Contemplating introducing my eight year son to a scattergun later this year (he'll be nine in January), and wanted to get some input on sxs's for him. In the interest suitable gun weight, dimensions and ammunition selection, including non-tox, I am focusing on 20s.
A friend has offered me the use of a Stoeger youth model, however I've shot it and with those stubby 22" barrels and crappy triggers it is an unpleasant gun to shoot. Most youth models are repeaters, again with shorty barrels.
I understand the need for a light, easier to handle gun for a child, but shotguns of any gauge shorter than 40 inches make me cringe. It is far easier to keep those muzzles safe, especially in close quarters like a duck blind, with longer tubes. The lightest guns are great of course until the shooter develops a flinch from recoil.
My initial thoughts were to find an inexpensive sxs with the stock already shortened (plenty of those) around 6lbs, and open the chokes to skeet/IC.
Anyone, but especially those with experience in this area please advise. Thanks.
