Fifteen years ago, I was probably better at upland shooting than now (better vision, better reflexes, less wear & tear on everything) and likely less-susceptible to accumulated recoil. Now, when I shoot my 557 Arrieta with the Vintagers, that constant 12-bore pounding with a 6 3/4 lb gun is noticeable at the end of the day. For me, the clay games are a pleasant distraction & a good excuse to get out and shoot. I don't keep score either (I'm just not that consistent) and I'd like to think they make me a better shot on game. If I had a decent vintage gun right now that I was using on targets, I'd likely be concerned about the accumulated recoil of the target-specific ammo being used. I don't sweat that with my 10 1/2lb SKB, & I don't seem to notice the recoil as much either. I absolutely love SXS guns and the older the better. On game they are still my go-to option. I also still enjoy using a classic pumper (the guns of my youth!) but I can now see the appeal of the stackbarrels. I just couldn't before, largely because of an eye-dominance issue, but also because of the perceived cost and machine-made nature (& modernity) of them. A pragmatic concession on my part, I suppose.
Last edited by Lloyd3; 02/27/23 03:10 PM.
