns as reliable field guns, the Webley being the classic Birmingham workhorse, the Bernardelli maybe a tad more refined but also "not English". I know it ultimately comes down to the individual gun, but I'd love to hear from anyone who's handled or shot decent specimens of both.
Thanks!
Bill