durability of shotguns

[modenar1]

Im thinking of getting a beretta 12ga in either over under or semi auto. What are the durabilities of these shotguns. which one would last longer. Would the semi cycle light loads? all your feedback would be greatly appreciated.

[sargenv]

The Beretta that I've fired shot even the lightest 7/8 ounce target ammo. When I was looking at shotguns, the 11-87 would go as low as an ounce, the Browning gold hunter and Beretta would both go down to the lighter charge weigt. These days most semi auto's are made for shooting steel shot, lighter charge weight of shot at higher velocities as opposed to heavy lead charges moving relatatively slow.

[Rugerman]

Some shotguns can fire the lightest 7/8oz. target loads straight out of the box, others can if you break them, and some just can't.

As for the issue of wheather to get a O/U or Semi-Auto, thats a decision you have to make. I don't know what you will be doing with your shotgun, only you know the answer to that question.

If this is going to be a dedicated skeet/trap/sporting clay gun I would get a O/U. However if you want to both hunt and do skeet/trap/sporting clays I would go with a Semi-Auto since you have the optional third shot which O/U shotguns do not have.