Never had a Model 30, but have had several low end boxlock Ugartecheas and they all worked well. Only kept the 16, but the 12s and the .410 were very functional field guns. (.410 was too little; 12s too big--16 JUUUST RIGHT). I would say comparable to the lowest end Bernardelli "VB" or "San Uberto" boxlocks (which I also like, as long as in small guage--12s also too heavy for upland use; great duck/coyote/turkey blasters).

I'd say that they are good starters, IF that particular model and gun fits the guy's physique and his proposed uses for the gun.