Briefs
A series of brief articles cataloging the sport and gear for wing and clays shooting.
A Different Approach to the Iconic Flashlight Drill in the Shotgun Sports
What is the Sighting Plane on a Shotgun?
The sighting plane on a shotgun refers to the imaginary line that connects the front sight, rear sight, and the shooter’s eye. When properly aligned, this sighting plane helps the shooter aim accurately at the target. Unlike rifles or handguns that have physical sights attached to the barrel, shotguns typically rely on a bead or fiber-optic sight at the front of the barrel. The alignment of this sight with the shooter’s eye and a consistent cheek weld on the stock determines the sighting plane.
Looking Back at Montgomery Ward Shotguns
As an iconic department store, Montgomery Ward played a defining role in the proliferation of shotguns in the United States. Montgomery Ward, founded in 1872 by Aaron Montgomery Ward, was a pioneering American department store whose product line-up included a variety of shotguns during its time. Known for its mail-order catalogs, Montgomery Ward catered to rural customers, offering them convenience and a wide selection of products that included firearms. Montgomery Ward shotguns weren’t manufactured in-house; instead, they were made by various manufacturers, then branded and sold under the Montgomery Ward name. Brands such as Iver Johnson, Savage, Stevens, and Fox were associated with Montgomery Ward.
A Manufrance for the Field May Be Your Next Collectible
Manufrance, or Manufacture Française d’Armes et Cycles de Saint-Étienne, traces its roots back to 1885, becoming France’s first mail-order company. Its founders, Étienne Mimard and Pierre Blachon, started their venture with a vision to provide high-quality firearms and cycles to the French public. The company quickly made a name for itself with its innovative designs and superior craftsmanship, particularly with their shotguns.
The range of Manufrance’s shotguns, including their legendary Robust and Ideal models, became iconic in the hunting circles of France and beyond. Cold-forged barrels, meticulous attention to detail, and unmatched reliability underpinned the success and popularity of these shotguns. Each shotgun was a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of Manufrance, earning them a revered place in the annals of gunsmithing history. Manufrance was known for their lovely round-action shotguns.
The Little-Known Paradox Shotgun
The Paradox Shotgun gets its name from the unique paradoxical nature of its design. Developed in the late 19th century by British gunmaker Holland & Holland, the Paradox Shotgun was a hybrid between a shotgun and a rifled gun. This innovative design allowed the shooter to fire both shotshells and solid bullets accurately from the same barrel.
Despite its initial success and popularity among hunters and sportsmen, the Paradox Shotgun eventually fell out of favor as newer firearms with more specialized designs entered the market. Today, the Paradox Shotgun is considered a rare collector’s item, with only a few examples still in circulation.
Should You Be Collecting the Savage Model 720 “Humpback” Semi-Auto?
The Savage Model 720 Shotgun is a classic long-recoil, semi-automatic shotgun. A product of the Savage Arms Company, the Model 720 is a piece of history. It was introduced around 1930 and remained in production until 1949. The shotgun was primarily modeled after the famed Browning Auto-5, which was the first mass-produced semi-automatic shotgun. Indeed, the Savage Model 720 was born out of a licensing agreement with the Browning Company to use the design of the “Humpback” Auto-5.
Constructed with a robust design that could withstand even the harshest of conditions, the Savage 720 was designed with durability in mind. The gun’s barrel and receiver were constructed from sturdy steel, providing a strong framework that guaranteed longevity. In addition, its wooden stock and forearm were built to withstand the wear and tear of regular use.
The Importance of Shotgun Snap Caps
When it comes to protecting your shotgun during storage, snap caps are an essential accessory to have. Not only do they help safeguard the firing pin mechanism, but they also prevent damage to the chamber and barrel. In this article, we will discuss the importance of using snap caps for storing your shotgun and why they are a crucial investment for any gun owner.
Guidelines for Flying with Your Shotgun
In an era characterized by heightened security measures, flying with a firearm, such as a shotgun, requires a clear understanding of both legal aspects and airline policies. While the right to bear arms is protected by the Second Amendment, it doesn’t exempt individuals from adhering to the strict guidelines in place to secure air travel. In this article, we will explore the legal aspects of flying with a shotgun, key airline policies, practical packing tips, and how to handle potential issues at airport security checkpoints.
Wood Shotgun Stocks: Care & Maintenance
Wood shotgun stocks are a classic and elegant choice for gun owners who appreciate the natural beauty of wood. However, with great beauty comes great responsibility – wood stocks require proper care and maintenance to ensure they retain their quality and longevity. In this article, we will provide essential tips for caring for your wood shotgun stock and maintaining its beauty and integrity.
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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
