doublegunshop.com - home Forums General Discussion DoubleGun BBS @ doublegunshop.com AyA vs. RBl

A 20g. RBL should be bought used in like new condition in the low $3K range. I did not care for mine and sold it however the fit and finish were pretty darn good. It was light and was a great hunting gun. I bought a 28g. RBL which I love.

I have both guns. As most have stated, both guns are different. And personal preference on point ability and feel.
I am a big AYA fan for upland hunting. I would be surprised If I have a total of 200 rounds through the RBL. The AYAs have several thousand rounds through them. I would lean hard too acquire a No2 in 20 or 28 gauge.
Great little upland gun.
Good luck in your search. Keep us posted on your selection.

Rich

Since you said you are "toying with the idea" of either the AYA or the RBL, I'll stick my neck out and suggest that, before you write the check, you look hard at the Italian offerings. The Fausti that JR mentioned is one of many great options there. You may have done all your homework on the Spanish guns. If so, good. But being as ignorant of Spanish guns as I am, I'd be very reticent to go after one when I could have a very good Italian double for the same money. And, in my opinion, have much less chance of getting a lemon.

I have five Italian made shotguns, by three makers, and love them all.

Just food for thought. Here's hoping you make the best choice for you.

SRH

A mint RBL 20 at $3K is a good value. At $5K, not so much. I have RBLs in 20/28" and 28/30". Good guns for the money.

Re Stan's suggestion about Italian doubles, there are some good values out there in V. Bernardellis, Berettas, and FAIRs, but they can be tough to find. And maybe Faustis. Rizzinis can get pricey. I have a 20ga Beretta 426E, and it is the only one I have ever seen, but it is very well made, maybe a bit heavy.

Neither.

Of course, I don't know what you have in inventory.

A Beretta O/U in 20 gauge is essential for inventory.

You might look at the Browning Citori CXS in 20 gauge.

Either gun is reliable and serviceable should it ever require it from more than once source.

I do recommend B. Rizzini also. Their 20ga. SxS guns are very good.

B. Rizzinis are very good ......... FAIR is Isidoro Rizzini (Fabbrica Armi Isidoro Rizzini). In addition to the names Replacement listed there is also Poli in your price range.

It's not a S X S but likely the last shotgun I'd sell is my Beretta 687 SP II Sporting 20 ga.

You just don't have the potential for getting a gun with soft sears, etc., in Italian guns like you do Spanish. I'm not bashing Spanish guns in general. I'd buy one if I could be certain it was built right with good steels. There's just a steep learning curve with them.

JMHO, SRH

Look at the B Rizzini Br 550 & 552. Both are very nice guns.

I have an RBL 20, with BT and PG at 6lb 7 oz. It is a very nice gun.

Well gentlemen, you've given me a bit to consider and I thank you for it...the search continues..

I have an AYA and a 20 RBL. AYA is a sidelock and a nice gun. RBL had to go back 3 times to CSM to correct issues. RBL is a decent gun but if I was going again I would spend the money on a used Spanish gun, CSM got all of my money they ever will on one purchase.

You might consider a used Brit boxlock ejector by a Brand Value level 3 maker, Original Quality grade 5 (best work BLE), and in slightly used Current Condition level 2.

BV3 - OQ5 - CC2 = $4208

If you have concerns about direct participation in a UK auction, strike a deal with Toby Barclay for representation and guidance.