Another homeless gun found a home today

[Ceorlmann]

I stopped by at a gun show today about 50 minutes from where I live per a favor for a coworker, and while I didn't find what he was looking for I did find a single shot shotgun to add to the family.

It's a 3" 20 gauge Stevens Model 95, Savage Arms. Got it for $75 (originally listed for $95), and it's an old coot; a pre-68.

I'm going to clean it up, check it for shootability, and then have some fun on a range.


Reasons for buying:

1) The vast majority of guns at the show were more for collecting than anything else. The Mod 95 was one of the exceptions.

2) 20 gauge ammo is the one shotgun ammo that local stores around here still have plenty of.

3) Reasonable price. I would've haggled for at least $75 if it wasn't originally marked down from $95.

4) The 20 gauge means it should be much more friendly to other people's shoulders in the household; including my fiancee.

5) I can use it specifically for hunting.

[ogbrandon]

That doesn't sound like a bad price if it doesn't take much to get it ready for shooting. Post a pic if you get a chance.

[mud]

a few things to consider with your 20ga
3 inch shells kick just like a 12ga, this is not due to powder charge alone but also in the amount of mass it is forcing down the barrel.
If someone recoil sensitive is shooting it, Limbsaver has a great recoil pad just make sure you get one you can sand to fit and permanently affix it. The slip on models tend to 'walk' after several rounds and need to be readjusted. The only drawback from my experience with them is they tend to grab your clothing as you position it or sometimes as you shoulder it. This can be easily fixed by smoothing it up or applying something to it.
Shooting low brass rounds for fun is the way to go. There are low brass and high brass rounds and the low brass are most often lower recoil. the brass portion is where the powder charge is and short brass holds less powder. The last thing is invest in a shot shell reloader. BJ has one on hold for me I hope to pick up this month if I can arrange a trip with him one weekend. Being able to load alternative materials will increase the functional roles.

[woodyz]

And don't forget the inserts, you can add a .410 insert and the little lady could shoot it just fine. Add a .22 insert and you have a triple for 75 + 25 + 25 = 125. Not a bad price at all for the options.

[Ceorlmann]

I'll post pics when I can. I picked up a LOT of extra work shifts.

[hunter63]

High brass vs Low brass isn't really a good way to figure recoil in a load...BTW it's isn't brass anyway, but brass colored steel.....I have some turkey loads that are all plaistic.

2-3/4 Light field loads 7/8 oz shot recoil less,....than say a 3" with 1-1/8 or 1-1/4 oz shot............... Look on the box for powder load and oz of lead.

[mud]

I think i did add it was primarily based on load size. for the record I just took my 20ga out and shot one of each and the longer brass (just using common names) did recoil more. I had my wife shoot the same with the same result. they are both 2 3/4 with 7/8 oz loads. After looking at the box the shorter 'brass' had less FPS listed. Of course your mileage may vary on brands.

I was only trying to convey my personal experience using them and in know way print this as the gospel truth or be all end all in shotgun loads.

[hunter63]

No worries, the high brass/low brass is a hold over from the good old days, and most everyone that's been around know what you mean.
My only concern would be newbies, that might get the wrong idea.......
Carry on.

[mud]

not a problem, hope that cleared my intentions and experience with the rounds I have up for everyone:) thanks for your input on it!

[Ceorlmann]

Here it is next to my two Winchesters. Cleaned it up last night.

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