Rizzini BR550 side-by-side
The Field|September 2020
Michael Yardley shoots a 16-bore in competitions, so is interested to see how this round bar side-by-side compares. Would it prove to be a sweet 16?
Michael Yardley
Rizzini BR550 side-by-side

THIS month’s test looks at a Rizzini BR550 round bar side-by-side imported by ASI of Snape. The gun is a 16-bore with 30in barrels, built on a 20-bore action on a similar principle to a Lancaster ‘12 20’ of old. It is distinguished by a single-selective trigger (there are non-selective single and double trigger options at no extra cost), a full pistol grip of particularly good proportion and a coin-finished, medium scroll engraved action.

First impressions are good. This is a svelte package. The use of a 20-bore action – Rizzini makes dedicated 12- and 20-bore actions but no 16 yet – allows for compact action proportions relative to the barrels to overall aesthetic and handling benefit. The mainly machine-made 550 weighs 6lb 1oz, close to or hitting the ideal for a 16-bore side-by-side. It feels lively but a sound stock design and an outstanding grip – even in-depth and not too acutely radiused – allows for enhanced muzzle control as well. It certainly doesn’t seem too light. And the balance is good, just marginally forward of the hinge pin.

Fixed chokes, quarter and half, contribute to the good dynamics. Guns with multi chokes fitted are made, typically, heavier at the muzzles and this can lead to a ponderous quality mid-mount and swing, especially when one needs to correct line in a hurry. It is not at all evident here. The BR550 is pleasing to bring up to face and shoulder. It moves quickly but isn’t ‘whippy’. At the risk of praising it too much, I would say it has a near-perfect spec and dynamic for a modern 16, but more, of course, will be revealed with live firing.

Bu hikaye The Field dergisinin September 2020 sayısından alınmıştır.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

Bu hikaye The Field dergisinin September 2020 sayısından alınmıştır.

Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.

THE FIELD DERGISINDEN DAHA FAZLA HIKAYETümünü görüntüle
Rory Stewart - The former Cabinet minister and hit podcast host talks to Alec Marsh about the parlous state of British politics, land management and his deep love of the countryside
The Field

Rory Stewart - The former Cabinet minister and hit podcast host talks to Alec Marsh about the parlous state of British politics, land management and his deep love of the countryside

The gently spoken 51-year-old former Conservative Cabinet minister is a countryman at heart. That's clear: he even changes into a tweed waistcoat for the interview, which takes place at his London home and begins with a question about his precise career status. Having resigned from the Commons and the Conservative Party in 2019, the former diplomat and soldier has reinvented himself, first with an unconventional but promising run as an independent for the London mayoralty (abandoned because of COVID19 in 2020) and then as a media figure, co-hosting one of the country's most popular podcasts, The Rest Is Politics, alongside Alastair Campbell, the former Labour spin doctor.

time-read
4 dak  |
November 2024
Fodder
The Field

Fodder

Local fare with the feel-good factor.

time-read
2 dak  |
November 2024
Celebrating the game changers
The Field

Celebrating the game changers

Once served only in the traditional manner, the fruits of our forays now find their way into all manner of diverse and delicious dishes, say Neil and Serena Cross

time-read
3 dak  |
November 2024
The first civil engineer
The Field

The first civil engineer

John Smeaton left an indelible mark on the field of engineering and, three centuries after his birth, his legacy remains as strong as ever

time-read
6 dak  |
November 2024
School spirits
The Field

School spirits

From grey ladies and ghostly gardeners to more malign entities, public schools are a rich repository of unnatural phenomena

time-read
8 dak  |
November 2024
'A long way from Piccadilly or Pall Mall'
The Field

'A long way from Piccadilly or Pall Mall'

Marking 150 years since the birth of Sir Winston Churchill, Dr Conor Farrington explores this eminent statesman’s often-overlooked 1907 tour of British East Africa: a journey rich with enchanting natural beauty and sporting adventure

time-read
7 dak  |
November 2024
Top of the pups
The Field

Top of the pups

Canines in all their guises were celebrated at The Field Top Dog Awards lunch at Defender Burghley Horse Trials whether eager on the peg, patient at home or perpetually making mischief

time-read
6 dak  |
November 2024
Angling for success
The Field

Angling for success

It’s never too early to shape up for next season’s salmon and trout, and these top fishing schools are here to help

time-read
7 dak  |
November 2024
Talking scents
The Field

Talking scents

The canine nose is an astonishingly complex piece of biotechnology that man has harnessed for sustenance and sport for thousands of years

time-read
7 dak  |
November 2024
Wall-to-wall excitement
The Field

Wall-to-wall excitement

Criss-crossed by formidable drystone walls, the High Peak Harriers’ scenic country provides a day out with an exhilarating difference

time-read
7 dak  |
November 2024