Need Advice For Newbie

WishStar99 · Rookie Member Joined: Oct 16, 2006 Posts: 18

Hello all,

Thanks again to all the people in here. You guys are awsome Very Happy

Now I need advices before handling a REAL GUN. I have been using a BB rifle, but not a real SHOT GUN. The gun I will have (in November 4th) is the Remington 870 Express Super Magnum Chamber 3 1/2". I am thinking of using the smallest shells first 2 3/4" then move up when I am comfortable with 2 3/4" shells.

I took a guns safety course already, but not a shotgun course yet; and I don't think i want to. Very Happy

... there are probably ton of people who don't even take any course ... BUT ... I know ... taking the shotgun course is very recommended. I just don't want to waste time and money.

So, what is/are my steps before pulling the trigger? Is/are there things that I need to know before loading my shells and fire?

1) Cleaning the gun before usage
2) buying the right shell
3) ....

I will be going to a shooting range first, and may be hunting on thanks giving ... yummy turkey Very Happy

Thanks all ...........................

By the way, anybody who lives in Southern California --> Orange County knows any close shooting range? Thank you.

WS

skb2706 · Member Joined: Apr 10, 2006 Posts: 269

Hunters Safety here in CO is just that........it is all encompassing and covers all aspects of gun handling regardless of what type of gun it is. Don't know about CA. I would definitely seek out someone who can show you how to handle 'your' gun safely and then spend a little time shooting trap. Good practice but start with trap loads and work up to the heavier loads. My 12 ga. handles 3 1/2 " shells too.......I haven't found any use for them at all....3" shells will do anything I need done with a shotgun.

Spacedone · Member Joined: Nov 04, 2005 Posts: 266 Location: missouri

remember the kill area of your shotgun at 50-60 yars with number 4 shot could be like 5 feet across or as small as 20 inches you just neet to be more carefull when aiming by watching your loverlap of pellets.

WishStar99 · Rookie Member Joined: Oct 16, 2006 Posts: 18

Thank you guys,

What does "number 4 shot" mean?

Irskii · Member Joined: Jul 14, 2005 Posts: 54

The best range that I know of is Prado, (Chino Hills or Corona, 71 and 91 Interchange) This is the range was built for the Olympics back in the day and is pretty clean. I beleive that they have instruction also. You can take a Hunter Safety Course at Rahaugies, (Norco CA), (I cant spell but that is close), They also offer sporting clays and instruction. I think that one of these two ranges would be a good place for you to start. If you plan on Hunting Turkey by Thanksgiving, you may want to get signed up for the HSC soon, No certificate, no License. # 4 shot is the size of the pellets in the shell, I use 7 1/2 or 8's for Dove and Quail. I am not sure as to where you are going to hunt Turkey in So. Cal. I have seen one in 25 years and that was before the fires a couple of years ago. I know that DFG has been attempting to Re-Introduce them in Big Bear and San Gorgornio but that it was rough going. Down San Diego way I understand they have larger populations. Hope this helps.

Tim

Dimitri · Super Member Joined: Nov 25, 2005 Posts: 5944

Dimitri

Handloader · Posted: Fri Oct 27, 2006 9:39 pm Post subject: Re: Need Advice For Newbie

WishStar99: if you want to save money and time while learning the techniques of shooting, buy some professional help. Most shotgun ranges have lessons available often taught by top notch shooters that have distinguished themselves in competition. For the price of only a few lessons you will save much effort/time compared to trying to master the shotgun via the internet. You will save money compared to buying and shooting the rounds needed to learn the lessons you could have bought cheaper.

That failing, find a mentor in your area that will give you a comprehensive introduction to the shooting skills you will want to acquire. Ask around at some of the shotgun ranges, be persistent and demonstrate a sincere desire to learn and, I predict, a mentor will be conjured forth.

Best of luck in your endeavors. Your enthusiasm is obvious; my comments are based on personal experience and observations.