New waterfowl gun Update: Decision made!

[dwbiggs]

Looking to get new semi for next season...have a few in mind.

1. Benelli M2
2. Beretta 391 Urika 2
3. Franchi I12

Thinking these are roughly same price range with the Franchi a little cheaper. Any thoughts on these three...or is it just a best fit decision? I picked up an M2 and a Beretta Urika Silver at Dicks and they both felt good to me. I think the Silver was 999.00 and the M2 was 899.00.

Anything I need to consider on any of these guns other than fit? Not looking for a 3.5" gun BTW.

[HmptnHunter]

M2

[tornadochaser]

All good guns. I would pick the one that fits the best and is easiest to clean.

[DSM16428]

All good guns. I would pick the one that fits the best and is easiest to clean.

Second that.

With all things being equal though, ie, they all fit you well, I would lean towards the M2.

[llukesh]

All good guns. I would pick the one that fits the best and is easiest to clean.

X3

When I worked at Scheels and sold guns, I never saw any of those guns come back to our store because of problems. They all have comparable features and all are very reliable. As Tornadochaser said and I totally agree gun fit is crucial. One gun can fit you like a glove and next will feel like a boat anchor.

[dwbiggs]

Would either the M2 or Urika make a good Turkey gun? Are turkey bareels available so you gun use the gun for double duty? I can't see spending money on separate guns if one can do the job.

[DSM16428]

The M2 can make one awesome turkey slayer! Benellis seem to like the tighter chokes for turkey loads. Between .655 and .670 constriction. Problem is, if you buy a 28" bbl model, and want to go shorter for turkey, Benelli charges an arm and a leg for replacement barrels! A replacement goes for around $425.00, almost half as much as you can buy a complete M2 American. As for the Urika, I have spoken with folks that have used them but I have no personal experience with them. If you do go with the M2, and want it to pull double duty, I would recommend getting a 26" bbl model. That way you still have the longer sight plane for waterfowl but you won't exactly be carrying a broom handle around the woods with you.

[dwbiggs]

If you do go with the M2, and want it to pull double duty, I would recommend getting a 26" bbl model. That way you still have the longer sight plane for waterfowl but you won't exactly be carrying a broom handle around the woods with you.

Good advice thanks!

[DSM16428]

Here's the kicker though. I bought the 24" bbl SBE II because I wanted mobility in the turkey woods BUT...I knew I would be using EXTENDED chokes both for waterfowl and turkey. With an extended choke, you could have a 25" or 26" barrel again. Just something to think about.

[YLJack]

Here's the kicker though. I bought the 24" bbl SBE II because I wanted mobility in the turkey woods BUT...I knew I would be using EXTENDED chokes both for waterfowl and turkey. With an extended choke, you could have a 25" or 26" barrel again. Just something to think about.

Tell me how a 24"bbl, even with an extended choke, effects the ears of the people next to you? Do you hunt solo 100% of the time?

[DSM16428]

Here's the kicker though. I bought the 24" bbl SBE II because I wanted mobility in the turkey woods BUT...I knew I would be using EXTENDED chokes both for waterfowl and turkey. With an extended choke, you could have a 25" or 26" barrel again. Just something to think about.

Tell me how a 24"bbl, even with an extended choke, effects the ears of the people next to you? Do you hunt solo 100% of the time?

Nope, but I'm sure you do. If you keep your shots where they should be...at 10 and 2, you don't have to worry about ringing anybody's ears. Now go take your meds before you forget.

[YLJack]

Boy, you are one angry dude. Sorry for upsetting you.
PS
The meds joke didn't work last time, so why would you think it'll work now?

[dwbiggs]

Went to look at guns today and as much as I try to get away from Benelli I handle another one and it comes up better than the rest. Like the Browning Maxus and looked at an SX3 but when I sholdered the SBEII and M2 they fit me like a glove...think I like the raised rib better as well. The way I test is to close my eyes and shoulder the gun quickly then open my eyes...seemed like a logical way to do it anyway. The Benelli is sighted perfectly every time. Think i made my choice. Haven't found a Franchi I-12 yet.

[DSM16428]

Have you tried out the Vinchi or the Super Vinchi yet? Not what I would call "traditional" looks but they have great fit and finish and are some great shooters! Plus, they shoot even softer than the SBE II.

[mekillini]

"I would recommend getting a 26" bbl model. That way you still have the longer sight plane for waterfowl but you won't exactly be carrying a broom handle around the woods with you."....I agree with Don. Because of the way Benelli barrels are made, a 24" or 26" bbl is a good choice for turkeys and waterfowl. I have a 28" bbl and even though I don't have a problem with it, it is a tad too long in the turkey woods, especially with an Indian Creek extended choke tube....

[dwbiggs]

Have you tried out the Vinchi or the Super Vinchi yet?

Yep handles a Vinci...or Super Vinci...don't know which one it was. Shouldered well but I would have to get over its unconventional looks though.

[Benelli-man]

You are going to like your new M-2 , My first one is a 12 Ga with 26'' Barrel and My 2nd is a 20 with a 26'' Barrell. I shot my best score on sporting clays the second week I owned it 43 out of 50 . It just shoots where I look. I have taken , Turkey, ducks , geese, pheasant , quail, Hungarian Partridge and dove . My go to gun for Clays Games . I kinda Like out shooting the guys with fancy over and Unders shooting my camoed well worn M-2 . I would Suggest you get the comfort-tech system as well.

[dwbiggs]

After much deliberation I ended getting the Browning Maxus in MODB, 28", 3.5". Didn't really want to pay Benelli "Comfortech" money and was a little wary of The I-12 and heard alot of good things about the Maxus. Will be patterning and shootin clays this weekend.

[Sportdog7]

I think you made a fine choice, the Maxus should give you years of trouble free service! And your shoulder will thank you when you decide to touch off a few 3-1/2" rounds!

[MNhunter3781]

Good choice I have the same exact gun actually taking it out crow hunting tomorrow morning. Been shooting it since they came out and have not had a problem with it yet and I have killed everything for morning doves to turkeys and not a problem