Takes me back to being a trainee keeper. I came into the job with a side by side and my headkeeper said try an over and under, far better gun to shoot successfully with. My headkeeper was a Miroku user and three of the beatkeepers had Beretta s685’s of which I bought the same model. My headkeeper taught the late Duke of Roxburghe how to shoot and said that he would have been an ever better shot if he converted to over and unders. RIP Headkeeper Jimmy Nairn andHis Grace 10th Duke of Roxburghe. Always enjoy the craic between you all. All the best from Scotland 🏴 GD
This is so fascinating. A side by side is a paintbrush and an over-under a hammer. Here in the United States, a pump action is a hammer, a semi-auto is a really nice hammer, and an over-under is a fancy man gun. Really nice side by sides are rarely, if ever seen in the cornfields and grassy fields of the western states. I mostly see the Turkish made side by sides and it would be hard to call them any better than the various pumps and autos you run across. One more reason I enjoy your videos. Thank you!
I’ve been hunting upland game with a 26” SKB SxS IC/Mod (quarter/half chokes for my British friends) in 12 bore for 41 years now and ❤️ it. I’ve taken thousands of dove, quail, pheasant, chukar, cotton tail, jackrabbit, grey squirrel, opossum, ducks, geese, skeet, trap and sporting clays with that gun. I would never trade it for anything. I own a .410 and a 20ga SxS as well. But I also love my O/U’s as well!
I started with an 870 Wingmaster in 12 gauge, then went to Antonio Zoli field grade over/under which I modified to fit me. Then after forty years, due to friends challenging me to change, I went to a 16 gauge AND went to a Fox Sterlingworth and an Ithaca NID. Being bludgeoned AGAIN by said friends, I then changed to a CZ Bobwhite 26" barreled 28 gauge. I now shoot better trap, skeet, and live birds with a side by side than I ever did with all of the others combined! Also, I am no longer a spring chicken and appreciate the weight reduction and faster swing that I get with the side by side. Also a tip for those with esoteric taste in sub gauges: Never put a 16 gauge in a dark enclosed gun cabinet; they tend to multiply on you without looking. 😵🤣😁
All comes down to personal preference and what feels best for you. I started with a semi auto, then added a single barrel hammer for a year before replacing that with my current spanish side by side which I very much enjoy shooting. I've recently added an over/under and am struggling a bit with that to be honest. The side by side feels more natural and civilised to me, so the results have tended to be better.
@@Willenium2k4 SxS can be easier in some ways. I went to O/U first and it was much harder to go for me to SxS from there. One month of 10 out of 25 to finally start hitting targets.
I think I'm basically the opposite of that, but following a similar trend. I've shot ok enough with my spanish boxlock, but since adding the O/U at the dust of December, I've been struggling to hit more than a handful out of 25. I'm getting there slowly, but it's costing loads in cartridges to adapt 🙈
SxS is better for hunting in so many ways. O/U are best for trap, sleet and sporting clays when shooting 100 plus shells per outing. I have and use both, though I hit more birds and clays with a SxS up to 100 shots fired. After that my shoulder has had enough with the SxS and I start to flinch. My 12 guage SxS is around 6 pounds, my OU is almost 8.5. The difference in recoil does become noticeable when shooting a lot. That said I still prefer the SxS.
I think, as noted, a lot of the performance comes down to stock fit. A short, low comb side by side can get tiring pretty quickly on targets, especially if it is light in weight. But for bobwhite quail where it is carried more than shot, it comes into its own.
Johnny, G'Day from Western Australia. I enjoy your channel. I shoot a 1956 Browning Superposed, My father (103 years old) has a 1890's Henry Atkin which I used to shoot simulated field with and was our "farm gun" for many years - beautiful gun although not ornate. Sadly we can't easily source 2 1/2" shells in Australia anymore. No question, SxS beats O&U for me. One note from one who is (just) the wrong side of 60 years - you are not old for a long time - the older you get, the faster time runs. Do what you want to do now before the opportunity evaporates. Cheers and keep up the good work., Jim
"Plenty of time to be an old man"? I take umbrage at that! At 77, life is too short to not experience all it has to offer! S/S, O/U, single, bolt action, pump, lever, semi-auto, they all have their place! PS: love the banter!
I started shooting when I was 13. I borrowed an over & under for a few months until I was given a short 26" barrelled side by side which I shot very well. I now own a few more side by sides including a 120yr old C&H which I shoot more than any other gun. I'm now 26 and have only just this week bought my first over & under just because I'm finding myself shooting more clays than anything else now, only for the fact that I just don't see anyone else using side by sides on a clay ground or even in the field now here in the uk. Why is that? I know no-one in my age group that uses them but I still rather shoot a side by side than an over & under
You are hanging around with the wrong group, of all the people I shoot with only one has a over and under, the rest of use side x side or single shot. I was up north and was watching them shoot skeet, there was one young guy with a single shot, and most of the others all had very high priced double barrels, and that young guy out shot them all, and he was a hunter not a skeet shooter. I have never seen any one shoot and reload so fast. I never for get one of the man, shaking his head, saying here I have a top of the line shotgun and this kid with a cheep single snot put me to shame, holding his shotgun up and saying what a waste of money.
I started at about age 11-12 on side by sides, since then I’ve had all sorts including dozens of o/us right up to a dt10 and grade 6 browning. I’ve now gone back to shooting clays with a 26” side lock s/s 😂 I love the fact it feels like a wand and is so fast, I love the fact that every time I clay shoot with it at least one person makes some sort of comment and if I use 21g shells it doesn’t kick me to bits. Also if I shoot 75% with it I feel like I’ve just won a major competition, I could shoot 80% with the clay guns and be disappointed. Bring back the gentleman’s guns 😊
Do not know why they call the side X side a gentleman's gun, most of the people I know who have them are more like hillbillies and farmers, and the ones with over and under are the fancy dressers with all the fancy vests, jackets and hats, for shooting.
Having owned and shot plebeian Browning & Beretta under/over doubles, Beretta auto, Remington & Ithaca pumps, then selling all of them, getting fitted, and acquiring English & Basque 12, 16, 20 bore side-by-side game guns; followed by lessons with Ken Davies (Holland & Holland) and Dale Tate (James Purdey) to learn how to shoot them, I have to agree with Simon Reinhold, the side-by-side game gun is "not your standard roadside faire" and "a lot more fun" to shoot! I have a window sticker given to me by a friend stateside that reads, "If God intended for us to shoot over/unders, He wouldn't have placed our eyes Side-By Side." More episodes with Mr. Reinhold, and vintage and contemporary SxS game guns will be appreciated, thank you. Thanks, too, for a wonderful, thought-provoking and entertaining channel.
Very interesting video, as always. Love the back-and-forth. Here in the states, those few of us who hunt with side by sides are more than willing to put payloads of 1 1/2 oz of shot through them to make them "hammers."
I can kill game just as well with a single barrel with a 1/2 choke. It's s×s for me because of the elegance and gentlemen way they look and handle. Tradition is a lost cause for most.
Brilliant video as always chaps 👏 The age old debate rumbles on .... So what can we take from this ? Every gentleman's cabinet should house at least one of each. The O/U, the S/S, and the Furry Hat of Shame ... 😂
What’s again a fun and interesting video TGS !! I keep thinking about getting a side-by-side just for game shooting two times a year. So I fell more as a gentleman on the peg. 👍
I own a Webley & Scott 700 SxS and a Browning B25 OU both about 60 years old. They are both light and handy to shoot. I think the SxS has the edge when shooting rabbit clays as the layout of the barrel provides a nice horizontal sight plane when swinging through but on other clay targets there is nothing between them. Buy both enjoy both.
I have always shot side by side a nice Spanish gun mark with a church hill rib has a advantage although my William Powell sovereign is modern day and works a treat , on cleys I use browning over and under 🤣😬. Great video well explained !!
Something in this video I've never noticed before. Both of you post your guns far higher on the shoulder that I was taught. My teacher was a waist gunner on a B-17 heavy bombers. His original training consisted of riding in the bed of a flat bed truck while facing forward as the truck moved forward at road speed. Clays were thrown backwards as the truck passed. The gunner was required to spin about and hit the clays.
I have 2 side by side a 12 gage and a 20 gage, bough have double triggers. Witch is great for hunting. You have two different chokes and can pick the one you want, when needed. One for close shots and the other for longer shots. If you want to get use to the kick just get one of the older single shots, after shooting the one I had, the side by side, was a dream to shoot. Over and under are great for the women and smaller framed, as long as you do not mind caring the extra weight, and loosing the advantage of not being able to pick witch barrel you want to shoot.
👍 These two guys crack me up. My guess is that spending a day at the range with them or afield with them would be a very enjoyable day. Isn’t that what shooting is meant to be about?
9:20 I understand the speaking to the heart, here is a bad and quick made poem to the side by side- In the briar fields of old Kentucky, Where the Bob White quail take flight, And Appalachian mountain ruffed grouse Flush from cover with a sudden might, Our red setters are on the scent, Noses to the ground, tails held high, Their keen instincts honed by generations Of tracking beneath the sky. Wet boots trudge grass and thistle, As we follow the wild pack, And listen for the telltale whistle Of a covey rise and flap. And in our hands, the trusty tools That Ansley H. Fox and Parker did make, The Side-by-side do we abide, A classic choice for every stake. For in these moments, out in the wilds and wooly, We feel a connection to the land, And honor the traditions of our forebears in times unruly. Who knew the earth, understood its command. So here's to the briar fields of old Kentucky, And to the memories they create, As we pursue our culture of the hunt, And savor the food it makes.
Really good vid as usual, would not expect anything else from you two. My first experience with a SxS was in the 70's when I was in my teens with my mates dad. The gun felt like a cannon but it was a great experience. I have two O/U's and love them both and an old non descript Spanish offering from 1967 which surprisingly has really good barrels, they almost look new. I love shooting the SxS as it just feels right and good for me. I am a rifle shooter by my life's experience and was a very good at that sport. At the end of the day which comes to quick for a lot of peeps at my age go and have a go with as many guns as you can. I wish I had got my SGC at least ten years earlier as it is a fantastic sport and a great hobby. SHame about the rising prices though as it is becoming a bit prohibitive. But anyway go and enjoy. Cheers guys!!!
I like this video especially! Not only guns, but shooters personal feel and opinion is showed as well. :) I don't know why, but I like the Prince of Wales grip the most, something sweet spot between the streight English and full pistol grip.
In the last 6 months I've given attention and respect to a stunning Victor Sarasqueta 7E, a Pedersoli La Bohemienne hammer, Huglu HRZ201 hammer and a Yildiz Wildfowler. Ant needs to shoot more of them and learn to love, they are things of beauty
I'm 31 and only shoot a sxs and minimum of 30g cartridges in them unless I got my old hammer Damascus barreled BP proof English gun out then I lighten up the load a bit
For me waterfowl is all about gas operated camouflaged 12 gauge. Woodcock over my pointer is where sub gauge sxs would be nice. My only sxs is 12 and they do kick like the dickens with heavy game loads, forget about buck or slugs.
you two are great to listen to, the banter is great, plus you actually know what you are talking about, I am surprised that new side x sides are available so the market must be there for them, I have to say even if Ant had a SxS in the cabinet I don't think he would take it out very often 😂😂 but then he is used to big heavy things (apparently)
I’m looking at buying one of these as a second gun. I really want a SXS but it will exclusively be used for clays and I’m worried about the lack of a recoil pad coupled with quite a light gun. How is it in your experience?
@@GazHeaven I use 28 grams loads, normally a 7.5 shot, Personally I don’t find a hard or wood butt a problem but if you’re susceptible to recoil I would probably take it to a gunsmith and have a pad fitted or maybe shot a lighter load like 24 gram
I have a old Savage fox model B 16 guage and I feel like I just can't miss with it, I'm from the US and spend more time walking than shooting it makes it feel like I can smoke anything from 10 yards to 60, but it's old and I can't use steel but bismuth does wonders out of it. Used it on ducks last year and was hitting doubles faster than the 12 and 20 guage guys
Your videos got me into shooting in 2020 and I got my licence in 2021, apart from a Benelli Semi I don't own a O/U. I have three AYA S/S and joined a local DIY shoot last season, and was the only S/S user. By January four of the eight guns were using S/S, why would a gentleman not? (Edit) Will be getting a steel proof S/S in the next year or so, but I'd like to get a nice one.
I've just fell in love with a Aya no3 magnum it fits me like a glove so much so I've had the chokes opened up to 3/8s I'm just having the stock stripped and refinished and a new pad fitted the gun didn't cost a lot but it's going to be partner on the foreshore for the forseable future it excites me a lot more than using my semi saying that's perhaps I'm becoming a old man lol
I have a side by side 20ga. It's a fun gun but not particularly useful for hunting in my area. It could take quail probably. My 1959 Winchester Model 12 12ga with a 30" barrel is the go to for pheasant, duck, goose, and deer.
Growing up in the states all of my hunting friends shot pumps (me) or semi's. I never have shot a side by side and my only exposure to them was watching westerns. There was nothing elegant about the S X S's. They were only good for blowing the bad guys through the bar room doors. The first time I saw an O/U I thought they looked great, had to have one and finally got one. One side by side that intrigues me is the Fabarm Autumn.
You gentlemen crack me up. Side x side is the ultimate bird gun over here in Texas. I own several side x side guns with and without hammers and my friends shoot o/u their worn out from carrying those heavy guns on a hunt.
All shotguns are hand grenades... and all guns are Tools. I own and shoot (all 12bore): O/U SxS Semi Pump Martini Bolt . I shoot both clays and game, some of my guns are not practical, some are better suited to a purpose.... but all are bloody good fun. When I take the SxS clay shooting, my mates shout "ere gettoff ma tractor" 🤣
I prefer to look at a nice sxs, and shoot an o/u for clays , for game there is an argument for both as an old miroku game gun or 101 game gun is heaven in the field, but something so nice about an old sxs in the field
If I had the option between my old Parker Brothers side by side and my Webley & Scott 900 O/U I would take the Webley almost every time only because the fore-end is bigger and I shoot enough ammo that both guns' barrels get very unpleasant to touch. However, at the moment I don't have a choice and have to shoot the Parker (which is still one of my favorite guns to shoot clays with despite the double triggers) because my Webley decided to fire its firing pin out the end while was shooting.
I do like the look of that W&S just not a fan of the scroll back action it’s certainly appealing at that price sitting above the RFMs and under the franchi aspire
I love SxS, but they're part of the culture here in the US, because of all the Old West style TV shows and movies, coach guns and things. You see them everywhere on TV and that fixes the design in people's minds. Besides, an over-under doesn't work with short barrels too well (not enough leverage to easily open the action) whereas a side by side can be opened easily, even with 20 inch barrels, and is pretty goof proof with a single trigger setup. So all those people looking for "home defense" see them as an option.
As an American who grew up with guns/weapons in the house, there is absolutely nothing I can take seriously when it comes to you brits talking about firearms. That being said, good dialog here. And quite entertaining. Tyvm
Goes to E.J. Churchill shooting ground... bring a Webley SxS ? - I'm sure Churchill must have had a nicer-loaner floating around... On a side note, if Ant likes to blow stuff (and use grenade). Time to switch from a O/U to Benelli M4 ;-) And while I do enjoy blowing up stuff, if I'm going in the woods to chase birds. I'll usually pick double-trigger, shorter barrel SxS. It just feels right.
Sorry, wrong! SXS's rock. I'm a sporting clays shooter and I do have a couple O/U's (Guerini Magnus and Forum), but I prefer to shoot my British SXS's at clays. Everything is smooth and effortless. Ok, you have to throttle back some because they're so quick. Since I'm 6' 2", with high cheekbones, not one of my guns fit me when I got them. They all now wear Recoil Systems ISIS Cheek Raisers and either have slip on or fitted recoil pads. Oh, and no need for heavy cartridges. 24 or 28 grams at about 1150fps (350 mps) is plenty.
It is my understanding that the current incarnation of W&S imports most of its shotguns from Turkey, so it's possible that model may be available in the US under another brand. However, since I have no idea exactly who makes them or which American brands they might be sold under, that probably isn't super useful to you.
The side-by-side recoils to the side of the fired barrel, -- more distinctly if you use heavier cartridges. The Over-Under recoils straight up, the upper barrel more than the lower. The side-by-side is more liked by those people for whom precision is less important. A gentleman is by definition one who can control his frustration. A side-by-side is an instrument to develop your gentlemanliness. A side-by-side pleases a B-type personality. An O/U pleases more an A-type personality. B-type personalities live longer. A-type personalities win competitions. Side-by-side (especially if they are gorgeous) any day... (Except against clay when women are present.)
I believe that the o/u fan’s last words answered the question. It’s a generational matter. With the introduction of the o/u into target shooting, the side by side took a back seat. The younger generations do not value traditional themes. They want to have things more of THEIR making. It’s comical when you see many of the younger crowd participate in a driven shoot decked to the nines in “high end” traditional tweed garb from head to toe including the gentleman’s tie. 👍🇨🇦👨🦳
I still dont get why choose one or the other? Why is the clay shooting sports in Olympics only O/U? I see most hunters going for anything bigger than a goose use SxS. Why is that?
Let's agree that if you want to eat game, there is nothing like a side by side. But if you want to be on the winners side in clays, an over and under is your only choise.Thank you in advance.
Great video guys. Always love banter between you two. When I think of side by side I think light, whippy and kick like and annoying little brother. I have not had a chance to shoot a modern version and I am kinda look forward to trying one.
Started long ago with side by sides (12 and 20g)and rarely missed on driven days and rough shoots (usually clean kills). Experimented with o/u 12 and 20g for a few years but everything i hit was arse ended; so back to the old faithful. Agree that lines and flow of side by sides are made for game and are way classier. Go smash clays with o/us.
And don't forget that if you use a side by side, you already have your first excuse for missing stuff.
Lost count of the years I’ve been using this excuse 😂 if your going to miss, you might as miss in style!
I was taught to shoot my my dear grandfather and that was his favourite thing to say to me, miss it with style. Thanks for that memory 👍
I Shoot 10 shots on 10 partridge with side by side and hit all of them
👜👜
Yep , built in excuse and totally free of charge 🧐🥴
Takes me back to being a trainee keeper. I came into the job with a side by side and my headkeeper said try an over and under, far better gun to shoot successfully with. My headkeeper was a Miroku user and three of the beatkeepers had Beretta s685’s of which I bought the same model. My headkeeper taught the late Duke of Roxburghe how to shoot and said that he would have been an ever better shot if he converted to over and unders. RIP Headkeeper Jimmy Nairn andHis Grace 10th Duke of Roxburghe. Always enjoy the craic between you all. All the best from Scotland 🏴 GD
"What I'm shooting at won't die as much" 😂😂😂
This is so fascinating. A side by side is a paintbrush and an over-under a hammer. Here in the United States, a pump action is a hammer, a semi-auto is a really nice hammer, and an over-under is a fancy man gun. Really nice side by sides are rarely, if ever seen in the cornfields and grassy fields of the western states. I mostly see the Turkish made side by sides and it would be hard to call them any better than the various pumps and autos you run across. One more reason I enjoy your videos. Thank you!
I’ve been hunting upland game with a 26” SKB SxS IC/Mod (quarter/half chokes for my British friends) in 12 bore for 41 years now and ❤️ it. I’ve taken thousands of dove, quail, pheasant, chukar, cotton tail, jackrabbit, grey squirrel, opossum, ducks, geese, skeet, trap and sporting clays with that gun. I would never trade it for anything. I own a .410 and a 20ga SxS as well.
But I also love my O/U’s as well!
I started with an 870 Wingmaster in 12 gauge, then went to Antonio Zoli field grade over/under which I modified to fit me.
Then after forty years, due to friends challenging me to change, I went to a 16 gauge AND went to a Fox Sterlingworth and an Ithaca NID. Being bludgeoned AGAIN by said friends,
I then changed to a CZ Bobwhite 26" barreled 28 gauge.
I now shoot better trap, skeet, and live birds with a side by side than I ever did with all of the others combined!
Also, I am no longer a spring chicken and appreciate the weight reduction and faster swing that I get with the side by side.
Also a tip for those with esoteric taste in sub gauges:
Never put a 16 gauge in a dark enclosed gun cabinet; they tend to multiply on you without looking. 😵🤣😁
Would you recommend a beginner start with a side by side
@@stocks4bt
Depends on the type of shooting you are doing. For game, yes I would recommend a SxS. For competition I would go with an O/U.
All comes down to personal preference and what feels best for you. I started with a semi auto, then added a single barrel hammer for a year before replacing that with my current spanish side by side which I very much enjoy shooting. I've recently added an over/under and am struggling a bit with that to be honest. The side by side feels more natural and civilised to me, so the results have tended to be better.
@@Willenium2k4
SxS can be easier in some ways.
I went to O/U first and it was much harder to go for me to SxS from there.
One month of 10 out of 25 to finally start hitting targets.
I think I'm basically the opposite of that, but following a similar trend. I've shot ok enough with my spanish boxlock, but since adding the O/U at the dust of December, I've been struggling to hit more than a handful out of 25. I'm getting there slowly, but it's costing loads in cartridges to adapt 🙈
SxS is better for hunting in so many ways. O/U are best for trap, sleet and sporting clays when shooting 100 plus shells per outing. I have and use both, though I hit more birds and clays with a SxS up to 100 shots fired. After that my shoulder has had enough with the SxS and I start to flinch. My 12 guage SxS is around 6 pounds, my OU is almost 8.5. The difference in recoil does become noticeable when shooting a lot. That said I still prefer the SxS.
I think, as noted, a lot of the performance comes down to stock fit. A short, low comb side by side can get tiring pretty quickly on targets, especially if it is light in weight. But for bobwhite quail where it is carried more than shot, it comes into its own.
Johnny, G'Day from Western Australia. I enjoy your channel. I shoot a 1956 Browning Superposed, My father (103 years old) has a 1890's Henry Atkin which I used to shoot simulated field with and was our "farm gun" for many years - beautiful gun although not ornate. Sadly we can't easily source 2 1/2" shells in Australia anymore. No question, SxS beats O&U for me. One note from one who is (just) the wrong side of 60 years - you are not old for a long time - the older you get, the faster time runs. Do what you want to do now before the opportunity evaporates. Cheers and keep up the good work., Jim
"Plenty of time to be an old man"? I take umbrage at that! At 77, life is too short to not experience all it has to offer! S/S, O/U, single, bolt action, pump, lever, semi-auto, they all have their place! PS: love the banter!
I started shooting when I was 13. I borrowed an over & under for a few months until I was given a short 26" barrelled side by side which I shot very well. I now own a few more side by sides including a 120yr old C&H which I shoot more than any other gun. I'm now 26 and have only just this week bought my first over & under just because I'm finding myself shooting more clays than anything else now, only for the fact that I just don't see anyone else using side by sides on a clay ground or even in the field now here in the uk. Why is that? I know no-one in my age group that uses them but I still rather shoot a side by side than an over & under
You are hanging around with the wrong group, of all the people I shoot with only one has a over and under, the rest of use side x side or single shot. I was up north and was watching them shoot skeet, there was one young guy with a single shot, and most of the others all had very high priced double barrels, and that young guy out shot them all, and he was a hunter not a skeet shooter. I have never seen any one shoot and reload so fast. I never for get one of the man, shaking his head, saying here I have a top of the line shotgun and this kid with a cheep single snot put me to shame, holding his shotgun up and saying what a waste of money.
I started at about age 11-12 on side by sides, since then I’ve had all sorts including dozens of o/us right up to a dt10 and grade 6 browning. I’ve now gone back to shooting clays with a 26” side lock s/s 😂 I love the fact it feels like a wand and is so fast, I love the fact that every time I clay shoot with it at least one person makes some sort of comment and if I use 21g shells it doesn’t kick me to bits. Also if I shoot 75% with it I feel like I’ve just won a major competition, I could shoot 80% with the clay guns and be disappointed.
Bring back the gentleman’s guns 😊
Do not know why they call the side X side a gentleman's gun, most of the people I know who have them are more like hillbillies and farmers, and the ones with over and under are the fancy dressers with all the fancy vests, jackets and hats, for shooting.
@@hiltonmcconnell2563In the US?
Having owned and shot plebeian Browning & Beretta under/over doubles, Beretta auto, Remington & Ithaca pumps, then selling all of them, getting fitted, and acquiring English & Basque 12, 16, 20 bore side-by-side game guns; followed by lessons with Ken Davies (Holland & Holland) and Dale Tate (James Purdey) to learn how to shoot them, I have to agree with Simon Reinhold, the side-by-side game gun is "not your standard roadside faire" and "a lot more fun" to shoot! I have a window sticker given to me by a friend stateside that reads, "If God intended for us to shoot over/unders, He wouldn't have placed our eyes Side-By Side." More episodes with Mr. Reinhold, and vintage and contemporary SxS game guns will be appreciated, thank you. Thanks, too, for a wonderful, thought-provoking and entertaining channel.
Very interesting video, as always. Love the back-and-forth. Here in the states, those few of us who hunt with side by sides are more than willing to put payloads of 1 1/2 oz of shot through them to make them "hammers."
I love the SS , that one looks lovely , they are just fun to shoot as well .
I love how Ant lays it out like a line. “Hey man I need and like big cartridges because I hit more targets when I use them.” 😂
In that case he needs an anti aircraft gun. Not a shotgun.
If I´m shooting lot´s of clays, over and under. If I have to carry it a lot and shoot grouse, side by side. If I need a workhorse, it´s a pump.
What pump do you prefer?
I can kill game just as well with a single barrel with a 1/2 choke. It's s×s for me because of the elegance and gentlemen way they look and handle. Tradition is a lost cause for most.
Brilliant video as always chaps 👏
The age old debate rumbles on ....
So what can we take from this ?
Every gentleman's cabinet should house at least one of each. The O/U, the S/S, and the Furry Hat of Shame ... 😂
What’s again a fun and interesting video TGS !!
I keep thinking about getting a side-by-side just for game shooting two times a year. So I fell more as a gentleman on the peg. 👍
I own a Webley & Scott 700 SxS and a Browning B25 OU both about 60 years old. They are both light and handy to shoot. I think the SxS has the edge when shooting rabbit clays as the layout of the barrel provides a nice horizontal sight plane when swinging through but on other clay targets there is nothing between them. Buy both enjoy both.
I have always shot side by side a nice Spanish gun mark with a church hill rib has a advantage although my William Powell sovereign is modern day and works a treat , on cleys I use browning over and under 🤣😬. Great video well explained !!
Love these videos a good production as normal. Love either type myself. There is something about a sxs. Keep em coming jonny 👍👍🍻🍻🍻
Epic video again lads . Both have there place . Alpha ant looked epic shooting the SS 😮
Something in this video I've never noticed before. Both of you post your guns far higher on the shoulder that I was taught. My teacher was a waist gunner on a B-17 heavy bombers. His original training consisted of riding in the bed of a flat bed truck while facing forward as the truck moved forward at road speed. Clays were thrown backwards as the truck passed. The gunner was required to spin about and hit the clays.
Long live side-by-sides! I hear strains of Mozart whenever I pick up so much as a Stoeger Uplander
I have 2 side by side a 12 gage and a 20 gage, bough have double triggers. Witch is great for hunting. You have two different chokes and can pick the one you want, when needed. One for close shots and the other for longer shots. If you want to get use to the kick just get one of the older single shots, after shooting the one I had, the side by side, was a dream to shoot. Over and under are great for the women and smaller framed, as long as you do not mind caring the extra weight, and loosing the advantage of not being able to pick witch barrel you want to shoot.
👍 These two guys crack me up. My guess is that spending a day at the range with them or afield with them would be a very enjoyable day. Isn’t that what shooting is meant to be about?
9:20 I understand the speaking to the heart, here is a bad and quick made poem to the side by side-
In the briar fields of old Kentucky,
Where the Bob White quail take flight,
And Appalachian mountain ruffed grouse
Flush from cover with a sudden might,
Our red setters are on the scent,
Noses to the ground, tails held high,
Their keen instincts honed by generations
Of tracking beneath the sky.
Wet boots trudge grass and thistle,
As we follow the wild pack,
And listen for the telltale whistle
Of a covey rise and flap.
And in our hands, the trusty tools
That Ansley H. Fox and Parker did make,
The Side-by-side do we abide,
A classic choice for every stake.
For in these moments, out in the wilds and wooly,
We feel a connection to the land,
And honor the traditions of our forebears in times unruly.
Who knew the earth, understood its command.
So here's to the briar fields of old Kentucky,
And to the memories they create,
As we pursue our culture of the hunt,
And savor the food it makes.
I may have been drinking Kalimotxo.... So.... Yeah....
Really good vid as usual, would not expect anything else from you two. My first experience with a SxS was in the 70's when I was in my teens with my mates dad. The gun felt like a cannon but it was a great experience. I have two O/U's and love them both and an old non descript Spanish offering from 1967 which surprisingly has really good barrels, they almost look new. I love shooting the SxS as it just feels right and good for me. I am a rifle shooter by my life's experience and was a very good at that sport. At the end of the day which comes to quick for a lot of peeps at my age go and have a go with as many guns as you can. I wish I had got my SGC at least ten years earlier as it is a fantastic sport and a great hobby. SHame about the rising prices though as it is becoming a bit prohibitive. But anyway go and enjoy. Cheers guys!!!
I like this video especially! Not only guns, but shooters personal feel and opinion is showed as well. :) I don't know why, but I like the Prince of Wales grip the most, something sweet spot between the streight English and full pistol grip.
A s/s is more pleasing to the eye, more classy than any o/u will ever be. End off😊
Great video lads, my first double barrel gun was a baikal sxs, it was cheap and it did the job 👍
Still use mine every other weekend that I got from my father he bought in his teens. Nothing elegant about it but I love it nontheless.
In the last 6 months I've given attention and respect to a stunning Victor Sarasqueta 7E, a Pedersoli La Bohemienne hammer, Huglu HRZ201 hammer and a Yildiz Wildfowler.
Ant needs to shoot more of them and learn to love, they are things of beauty
Victor 28 inch side lock ejector has a nice home in my cabinet also 👊
If you want to admit it a side by side is classic. The two barrels pull my eye to the mass of the barrels.
I'm 31 and only shoot a sxs and minimum of 30g cartridges in them unless I got my old hammer Damascus barreled BP proof English gun out then I lighten up the load a bit
For me waterfowl is all about gas operated camouflaged 12 gauge.
Woodcock over my pointer is where sub gauge sxs would be nice.
My only sxs is 12 and they do kick like the dickens with heavy game loads, forget about buck or slugs.
you two are great to listen to, the banter is great, plus you actually know what you are talking about, I am surprised that new side x sides are available so the market must be there for them, I have to say even if Ant had a SxS in the cabinet I don't think he would take it out very often 😂😂 but then he is used to big heavy things (apparently)
the laughter in the background is wonderful
I use a Fabarm Classic 12 pistol grip, multi choke,
Great gun on clays and very elegant to the eye too.
I’m looking at buying one of these as a second gun. I really want a SXS but it will exclusively be used for clays and I’m worried about the lack of a recoil pad coupled with quite a light gun. How is it in your experience?
@@GazHeaven
I use 28 grams loads, normally a 7.5 shot,
Personally I don’t find a hard or wood butt a problem but if you’re susceptible to recoil I would probably take it to a gunsmith and have a pad fitted or maybe shot a lighter load like 24 gram
I have a old Savage fox model B 16 guage and I feel like I just can't miss with it, I'm from the US and spend more time walking than shooting it makes it feel like I can smoke anything from 10 yards to 60, but it's old and I can't use steel but bismuth does wonders out of it. Used it on ducks last year and was hitting doubles faster than the 12 and 20 guage guys
Your videos got me into shooting in 2020 and I got my licence in 2021, apart from a Benelli Semi I don't own a O/U. I have three AYA S/S and joined a local DIY shoot last season, and was the only S/S user. By January four of the eight guns were using S/S, why would a gentleman not? (Edit) Will be getting a steel proof S/S in the next year or so, but I'd like to get a nice one.
"yes but what im shooting wont die as much" 😭😭💀💀💀
I like both !
That whole “gentleman’s gun” thing has got me wanting to trade in my side by. 🙄🤮
Over-under in my near future.
I know my over unders are the way to go but I'm always picking up side by sides because there's just something really cool about them.
I'm a side-by-side fan, I always was...and the only shotgun I have is my big fat hog: 12ga Browning BSS! 😀
Give him a Winchester Model 23. A side by side that shoots like an over and under. Best of both worlds!.
I've just fell in love with a Aya no3 magnum it fits me like a glove so much so I've had the chokes opened up to 3/8s I'm just having the stock stripped and refinished and a new pad fitted the gun didn't cost a lot but it's going to be partner on the foreshore for the forseable future it excites me a lot more than using my semi saying that's perhaps I'm becoming a old man lol
I have a side by side 20ga. It's a fun gun but not particularly useful for hunting in my area. It could take quail probably. My 1959 Winchester Model 12 12ga with a 30" barrel is the go to for pheasant, duck, goose, and deer.
Please we need a video about the 8ga gun
Growing up in the states all of my hunting friends shot pumps (me) or semi's. I never have shot a side by side and my only exposure to them was watching westerns. There was nothing elegant about the S X S's. They were only good for blowing the bad guys through the bar room doors. The first time I saw an O/U I thought they looked great, had to have one and finally got one. One side by side that intrigues me is the Fabarm Autumn.
Started with a S/S almost 45 yrs ago and still prefer one with a lighter load for quail and pheasant. I believe he likes it more than he will admit.
I am going to be using a sxs for state trapshooting
You gentlemen crack me up. Side x side is the ultimate bird gun over here in Texas. I own several side x side guns with and without hammers and my friends shoot o/u their worn out from carrying those heavy guns on a hunt.
How are they with dove hunting I’ve always wanted a sxs since I was small cause they just look badass, but everyone I’ve seen have OU
All shotguns are hand grenades... and all guns are Tools.
I own and shoot (all 12bore):
O/U
SxS
Semi
Pump
Martini
Bolt
.
I shoot both clays and game, some of my guns are not practical, some are better suited to a purpose.... but all are bloody good fun.
When I take the SxS clay shooting, my mates shout "ere gettoff ma tractor" 🤣
more of a fan of over unders for the visuals personally
I prefer to look at a nice sxs, and shoot an o/u for clays , for game there is an argument for both as an old miroku game gun or 101 game gun is heaven in the field, but something so nice about an old sxs in the field
If I had the option between my old Parker Brothers side by side and my Webley & Scott 900 O/U I would take the Webley almost every time only because the fore-end is bigger and I shoot enough ammo that both guns' barrels get very unpleasant to touch. However, at the moment I don't have a choice and have to shoot the Parker (which is still one of my favorite guns to shoot clays with despite the double triggers) because my Webley decided to fire its firing pin out the end while was shooting.
I would trade both of my O/U's for one SxS. I have many SxS's but I will always welcome another one into my collection.
I do like the look of that W&S just not a fan of the scroll back action it’s certainly appealing at that price sitting above the RFMs and under the franchi aspire
Question on where you get your vests?
I can shoot a SxS just as well as an O&U , but i just prefer the O&U , it just feels right for me.
It all just comes down to personal preference.
'But which one is better?'
'Over and under 🤷'
had me in stitches. Great video. Strangely, I'm tempted to buy a SXS just to see what it's all about.
What is the ear bud / hearing protection that you are using?
I've never shot a good quality SXS but definitely prefer the single sighting plane of the O/U.
I love SxS, but they're part of the culture here in the US, because of all the Old West style TV shows and movies, coach guns and things. You see them everywhere on TV and that fixes the design in people's minds. Besides, an over-under doesn't work with short barrels too well (not enough leverage to easily open the action) whereas a side by side can be opened easily, even with 20 inch barrels, and is pretty goof proof with a single trigger setup. So all those people looking for "home defense" see them as an option.
o/u for me loving the hat!!😳🤦♂️🤣🤣
As an American who grew up with guns/weapons in the house, there is absolutely nothing I can take seriously when it comes to you brits talking about firearms. That being said, good dialog here. And quite entertaining. Tyvm
The compromise is the triple crown. Sight picture of an o/u and feels like a sxs with one extra shot.
What a nice dialogue !
Goes to E.J. Churchill shooting ground... bring a Webley SxS ?
- I'm sure Churchill must have had a nicer-loaner floating around...
On a side note, if Ant likes to blow stuff (and use grenade). Time to switch from a O/U to Benelli M4 ;-)
And while I do enjoy blowing up stuff, if I'm going in the woods to chase birds. I'll usually pick double-trigger, shorter barrel SxS. It just feels right.
Sorry, wrong! SXS's rock. I'm a sporting clays shooter and I do have a couple O/U's (Guerini Magnus and Forum), but I prefer to shoot my British SXS's at clays. Everything is smooth and effortless. Ok, you have to throttle back some because they're so quick.
Since I'm 6' 2", with high cheekbones, not one of my guns fit me when I got them. They all now wear Recoil Systems ISIS Cheek Raisers and either have slip on or fitted recoil pads.
Oh, and no need for heavy cartridges. 24 or 28 grams at about 1150fps (350 mps) is plenty.
Bob Ross painted some lovely happy trees on his arm ...
I could be interested in one of the W&S Kilworths, but I don’t see that they are available in the States. I’ll mention here in case someone knows.
It is my understanding that the current incarnation of W&S imports most of its shotguns from Turkey, so it's possible that model may be available in the US under another brand. However, since I have no idea exactly who makes them or which American brands they might be sold under, that probably isn't super useful to you.
Nice one !
The side-by-side recoils to the side of the fired barrel, -- more distinctly if you use heavier cartridges. The Over-Under recoils straight up, the upper barrel more than the lower. The side-by-side is more liked by those people for whom precision is less important. A gentleman is by definition one who can control his frustration. A side-by-side is an instrument to develop your gentlemanliness. A side-by-side pleases a B-type personality. An O/U pleases more an A-type personality. B-type personalities live longer. A-type personalities win competitions. Side-by-side (especially if they are gorgeous) any day... (Except against clay when women are present.)
I believe that the o/u fan’s last words answered the question. It’s a generational matter. With the introduction of the o/u into target shooting, the side by side took a back seat. The younger generations do not value traditional themes. They want to have things more of THEIR making. It’s comical when you see many of the younger crowd participate in a driven shoot decked to the nines in “high end” traditional tweed garb from head to toe including the gentleman’s tie. 👍🇨🇦👨🦳
ref: James Bond. Side by side in Skyfall, Posh? Browning Auto 5 in Dr No. Not Posh
Well Johnny you can take a horse to water but Ant is your pal so enough said 😈
I like S/S this is user-friendly
Spent years shooting over and unders and went back to a single trigger Arrieta a few years ago. I only shoot birds
In my opinion if you're best shooter you never miss with any gun first practice is most important to know about gun pattern
I still dont get why choose one or the other? Why is the clay shooting sports in Olympics only O/U? I see most hunters going for anything bigger than a goose use SxS. Why is that?
He wants more powerful? Overlooking the obvious advantage of 2 triggers at once
😂😂😂
When are you getting a longthorne side by side???
This is fantastic content. Full Stop.
How about doing this with two Berettas, one o/u and one s/s at roughly the same price point?
A fairer test perhaps.
Let's agree that if you want to eat game, there is nothing like a side by side. But if you want to be on the winners side in clays, an over and under is your only choise.Thank you in advance.
Like SXS but no more Turkish for me after a short expensive affair ownership of a CZ with poorly regulated barrels.
If it fits...the gun that is...then just put it in the pattern and look at that bird.
Yes.
Side By Side the Business
A side by side is for when you want to feel like a cowboy while quail hunting off horseback
Bigger question might be , which one is best , when the barrels are sawn off ? History might favour the side x side. ? 😂👌🏴
SxS are generally more expensive.
Great video guys. Always love banter between you two. When I think of side by side I think light, whippy and kick like and annoying little brother. I have not had a chance to shoot a modern version and I am kinda look forward to trying one.
The shooter makes the gun accurate. Not design. Like both equally myself.
20 or 16 bore side by side for me
Started long ago with side by sides (12 and 20g)and rarely missed on driven days and rough shoots (usually clean kills). Experimented with o/u 12 and 20g for a few years but everything i hit was arse ended; so back to the old faithful. Agree that lines and flow of side by sides are made for game and are way classier. Go smash clays with o/us.