OVER AND UNDER SHOTGUNS

Over-and-under shotguns

Highly popular and widely appreciated by many hunters for both sport shooting and hunting, over-and-under shotguns are the ideal firearm for shooting moving targets at short to medium range.

Over-and-under shotguns are therefore perfectly suited for small and medium game hunting, as well as for competitive shooting. With a wide variety of sizes, models and brands available, it is important to understand the advantages and disadvantages of over-and-under shotguns, their history, and everything you need to make an informed decision when purchasing one.

The origins of over-and-under shotguns

The first over-and-under shotguns appeared in the early 20th century. Before this period, gunsmiths did not have the technology or expertise required to manufacture this type of firearm. Despite several attempts, the presence of external hammers on the mechanisms prevented their development.

With the introduction of hammerless systems on side-by-side shotguns, a major technological breakthrough, the first over-and-under shotguns emerged, benefiting from this innovation.

Initially, over-and-under shotguns were primarily designed for bird hunting and sport shooting, thanks to their quick sighting rib and clear field of vision.

Over the years, the design of over-and-under shotguns has evolved significantly, with numerous improvements made to their construction and features.

Characteristics of an over-and-under shotgun

An over-and-under shotgun features two barrels aligned vertically, topped with a sighting rib.

Barrel length typically ranges from 60 to 80 cm. The chosen length will depend on the type of hunting you practice.

For example, for hunting in open fields, barrels are usually 70 or 76 cm long, whereas for other types of hunting, shorter barrels of 60 or 66 cm are generally preferred.

The stock of an over-and-under shotgun can be a pistol grip for better handling, or an English stock for faster mounting of the firearm, typically associated with double triggers.

Single-trigger over-and-under shotguns may be equipped with a selector, allowing the shooter to choose between firing the bottom or top barrel.

The characteristics of an over-and-under shotgun may vary depending on the model. It is therefore important to choose a shotgun suited to your needs and the type of hunting you practice.

Which over-and-under shotgun for which uses?

Over-and-under shotguns are generally used for hunting small game (pheasant, rabbit, woodcock, etc.). This type of hunting mainly involves the use of shot cartridges. The shorter the barrel, the wider the shot pattern, but with a more limited range.

Conversely, a longer barrel allows the shot pattern to remain tighter and reach greater distances, making it more suitable for longer-range shooting.

Finally, over-and-under shotguns are also widely used for waterfowl hunting. However, as the use of lead shot is prohibited in wet environments, steel shot or copper-plated cartridges must be used.

How to choose your over-and-under shotgun

When purchasing an over-and-under shotgun, it is important to consider several factors. First, you should determine the type of game you intend to hunt. Over-and-under shotguns can be used for various types of game, but certain models are better suited to specific hunting practices.

It is also important to consider the weight and length of the shotgun.
Finally, you should look at the customization options available. These may include sights, stocks, suppressors and other accessories designed to enhance the performance of your shotgun.

Several key factors should be taken into account when choosing an over-and-under shotgun:

• Comfort: ensure the shotgun is comfortable to hold and aim over long periods. It is important to choose a properly fitted stock that suits your build and is in good condition.
• Intended use: select a shotgun suited to your specific needs, including the type of hunting, the game and the shooting distance.
• Caliber and barrel: choose a caliber appropriate for your intended use and a barrel length suited to your hunting style.

Take your time to try different models and consult a firearms expert before making your final decision.

Calibers and barrels of over-and-under shotguns

Which caliber to choose?

The most popular calibers for over-and-under shotguns are 12 and 20. These are widely used because they offer a good balance of power and accuracy for hunting small game.

The 12 gauge is highly versatile, while the 20 gauge is lighter and appreciated for its precision and handling. It is important to note that caliber choice may also depend on the legislation in your country or region, so be sure to check local laws and regulations before making a final decision.

Which barrel length should you choose?

A standard barrel measures 700 mm and is suitable for most types of hunting.

However, for short-range hunting, a 600 mm barrel is often more practical due to its compactness and improved handling. Woodcock hunting is particularly well suited to this type of barrel.

On the other hand, for long-range shooting, such as migratory bird hunting, a longer barrel improves shot reach. A 76 cm barrel is therefore more effective for this type of hunting.

Composition of Chapuis over-and-under shotguns

Chapuis over-and-under shotguns are perfectly suited for small game hunting, with barrel lengths ranging from 60 to 80 cm. The action is machined from a solid block of high-strength forged steel, ensuring excellent durability.

Advantages of over-and-under shotguns

One of the main advantages of over-and-under shotguns is their accuracy. The two vertically aligned barrels help compensate for aiming errors, making them an ideal choice for experienced hunters.

They are also highly versatile and suitable for hunting a wide variety of game.

With this type of shotgun, a second shot can be taken quickly. The second shot can offer greater range, allowing you to reach game that may have moved after the first shot.

The pistol grip or English stock, as well as the tulip-shaped or rounded forend, are crafted from carefully selected walnut to create exceptional shotguns.

Several finishes and barrel lengths are available, ensuring you can find the over-and-under shotgun that best suits your needs.

Maintaining your over-and-under shotgun

To ensure the reliability, durability and performance of your over-and-under shotgun, proper maintenance is essential.

After each hunting session, clean the barrels, chambers and moving parts using a suitable firearm cleaner and a clean cloth to prevent corrosion and malfunctions.

Use a cleaning rod with a stiff brush to clean the inside of the barrels, and lubricate moving parts with light oil to ensure smooth operation.

Store your firearm in a dry place and protect it with a case when not in use. It is recommended to have your shotgun checked annually by a professional gunsmith to ensure it remains in proper working condition.

Price of an over-and-under shotgun

The price of an over-and-under shotgun can vary significantly depending on several factors, such as the brand, materials used, technical features and additional options.

Prices can range from around €500 to several thousand euros. It is recommended to carry out thorough research and compare different models before purchasing, in order to find the shotgun that best meets your needs and budget.