I just finished reading your article on the merits of .20 gauge shotguns [and about] the kickback, flinching etc. issue. The logic of your piece makes sense to me but I’ve seen several devices being sold such as sof tec from Benelli, soft cell from Remington and some spring type devices that are supposed to drastically reduce the recoil of a .12 gauge shotgun.

Do they really work? If so it would seem that you could have the best of both worlds i.e. less recoil and more “force” from a .12 gauge. As an aging dude with a bad shoulder I’d like to find something that doesn’t cause me too much pain to shoot.

Lornie B.

Hi, Lornie,

There are all manner of recoil reducers, and some of them work pretty well. On the one hand, they do indeed give you 12 gauge power in a more controllable package. On the other hand, if you put them on the 20 gauge, it will kick still less.

Mas

Share or Bookmark

I just finished reading Mr. Ayoob’s article on the Marlin 336 lever action .30 .30. I found it very informative and well written.

I was looking for info on a rifle I inherited from my father. It is a Marlin 336, but the letters after 336 are R.C. Is this another variation of the models he spoke of or just a mistake in the stamp?

I was looking for information on how to break it down for cleaning and lubricating and Mr. Ayoob’s description makes it sound easy.

Thanks

Gallegodarktiger

Congratulations on a classic rifle.

Mas

Share or Bookmark

Hello.

I read Massad’s article, “Consider the 20-gage Shotgun“, in the current edition of your magazine. It was an excellent piece. It was so good that I ordered a Remington Model 1187. I pick it up today.

However, I have a question for Massad.

He didn’t address the issue of scopes in his article. I didn’t order a smooth bore barrel as I plan to use this gun exclusively for deer hunting. Could I have his thoughts on the subject? Is there a real difference between shotgun scopes and rifle scopes?

Indiana doesn’t allow the use of high powered rifles for hunting because of population density. So if I’m going to use a scope should my zero point be at say 50 yds instead of 100 yds?

Also, I read an article in the latest NRA Rifleman magazine by John Barsness about the truths and myths around breaking in and cleaning a shotgun barrel. Wondered if Massad has read this article and if so what is his opinion on it.

I couldn’t find a contact e-mail address on your website for Mr. Ayoob so I’m sending this to you in the hopes you will forward my questions to him.

Thanks,

Stephen Neff

Walkerton, IN

Mas

Share or Bookmark

Gentlemen:

I will soon be traveling through bear country and may be exposed to all but the biggest ones found in Alaska.  I won’t be hunting them at that time but I wish to know if a 12 Guage shotgun loaded with slugs will be enough to keep safe in that neck of the woods.

Your consideration is appreciated.  My other options, at the moment are a .270 or 30-06 sporting rifles.

Sincerely,
Chris Newport

A short, handy, rapid-firing 12 gauge shotgun with slugs sounds good to me. I’m partial to the deep-penetrating Brenneke slug load.

Best,

Mas

Share or Bookmark

Hello.

I’m a Vietnam combat vet and experienced shooter with a note about your article, “Economical Battery of Guns…” Outstanding and informative.

My suggestion is that your staff consider adding Sabot Flechette rounds to a recommended supply of ammo for your 12-gauge shotguns.

After using the Flechette rounds in the army, they’re far superior to buckshot and extraordinarily accurate and effective up to 125 yards. I have a cache for my Winchester Defender.

Legal for citizens to own, although expensive — but, what’s your life worth?

Tony Swindell
Howe, TX

Share or Bookmark

Just read your article on ammo.

When you come across a round that shouldn’t be shot, how do you safely dispose of the bad round?

Thanks from a new gun owner,

Steve Martin
Indianapolis

If you have a bullet puller, you can safely disassemble defective cartridges, thus salvaging the components.

Mas Ayoob

Share or Bookmark

Massad Ayoob, in one of his blogs, said that he carries a Glock 27 most of the time. This is my choice also. I respect his knowledge on handguns and I would like to know what his choice for ammo is.

I am NOT a computer guru and I realize this may not be something you want to answer. If not would you care to point me in the correct direction?

Thanks alot

Craig Medford

Glasgow, Kentucky

I like a medium weight high velocity in the G27, usually use Winchester 155 grain Silvertip these days. Have it in the gun while I’m in Washington state right now, oddly enough.

Mas

Share or Bookmark

Enjoyed the article.  The importance of user preference and environment are crucial where I live.

Part of my gun battery includes a ruger 10/22.  My problem exist when the outdoor temperature reaches -20 F or colder i.e. weapon jams.  Here in the Alaskan interior -20 F or colder is a very common  winter temperture range.

Another situation is user preferance.  Due to my work, I am gone from home several days at a time.  My wife dosen’t like pump shotguns, but due to our remote location, she has encountered a varity of situations where a single shot shotgun is inadaquate.  She currently uses a Stoeger 12 gauge over and under.

I don’t have much use for a handgun, although I do own a few.  For defense I use a Remington 870 defence version.  By alternating slug rounds with double ought buck shot I feel very safe during bear encounters.

For hunting, I use a Remington model 700 chambered in 30 06.  It’s the old reliable.

Well, this is just one family’s battery.

Stay warm, Gar

Gar Blackledge

Share or Bookmark