KID'S first shotgun

[koba]

My son will be able to join me this year on his first shotgun hunt. Problem is Turkey's start this Spring and a 4-10 is a little small for a turkey right? Even if we made or bought special loads right? We are looking at a Remington Model 870 Express Jr. with a 18.5 inch barrel, 20 G. that is a little short for birds right? Any idea's. anyone got a gun that their kid has out grown? P.M. me if you do!!

 

[Limb Chicken]

koba,
I would use the 20 if you can. I know that in Iowa you can't use a .410. As long as the 20 patterns well you should have no problem with a magnum load at 25 or 30 yards. Good Luck I am looking forward to when my son can carry a gun or bow of his own.

 

[gundog870]

Yeah you would be suprised what the right choke and right loafs will do in a 20 gauge. Love the 870. the 18 inch barrel is a little short for pheasant, but it'll work. a 20 is an ok comprimise for both. I think 24 would be better but in a youth 24 in a little bit long

 

[ajadams]

I would personaly try tha standard 870 20ga. Kids grow out of the youth models way too fast. If you have to you can cut the stock down a bit so it fits better, and replace it when they are older. A stock is fairly cheap to buy. Turkey hunting they can rest the gun on their knee or use a bipod so the longer barrel wouldn't be a problem. I always grew up with regular sized guns and just adapted to them. That's my 2 cents I guess.

 

[Gladiator]

can't go wrong with the 870... that was my first gun (870 wingmaster 12 guage) That sucker about put me on my can when I shot it my first time!! Loved it ever since!

 

[dbltree]

[ QUOTE ]
can't go wrong with the 870...

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Got my son one when he was 12 and he has killed a 1/2 dozen deer and a nice tom with it since then.

Sweet gun!

I bought him the standard length rather then a youth model...glad I did because now at 15 he's already taller then I

 

[koba]

THANKS!! Just makes me think maybe i should shorten the stock on the Mossberg and get a shorter barrel!!! Saving money for his Bow purchase!!!

 

[TimberPig]

I think you could probably buy a used or even new 870 youth 20ga for what a new barrel and stock would cost you. I picked up one last fall for a buddies son and I think it was $229 for a brand new one, synthetic stock to boot.
Might try a want ad? Gotta be others who have already outgrown them.

 

[teeroy]

hit a local gun show. you can get a cheap stock (won't necessasarily match) and cut it down, then switch to the original stock as he gets older