No showstoppers, but a diverse mix will appeal to a broad range of shooters.
Feb 1, 2004
Although no shotgun leaps out as a bona fide showstopper, this year's new offerings present a diverse mix that will appeal to a broad spectrum of shooters. The trend toward new sub-gauge models for clay-target shooting is quite evident, and large-gauge gun lines receive some interesting refinements. New law enforcement and tactical shotguns reflect the continuing interest in security.
Beretta USA
Gas-operated, semi-auto 12-gauge shotguns will now be available in Realtree Advantage Max-4 HD camouflage. The AL391 Urika (SRP: starting at $1,141)
is offered with a 28-inch vent-ribbed barrel and the 3.5-inch Xtrema will be available with barrels of 26, 28 and 30 inches with an SRP starting at $1,298. The AL391 Teknys sporting-clays 12-gauge semi-auto will be offered in a trap version as the Teknys Gold Trap with either a 30- or a 32-inch barrel. SRP: $1,625.
Beretta's over/under Silver Pigeon line receives a cosmetic upgrade this year. The Silver Pigeon III (SRP: $2,392) gets a newer, more ornate engraving pattern, while the Silver Pigeon V (SRP: $3,312) offers a select walnut stock, Color-Case receiver and a gold game scene on the side-plates. Booth #4251. (800-797-2205; www.berettausa.com)
FNH USA, Inc.
Designed specifically as an upper-level tactical shotgun for law enforcement use, the FN TPS (Tactical Police Shotgun) carries all the standard features of the pump-action FN Police Shotgun line, including a four-lug rotary-bolt design that locks directly to the barrel (to allow quick disengagement for fast follow-up shots), two supplied choke tubes and the ability to utilize optional choke systems.
The FN TPS is an upgraded version incorporating a pistol grip, collapsible buttstock and ported barrel. This compact version weighs in at 6.5 pounds. Combat sights are standard and the TPS is drilled and tapped to accept the Mil Standard 1913 rail-system receiver mount for
the optional C-More tactical sight that has been designed to co-
witness the iron sights. Chambered for 2¾-inch shells, it is available with a 14-inch barrel (four-round magazine capacity) and an 18-inch barrel (seven-round magazine capacity). Parkerized and anodized finishes provide low light reflection and maximum corrosion protection. SRP: From $730. Booth #1301. (703-288-1292; www.fnhusa.com)
H&R 1871
New this year is the 12-gauge Topper Deluxe Classic. The 28-inch-barrel, break-open single-shot features a vent-rib barrel, screw-in choke tube (modified tube supplied), a nickel-plated receiver, American walnut stock and a ventilated recoil pad. SRP: $213. Booth #327. (203-239-5621; www.marlin
firearms.com)
Ithaca Gun Company
The 12-gauge, pump-action Ithaca Model 37 Military & Police Model was virtually identical in outward appearance to the standard Model 37, but with one very different feature-it had what was referred to as the "Slam Fire" trigger mechanism. This made it very popular with a number of law enforcement officers, and it was the shotgun of choice for Vietnam-era U.S. Navy SEALS. This model was discontinued a number of years back, but will be reintroduced at the 2004 SHOT Show.
The Defender Storm Police Special (DSPS) will come in two configurations, a five-shot, 18½-inch barrel and an eight-shot, 20-inch barrel. Each will be available with either a military-style front brass bead or with a Hi-Viz tactical fiber-optic front sight. At this time the DSPS will only be available to law-enforcement agencies, though a civilian model will probably follow, without the Slam-Fire trigger. SRP
was not available at press time. Booth #132. (888-984-4222; www.ithacagun.com)
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