Mark Stone’s Semi-Auto Shotgun Roundup

Like ‘em or loathe ‘em, single-barrelled semi-automatics are here to stay. Whether new or second-hand, the semi represents excellent value for money, versatility and the most fun you’re ever likely to have with an ounce of lead.

As time goes by, the choice becomes even more complicated as more and more manufacturers add a semi to their range. Leaving the actual model down to the user’s individual needs, Mark Stone itemises the makes and models he personally considers to be the current top six on the market, ranging from the most expensive to some serious bargain basement offerings.

Remington

If there’s such a thing as a classic semi-automatic still in production then it has to be one of Remington’s; that is apart from the thankfully now discontinued 105 CTi. 

However, when Remington’s 1100 and 11-87 models have been around for as long as they have, you know there’s got to be something about them. Probably the heaviest gun in this listing, if not the current crop, the new 1100 G3’s exhibition quality looks more than make up for the poundage. If it’s a sheer ‘wow – factor’ you’re looking for combined with superb ability, then the somewhat hefty price tag will seem as nothing especially when you take into account the full G3 package.

Delivered in a cantilevered case complete with numerous secure compartments, a full set of chromed multi-chokes plus various other accessories, Remington and UK importer’s Edgar Brothers have gone a long way to producing a value for money nigh on collectable outfit and available in both 12 and 20 gauges. For those who prefer something more workaday, there are three other variants to choose from.

Often regarded as the more down to earth model, the none too dissimilar Mod.11-87 can be had with synthetic furniture in both black and Mossy Oak camo. A genuine wildfowler’s favourite and still the number one selling semi in America, the one guarantee you get with either of these Remington models is reliability and longevity. Still employing rock solid steel action, both models and variations can be had in magnum form with chamber sizes up to 3½”, balance, handle and shoot exactly in excess of most people expectations whilst always maintaining that famous Remington desirability factor. Expect to pay somewhere between £855 to £1,316 dependant on model and specification. 

Winchester SX3

Name your needs and Winchester has an SX3 model to suit. Basically a derivative of Browning’s range of Phoenix of semi-autos (and a transformation when compared to the previous SX2), the SX3 can be had in various guises, most flamboyant being the clay busting Flanigan. Inherently all the same gun, these self -adjusting gas powered single-barrelled shotguns all boast the Browning version of back-boring, a selection of finishes, wood, synthetic, plain or Mossy Oak camouflage furniture, various barrel lengths along with the option of 3” or 3½” chambers.

Whilst the Field 12 and Composite versions will serve any purpose you ask of them, the true gem of the SX3 range is the Flanigan. Designed purely as a competition model in honour of Patrick Flanigan’s record breaking feats, in this version Winchester now have one of the most effective and distinctive clay breakers to be found anywhere. Complete with a bright metallic red receiver and matte black synthetic stock and forend, the Flanigan is capable of flattering even the most mediocre shooter’s scores. Whilst all versions of the SX3 are more than worthy of consideration, the Flanigan is a veritable magic wand. 

Beretta

Talk to any semi-auto user and I guarantee they own, have owned or intend owning one of Beretta’s legendary semi-autos. Where Beretta wins out over all the competition is in the selection they offer, the choice vast, the quality fantastic allied to a pricing structure that affords nearly everyone the opportunity to buy new.

Costing anything from £1,139 to £1,974, Beretta’s ranges of semi-autos are a supreme example of evolution; a fusion of everything that’s right, continued and developed into the guns we see today. Divided for the sake of this overview into three main models, the AL391 comes in three guises that incorporate competition and field, the famous Urika 2 versions taking these definitions slightly farther, certain of them designed with types of target or quarry in mind. 

But if you’re one of those who tend to use and abuse your semi_auto and I can assure you there are plenty of you; it would have to be any of the Xtrema2 variants. Like the Urika2’s, a selection of various camo finishes or plain black synthetics are complimented by a choice of barrel and chamber lengths. All Berettas dial out a high percentage of felt recoil, but to ease the already reduced pain of serious magnum loads you can opt for Beretta’s excellent Kick-Off decelerating recoil pad. 

As always its specification and type of finish that determines the final price but one guarantee you have with any of the Beretta semis is that it’ll work, no matter what the conditions, and should you wish to move up to a more desirable model, the gun you have will always possess an inherent worth. If it’s a hard grafting, single-barrelled, sound investment you’re after, it doesn’t get better than Beretta. 

Benelli

If its speed, durability and an alternative to the rest you’re looking for, Benelli has to be the one. Part of the Beretta family, Benelli’s recoil or inertia operated system has become one of the most celebrated, the system now adopted by some of the other makes within the Italian giant’s portfolio.

If it’s a keeper’s gun that’ll resist the most severe condition, an ultra-reliable working tool or quazi-military practical multi-shot you’re after, the M2 does it all. Incorporating their Comfort-Tech recoil absorption system of silicone rubber chevrons located within the stock along with the ergonomic asymmetric soft rubber recoil pad, the M2 tames even the most powerful loads.

Alternatively, if it’s a slightly more upmarket semi you’re looking for; the Montefeltro and Crio EVO ranges are as elegant as any semi-auto you’ll find. Not beset with the same driven game prejudices as here in England, Benelli’s are one of the most favoured single-barrelled game guns for the Italians and fellow Europeans, the Raffaello series offering fourteen variations, all of them like the rest of the Benellis complete with a full set of multi-chokes, and certain of them boasting the outstanding Crio, one of the most advanced choking systems throwing some of the most even patterns you’ll see.

Alternatively, if its ruggedness over looks that matter, the Super Black Eagle II has carved out a well deserved reputation including left-handed options. A true extreme conditions shotgun, once again the SBE II still maintains Benelli’s celebrated handling and near unrivalled reliability.

Dependant on what you’re looking for and the exact finish, bore and specifications, Benelli semi-autos start at £982 and work steadily up to £5,539 for the more or less special order Raffaello Executive T3.   

Marocchi A12 & A20

Not a make that tends to figure when most shooters set off to buy a semi-automatic, but the little Italian manufacturer Marocchi definitely know how to make a single – barrel gasser. Available in both 12 and 20 bore and proofed up for Magnum loads, 26 or 28 inch barrels, wood or synthetic furniture, a full set of flush fitting multi – chokes, a decent warranty and currently costing £545 for the A12 or £555 for the A20.

One of the lightest single-barrels currently on offer, where the A12 and A20 win out are their looks, quality and overall finish, which far exceed the purchase price. Fast, almost lightning handling combined with a rapidly recycling gas operated action, for some reason these Marocchi still remain overlooked by a majority of semi-auto buyers.

I personally have been using an A12 for nearly two years and can’t come up with a single negative. Ammo testing, duck shooting, clay breaking and vermin control, my A12 has done the lot without even a minor hitch. Interestingly enough, the Marocchi remains one of the very few gas operated semi-autos that’ll happily digest 24 gram loads without stove-piping, these softer loads when combined with the A12’s system producing a 12-bore with almost imperceptible recoil. 

Hatsan Escort

Another one of Edgar Brother’s offerings, this time unashamedly proclaiming there Turkish origins, Hatsan’s range of Escort semi-automatics is one of the most comprehensive, cost effective self-loaders you’ll find anywhere. You name your specification in either 12 or 20 bore and Hatsan will have one ready and waiting.

Slightly more agricultural than some of the more expensive makes, I defy even the most ham-fisted shooter to destroy an Escort. They’re built like the proverbial brick outhouse and will soak up anything and everything you can throw at them; it’s no wonder these single-barrelled workhorses form the basic kit of many an underkeeper. 

Around £340 to £565 should currently acquire you any of the Hatsan range of Escorts, proof positive of this manufacturer’s true value for money products. But don’t let these budget prices put you off, whatever the gauge or model, all the Escorts shoot and handle extremely well, are supremely efficient and, if you’ve got the paperwork, are one of the best Section 1 semis to be had.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, the six manufacturers that I personally consider to be the best at this point in time. No doubt someone out there will disagree, but the one thing I will say is that all six have stood the test of time. Remington an all time classic that’s still in demand throughout the world, Beretta’s AL391 continuing the Italian manufacturer’s 300 series traditions of durability and longevity whilst sister company Benelli still comes up with some of the most technically advanced inertia guns you’ll ever find. Equally, if it’s a competition gun you’re after, Winchester’s new SX3 Flanigan has in my opinion set new standards.

Whether it’s for clays, wildfowl, pigeons or all-round keepering duties, there’s plenty out there whilst the current credit crunch means it’s also a buyers market. Mark my words, whilst the budget guns get better so the expensive makes will soon discount down towards them. So whether you’re an existing owner or considering buying your first, as the choice continues to expand there’s never been a better time to source your next semi-automatic.

As always though a salutary word of warning, don’t forget if you elect to buy a semi – auto with a 3½” chamber, you can fit more than three shorter shells into the magazine turning it into a Section 1 Firearm. If you don’t have the slot on your FAC, you’re breaking the law.