Why should you buy a competition shotgun?

Words by Georgina Roberts

What is a competition shotgun?

A competition shotgun is exactly what it says on the tin, it’s quite literally a gun that is designed with competitive shooting in mind. This can be important in many ways, including the gun's features, dimensions and weight. If you want to be the best in the business, you’re going to need the right tool for the job and that means that you’ll need a gun that will help you and not hinder you. 

I’ve recently had the pleasure of testing out a couple of new competition guns from Rizzini, the BR240 and the BR240 EL. Known as ‘champions of the round action’, Rizzini launched these new offerings at IWA earlier this year and they have really stepped up to the mark with their latest launch. 

Will my scores improve if I have a competition shotgun? 

Of course, there is no guarantee that any gun will improve your scores, however, having the right setup for you and the discipline you’re shooting will certainly put you in the best place to start improving your personal best. 

Scores and accuracy will improve with consistency. Competition guns are designed with this in mind, adding features which mean that consistency is more easily achieved, from weight distribution and balance, to recoil management and stock setup. Having the ‘right tool for the job’ will certainly help you break more clays, but you still have to put in the work. 

How are competition shotguns different from other shotguns? 

Competition shotguns are normally discipline-specific; sporting, skeet or trap. The setup of these guns is tailored to the requirements of that discipline. For example, trap guns are often heavier than others as there is less change of direction and therefore range of movement required.

In order to be fit for purpose, competition shotguns often come with a range of features and optional extras. From chokes to barrel length, there are a multitude of different ways to tweak your gun to benefit your shooting style and the discipline you’re going to be shooting. For example, the new Rizzini BR240 has been designed for the competitive sporting shooter, offering a variety of options for barrel length (28”, 30”, 32”) and a set of 5 flush chokes, as well as optional extras including an adjustable comb and a set of 5 external, colour coded chokes.

“Rizzini have never been ones to reinvent the wheel, so they don’t go for change simply for change’s sake. There are some fundamentals which every competition gun needs, such as balance, stability, handling and recoil absorption; the BR240 range has these as a starting point. What makes them different to ‘normal’ guns is that Rizzini work hard on looks and finish as well as the performance aspect.” says Edward King, Managing Director of ASI.  

Stocks and grips are also another great example of how the fundamentals of shotgun design can differ. Game guns traditionally have a straighter stock, which features a variety of different grips ranging from a Prince of Wales or Woodward to a straight hand, depending on the gun. Competition guns use a pistol grip, often with a palm swell, offering a better hand position and grip. The new Rizzini is a perfect example of this, using a slight palm swell which feels unobtrusive when shooting, meaning comfort is maximised. 

Competition shotguns are normally heavier than others for a number of reasons, from reducing recoil to more controlled gun movement. When shooting clays, the gun also spends less time in the shoulder than if you were shooting live quarry, meaning shooters only have to sustain the extra weight of the gun for a short period of time. 

Weight and its distribution impact greatly on the overall balance of a gun and, depending on the shooter, that balance itself can have an influence on gun movement. The weight distribution of the BR240 and the BR240 EL have been well balanced over the hinge point in the action, with its weight sitting very comfortably between your hands, making the handling of the gun incredibly smooth. 

Can anyone get a competition shotgun?

Absolutely (providing you have a licence), you don’t need to shoot competition in order to get a competition gun, despite the label. The shooting sports are to be enjoyed at all levels, without the need for a scorecard. 

Whether you’re looking to take the step into competitive shooting, or you just want to become more consistent in practice, a competition shotgun could be the right choice for you! 

Are competition shotguns expensive? 

Buying a competition shotgun can be as expensive or inexpensive as you want it to be. There’s a lot of choice out there and a great second-hand market. 

Competition guns are normally priced higher than other guns down to a number of factors including craftsmanship and finishes, materials, levels of customisation, recoil management systems and reliability. Considering this, whilst the price might be slightly higher than other types of shotgun, it also means that you’ll get longevity, with most competition guns able to last a lifetime (should you treat it well)! 

The Rizzini BR240 and the BR240 EL are a great example of more affordable competition guns, with a range of features which would help you fare well in any competitive environment. At £3,500 and £4,000 respectively, they are perfect for someone who might be looking to upgrade without the need to remortgage your house. They offer great value for money and not only are they aesthetically pleasing, they prioritise performance. 

Edward agrees, “Rizzini want owners of their guns not just to shoot well, but to feel good about their ownership – it is not just a tool, after all. Quality of wood, overall finish and style are important, and Giuseppe Rizzini, the designer of the gun, has gone to great lengths to make this model stand out.”

Should I get a competition shotgun and when is the right time? 

Investing in a competition shotgun is wise for anyone who is serious about improving their performance and building their confidence in clay disciplines. They’re built for durability, comfort and consistency, so, if you’re a competent shooter with a solid foundation and you’re looking to progress in the sport, then the answer is yes, you should get one!

There might never be a ‘right time’ to upgrade or invest, but if you’re looking to start shooting competitively, it’s definitely something to start thinking about. If you’re looking to take the next step but you’re still not sure, head to your local gun shop and they’ll be able to offer advice and answer any questions you might have. They’ll also be able to guide you in the right direction based on the discipline you’re shooting and your build and dimensions.

Explore the Rizzini range, including the BR240 and the BR240 EL, here.