AboutKeith Patton Expertise I can answer questions about whitetail deer hunting using modern and black powder firearms. I can address questions on still hunting and stalking. I am also knowledgeable on the hunting of ducks over decoys in the central flyway, and goose hunting over rag decoy sets on the Gulf Coast of Texas. I can answer quesitons regarding dog preparation for both these hunting areas
Experience Over 26 years of waterfowl and deer hunting in Virginia, Texas and Oklahoma. Over 34 years of range and target shooting of small and big bore long guns and shotguns.
Organizations National Rifle Association
Texas Rifle Association
Expert: Keith Patton Date: 7/2/2008 Subject: how to choose a gun
Question I'm looking to get a 12 gage shotgun but i'm unsure of what is the best choice. I mostly deer hunt with slugs but i also like shooting clay pigeons. So what 12 gage shotgun would you suggest like a benelli or remington that would shot lugs, buck shot, and bird shot?
Answer Dave:
I don't know if you like autoloaders or pumps I swear by the venerable Remington 870. It is my primary field gun, takes Rem Chokes and you can get a variety of barrels (wing shooting and slug barrels) through a variety of aftermarket dealers.
Sportsmansguide.com offers slub barrels with integral sights. Changing barrels out takes about 10 seconds. Replacement stocks wood and synthetic are available too. They field strip easily and are a breeze to clean.
Best of all they are reasonably priced. The parkerized bottom of the line is about $200. Then you can trick it out in any fashion you want...purchase a slug barrel, addional chokes and a synthetic stock and not exceed $500
