Expensive Side by Side Shotgun vs Cheap Reliable Gun

Published on March 20, 2022
Duration: 15:18

This review compares a premium £5000 Stephen Grant sidelock ejector shotgun with a budget £200 E.M. Reilly boxlock non-ejector. Despite the vast price difference, both guns demonstrate quality London craftsmanship. The video highlights that gun fit is paramount for instinctive shooting, often outweighing action type or cost. Boxlocks are presented as excellent value for general game shooting.

Quick Summary

For instinctive shotgun shooting, gun fit is paramount and often more critical than the shotgun's price tag or action type. Even a budget £200 boxlock can perform effectively, offering great value for game shooting.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Expensive vs Cheap Side-by-Side Shotguns
  2. 00:28The Premium Stephen Grant Sidelock Ejector
  3. 00:50The Budget E.M. Reilly Boxlock Non-Ejector
  4. 01:41London vs. Provincial Gun Quality Explained
  5. 03:22Field Testing: Clay Shooting Both Guns
  6. 05:04Weight & Refinement: Sidelock vs. Boxlock
  7. 06:14The Critical Importance of Gun Fit
  8. 07:31Barrel Construction and Historical Wear
  9. 08:47Shooting Performance: Fun Factor
  10. 10:28Value Proposition of Boxlock Shotguns
  11. 11:28Advice for New Side-by-Side Buyers

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between a sidelock and a boxlock shotgun action?

A sidelock action houses its lock components in a separate plate on the receiver's side, often considered more refined. A boxlock action contains its mechanism entirely within the receiver frame, typically using simpler, more robust parts and found in more affordable guns.

Can a cheap shotgun perform as well as an expensive one?

Yes, the video demonstrates that even a budget £200 E.M. Reilly boxlock can be effective and enjoyable to shoot, comparable to a £5000 Stephen Grant sidelock. Performance often depends more on gun fit and the shooter's skill than the price tag.

What is the most important factor for instinctive shotgun shooting?

The speakers emphasize that gun fit is the most critical factor for instinctive shooting. A properly fitted shotgun allows for natural pointing and accuracy, often outweighing the importance of the gun's price, action type, or specific features.

Are boxlock shotguns a good value for game shooting?

Absolutely. Boxlock shotguns offer incredible value for average game shooting scenarios. They provide reliable performance where features like ejectors or extreme internal refinement might not be strictly necessary, making them an excellent choice for many shooters.

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