The over/under shotgun holds a special place in the hearts of upland bird hunters across America. Picture yourself trailing a skilled bird dog through a crisp autumn field, and chances are the shotgun you envision carrying is a sleek over/under.
These shotguns are also prevalent on clay shooting ranges, from local clubs to the Olympic stage. The over/under platform is versatile, capable of creating both high-end competition guns and stunning field guns.
However, this blend of elegance and performance comes at a price. Despite most modern over/under shotguns being manufactured using CNC machines, they tend to be more expensive than pump-action or semi-automatic shotguns.
Fortunately, there is a diverse range of over/under shotguns available at various price points. While the best over/under shotguns can be pricey, more affordable options still offer reliable performance, albeit with slightly less flair.
- Best Overall: Beretta DT11 Black
- Best Trap: Krieghoff K-80 Pro Sporter
- Best Skeet: Perazzi High Tech Skeet
- Best Sporting Clays: Beretta 694 Sporting
- Best Upland: Browning Citori Hunter Grade I
- Best Sub-gauge: Fausti Caledon
- Best Value: Tristar Trinity
How We Picked the Best Over/Under Shotguns
When it comes to choosing the best over/under shotguns, there are a few key factors to consider. We looked at the overall build quality, reliability, and performance of each shotgun.
Additionally, We considered the specific use for each gun, such as trap, skeet, sporting clays, upland hunting, or general purpose shooting.
We also took into account the price range and customer reviews to ensure that each shotgun was a good value for the money.
Best Over/Under Shotguns: Reviews and Recommendations
Best Overall: Beretta DT11 Black
The Beretta DT11 Black is a top-of-the-line over/under shotgun that offers an exceptional combination of performance, durability, and aesthetics.
This shotgun is designed for serious competitive shooters and features a premium-grade steel receiver, a high-strength locking system, and a carbon-fiber top rib that reduces weight and improves balance.
Key Features
- Steel receiver with black finish and gold accents
- Carbon-fiber top rib for reduced weight
- Adjustable trigger
- Optima Bore HP choke system
- Available in 12, 20, 28, and .410 gauges
Pros
- Exceptional build quality and reliability
- Excellent balance and handling
- Suitable for multiple shooting disciplines
- Wide range of adjustable features
Cons
- Expensive
- May be too heavy for some shooters
Best for Trap: Krieghoff K-80 Pro Sporter
The Krieghoff K-80 Pro Sporter is a highly specialized trap shooting shotgun that has been designed with the competitive shooter in mind. It features an adjustable rib, allowing the shooter to fine-tune their point of impact and ensuring consistent performance in various conditions.
Key Features
- Fully adjustable rib for customizable point of impact
- 32″ or 34″ barrel length options
- Titanium choke tubes
- Available in various stock configurations
Pros
- Designed specifically for trap shooting
- High-quality construction and materials
- Excellent balance and handling
- Fully customizable to suit individual preferences
Cons
- Expensive
- Not ideal for other shooting disciplines
Best for Skeet: Perazzi High Tech Skeet
The Perazzi High Tech Skeet is a top-of-the-line shotgun designed specifically for competitive skeet shooting. With its sleek design, lightweight frame, and precise handling, this shotgun offers exceptional performance on the skeet field.
Key Features
- Designed specifically for skeet shooting
- Lightweight and well-balanced
- Adjustable trigger and stock
- 28″ or 30″ barrel length options
Pros
- Superior performance in skeet shooting
- High-quality construction and materials
- Customizable features for individual preferences
Cons
- Expensive
- Limited use outside of skeet shooting
Best for Sporting Clays: Beretta 694 Sporting
The Beretta 694 Sporting is a versatile over/under shotgun that excels in sporting clays competitions. With its new Steelium Plus barrels, enhanced ergonomics, and improved balance, this shotgun offers outstanding performance and handling.
Key Features
- Steelium Plus barrels for improved patterning and reduced recoil
- Enhanced ergonomics and balance
- Adjustable trigger and stock
- B-Fast balancing system
Pros
- Excellent performance in sporting clays
- High-quality construction and materials
- Versatile enough for other shooting disciplines
Cons
- Expensive
- Heavier than some competitors
Best for Upland: Browning Citori Hunter Grade I
The Browning Citori Hunter Grade I is a reliable and affordable over/under shotgun that is perfect for upland hunting. With its lightweight design, smooth swing, and dependable performance, this shotgun is an excellent choice for hunters of all skill levels.
Key Features
- Lightweight and well-balanced
- Invector-Plus choke system
- Available in 12, 20, and 28 gauge
- Ventilated rib
Pros
- Affordable without sacrificing quality
- Excellent performance in upland hunting
- Suitable for shooters of all skill levels
Cons
- Limited adjustability compared to higher-end models
- Lacks some of the features found on more expensive shotguns
Best Sub-gauge: Fausti Caledon
The Fausti Caledon is a beautifully crafted sub-gauge over/under shotgun that offers exceptional handling and performance. With its elegant design, fine Italian craftsmanship, and attention to detail, this shotgun is sure to impress both on and off the field.
Key Features
- Available in 20, 28, and .410 gauges
- Fine Italian craftsmanship
- Beautiful engraving and woodwork
- Single selective trigger
Pros
- Elegant design and superb craftsmanship
- Excellent performance in sub-gauge competitions
- Well-balanced and easy to handle
Cons
- Expensive
- May be too ornate for some shooters
Best Value: Tristar Trinity
The Tristar Trinity is an affordable over/under shotgun that offers excellent value for the money. With its solid construction, reliable performance, and attractive design, this shotgun is a great option for those looking for an entry-level over/under.
Key Features
- Affordable price point
- Steel or lightweight aluminum receiver options
- Fiber optic front sight
- Five Beretta-style choke tubes included
Pros
- Excellent value for the money
- Reliable performance
- Suitable for various shooting disciplines
Cons
- Lacks some of the features found on more expensive models
- May not be as durable as higher-end shotguns
History of the Over/Under Shotgun
The over/under shotgun has its roots in the early 20th century when gunmakers began to experiment with stacked barrel designs. The first successful over/under shotgun was the Merkel Model 200, which was introduced in 1914. Since then, the over/under design has become popular among competitive shooters and hunters alike for its reliability, balance, and ease of use.
Things to Consider When Buying an Over Under Shotgun
An over-under shotgun, also known as a stacked-barrel shotgun, is a popular firearm among hunters and sport shooters alike.
This type of shotgun features two barrels, one on top of the other, and is widely recognized for its accuracy and reliability.
If you’re in the market for a new over-under shotgun, there are several factors to consider before making your purchase. In this article, we’ll discuss these considerations in detail, helping you make an informed decision.
Purpose of the Shotgun
Hunting
If you plan to use your over-under shotgun primarily for hunting, it’s important to consider the type of game you’ll be pursuing.
Different shotguns are better suited for different types of game, so choose a firearm that will best meet your needs. For example, a 12-gauge shotgun with a 28-inch barrel is ideal for hunting waterfowl, while a 20-gauge shotgun with a 26-inch barrel is better suited for upland bird hunting.
Sporting Clays
Sporting clays is a popular shooting sport that simulates the flight of game birds and requires a versatile shotgun. When selecting an over-under shotgun for sporting clays, consider the gun’s balance, weight, and overall feel. Many shooters prefer a shotgun with a longer barrel, as it can provide better balance and swing, enabling more accurate shots.
Trap and Skeet Shooting
Trap and skeet shooting are competitive sports that require precision and consistency. For these disciplines, a dedicated competition shotgun may be necessary. Competition shotguns often feature adjustable stocks, longer barrels, and tighter chokes to ensure consistent performance.
Gauge and Chamber Size
Gauge
The gauge of a shotgun refers to the diameter of its bore. Common gauges for over-under shotguns include 12, 20, 28, and .410.
The 12-gauge is the most versatile and popular choice, as it can be used for a variety of purposes, including hunting and sport shooting.
Smaller gauges, such as the 20 and 28, are often preferred for upland bird hunting due to their lighter weight and reduced recoil.
The .410 bore is the smallest and offers the least recoil, making it suitable for beginner shooters and small game hunting.
Chamber Size
The chamber size of a shotgun refers to the length of the shell it can accept. Common chamber sizes are 2 ¾, 3, and 3 ½ inches.
A longer chamber allows for the use of more powerful shells, providing greater range and effectiveness when hunting larger game.
However, longer chambers can also increase the gun’s weight and recoil. Consider your intended use when selecting a chamber size.
Barrel Length
The length of your over-under shotgun’s barrels is another important consideration. Longer barrels typically provide better balance and swing, which can improve accuracy in sport shooting and hunting scenarios. However, longer barrels also add weight, which may not be ideal for all shooters or situations.
A good rule of thumb is to select a barrel length based on your intended use. For hunting, a 26-28 inch barrel is often recommended for upland birds, while a 28-30 inch barrel is preferable for waterfowl. For sport shooting, a barrel length of 30-32 inches is common.
Choke System
The choke system of a shotgun determines the spread of pellets as they exit the barrel. Different chokes produce different patterns, which can affect your success in both hunting and sport shooting. When purchasing an over-under shotgun, consider whether you prefer a fixed choke or an interchangeable choke system.
Fixed Choke
A fixed choke is permanently set into the barrel, making it impossible to change without altering the barrel itself. Fixed chokes are often found on older or more traditional shotguns and can provide consistent performance.
Interchangeable Choke System
An interchangeable choke system allows you to swap out chokes as needed, offering greater versatility in shooting scenarios. This can be especially beneficial for sport shooters who need to adjust their shotgun’s performance based on different targets and distances.
Fit and Comfort
A properly fitted shotgun is crucial for accurate shooting and overall comfort. When selecting an over-under shotgun, consider the length of pull, drop at comb, and drop at heel.
These measurements will help ensure the gun fits your body correctly and allows for proper eye alignment when aiming.
Additionally, consider the gun’s weight and balance. A well-balanced shotgun will swing smoothly and provide better control, while a lighter gun may be easier to carry in the field but may have increased recoil.
Price and Brand
Finally, consider your budget and the reputation of different shotgun manufacturers. Over-under shotguns can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the brand, materials, and craftsmanship.
Research various brands and read reviews from other shooters to determine which over-under shotgun offers the best value and performance within your budget.
In conclusion, purchasing an over-under shotgun involves considering factors such as purpose, gauge, chamber size, barrel length, choke system, fit, and price.
By taking the time to research and understand these aspects, you’ll be better equipped to find the perfect over-under shotgun that meets your needs and provides years of enjoyment.
FAQs
Q: Why do over/unders cost more than pumps and semi-autos?
A: Over/under shotguns typically have more complex and precise manufacturing processes, which can increase their cost. Additionally, they often feature higher-quality materials and craftsmanship, further contributing to their higher price point.
Q: Is a custom over/under worth the price?
A: A custom over/under shotgun can be a worthwhile investment if you are a serious competitor or have specific requirements that cannot be met by off-the-shelf models. Custom shotguns offer tailored fit, specialized features, and personalized aesthetics, which can enhance your shooting experience and performance.
Final Thoughts on the Best Over/Under Shotguns
The best over/under shotguns offer a combination of reliability, performance, and aesthetics that make them ideal for various shooting disciplines.
Whether you’re a competitive shooter, a hunter, or simply enjoy recreational shooting, there is an over/under shotgun suited to your needs and preferences. Consider factors such as intended use, budget, and personal preferences when choosing the perfect over/under shotgun for you.
