The right gun for you

Tony Bracci looks at some things to consider when choosing a gun, be it new or second-hand, expensive or cheap

- Tony Bracci

It is around this time of year that we see an influx of shooters to the shooting ground, preparing for the season ahead. It has been exaggerated this year because of the lockdown. The phrase “it’s so nice to be out shooting again” is being heard many times over.

This preparation for the season ahead often involves contemplating the purchase of a new or different gun. It could even be your first gun. But whether it is brand new or second-hand, what should you be considering? Visiting any gunshop you are faced with racks and racks of guns, so how do you pick out the right one for you? The one that is going to enable you to shoot to the best of your potential?

Price is obviously a common consideration; most people have a budget. It would, of course, be lovely to have your own private collection of shotguns, buying the latest model from a top maker that only a few of us can afford it. I would also like to say that money spent on good-quality guns is not ‘dead’ money. Unlike money spent on other sports equipment or cars, for example, shotguns generally retain their value, especially those from the well-known makers that have been looked after.

When upgrading, I have sold guns I bought in the 1980s and ’90s for more than I paid for them. It is not guaranteed, but worth considering when you’re parting with your hard-earned cash. We all want a bargain, a lot of gun for our money, a gun that gets us the respect of our friends and fellow shooters, without breaking the bank. So, buy within your budget and don’t waste your time looking at £10,000 guns if you can only afford one for £1,000 or less.

Fit