I've often wondered if it's wise to buy an older English SxS for FREQUENT shooting at upland game, skeet, etc. versus let's say a Fox or Parker and having it restocked if necessary to fit you?
Certainly many english guns can be found with decent dimensions and balance. On the other hand they are often chambered for 2" or 2.5" shells, might be a bit too light and whippy to shoot a lot, and many makers are now out of business.... so the gun can't be easily repaired if and when something breaks (remember my frequent shooting comment). Also, you get into the in proof/out of proof quandry if you decide to do something to the barrels but think you may want to sell it down the road.
If you start out with a quality American double gun, the restocking will cost you some bucks but you'll have a gun you can shoot with regular shells (appropriate loads), and one that can be repaired a lot more easily. Also the restocking can be done so the gun fits you exactly and you don't have to adapt to fit the gun.
I understand this comes down to personal choice but in balance I'll take the American gun/restocked if necessary if I want to get one to shoot a lot and not worry about breaking an obsolete part. Your thoughts? Silvers
