I don't think a target gun built on the BSS platform would be the right way to go. Not that many sxs target guns. Remember what Parker Repro did, and what Galazan also did: In both cases, started with smallbore field guns. True, the numbers aren't great . . . but anyone care to wager whether Galazan has sold more 20's or 12's? Might very well have sold more 28's than 12's.
What we're forgetting here, I think, is the reputation of Japanese sxs in this country. Some people aren't overly fond of Spanish, or else are interested in the higher dollar sidelock market. Where's the competition for BSS in the $3K range? Ugartechea just a little lower; the BSS might come in a bit higher than that, where the 4/53 now is, or soon will be. Browning could tube the guns, which they never did with the originals, and which hasn't hurt Galazan's 20ga RBL sales, it would seem. Nicer wood than the old ones, option of splinter vs BT forend. I think it could be done, factoring in the European as well as American market--and Miroku does pretty well in Europe.
But a sxs 12ga target gun is the wrong place to jump in. Insufficient interest. That's a niche within a niche.
Last edited by L. Brown; 03/04/13 08:14 PM.
