Looking for a new 20 or 16 gauge side by side shotgun...your opinions are welcomed!

Keep'er Movin

Keep'er Movin

New member
I'm looking at purchasing a new 20 or 16 gauge side by side. I already own a SKB 385 12 gauge and a Fausti BC 500 in 28 gauge...both of which I enjoy very much. The models I am looking at are the Fausti BC 500, The Rizzini BR552, or the FAIR Iside deluxe. The only one I've shouldered is the Fausti and it fit well. As far as I can tell, this model Fausti may be a Cabelas/Bass Pro exclusive as I have not seen this model sold anywhere else. Can anyone tell me about the Rizzini or the FAIR? Can anyone compare how they shoulder or their sight picture to other side by sides they may have used or owned? Any other suggestions for a 20 or a 16 gauge SxS that I may be missing? I know the Fausti only comes in a 20 gauge. I want a single trigger, choke tubes, and something around the 6 1/2 lb mark for weight. Thanks. I look forward to hearing your suggestions.
 
I applaud your choice of SxS, but differ in makes. I prefer classics the classics Parker, Winchester, Fox, Lefever, LC. Man..if guns could talk. Browning BSS as well. Regardless best of luck those guns you mentioned sure are beautiful.
 
I would choose the BR 552 in 16 gauge -- and then you will have something pretty special on your hands. I own both B. Rizzini and Fausti guns, both are very well-made but the B. Rizzini has just a bit more original flair to it, less of a machine-made feel. At those price points you should also seriously consider an Upland Gun Company (https://uplandguncompany.com/) sxs, which can offer a level of customization nobody else can match at their prices.
 
Tomahawker said:
I applaud your choice of SxS, but differ in makes. I prefer classics the classics Parker, Winchester, Fox, Lefever, LC. Man..if guns could talk. Browning BSS as well. Regardless best of luck those guns you mentioned sure are beautiful.
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I just sold a Winchester model 23 pigeon grade XTR new in box 12 gauge with a full set of six win chokes and the wooden wrench, box, manual, hang tags, etc. it was a beauty and had exceptional wood to boot.
 
I have a FAIR Iside 16 ga. Basic model with double triggers. Its a great gun, but fit and finish aren’t “great”. I have an Ithaca (SKB) 20 gauge that is pretty nice. Been looking at an Aya and Ugartheca on gunbroker in 16 ga as well. Love the classics, but those Faustis and Rizzinis are nice.
 
I went back to old school this year with my SKB 200E 20ga. that I bought for $375 forty-five years ago. I like walking the prairie with it, Huns respect it. Find a used one if you shoot yours well. You will know when it’s right because you will consistently kill with it without thinking.
The SKB has kept the Berettas in the safe. Enjoy your choice.
 
Tomahawker said:
I applaud your choice of SxS, but differ in makes. I prefer classics the classics Parker, Winchester, Fox, Lefever, LC. Man..if guns could talk. Browning BSS as well. Regardless best of luck those guns you mentioned sure are beautiful.
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LC Smith for the win! A nice Pre-1913 graded gun in 16 would be a dream to hunt with.
 

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Merkel 1620s on the used market is another option. 16 on their 20 frame. What I’ve dorked around with buying older used, I could have combined dollars for a Merkel.

That said, older used are not a bad option.

My “new” 110 year old 16 this weekend.

Dpc9zTG.jpeg


Twin sister 16 but only 105 years old
https://imgur.com/2wRQQB3

Ugartechea 20s are also solid.

 
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cheesy said:
Merkel 1620s on the used market is another option. 16 on their 20 frame. What I’ve dirhed around buying older used, I could have combined for a Merkel.

That said, older used are not a bad option.

My “new” 110 year old 16 this weekend.

Dpc9zTG.jpeg


Twin sister 16 but only 105 years old
https://imgur.com/2wRQQB3

Ugartechea 20s are also solid.

Click to expand...
What is that first one?
 
Obi_Wan said:
What is that first one?
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It isn’t marked. I’m guessing it’s a Sauer forging and then finished by a small shop. A guild gun, even if the German gurus get upset saying that. The action of my top two pictures are identical, just the engraving and accoutrements are different between them.
 
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