16 Gauge Question

[Contenderizer]

I don't think I missed the point. I was responding to dadsbuckshot's original post .

[Mr. 16 gauge]

If you really want a 16, then get it....but be aware of a few things: If it's a newer manufactured 16 gauge, it is built on a 12 gauge frame, so you wont have any weight savings. Ammo will be difficult to find; stores (even the bigger sporting goods ones) are reducing their inventory to what sells, and the 16 gauge doesn't fall into that category. You will definetly have a minimum of choices when it comes to ammo (unless you reload)....if you do reload, you will do better, but you will have a minimum of components to use, and they will most likely have to be special ordered.

...I love my 16 gauges, and use them on just about everything. However, this is not a gauge for everyone.

Waterfowl loads are very hard to find and slug loads are pretty much limited to Foster slugs.

Personally, I've never felt hampered by foster slugs in any gauge; as for waterfowl loads, steel in the 16 gauge is abysmall! Stick with TM, or the newer hevishot classic doubles.

[dovehunter]

Buy it!!! You won't regret it. I have three 16s: a Rem. 870 Express, a J.P. Sauer & Sohn SxS double, and a Lefaucheaux under-lever SxS double. I too am a dovehunter and love my 16s. To me they have the punch of a 12 ga. and carry like a 20. I reload for mine so I can just about brew up anything that I need. My favorite dove load is 1-1/8 oz. of shot. Regarding factory ammo, I have never had a problem here in Central Virginia buying whatever 16ga. shells I need. Between Gander Mountain, Bass Pro Shop, and Green Top (a locally owned large sporting goods store) I can usually pick up whatever I need. They also had extra accessory choke tubes for my 870. Buy that Wingmaster. I'll be willing to bet, once you have used it, particularly for doves, that it'll become one of your favorites too.