Shotguns can take quite a hammering during the season. We don’t always take as much care of them as we should and there is nothing worse than a fault developing in the middle of a shoot. So here are a few hints for a trouble-free season

 

Little faults left unattended at the start of the season can soon develop into major problems, so make sure everything is clean and oiled before you sta

The action of the gun should be cleared of any debris, such as brass shavings from cartridges, dirt etc.

It is a good idea to grease the pivot points so the gun opens easily without the grinding of metal. 

Take a look into the pin holes, if you can see irregular firing pin protrusion, or perhaps damaged pins, ensure a gunsmith takes a look at them. Some pins over time will develop craters in the tips which can simply be polished out, these are caused by over long pins cutting into the cartridge primer and may cause the pin the break in time.

Check the barrels both inside and out, whilst a rib may not be dented, it may be rusty underneath, which is reasonably difficult to remedy. The bore of each barrel should be checked for excessive fouling and before the season I usually give each barrel a good scrub with a nitro solvent and plastic remover. It is a good idea when using these products to leave the barrels to sit for a while with each chemical. This will soak into the fouling and help loosen it. If your barrels are rusty, for example after wildfowling, use gun oil on fine grade wire wool and lightly rub the affected areas, this will strip off the rust but be careful not to remove the blacking.

Chokes are very important and not just for pattern of shot. They can be rusted and welded into the bore if they are neglected. Make a habit of cleaning them after every shoot. No matter what you are told, lead, plastic and carbon are forced into the thread and can corrode the chokes into place. Always ensure your chokes are tight before firing.

The ejectors on shotguns are not easily damaged, but are worth checking and oiling to ensure good functionality. On some guns they are easily removed, but make sure you are shown properly before you attempt removing any part of your shotgun.

Safety catches are mechanical, and mechanical failure does happen. So never trust your safety catch, but ensure that it is working properly. Some safety catches have barrel selector switches incorporated; ensure you know the function of this device and that it is set on the correct barrel.

Triggers may be altered on some guns. If your triggers are adjustable this should be pointed out to your instructor when having a fitting lesson.

The stock has many features which are beyond the scope of this article to discuss, thought they should be checked to ensure the gun fits well and is above all comfortable and helping you achieve good shots with little effort. 

Butt pads are pretty important to any shotgun owner. Obviously some pads are designed to reduce recoil but if they are too soft the gun may feel uncomfortable upon firing, it may even result in a shot being misplaced. The shape of the butt pad (straight or curved) may also influence your shooting. Be aware ladies, a curved pad may also nip you.  

Fit for action

There is one certain way to improve your shooting this season – if you haven’t already done so, get your gun fitted. Remember, you can only shoot comfortably and accurately if the gun is properly fitted, so a little time and money spent now could save hours of regret at the end of the season.