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Side by Side VS Over Under Shotgun - The Gun Shop

TGS Outdoors
Published on August 10, 2017
Category: Hunting & Outdoors
Duration: 8:55

This guide, presented by Jon from The Gun Shop, details the physical and functional differences between Side-by-Side (SxS) and Over-Under (O/U) shotguns. It covers stock styles, trigger mechanisms, safeties, ejectors, action depth, forends, chokes, and sight planes. The expert advises O/Us for beginners and clay shooting, while SxS are recommended for their agility in walked-up game and style in driven game shooting. The video also touches on the value of vintage SxS shotguns in the UK market.

Tags

Side by Side Shotgun
Over Under Shotgun
SxS Shotgun
O/U Shotgun
Shotgun Comparison
Firearms Handling
Clay Shooting
Game Shooting
Walked-up Game
Driven Game
Trigger Mechanism
Choke Types
Stock Styles
Firearms Maintenance

Quick Summary

Side-by-Side (SxS) shotguns typically feature horizontal barrels, double triggers, and a straight hand stock, offering agility for walked-up game. Over-Under (O/U) shotguns have vertically stacked barrels, often a single selective trigger, and a pistol grip stock, favored for clay shooting due to their consistent sight plane and ease of use.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: SxS vs O/U Shotguns
  2. 00:11Stocks and Construction Differences
  3. 01:10Trigger Mechanisms: Double vs Single
  4. 01:48Safeties and Ejector Systems
  5. 02:23Action Depth and Forend Design
  6. 03:16Chokes and Sight Planes Explained
  7. 04:05Why O/U is Popular for Clay Shooting
  8. 05:06SxS Advantages for Game Shooting
  9. 06:36Buying Advice: First Gun vs. Style
  10. 07:42Market Value: Vintage SxS vs O/U

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main differences between Side-by-Side (SxS) and Over-Under (O/U) shotguns?

SxS shotguns typically have horizontal barrels, double triggers, and a straight hand stock, offering agility for walked-up game. O/U shotguns have vertically stacked barrels, often a single selective trigger, and a pistol grip stock, favored for clay shooting due to their consistent sight plane and ease of use.

Which shotgun type is better for beginners: SxS or O/U?

The Over-Under (O/U) shotgun is generally recommended for beginners and those focusing on clay shooting. Its vertically stacked barrels and flat rib provide a more consistent sight plane, making it easier to learn aiming techniques like 'maintained lead'.

Are Side-by-Side shotguns still relevant for modern shooting?

Yes, Side-by-Side (SxS) shotguns remain highly relevant, particularly for traditional instinctive shooting styles. Their faster, more agile handling makes them superior for walked-up game shooting, and they are considered the most stylish choice for driven game shooting.

What are the advantages of double triggers on an SxS shotgun?

Double triggers on Side-by-Side (SxS) shotguns offer a distinct advantage by providing a crisper, more consistent trigger break for each individual barrel. This setup also allows for instant barrel selection by simply choosing which trigger to pull.

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