dstig1
Super Member
- Joined
- Apr 7, 2010
- Messages
- 5,025
- Location
- W Wisc
- Tractor
- Kubota L5240 HSTC, JD X738 Mower, (Kubota L3130 HST - sold)
I couldn't agree more. It is just a lot more unlikely to have a bear attack down here because they are so scarce. I am much more likely to be bitten by an alligator than a bear. I am guessing that being bitten by an alligator while bushhogging is not a big concern where you live.
Oh yeah... lots of alligators here, but they turn into Allisicles in the winter, so they are easier to shoot before they defrost
my 2 cents on the armament, I think you would be well served with the shotgun, 12 guage and either slugs or 00 buckshot.. I also think a pump or semi-auto will do. and for a tractor gun, I would go with pump. for several reasons.
1: price. pump guns are usually cheaper than semi-autos
2: a tractor gun is going to collect grime, a pump is a little more forgiving of
dirt, and assorted filth.
3: more reliable overall especially with mixed loads of lower powered shells, and higher power ones.
I would keep it chamber empty on the tractor, with internal striker/hammer down, so it would not need to be "unlocked" to jack a shell in the chamber really quick, but be safe. ...
but still for a knock-about gun, I would go with a pump gun like an Remington 870 or Winchester 1300 or Mossberg 500 or something even older, but still in sound shape. Well that was more like 50 cents than 2 cents, but there you go.
James K0UA
Thanks for the tips. I got similar advice at the farm store I went to for a quick intro to get-oriented and figure this out. They said the same points about being stone simple reliable on the pumps. They only had like one semi auto on hand. Said they just don't sell many. I think that is the route I will go in the end here.
I am thinking that one of the shorter barrels that they said were considered "home defense" shotguns might be the right choice. Easier to find a place to store them and more maneuverable. Plus then it can become a home defense gun once we build out there.
Thanks,
Dave