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Im fairly new to shotguns and would like to start off with a 20 gauge semi-auto(or autoloader same thing right?). Been looking around and see that beretta and benelli make a few nice ones, but they are in the 1k range. Will use it mostly for target/small game/bird hunting.

I really like the tactical/synthetic looking shotguns, and id like to spend around 500 bucks for it (new or used). Anyone have an suggestions?

Buy a quality used gun. Look for a Franchi 48 or a Remington 1100. If you buy a new $500 gun, you are asking for trouble. It may or may not be worth it. Though some new guns carry good warranties, you will be bothered by delays in shipping and mostly very poor turnaround times.

Buy quality even if you have to buy used. Either of the guns I mentioned above can be had in 95% condition for less than $500. They have 50 years of proven history and excellent reputations.

I won't disagree with the idea of buying used, but if you're rather new to guns and don't know what to look for, buying used may be a bit daunting.

In that price range you could likely afford a new Mossberg SA-20.
http://mossberg.com/products/default.as ... n=products

I've heard a lot of good things about the Mossberg 930 (their 12 gauge semi-auto). My dad uses a 930 and shoots well with it. It's functioned perfectly for him even though he didn't break it in properly and maintenance isn't high on his priority list.

I haven't heard a lot (good or bad) about the SA-20, but I'd look into it if I were in your shoes. I've seen it priced from about $450-500.

...On a side note, my first shotgun was a 12 gauge, and 12's are all I'd ever used until I got my first 20 gauge this past summer. It's a fun gun to shoot and very nice to carry for long hunting strolls. Ultimately, I'm glad to have both gauges, but I think you'll be happy starting with a 20.

thanks for the suggestions! That mossberg looks nice...where is a good place to look for some used classifieds?

Try the classifieds on this site. Place a "want to buy" (WTB) and look at the ads already posted.

I bet this one would be perfect. http://www.shotgunworld.com/bbs/viewtopic.php?f=74&t=194115

I have a 20 gauge Remington 11-87 Premier and would highly recommend it to you, jstefanop, if you can find a nice one in your $500 range.

+1 I have seen several used 11-87's in 20 ga at my LGS. You should be able to find what you are looking for...just be patient and don't jump at the first gun you see. I don't own an 11-87 (1100's and Franchi 720), but can vouch for the 1100's reliability.

I wouldn't hesitate to buy the Mossberg 930. I have one in synthetic and my wife has one in wallnut. They have been great guns. I was hesitant at first because they were just over the $400.00 mark last year up here in Canada. I thought how good could they be. Well, I am very pleased with them. I also have the Remington 1187. It also is a good gun but from owning the two, I have to give the edge to the lower priced Mossberg. The 1187 requires a little more maintainance to perform properly and it doesn't always kick out light loads . The 930's have been flawless so far.