I prefer the English guns. The proofing system, especially in older guns, is very helpful in determining whether or not the gun has been modified in any way and if it can be safely used. Repairing a fine English gun in America is no more difficult, IMHO, than a repairing the better American SxS's: It often requires shipping your gun to a properly trained gunsmith/craftsman. I would not send any quality shotgun to the local gunsmith regardless of whether it was made in America, England, or anywhere else.
Getting 2 1/2" cartridges is no problem here in America. I don't know about 2" since I don't own any guns chambered for that length.
I own some vintage English shotguns dating from the late 1800's, and I'm a sporting clay/skeet shooter. Buy a gun of good quality in good condition and take proper care of it and there should be no problems.
Last edited by JM; 12/01/06 05:14 PM.
