Shotgun Review: OL Ranks the Best New Shotguns of 2011
We torture tested eight new shotguns in our 2011 Gun Test.
 Remington Versa Max
OVERALL RATING: Workmanship: B+ The Remington Versa Max has an innovative gas-operated action that regulates the amount of gas used to cycle the action based on the size of the shell (see “Innovations,” page 100). This ingenious design has only two moving parts and is about as bombproof as they come, which is one of the reasons the shotgun scored so high in the performance category. The 3 1⁄2-inch Versa Max likewise garnered high scores for its ergonomics, shootability and the easy way in which it can be adjusted to achieve a custom fit by altering the length of pull, comb height and drop and cast with a system that even the least mechanically inclined can master. It also managed recoil so well—thanks in large part to its cushy butt pad and soft cheekpiece insert—that the test team found it comfortable to shoot even with stiff waterfowl loads. The construction of the gun—with its grippy rubber inserts in the forend and stock, the extensive camo coverage and the internal use of corrosion-proof coatings and materials—makes it ideally suited for ducks and geese, though it points more nimbly than its nearly 8-pound weight would indicate, making it a viable option for upland work. To really excel in that arena, Remington needs to come out with a scaled-down 3-inch receiver, which I hope happens soon, as I think it would make for an outstanding all-around shotgun. With a suggested price of $1,599, the Versa Max should compete well against established 3 1⁄2-inch autoloaders. AdvertisementRelated Gear
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Comments (9)
I won't be ponying up big bucks for a new high-end gun until the kids are out of the house, but I still enjoy the reviews. I always check out the used racks and sometimes you can get a premium gun at a bargain price. It's nice to know how it should perform.
One of the most common complaints of the gun tests is the expense of the guns involved. One point to keep in mind is that the requirements to be a part of the test are very clear--the shotgun or rifle has to be new, not just a minor upgrade to an existing model. So the universe for what qualifies is pretty tight. When gun companies come out with less expensive models, we test all of them. But they also make higher-end guns as well--and we test those too.
Moishe,
The issue with the VersaMax was a tweak that needed to be made to the trigger plate assembly--a very small item and it only affected a couple hundred shotguns, all of which Remington has accounted for. So I wouldn't let that deter you one bit.
I have read bad reviews on early Versa Max, in fact tgey have recalled quite a few.
I have shot skeet with a Friends Beretta xplor light
And it is very good.
Thin28,
Average people are not the only ones who read these evaluations and those who can afford shotguns with a higher price tag appreciate valid evaluations too. Some regard fine firearms as more than a utilitarian tool, and appreciate nice wood, finely done engraving and gold inlays, as opposed to black matte and synthetic, or God forbid, camo.
I hear you both- truly- but look at this in a different light. These high end guns set a standard...and sooner or later, other gun companies start to make knock-offs that we can afford. Look at Stoeger....when they came out with their version of the inertia action, Benelli bought them. I have hunted an 11-87 for 10 years and love it...but am tempted by the Versa-Max...if and only if they do as the editor suggested and come out with a lighter version chambered only for 2 3/4 and 3" shells....don't need the weight of the 3 1/2 gun, and don't need to waste money on 3 1/2 shells.
Gee do I shoot geese with a home defense gun, maybe the Stoeger M3500 except will my finger get tired of that 9 lb pull but for the price I would have to opt for that, even the Benelli at 1649 is only a 3 year savings plan. Your test team must smoke crack thinking the average person can afford 5k for a gun or don't you expect the average person to read your articles. Maybe you should come up with new test plans, 1 for the rich, 2 for wealthy, 3 for moderate income and 4 just for those of us who still think we can afford to hunt.
Ok great shotguns...now lets see some shotguns that we can all actually afford!
Post a Comment (200 characters or less)
Ok great shotguns...now lets see some shotguns that we can all actually afford!
Gee do I shoot geese with a home defense gun, maybe the Stoeger M3500 except will my finger get tired of that 9 lb pull but for the price I would have to opt for that, even the Benelli at 1649 is only a 3 year savings plan. Your test team must smoke crack thinking the average person can afford 5k for a gun or don't you expect the average person to read your articles. Maybe you should come up with new test plans, 1 for the rich, 2 for wealthy, 3 for moderate income and 4 just for those of us who still think we can afford to hunt.
I hear you both- truly- but look at this in a different light. These high end guns set a standard...and sooner or later, other gun companies start to make knock-offs that we can afford. Look at Stoeger....when they came out with their version of the inertia action, Benelli bought them. I have hunted an 11-87 for 10 years and love it...but am tempted by the Versa-Max...if and only if they do as the editor suggested and come out with a lighter version chambered only for 2 3/4 and 3" shells....don't need the weight of the 3 1/2 gun, and don't need to waste money on 3 1/2 shells.
Thin28,
Average people are not the only ones who read these evaluations and those who can afford shotguns with a higher price tag appreciate valid evaluations too. Some regard fine firearms as more than a utilitarian tool, and appreciate nice wood, finely done engraving and gold inlays, as opposed to black matte and synthetic, or God forbid, camo.
Moishe,
The issue with the VersaMax was a tweak that needed to be made to the trigger plate assembly--a very small item and it only affected a couple hundred shotguns, all of which Remington has accounted for. So I wouldn't let that deter you one bit.
One of the most common complaints of the gun tests is the expense of the guns involved. One point to keep in mind is that the requirements to be a part of the test are very clear--the shotgun or rifle has to be new, not just a minor upgrade to an existing model. So the universe for what qualifies is pretty tight. When gun companies come out with less expensive models, we test all of them. But they also make higher-end guns as well--and we test those too.
I have shot skeet with a Friends Beretta xplor light
And it is very good.
I have read bad reviews on early Versa Max, in fact tgey have recalled quite a few.
I won't be ponying up big bucks for a new high-end gun until the kids are out of the house, but I still enjoy the reviews. I always check out the used racks and sometimes you can get a premium gun at a bargain price. It's nice to know how it should perform.
Post a Comment (200 characters or less)