The back action shotgun, known for its reliable design and smooth operation, has been a favorite among hunters and sportsmen for centuries.
The Back Action Shotgun
Read More
Author: Shotgun Life Staff
How Does a Bar in Wood Shotgun Work?
When you mention a “bar-in-wood” shotgun, you’re referring to a particular style of shotgun design where the action body (the metal frame/receiver) is enclosed within the wooden stock, rather than sitting fully exposed as in more modern guns. This was most common in 19th-century British and Continental sporting guns. In a bar-in-wood gun, this bar is covered with wood so the stock and action appear more seamless. Only the hammers, triggers, and fences are exposed.
The Mechanics of a Wood Shotgun Bar
A wood shotgun bar is a long, cylindrical metal tube that houses the barrel and other essential parts of a shotgun. It serves as a guide for the shotgun shell to travel through during firing, directing the shot towards the target. The wood material used for the bar provides stability and support for the barrel, helping to absorb recoil and maintain accuracy.
Understanding the Inner Workings
Inside a wood shotgun bar, there are various components that work together to ensure the smooth functioning of the shotgun. These include the chamber, where the shotgun shell is loaded, the bore, which is the inner surface of the barrel that guides the shot, and the choke, which helps control the spread of the shot. The wood material of the bar also helps to dampen vibrations and reduce noise during firing.
Function
Locks & Hammers – The lock mechanisms (usually bar-action sidelocks) are fitted into the wood around the bar. The hammers are external and cocked by hand.
Barrels & Action Joint – The barrels hinge on the bar, just as in a normal break-action shotgun. The lumps (locking bites under the barrels) engage with the bar to secure the barrels when closed.
Triggering & Firing – Pulling the trigger releases the hammer, which strikes the percussion cap (on muzzleloaders) or the firing pin (on breechloaders).
Wood Enclosure – The action is fully bedded into the stock wood, which gives the shotgun a smooth, flowing look — almost like the barrels grow directly out of the wood.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using a Wood Shotgun Bar
Using a wood shotgun bar involves loading the shotgun shell into the chamber, making sure it is securely in place. Next, aim the shotgun towards the target and pull the trigger to fire the shot. The wood bar helps to absorb recoil and maintain stability, allowing for accurate and precise shooting. After firing, remember to safely unload the shotgun and clean the wood bar to ensure its longevity and performance.
Wood shotgun bars play a crucial role in the functionality and performance of a shotgun. Understanding how they work and knowing how to use them properly can enhance the shooting experience for gun enthusiasts. With their classic design and reliable mechanics, wood shotgun bars are a timeless choice for shooters looking for quality and precision.
In short, a bar-in-wood shotgun works like any other hammer break-action of its era, but with its action body fully enclosed in the stock wood for a sleek, elegant profile. It was more of a stylistic and artisanal experiment than a practical long-term design.
# # #
The Advantages of a Ribless Shotun for Upland Hunting
Why Choose a Ribless Shotgun for Upland Hunting?
Weight savings → You’re walking all day behind dogs, often in rough cover. Every ounce matters, and ribless barrels shave some weight.
Slim, snag-free profile → No rib to catch on briars, brush, or game bags when you’re carrying at port arms or slung.
Fast handling → Upland shooting is all about instinctive snap shots at flushing birds. Many hunters find a ribless gun “points like a wand.”
Classic upland style → Ribless barrels are associated with traditional upland doubles and bird guns — many hunters enjoy the look and feel.
Ribless shotguns have gained popularity in recent years due to their sleek and minimalist design. By eliminating the rib along the top of the barrel, manufacturers are able to create a more streamlined and aesthetically pleasing firearm. This not only gives ribless shotguns a modern and stylish look but also reduces the overall weight of the gun, making it easier to handle and carry for extended periods of time.
Enhanced Maneuverability and Accuracy
One of the key advantages of a ribless shotgun is its enhanced maneuverability and accuracy. Without the rib obstructing your line of sight, you are able to acquire targets quickly and shoot with more precision. This is especially beneficial in fast-paced shooting sports or when hunting moving targets. The lack of a rib also reduces the amount of muzzle rise when firing, allowing for faster follow-up shots and improved overall performance.
Lightweight Design for Comfort and Mobility
Another major advantage of ribless shotguns is their lightweight design. By removing the rib, manufacturers are able to shave off excess weight from the firearm, making it easier to carry and maneuver in the field. Whether you are trekking through dense brush on a hunting expedition or competing in a shooting competition that requires quick movements, a ribless shotgun allows for greater comfort and mobility without sacrificing performance.
In conclusion, the benefits of opting for a ribless shotgun are clear. From improved maneuverability and accuracy to a lightweight design for enhanced comfort and mobility, ribless shotguns offer a unique set of advantages that make them a popular choice among shooters. Whether you are a seasoned hunter or a competitive shooter looking to enhance your performance, consider adding a ribless shotgun to your firearm collection for a modern and efficient shooting experience.
Things to keep in mind
No defined sighting plane → If you’re used to “riding the rib” when leading birds, you’ll need to trust your eyes and instinct more. For upland, this is usually a benefit (snap shooting, not aiming).
Heat mirage → Not an issue in upland hunting, since you rarely fire enough rounds fast enough to heat barrels like on a clays course.
In short: for upland hunting — especially quail, grouse, or woodcock — ribless shotguns are light, instinctive, and very practical.
Remembering the Remington Model 32 Shotgun
Remington Model 32 Shotgun is a classic firearm that has stood the test of time and holds a significant place in the history of shotguns. With its sleek design and exceptional performance, the Remington Model 32 has been a favorite among hunters, sports shooters, and collectors alike. Let’s delve into the rich history of this iconic shotgun.
The Beginnings of Remington Model 32 Shotgun
The story of the Remington Model 32 Shotgun dates back to the early 1930s when it was first introduced by the renowned firearms manufacturer, Remington Arms Company. Designed by C.C. Loomis, this over-and-under shotgun quickly gained popularity for its elegant appearance and reliable functionality. The Model 32 was initially marketed as a high-end competition shotgun, appealing to serious shooters looking for precision and quality in their firearms.
As the Model 32 gained traction in the shooting community, it became known for its exceptional balance, smooth handling, and consistent performance. Its innovative design included features such as double underlocking bolts and a unique hinge pin system, setting it apart from other shotguns of its time. The Remington Model 32 quickly became a top choice for competitive shooters and hunters seeking a reliable and accurate firearm.
Produced from 1932 to 1944 Remington sold roughly 5,000–6,000 Model 32s — making it a relatively rare Remington firearm.
Evolution and Innovation of the Classic Firearm
Over the years, the Remington Model 32 Shotgun underwent various refinements and improvements to enhance its performance and reliability. From minor design tweaks to material upgrades, each iteration of the Model 32 showcased Remington’s commitment to innovation and quality craftsmanship. The shotgun’s reputation for accuracy and durability only grew stronger with each new model released.
One of the key advancements in the evolution of the Remington Model 32 Shotgun was the introduction of different barrel lengths and choke options, allowing shooters to customize their firearm for specific shooting needs. Additionally, the incorporation of modern manufacturing techniques and materials ensured that the Model 32 remained a top-tier shotgun in terms of performance and durability. Even as newer models entered the market, the classic appeal of the Remington Model 32 continued to attract discerning shooters who valued tradition and excellence in their firearms.
World War II halted civilian arms production in 1942, and by 1944 the Model 32 was discontinued. The complexity and cost of manufacture, combined with limited demand in Depression-era America, prevented it from being a commercial success.
Legacy of the Remington Model 32 Shotgun
After WWII, Remington decided not to reintroduce the Model 32. Instead, it sold the design and tooling to Krieghoff, a German firm. In 1957, Krieghoff introduced its version, the K-32, which became extremely popular among competitive shooters.: The K-32 eventually evolved into the world-renowned Krieghoff K-80, a premier competition shotgun still used at the highest levels today.
The Remington Model 32 Shotgun left a lasting legacy in the world of firearms, earning a reputation as a timeless classic among shotgun enthusiasts. Its elegant design, exceptional performance, and superior craftsmanship have cemented its place in history as one of the most iconic shotguns ever produced. Despite being discontinued in the 1940s, the Model 32 continues to be revered by shooters and collectors who appreciate its enduring quality and fine engineering.
# # #
The Smith & Wesson 1000 Semi-Auto: A Forgotten American Legend?
The Smith & Wesson 1000 Shotgun made its debut in the 1970s, during a time when the company was looking to expand its product line beyond handguns. With its sleek design and reliable performance, the 1000 quickly gained popularity among hunters, sport shooters, and law enforcement agencies. Its unique gas-operated system set it apart from other shotguns on the market, making it a standout choice for those seeking a reliable and accurate firearm.
Uncovering the Origins of a Classic Firearm
The origins of the Smith & Wesson 1000 Shotgun can be traced back to a collaboration between the famous gun manufacturer and the renowned firearm designer Karl Lewis. Lewis, known for his innovative approach to firearm design, worked closely with Smith & Wesson to develop a shotgun that would meet the needs of both professional and recreational shooters. The result was the Smith & Wesson 1000, a weapon that combined cutting-edge technology with classic craftsmanship.
Evolution of the Smith & Wesson 1000: A Timeline
Over the years, the Smith & Wesson 1000 Shotgun has undergone several improvements and upgrades to keep up with the changing demands of the firearms industry. From enhancements to the gas system to modifications in the stock and barrel design, each iteration of the 1000 has been meticulously crafted to provide shooters with the best possible performance. Despite its evolution, the core features that make the Smith & Wesson 1000 a beloved firearm have remained consistent, earning it a well-deserved reputation as a reliable and accurate shotgun.
With its innovative design, reliable performance, and timeless appeal, the 1000 continues to be a favorite among shooters of all skill levels. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a novice enthusiast, the Smith & Wesson 1000 Shotgun is a must-have addition to any firearms collection.
Features and Variants
Design: The Model 1000 was a gas-operated semi-automatic shotgun, designed to compete with Remington’s 1100 and Winchester’s Super X Model 1 of the era.
Chamberings: Primarily 12 gauge and 20 gauge, with 2¾” chambers (later some were chambered for 3″).
Configurations:
Field models – for hunting and sporting use.
Trap and Skeet versions – specialized for clay target sports.
1000T (Trap) and 1000S (Skeet) were designated models.
Some deluxe grades with higher polish and engraving were also available.
Styling: Typically came with checkered walnut stocks, ventilated ribs, and interchangeable choke tubes in later models.
Market Reception
The 1000 earned a reputation for being well-made, reliable, and soft-shooting.
However, the shotgun market in the U.S. was dominated by Remington, Winchester, and Browning, and Smith & Wesson struggled to gain a foothold.
By the mid-1980s, Smith & Wesson discontinued the line.
# # #
Joshua Creek Ranch Announces Shooting Sportsman’s “Hunt with the Magazine” for Dec. 4-8, 2025
Just after Thanksgiving we head to Joshua Creek Ranch, in Boerne, Texas. This legendary wingshooting destination is located in the heart of Hill Country and has countless awards and accolades to its name. The trip will be hosted by Terry Bombeke, and hunters will fly into San Antonio on December 4, 2025, and enjoy four walk-up hunts for pheasants, bobwhite quail and chukar as well as two high-bird driven-style shoots before departing on December 8. The $9,950 price includes 14 boxes of shells along with single-occupancy lodging, meals, most alcohol, licenses, taxes, gratuities, bird processing and ground transportation. (Super-premium bar selections and the cost of shipping birds home are extra.)
For more information about this adventure, contact Terry Bombeke at 1-207-594-9544, ext. 478 or tbombeke@shootingsportsman.com.
From Olympic Legends to Rising Stars, U.S. Shotgun Athletes Dominate 2025 Season
In Lonato, Italy, the American flag rose above the podium — not once, but twice — as the national anthem played for Team USA’s gold medals in both Men’s and Women’s Skeet. It was a defining moment in a season already filled with victories, one that showcased the pride, skill, and determination driving the U.S. Shotgun Team to new heights in 2025.
With 34 international medals already secured before the World Championships begin, the U.S. shotgun team has shown unmatched depth, consistency, and dominance on the global stage. And with two major competitions still ahead, they are poised to further cement their reputation as one of the most formidable forces in the sport.
The Foundation of a Turnaround
The podium finishes reflect not only intentional changes made over the past 18 months to strengthen high-performance culture — refining team selection processes, investing in athlete resources, and expanding coaching support — but also the incredible talent of the U.S. shotgun team across all disciplines. Strategic donor investments have opened the door for more athletes to gain valuable international experience, opportunities that are directly translating into medals.
Stars and Milestones
Among the standout performances, Olympic legend Vincent Hancock captured his 30th ISSF World Cup medal with a gold in Men’s Skeet at the Lonato World Cup on July 8. His extraordinary career now includes five Olympic medals, four world titles, and more than 40 international podiums.
“It’s fantastic,” said Hancock. “If you win the World Cup or World Championships in Lonato, it means you’ve done something. I don’t take this lightly at all and this means a lot to me.”
In April, Olympian Will Hinton delivered a breakthrough performance, capturing his first individual ISSF World Cup gold in Men’s Trap at the Lima World Cup after already earning a bronze earlier that month in Buenos Aires. Christian Elliott made his own mark on the international stage, claiming his first individual ISSF World Cup gold in Buenos Aires and keeping the momentum alive with a silver in Lima — proving both athletes have the skill and composure to succeed against the best in the world.
Women’s Skeet has been a powerhouse, led by Kimberly Rhode, Sam Simonton, and Dania Vizzi, who swept the podium in Lima before Simonton and Vizzi repeated with gold and silver in Lonato. Vizzi, a Paris 2024 Olympian, has now medaled in Lonato three consecutive years. Simonton has claimed medals at three of four ISSF World Cups in 2025. Rhode, a six-time Olympic medalist and shotgun phenomenon, added a silver medal to her 2025 successes at the Bueno Aires World Cup. The El Monte, California, native is training with determination for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games, where she could take the world stage in front of a home-town crowd.
Rising Juniors Making Their Mark
The next generation of U.S. shotgun athletes is surging forward with impressive results. At the 2025 Junior Shotgun Championship of the Americas (CAT Games), Team USA captured 10 medals and eight quota slots for the Junior Pan American Games — many of them from athletes whose breakthrough performances were made possible by donors investing in young talent through travel, training, and international competition opportunities. That investment paid off again at the 2025 Junior Pan American Games, where the juniors earned seven more medals, proving the strength of the shotgun pipeline and building valuable experience that will carry them into LA28 and beyond.
Looking Ahead
Nine U.S. shotgun athletes have already qualified for the prestigious ISSF World Cup Final — reserved for the world’s top-ranked competitors — and the team now turns its focus to the World Championships in October.
“From our Olympic veterans to our junior athletes, the talent, depth, and consistency we’re seeing across the board is inspiring,” said USA Shooting CEO Kelly Reisdorf. “This momentum is exactly what we need as we set our sights on success at the LA28 Olympic Games.”
With the season’s results so far, Team USA has shown the world that American excellence still leads the field in international shotgun shooting.
Below is a full list of international medals earned by Team USA shotgun athletes so far in 2025:
- JR SG CAT Games (March) 10 Medals and 8 Quotas
Medals
- Benjamin Keller: Gold, Junior Men’s Skeet
- Aidin Burns: Silver, Junior Men’s Skeet
- Madeline Corbin: Gold, Junior Women’s Skeet
- Benjamin Keller, Aidin Burns, and Westley Kiter: Gold, Junior Men’s Skeet Team
- Gracie Hensley: Bronze, Junior Women’s Skeet
- Carey Garrison: Gold, Junior Women’s Trap
- Ava Downs: Silver, Junior Women’s Trap
- Sidney Coffin: Bronze, Junior Women’s Trap
- Connor Lynn and Ava Downs: Gold, Junior Mixed Trap Team
- Kaleb Horinek and Carey Garrison: Bronze, Junior Mixed Trap Team
Quotas Earned for the 2025 Junior Pan American Games
- Junior Women’s Skeet (2): Madeline Corbin and Gracie Hensley
- Junior Men’s Skeet (2): Benjamin Keller and Aidin Burns
- Junior Women’s Trap (2): Carey Garrison and Ava Downs
- Junior Men’s Trap (2): Kalen Horinek and Connor Lynn
- Buenos Aires World Cup (April) 6 Medals
- Dania Vizzi: Gold Women’s Skeet
- Kimberly Rhode: Silver, Women’s Skeet
- Christian Elliott: Gold, Men’s Skeet
- Glenn Eller: Silver, Men’s Trap
- Will Hinton: Bronze, Men’s Trap
- Carey Garrison: Silver, Women’s Trap
- Lima World Cup (April) 6 Medals
- Kimberly Rhode: Gold Women’s Skeet
- Sam Simonton: Silver, Women’s Skeet
- Dania Vizzi: Bronze, Women’s Skeet
- Dustan Taylor: Gold, Men’s Skeet
- Christian Elliott: Silver, Men’s Skeet
- Will Hinton: Gold, Men’s Trap
- Cyprus World Cup (May) 2 Medals
- Samantha Simonton: Silver, Women’s Skeet
- Carey Garrison: Silver Women’s Trap
- Lonato World Cup (July) 3 Medals
- Sam Simonton: Gold, Women’s Skeet
- Dania Vizzi: Silver, Women’s Skeet
- Vincent Hancock: Gold, Men’s Skeet
- 2025 Junior Pan American Games (Aug) 7 Medals and 1 Quota
- Aidin Burns: Silver, Men’s Skeet
- Gracie Hensley: Silver, Women’s Skeet
- Alishia “Faith” Layne: Bronze, Women’s Skeet
- Ava Downs: Gold, Women’s Trap
- Kaleb Horinek: Bronze, Men’s Trap
- Carey Garrison & Tony Meola: Gold, Mixed Trap Team
- Ava Downs & Kaleb Horinek: Silver, Mixed Trap Team
Quota Earned for the 2027 Pan American Games
- Women’s Trap: Ava Downs
A Personal Thanks to Our Sponsors and Donors
This season’s success is only possible because of the generosity, belief, and commitment of our sponsors and donors. Your investment is producing gold medals, pride during the national anthem, and proof that American talent still leads the world. Whether it’s supporting an Olympian on the road to LA28 or giving a junior athlete their first shot at international competition, you are partners in every victory.
USA Shooting extends heartfelt thanks to The NRA Foundation, Hillsdale College, The International Order of T. Roosevelt, The Hal & Jean Glassen Foundation, Safari Club International, MidwayUSA Foundation, Shoot the Moon, and all who stand with us in this mission.
Join the Movement
When our athletes take the podium, they represent all of us — our country, our sport, and the values we share. By becoming a USA Shooting member, you’re not just supporting the Second Amendment; you’re standing behind the athletes who make the anthem play on the world stage.
About USA Shooting
USA Shooting, a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation was chartered by the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee as the National Governing Body for the Olympic & Paralympic Shooting Sports in April 1995. The organization develops and implements programs to promote growth in the sport and serves as a sanctioning body for local and national competitions. Headquartered in Colorado Springs, Colorado, at the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Training Center, USA Shooting has a full-time staff dedicated to our sport.
Visit the USA Shooting web site at https://usashooting.org
Double Trigger vs. Single Trigger for Sporting Shotguns
When it comes to choosing a sporting shotgun, one important decision that shooters must make is whether to opt for a double trigger or single trigger model. Both options have their own set of advantages and drawbacks, and understanding the differences between the two can help individuals make an informed decision based on their shooting preferences and needs.
Understanding the Difference: Double Trigger vs. Single Trigger
The primary difference between double trigger and single trigger shotguns lies in the mechanism used to fire the gun. Double trigger shotguns, as the name suggests, have two triggers – one for each barrel. This setup allows shooters to select which barrel they want to fire first, providing more control over shot placement and allowing for a quicker follow-up shot. On the other hand, single trigger shotguns have only one trigger that alternates between firing the barrels, making them more streamlined and user-friendly for shooters who prefer simplicity.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Double Trigger Shotguns
One of the main benefits of double trigger shotguns is the ability to independently select which barrel to fire first. This can be advantageous in sporting situations where different targets require different shot patterns or distances. Additionally, some shooters find that having two triggers provides a more tactile and intuitive shooting experience. However, double trigger shotguns can be bulkier and more complex to operate compared to single trigger models, which may not appeal to all shooters.
Advantages of Single Trigger Shotguns for Sporting Use
Single trigger shotguns are popular among sporting shooters for their simplicity and ease of use. With only one trigger to pull, shooters can focus on their target without the distraction of choosing between barrels. Single trigger shotguns also tend to have a smoother and lighter trigger pull, which can contribute to improved accuracy and faster follow-up shots. Additionally, the streamlined design of single trigger shotguns makes them more compact and lightweight, ideal for shooters who value mobility and agility in the field.
Ultimately, the choice between a double trigger and single trigger shotgun comes down to personal preference and shooting style.
Single Trigger
- Pros:
- Quick Second Shot: Automatically fires the second barrel upon a second trigger pull, or requires a simple, optional selector switch to be moved.
- Simplicity: A simpler system to operate than a double-trigger system for some shooters.
- Quick Second Shot: Automatically fires the second barrel upon a second trigger pull, or requires a simple, optional selector switch to be moved.
- Cons:
- Complexity: The internal mechanism is more complex than a double trigger system.
- Potential for Accidental “Doubling”: The shooter may accidentally pull the trigger twice during recoil, leading to an unplanned shot from the second barrel.
- Complexity: The internal mechanism is more complex than a double trigger system.
Double Trigger
- Pros:
- Choke Selection: Offers instantaneous selection of the choke for each barrel.
- Reliability (Historical): Traditionally considered more reliable, though this is less of an advantage with modern designs.
- Tradition: It’s a traditional design favored by many experienced hunters for its simplicity and direct control.
- Choke Selection: Offers instantaneous selection of the choke for each barrel.
- Cons:
- Slower Second Shot: A second trigger pull is needed for the second barrel, which is less quick than a single-trigger system.
- Physical Movement: May require more physical movement from the shooter to switch barrels, making it less ideal for quick follow-up shots.
- Slower Second Shot: A second trigger pull is needed for the second barrel, which is less quick than a single-trigger system.
Which to Choose?
The choice between single and double triggers is largely a personal preference, heavily influenced by shooting style and purpose.
# # #
Pineridge Grouse Camp – Minnesota Grouse & Woodcock Hunting Lodge
If you’re a passionate upland hunter searching for the ultimate Minnesota grouse and woodcock hunting experience, look no further than Pineridge Grouse Camp. Located in the heart of Northern Minnesota, Pineridge offers access to endless acres of public hunting land, home to some of the best ruffed grouse and American woodcock habitat in the country.
World-Class Grouse & Woodcock Hunting
At Pineridge, you’ll hunt wild grouse and woodcock behind an exceptional string of Pineridge Elhew Pointers, a bloodline known for intelligence, stamina, and precision in the field. Every hunt is fully guided, ensuring an unforgettable wingshooting adventure for both seasoned upland hunters and newcomers alike.
Wynfield Plantation – Premier Quail Hunting in South Georgia Bobwhite Country
Experience world-class South Georgia quail hunting at Wynfield Plantation, a 2,000-acre sporting paradise designed for the true wingshooter. The carefully managed Bobwhite Quail habitat features native grasses, annual weeds, timberlands, and a mosaic of soft edges, open land, and woody draws – ideal conditions for wild coveys.
Led by veteran guides, accompanied by hard-charging bird dogs, and supported by fully equipped hunting jeeps, every hunt at Wynfield Plantation delivers the authentic Southern quail hunting tradition.
Shotgun Life Newsletters
Join an elite group of readers who receive their FREE e-letter every week from Shotgun Life. These readers gain a competitive advantage from the valuable advice delivered directly to their inbox. You'll discover ways to improve your shooting, learn about the best new products and how to easily maintain your shotgun so it's always reliable. If you strive to be a better shooter, then our FREE e-letters are for you.
About Shotgun Life
Shotgun Life is the first online magazine devoted to the great people who participate in the shotgun sports.
Our goal is to provide you with the best coverage in wing and clays shooting. That includes places to shoot, ways to improve your shooting and the latest new products. Everything you need to know about the shotgun sports is a mouse-click away.
Contact
Irwin Greenstein
Publisher
Shotgun Life
PO Box 6423
Thomasville, GA 31758
Phone: 229-236-1632
