r/canadaguns • u/Roofincold • May 30 '26
Buy recommendations First gun
Got my pal a few months ago and I’ve been scared to buy my first gun, then finally at a Canadian tire, a very nice dude spent some time and went over a bunch of them with me.
I want to get a Mossberg 590A1 Compact, out of all of them it felt natural and very nicely balanced.
I am planning a trip to the range (never owned a gun, shot one or been close to them other than gaming ).
Anyone have any inputs about it ? I am going to be 3-4 times a year at the range and then going hunting. I am not crazy into guns, but wanted something decent and based on the seller this is the best bang for my buck.
Thank you!
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u/MourningWood1942 May 30 '26
I’d get a .308 or 30-06 bolt action for larger game hunting, and a .22 for small game
What I carry for hunting is a Browning X-bolt in .308, and a Ruger 10/22
This is on the west coast, depends on what you are hunting and where
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u/Custom-111 May 31 '26
Or, be cheap-er until you know for sure what you want
Winchester XPR Vortex combo from BPS in .308 is a valid option.
I love it. Might not be as nice as an XBolt, but it was like half the price, and still got me out the first few years until I found exactly what I wanted to hunt with (Benneli Lupo BEST)
Decent scope for most hunting (Vortex 3-9), I have no prob at 2-250yds, as thats all I was comfortable shooting with a 9x.
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u/BowFella May 30 '26
What are you hunting? Getting a 28" field barrel for your mossberg. This should cover all your small game needs across the board. 2¾ challenger slugs also group fantastically with the 590 stock barrel if you plan on big game hunting with it. If you plan on rifle hunting, a Savage 110 or savage axis wont break the bank and are accurate. If you want to spend a little more and guarantee sub moa and a smooth action Tikka is the best bang for your buck.
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u/epnk420 May 30 '26
I have the older pre acutrigger savage 110 in 300 win mag it’s nice but then the wife got herself a tikka 240 win the action is so much nicer like butter lol if I bought another bolt action it would 100% be a tikka
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u/BowFella May 30 '26
Tikka is pretty much close to Sako quality for half the price. Their barrels are made in the same factory. Sub moa is basically a guarantee
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u/Spydude84 May 30 '26
590a1 is a solid gun and you can't go wrong with one of those for a pump.
Other than that, consider getting a .22lr rifle. Fun and cheap.
3
u/Financial-Brother-93 May 30 '26
Go for it. Any decent 22lr is good and fun to shoot, with low ammo cost. Mossberg 500 is one of the great lower cost shotguns (along with many others) that won't let you down, with plenty of aftermarket support.
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u/Lumindan May 30 '26
You've got plenty of good recommendations in this thread so I'll bring up the other items.
Make sure you have your PPE (eyes and ears). I'm a big fan of double up on ears (foamies plus electronic cups).
A pair of walker razors is cheap (60 bucks if you get the gel cups, highly recommend) and they'll keep you from going deaf. Especially if you're gonna be shooting a shotgun.
Make sure you check in with your range on what type of ammo is allowed too (some ranges have slug only areas etc).
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u/Roofincold May 30 '26
Thank you. In all honesty I’ve completely forgot about hearing protection and would have gone without it.
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u/Iokua_CDN May 30 '26
I agree with this! Used to shoot just with earplugs for years. Finally started doubling up and it's so much nicer now.
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u/cowontag11 May 30 '26
Don't put the cart before the horse. Since you are going to be using your firearms very occasionally I'd suggest the following: Your Mossberg, clean it. Shoot some light load slugs, talk to a few receptive people at the range.
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u/GinnAdvent May 30 '26
I would probably get a 22lr, Ruger 10/22 to get the basics.
Then a shotgun, 590A1 is nice. But I might get Churchill 612 Pump Shotgun w/ Pistol Grip Stock to start with. It's cheap, compact, and has pretty good reviews.
Then the SKS, coz, every Canadian firearm gotta have them.
Then I would probably end with a Tikka bolt action chamber in .308 or 6.5CM. Pair it with a decent scope for hunting need.
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u/BowFella May 30 '26
Churchill is incomparible to mossberg. Why buy turkshit when you already have one of the most reliable and most modular shotguns ever made.
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u/GinnAdvent May 30 '26
Well, it's for fun of course, and something cheap but not too bad to start with just to get familiar.
I have two 590, one is full size 590A1 M lok with ghost sight and the othet is 590 Persuader. But I still pick up Sulun 211 and Sulun 213 later because meme and ultra compact, lol
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u/BowFella May 30 '26
I mean if you got the money there isnt a single gun not worth buying. But I dont see him needing a cheaper shotgun that functionally serves the same purpose
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u/epnk420 May 30 '26
Agreed there I had a Turkish shotgun absolutely trash, mossberg all the way for pump but semi id go Benelli most likely
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u/BowFella May 30 '26
Benelli, Berretta, Franchi are top of the line. Anything Italian. But I've used the Mossberg 930 for a bit now with absolutely no hiccups. Fed absolutely everything through it from low brass cheap target loads up to 2oz turkey loads with no feeding issues. Thing swings like a 2x4 and is built like a t-34 but it will never fail on you and is cheaper than half these turkshit semis
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u/epnk420 May 30 '26
Beretta is solid too I have no experience with Franchi though other then I know they’re costly lol
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u/HappyCan7250 May 30 '26
Honestly, the 612 is fantastic value for $200. It's by far the best cheap Turkish shotgun I have shot, out of a few models I've owned/friends have owned.
It was the first fun I ever bought, and I still have it and refuse to part with it for sentimental sake. I have probably 1k Rd through it, with virtually no failures outside of maybe 1 or 2 double feeds, and a couple light strikes that seemed to be one specific brand of ammo.
The machining is actually quite decent for a $200 shotgun. Fewer burrs and sharp edges vs others I've handled.
People might down vote me for this, but I completely trust my 612. I own much more expensive guns, and maybe it's just the sentimental aspect of being my first, but it is extremely reliable, and fairly well made (for a $200 shotgun).
When I'm out camping deep in the bush, the 612 is actually what stays in my tent at night, with the 12" barrel it's a very nice little compact shotgun, and I'm amazed how well it's held up after 1k rd.
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u/GinnAdvent May 30 '26
That's why I actually think 612 is a good starter shotgun. It's cheap and it's actually reliable for something made in Turkey. And it's pretty all function rounder.
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u/Iokua_CDN May 30 '26
I think the secret to trusting a Turkish gun is just go shoot it until you know it's reliable.
My Canuck pump has been dead reliable everything I've shot it. If it wasn't, I'd have returned it.
Also why I try try only get Turkish guns that have a good warranty. That way if you get a dud, just return it right away
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u/HappyCan7250 Jun 01 '26
I recently bought a Charles Daly 601 DPS/CA612 since it was on sale for only $470, it's actually been great for the 100rd or so I have through it so far as well, has cycled all loads from 3" magnums to 2.75 target loads without any issues. Very fun shotgun for the price, and gas operated
Stoeger shotguns are also Turkish and owned by Beretta. The M3000s have fantastic reviews and are made in Turkey.
One of my most accurate rifles is made in Turkey as well, a Savage 334, and it is outstandingly accurate for a $500 Turkish 308. I actually sold my Ruger American Predator because the 334 majorly out shot it.
The Turks can make good guns, it's more to do with the company than the country in my opinion, just like a lot of the trucks on the road nowadays are made in Mexico.
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u/Iokua_CDN Jun 01 '26
I agree, company matters.
I compare it to Chinese made knives.
Chinese a makes the ugly, impractical, overpriced knives you see at gas stations, with horrible fit and finish and materials.
They also make high quality clones of very expensive knives.
And there are multiple Chinese companies that make amazing quality unique knives that aren't ripping off anyone.
They are capable of high quality, you just gotta find out which brands are high quality and which aren't
2
u/Stryker1-1 May 30 '26
I miss the days of 300 bucks got you an SKS and a crate of ammo to go with it.
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u/epnk420 May 30 '26 edited May 30 '26
The 590 is a solid choice I just won’t buy from crappy tire lol they overcharge and I don’t respect their ways now. I always try my best to support local gun shops it’s just getting harder these days as many are closing down. Like others said ruger 10/22 should be one at top of your list also especially with ammo costs these days. For levers Henry all the way imo and bolts if you want a big boy caliber Tikka is fantastic, also depends what your hunting shotgun can do hunting but you have to be much closer then say a larger caliber bolt action for larger game. I have a 300 win mag and 270 win for hunting larger game. Hope this helps and welcome to the club lol
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u/scottsuplol May 30 '26
I’d honestly recommend a nice bolt action .22 great way to build your skills and practice your safe handling. My advise to new shooters is talk to people at the range. Inform them that you’re new see if they have any mentorship or anyone who’s willing to spend some time with a new shooter. Start simple fire one shot, then render your gun safe. Do this until you feel more comfortable with the operation of your firearm. I also recommend snap caps as well too. Good way to practice the mechanics of a new firearm
1
u/PepperAndFrens May 30 '26
I have the 590a1 magpul, its a workhorse. However it doesnt take chokes so youre limited in range for hunting applications. I can hit a 4" target at 65 yards 5/5 times with slugs though
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u/Altruistic_Split9447 May 30 '26
Ask questions and make friends with people at your range. I’ve always found gun owners to be very warm and welcoming
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u/Omega_Shaman May 30 '26 edited May 30 '26
Mossberg Maverick 88 12 gauge field and security combo is the best bang for your buck for a shotgun. Only $400 and you can use it for slugs, clays, birds you name it.
If hunting, I would suggest a cerakoted (eg Ruger American Gen 2) or stainless (eg Tikka) 308 bolt action. If you want a semi automatic, you can pick up used Browning BAR 30-06s for $850 at Intersurplus. If money isnt an issue and you want a semi automatic then I would pick up one of the Browning BAR ovix.
Then pick up a 22lr in an action similar to your hunting rifle for cheap trigger practice. I recommend a Ruger 10/22 for semi and a Savage MkII FV for bolt.
The biggest thing you'll find is that the length of pull of different firearms will determine how comfortable they sit against your shoulder. Try different lengths of pull to see what fits best. Keep in mind that you can buy aftermarket stocks to adjust this like the Magpul SGA for the Mossberg or the MDT Field Stock but these can add weight. For a hunting rifle you are going to want something as light as possible.
1
u/Iokua_CDN May 30 '26
I go with the trio
A 22 rifle
A shotgun
A centerfire rifle.
The 22 rifle is really great for cheap practicing and relaxing at the range and target shooting. However it also opens up possibilities for small game hunting. Semi auto or bolt action are cheap and available. Lever actions also available for a bit higher cost.
Shotgun is the do all. Shooting slugs at the range is great, shooting slugs at deer is pretty effective too. Birdshot at clays is an absolute blast, and birdshot at birds and small game is also great. Pump action is usually the cheapest, but you can get some old, used double barrels from Europe of intersurplus if you want to be unique
Lastly the centerfire. Used to by everyone recommended the Sks, but for you, I think there are better options. A bolt action 7.62 x39 like the cz 600 alpha would be great for hunting and for target shooting. Going up to 308 would increase your range and power but be a bit pricier for target shooting. Either way, better accuracy and easier to mount a scope than an sks. Other ideas, maybe a lever action like a 357 if you hunt shorter ranges. Really fun at the range but less good at hunting than a 308.
Between those 3, you got pretty much everything covered and you'll have 3 really fun to shoot guns.
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u/DougMacRay617 May 30 '26
Thats a great first choice. Just warm up with some light target loads and watch some videos on proper form for shotgun shooting. The heavier 12 guage loads are gonna be brutal for you if your just getting into it, especially with a short barreled shotgun like that.
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u/Hot_Cheesecake_905 May 30 '26
Anyone have any inputs about it ?
Shockwave and 590A1 compacts are specialized shotguns; they're more for self-defense and range use. I have a Shockwave and it is a fun shotgun. However, they're no good for bird hunting, the barrel is too short, and not sure if you want to use it for a deer/moose.
If you want something "bang for your buck", look at a Mossberg Maverick 88, i.e. field security combo. Of course there are many higher end Mossberg including the very similar Mossberg 500 field security combo, but the Maverick 88 will be usable for many different activities (range, trap, hunting, etc.) and is cheap.
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u/Mercrantos2 May 30 '26
If there's one thing gun people love it's telling newbies about guns. If you're at a range or a gun store, just say you're new to it and everyone behind the counter would be delighted to show you what they know. Never be embarrassed about it, we all had to start somewhere.
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u/Previous-Season-8800 May 31 '26
I dont understand a firearms guy at Canadian Tire helping you with firearms.
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u/_asphaltcowboy_ Jun 01 '26
I’d look at buying a husqvarna rifle for your first hunting rifle. I got a 30-06 and I can do anything. There’s lots of other calibres you can find as well. Use the money you saved on the rifle for some half decent optics and ammo
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u/Acc4Wtf May 30 '26
590A1 was also my first and I regret it; I much prefer the Benelli Supernova. The internet will try to convince you that you need a military shotgun; I'm here to tell you that you certainly do not.
. It broke on me rather quickly, despite being touted as an indestructible tank, multiple parts failed. It's (for my use) unnecessarily heavy, and a pain in the ass to reassemble with all its loose internals and tolerances. It's currently in warranty service and will be sold ASAP.
. Italians make the best shotguns.
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u/Remarkable_Vanilla34 May 30 '26
Lol I dont believe any if this. The fact that you said its a pain in the ass to reassemble makes it pretty clear your not experienced enough to give someone advice. Its exetremly easy to disassemble and reassemble.
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u/Acc4Wtf May 31 '26
What I wrote was my experience, if that personally offends you, seek help I cannot provide. The cartridge stop/interruptor are loose on the Mossberg, that's what I was referring to, it can be difficult to put the trigger group back in. You're insulting lack of experience meanwhile OP is asking for their first firearm, read the room. There are better choices, more bang for your buck, outside of the M590A1.
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u/Hot_Cheesecake_905 May 31 '26
it can be difficult to put the trigger group back in
The trigger group has to go in a precise angle, once it is lined up perfectly, it will drop in. It can take a few tries, but will go in without forcing it.
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u/Acc4Wtf May 31 '26
Correct, despite that mine was busted in multiple ways outside of just this annoyance. I got a lemon for sure, people have a hard time accepting that for whatever reason. That's what warranties are for, it's currently being repaired. I'm not saying it's a bad firearm all together, I just don't think it's a good first choice despite my experience.
. If someone's set on a Mossberg, just get a 500, I don't think a first time buyer would regret that over an A1. Most people don't even shoot that often so why buy some military shotgun that the average person won't ever realize it's potential benefits?
. I'm focusing on the OP which is a first time firearm suggestion. They mentioned the A1 and it was literally my first firearm... doesn't get more relevant than that. I'm giving another side of the coin where most just praise it, and some echo that sentiment despite never handling it themselves.
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u/Dependent_Account603 May 30 '26
What do you want to hunt?
Personally I like the old guns. They don't make them like they used to. Buy the Mossberg, a Ruger 10/22, and a Lee Enfield. You'll be set for hunting everything.