Shotgun Life | The Best in Wing and Clays Shooting

Briefs

A series of brief articles cataloging the sport and gear for wing and clays shooting.

Repairing Your Shotgun Barrels With Restriking

Saturday, November 15, 2025
Written by Shotgun Life Staff
Categories: Briefs
Tags: #shotgunbarrelrestriking, #shotgunrepairs

Restriking is a process that involves reshaping the damaged portion of a shotgun barrel by using specialized tools and techniques. This method is commonly used to repair barrel bulges, dents, and other forms of damage that may affect the performance of the firearm. By carefully reshaping the affected area, gunsmiths can ensure that the barrel retains its structural integrity and functionality.

One of the key benefits of restriking is that it can help extend the lifespan of your shotgun barrels. Rather than having to replace the entire barrel, which can be costly and time-consuming, restriking allows you to repair the damage and continue using your firearm. This makes it a cost-effective solution for shotgun owners who want to keep their firearms in top condition without breaking the bank.

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What is the Regulation of Shotgun Barrels?

Saturday, November 15, 2025
Written by Shotgun Life Staff
Categories: Briefs
Tags: #shotgunbarrelregulation, #shotgunpatterning

In the context of double-barreled shotguns (side-by-side or over/under), “regulation” refers to how the two barrels are aligned so that they both shoot to the same point of impact (POI) at a specific distance.

What “Regulation” Means

Shotgun barrels are not perfectly parallel. Because each barrel is offset from the bore centerline, a gunsmith must adjust their angles during construction so that:

Both barrels’ patterns overlap at a chosen distance (usually 40 yards for field guns, sometimes 21–30 yards for skeet).

Vertical alignment (over/under barrels) is correct.

Horizontal alignment (side-by-side barrels) is correct.

This ensures that when you fire either barrel, the pattern hits where you’re aiming.

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Safety Precautions for Reloading Shotgun Shells

Thursday, November 13, 2025
Written by Shotgun Life Staff
Categories: Briefs
Tags: #shotgunshellreloading

Reloading shotgun shells can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to enjoy shooting sports. However, it is essential to prioritize safety when engaging in this activity. By following proper safety precautions, reloaders can reduce the risk of accidents and ensure that their reloading process is smooth and efficient.

Importance of Safety Precautions

Safety precautions are crucial when reloading shotgun shells to prevent accidents and injuries. Failure to follow proper safety measures can result in catastrophic consequences, including personal injury or damage to equipment. By incorporating safety protocols into their reloading routine, shooters can minimize the risks associated with the process and maintain a safe environment for themselves and others.

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The Overlooked Franchi 48AL Semi-Auto

Sunday, October 26, 2025
Written by Shotgun Life Staff
Categories: Briefs
Tags: #franchi48al, #franchisemiautoshotguns, #franchishotguns

Early vintage Franchi shotguns, particularly the Franchi 48AL, are renowned for being lightweight, reliable long-recoil operated semi-automatic shotguns. These models are known for their excellent handling, making them popular for hunting, and early versions had steel receivers before the lighter aluminum receiver of later models was introduced. Other notable early models include the Franchi 48AL which features a 3-inch magnum chamber and steel receiver, and was likely produced in the late 1960s and 1970s. 

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The Henry Contemporary Lever-Action Shotgun

Sunday, October 12, 2025
Written by Shotgun Life Staff
Categories: Briefs
Tags: #henryshotguns

The Henry Lever-Action Shotgun is a classic firearm known for its reliability, accuracy, and smooth operation. With its iconic lever-action mechanism, the Henry Shotgun has become a favorite among hunters, sportsmen, and shooting enthusiasts.

It is known for its quick and smooth lever-action mechanism, which allows for rapid and efficient cycling of rounds. The Henry Shotgun is available in various models and calibers, allowing shooters to choose the one that best suits their needs and preferences.

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What is a Sorborthane Recoil Pad?

Sunday, October 12, 2025
Written by Shotgun Life Staff
Categories: Briefs
Tags: #shotgun recoil, #shotgunrecoilpads, #sorborthane, #sorborthanerecoilpad

The Sorborthane Recoil Pad is a revolutionary product designed to absorb and dissipate the energy created by recoil when firing a weapon. Made from a unique material called Sorbothane, a synthetic polymer with unparalleled shock absorption capabilities, these pads are able to reduce recoil impact by up to 90%. This means less strain on your shoulder and body, allowing you to focus on your shooting accuracy and enjoyment.

Sorborthane is viscoelastic polymer that behaves both like a liquid (absorbs and dissipates energy) and a solid (retains its shape). Developed in the 1980s, it’s used in everything from athletic shoe insoles to vibration mounts in aerospace and audio equipment. Unlike rubber or foam, Sorbothane doesn’t rebound quickly; it converts kinetic energy (recoil) into heat, reducing the felt impact on the shooter’s shoulder.

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How to Identify the Difference Between Laser and Hand Checkering on Your Shotgun

Sunday, October 12, 2025
Written by Shotgun Life Staff
Categories: Briefs
Tags: #handcheckering, #lasercheckering, #shotgunwood

When it comes to checkering on shotguns, there are two main techniques that are commonly used – laser checkering and hand checkering. While both methods serve the purpose of providing grip and aesthetics to the shotgun, there are distinct differences between the two.

Understanding the Telltale Signs of Laser Checkering

Laser checkering is a modern technique that involves the use of a laser to create precise and uniform patterns on the surface of the shotgun. One of the key characteristics of laser checkering is the consistency of the pattern across the entire surface. The lines are typically sharp, clean, and evenly spaced. Additionally, laser checkering often has a more shallow depth compared to hand checkering, giving it a smoother feel to the touch.

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The Pietro Beretta (PB) Due Custom Atelier

Thursday, October 02, 2025
Written by Shotgun Life Staff
Categories: Briefs
Tags: #berettadue, #berettashotguns, #pbberetta

The Beretta (PB) Custom Atelier was established by Beretta to cater to the growing demand for bespoke firearms among discerning customers. The atelier’s first major project was the Beretta Due, a limited edition handgun that showcased the craftsmanship and precision engineering that Beretta is known for. The Due featured intricate engravings, luxurious materials, and custom finishes that set it apart from standard production models.

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