shotgunNoob

I cant speak for the military issue, but with various police being somewhat lousy shots and frankly, lacking knowledge about their firearms, I can only guess that it is due to the fact that they may perceive their "authority" as enough. Maybe some of them fail to actually believe they will ever have to use their firearm against another human being. I have heard of many cases where various police officers have taken such little care of their life-saving firearm(s) that these weapons were virtually rendered un-fireable. I agree, when it comes to the military and particularly the police, they should do what is necessary to ensure that they are FAR more capable with weapons than the general public and in particular, hostiles or criminals.

I agree..but, many here make dangerous assumptions. If I were faced with the same situation, I would be sh*tting bricks. Yes I have plans, but life has a way of slapping you in the face; sometimes in a brutal way. Would I defend my life and the lives of my family by whatever means available to me? You bet I would. But, as experience has shown me, the "perfect plan" hardly goes. It's those who can adapt and create that are truly "prepared." I pray to God that, should the need ever arise, I fall into this category.

Its funny..all of this "tough talk" amounts to nothing but BS and hearsay. Unless any of you are police officers whom have encountered numerous armed assaults or the military equivalent thereof, who can say? Sure, there are numerous "do's and donts", but when it comes down to it..NOBODY TRULY KNOWS WHAT WILL HAPPEN!!!!!!! Why cant anybody get this? Are all of you guys tacticians? You do what you can or feel you must to be prepared. Outside of that, its all up to how your "fight or flight" response kicks in during a HIGHLY stressful situation. Most of us are just average Joes living average lives. Those who fall into this category would be ill-advised to assume they can go from this to "tactical bad-a**" in a matter of seconds. Get real....Just come up with a realistic plan, practice shooting your firearms and go about your lives. Remember, when encountering the stress of a home invasion, you will probably resort to the habits you have "learned" at the gun range. Train as you would defend. This means, at the range, load as many rounds as you would keep in your "home defense" weapon and use ammo that you would load for home defense. Get used to the count....Arm and dis-arm your weapon(s) as you would in a home defense scenario. Get used to this stuff to the point where you can do what needs to be done...under stress and if necessary, in complete darkness. Dont simply rely on what you think you know. Because, more than likely, what you "think" you know just might not be enough.

Hmm..I dont recall mentioning a "clack, clack" nor do I recall saying that people should rely on this "method" of intimidation. I simply said, if you actually read my post, that the "racking" of the shotgun is, subjectively, an intimidation method akin to those who use laser sighting devices on their pistols. Also, I mentioned that my shotgun is a barricade only weapon, with my .45 ACP being the main home defense firearm. BTW- I have 4 to 5 00-Buck shells in the shotgun, plus 4 in a Mesa Tactical sidesaddle, PLUS 2 mags full of .45 ACP. I am not lacking in ammo. Anyway, re-read my post. I think you will get the point. Peace.

Ughh..I am so tired of hearing about this "racking the shotgun" business. Based on many reports, this "racking" sound is very well known and certainly not something ANYBODY wants to hear in the middle of the night. It indicates that a SERIOUSLY deadly weapon may be in the process of being armed. But, some dude on crack may not hear it nor give a crap if he does. Who knows. This whole "racking" stuff is as subjective as the use of lasers on home defense weapons. Now, I dont propose anybody walk around the house racking their shotty or brandishing their cool laser sighting devices. But, both have been proven to be effective at intimidation. However, personally speaking, if and when I "rack" my shotgun, I will be doing so from behind some sort of covered position, seeing as how I would probably use my shotgun as a barricade-type weapon. So what if the "perp" hears me. I dont plan on going hunting, but rather will stay put and let he or she come to me. Meanwhile, my wife will be dialing 911. I used to consider my shotgun as the "main home defense weapon". However, I now use a Springfield XD 45 for that role. This is because a 12g shotgun says "Im out to destroy you", whereas the 45 says "If I hit you right, you will be stopped". Besides, lets face it, handguns allow for greater mobility. Not to mention, handguns provide better protection against disarm attempts vs shotguns, unless you are "wearing" the shotgun via a sling.

Oh, and dont forget to have your family stand in place so as to provide easy target practice, should this person or persons feel inclined to pop off a few rounds or so. Also, keep a few dollars handy in case a courtesy cab fare is needed.

I think we have covered this before. Anyway, the whole "home invasion" scenario is obviously prone to MANY subjective theories. Bottom line is, I dont believe anybody can truly know what they would do given the circumstances. There are just too many variables. Now, if you have one **** of a good alarm system, 2 or 3 attack dogs, sleep in a bullet proof vest, always have loaded firearms next to your bedside, a wife who knows how to fire every one of them, have no curious children and have an "insta-cop" button on your phone...I guess you are good to go. Otherwise, all you can do is have a plan A and B..possibly C. Either way, more than likely, a home intruder will have the advantage. It is up to the home owner to do what he/she can to leverage this. Its just a shame that we live in a society where this stuff is even a concern in the first place.

I thought back then the earth was thought to be flat, due to the relatively "straight" horizon and the lack of knowledge concerning gravity. Hmm...

I have one of these for my SuperNova tactical (4 shell). Its a high quality piece. Unfortunately for me, the tapped aluminum receiver of the Benelli is not. I believe I have already stripped one hole...not sure. Thankfully, the other 3 screws remain secure. These metric threaded holes/screws dont seem to hold up to much abuse. I personally plan on having the receiver re-threaded to accept Heli-Coils. If all else fails, I have a Mesa Tactical 4-shell stock mounted unit as a stand-by!!

Its me again...I have put over 500 rounds of 00-Buck through my SuperNova and have yet to experience that seemingly infamous "Benelli click." I just simply keep my weapon lubed, lightly, with Weapon Shield. Also, I always try to make sure the weapon is re-assembled correctly, particularly where the bolt lines up with the rails. These pump shottys are, from what I hear, extremely durable and reliable for the most part. Now, I dont hunt, therefore my shotgun is never exposed to "extreme" conditions. Maybe that has something to do with its reliability. Not sure. Either way, Id say lack of lube does more harm than good. Sure, lube can attract dirt and dust...thats why I personally clean my shotty every 4 months or so..regardless. In terms of grease, its too damn thick and heavy. I would only recommend this stuff if you plan on storing your shotgun for many, many months...if not years.

First off, Im not sure if this comparison has been issued yet. But, I am of the curious sort. So.... I have heard many different opinions regarding the SteadyGrip (pistol grip) vs the ComforTech. Some say the pistol grip isnt all that great and does not handle recoil as well as the ComforTech stocks do. Others say that, even though the ComforTech might absorb more recoil, the SteadyGrip offers much better control. Personally, having both stocks, I believe the SteadyGrip feels more natural and offers plenty of support. Recoil, while a bit more noticeable, isnt all that bad given the seemingly stronger hold of the pistol grip. The ComforTech is cushy, but forces me to tweak my stronghand hold in a fairly awkward way. I believe this is just because my wrist doesnt feel as "locked in" vs when I am using the pistol grip. Plus, I like the one handed manipulation of the weapon that the pistol grip affords. Any thoughts? Just curious.

Hmm...this whole "noob" thing seems familiar. Let me guess...Either this is a reference to someone who buys into everything "hook, line and sinker", which wouldnt apply in this case or you are inviting me to "take the bait." Im betting on the latter. But, regardless whether or not Im close on this one, I am giving up my ranting ways. Well, at least as far as this topic is concerned. As I mentioned before, arguing politics, while interesting, always leads to a dead end. So, I will leave the proverbial "dead horse" alone on this one. Peace.

People do not kill people? Did I just hear you right? Well, then I guess along with guns, you may as well lump in vehicles, knives, lawn/farming equipment, power tools, etc. Any of these things are simply, for the most part, mechanical mechanisms. They have no mind of their own. They dont decide WHO gets hurt by them or HOW. Its up to human error or malicious, willful human intent to "decide" just how deadly or harmful any of these things become. If I get shot, whether by accident or on purpose, Im going to immediately start blaming a human, not some mindless mechanical item.

Well, with the red dot install, this is outside my realm of experience. However, it would be my inclination to assume that everything would remain the same. For instance, I have a laser sighting system which I mount onto the rail of my handgun. Now, even though I take this off on a regular basis, I have yet to run into the need to re-acquire zero with it. However, this may not necessarily be the case in your situation as we are talking about entirely different weapon systems. Regardless, I would think that unless you somehow knock the sighting off by accident, it should hold zero. Best way to check, however, is to take it back to the range and see.

Wouldnt this mean that every time one removes the barrel it would be necessary to "zero" the sights? This doesnt seem logical. I would assume that, due to the fact that the sights are essentially static, simply removing the barrel would not have an effect. This, of course, is assuming the barrel is mating properly with the receiver. I am, however, shotgunNoob. So take what I say with a grain of salt. Man, I need to change my sig.

Well then I guess all of these people, including me, who worry about having their "right" to bear arms infringed upon are just needlessly worrying, eh? I understand what you are saying, and please keep in mind that my statements are very general in nature. I dont claim to be an expert on politics OR the Constitution. However, if things were as cut and dry as you infer, then the issue of gun control would be a moot one. Yet, it is not. It was man who established these core "rights" you speak of. Therefore, at some point, in some way, these rights were bestowed upon us. In light of this, I still consider this a privelege. Do we "deserve" or "own" these rights simply because we exist? Who knows... Either way, people must understand that this is just a small issue with me. I am certainly aware of the BIG picture here and that gun control issues are but a drop in the bag. Regardless, Im done with this topic. Politics, like religion, just cannot be argued in a productive manner.

First of all, I have 5 to 6 rounds in my shotty at all times, along with 4 rounds contained within a Mesa Tactical shell holder. In addition, I have a .45 ACP loaded with 7 rounds in the mag...one down from full capacity to be just a bit easier on the springs for the long term. Frankly, Im not sure exactly which post of mine you were commenting on. But, you obviously missed my point(s). I fully understand the effects of adrenaline, stress, etc., etc., and its effects on aiming capabilities. The comparison to the .357 was borrowed from a Massad Ayoob quote...to be taken figuratively, not literally. And, the flashlight theory is subjective, to say the least. Many argue for it, some against it. Some say "hold the flashlight this way or that"...either way, you never truly know how this tool will benefit you. If you are naive enough to think that lighting up a flashlight will just "blind" a perp, thus giving you all the time you need to unload, well.....what can I say. This scenario could just as easily result in you being fired upon as the "clack-clack" of the shotgun you seem to ridicule. My statements regarding the racking of a shotgun round are, I will admit, just as prone to opinions as the whole flashlight business. But, as I mentioned earlier, its not just an "intimidation" thing in my case, but a necessity. I do not keep a round in the chamber. Therefore, the racking sound comes with the territory. BTW- I do not necessarily claim my shotgun to be my ONLY means of home defense...Im not sure where you got that idea. But, be realistic, not many home intruders want to truly risk their lives just to "procure" some of your items or to have their way with your wife (or girlfriend). So, once fired upon or possibly, hearing a shotgun being armed..they more than likely will not stick around. After all, this is not the same scenario they would encounter when facing police. In that case, its either fire and/or kill or go to jail. Bottom line is, nobody truly knows what or how things will go down until the s**t hits the fan. Say all you want..Im betting you are no more prepared than I. And, as I said before, most gunfights are over within a matter of seconds. Can you fire 14 rounds, effectively, while under stress..in the middle of the night.. within a matter of seconds? Particularly if you are dealing with multiple people? I doubt it. Take a look at your statement regarding the possibility of "missing someone", given enough stress. Actually, I agree. But, do you honestly think you are bound to be more accurate with a handgun vs a shotgun in this type of situation? Give me a break....Say what you will, 4 to 6 rounds in a shotgun is just as effective as your 14 of .45. Unless, of course, you're a damn good shot under pressure. The reason to fire at a home intruder is not to necessarily kill or wound him/her/they, but to STOP them. Period! Dont tell me that you honestly think that any handgun would be more capable of this than a shotgun. I could go on and on about this topic, but I wont. Just dont make the mistake of thinking that anything you have said is news to me or that somehow you are "enlightening" me. Ive heard it all before. Either way, this debate doesnt start or end here. The bottom line is, either one of these weapons are better than no weapon at all.

I agree...thx for the response.

Im not sure yet, but I just may be needing to sell this item. This is because, well...I simply may not need it. It has only been installed once on my SuperNova. It was on my shotgun for roughly 2 minutes. So, essentially, this is a brand new part. If I do end up selling this thing, I will be asking $40 (cashiers check or money order only). I will take care of shipping via USPS. However, no shipping will take place until funds are verified and in my bank account. Below is a link for this product, to give you an idea of what it looks like: http://www.cactustactical.com/osc/nordic-components-gauge-shotgun-extension-tube-clamp-with-rail-p-1377.html If you might be interested, let me know. Again, this isnt a "for sure" thing, but Im betting on 80% at this point.

E-mail them...This should give you all the info you need.

"Cruiser" status is based on an acknowledged term. Look it up. Being new to shotguns means nothing...Im still smart enough to thoroughly educate myself, regardless of the weapon I possess. As far as "racking" being too much effort, daymn..you must be lazy!! My theories are sound and have be gleaned from many established authorities on not just shotguns, but firearms in general. Say what you will.... PS. The technical term is "cruiser ready". This refers to how police officers "ready" their shotguns for storage within their patrol cars (cruisers). http://www.thehighroad.org/archive/index.php/t-194395.html Check it out...Im not talking "paintball" here. Please dont take me for an idiot..I am far from it.

Understood. However, because of my interest in my wifes safety, no round will ever be in the shotguns chamber until necessary. I feel that I am certainly capable enough to take my shotgun from "cruiser" status to "dont F with me" status in the blink of an eye. "Alerting" an intruder is certainly a concern but lets face it, any criminal worth his salt will have already considered the possibility of resistance. If he hears you "preparing" your weapon, it will more than likely give him pause. If he or she or they decide to hold back and begin thinking in "tactical" terms..let them. It will just give you more time to dial 911. If not, they are stupid and will probably become ballistic test subjects. Best off to stay where you are and wait for them to come to you. It is NEVER a good idea to go "hunting" when you are positive someone has invaded your home.

To anybody who thinks this "racking the gun" business is passe'... well, for me at least, this "racking" would certainly be out of necessity. I absolutely refuse to keep a shotty around with a round in the chamber. Instead, I firmly believe "cruiser ready" is the best way to go. H*ll, even cops are advised to keep their shottys this way. Besides, accidents happen...not worth the risk. Say what you will, but someone "racking" the fore-end of a shotty indicates that the weapon is more than likely now loaded and that the loaded weapon is....A SHOTGUN. If someone is brazen enough to break in to your home at night, chances are they already expect someone to be around. So what if they hear the "racking" or not? By then, its business only...At best, hearing this sound just may deter them. At worst, it will not and well..at least you now have a loaded shotgun. As far as "giving away your position", please...this isnt cops and robbers. Unless you throw down flares or start turning on lights, no intruder is going to know EXACTLY where you are. To keep a shotgun armed with a round in the chamber is careless and unnecessary. If you are that worried about having that extra round or two, think about tactical reloads or better yet, just use a handgun as your primary weapon. Besides, statistically, most gunfights are over in a matter of seconds. How many rounds can YOU fire within this time frame, particularly in a home invasion type scenario? Its funny to see some people here planning a "home invasion" scenario as if they expect to be attacked by a band of zombies.

I feel your pain regarding the cost of a new barrel. I have already posted a thread regarding this issue. Apparently, due to the chrome lined nature of these barrels, along with importation costs etc., Benelli barrels just cost more. Dont think that Ables Ammo is too over-priced..they arent. Benelli barrels simply cost almost as much as the gun itself. This is, of course, we are talking about any Benelli other than the M series! That is a different story. Sorry for the bad news man...apparently we are all in the same boat here.

I think people are over-thinking things here. Some realistic scenarios, maybe, some not. Lets face it, if someone breaks into your home unexpectedly, will there really be time for "tactics"? Essentially, at this point, you are left with A) Can you even get to a weapon in time, B) Quickly assessing your situation (ie. how many perps are there, are they armed, where are they?) and C) more than likely, under stress...reverting to habits developed at the gun range. Good or bad? Depends on how you practice. But, with a shotgun, well..who actually carries this around the house all evening. Not many, I assume. Thats why handguns are here. Personally, Id rather have a shotty by my side, but the convenience factor just isnt there. I agree with one of the other replies that a shotgun should ALWAYS be kept "cruiser ready"...ie. loaded mag, no round in the chamber and hammer down. Lets face it, if your situation is so dire that you do not have the time to take your weapon out of cruiser mode and ready it, then you probably wont have time to get a shot off anyway. Besides, better to take that chance with a "cruiser ready" shotty than to risk having a loved one blow a hole in something or worse...somebody.