14-inch SBS review ???

[Speed Racer]

In my continuing fascination with the SG, I've started to seriously think about going through the additional effort to acquire a short-barreled SG. From what I’ve read, OH is NFA-friendly, and a civilian can own a SBS legally with the appropriate federal paperwork/tax stamp, etc.

My question is simple: Is it worth going through the hassle to own a SBS? I know that’s a subjective question. But, do those of you who own these enjoy the ownership even if it’s a safe queen (collector) or home defense piece and not carried in a patrol car to, possibly, defend your life?

There is very little information on the actual usage of the SBS. If you’ve worked out with one, can you comment on handling characteristics? How do they pattern? Recoil concerns? I’m thinking 870 Remington here – set up like the Wilson Combat “Professional†model.

Basically, do these things live up to the hype?

As always, thanks for a great SG forum.

 

[El Tejon]

Speed, it depends.

Like any other tool, form follows function. Are you going to be using this weapon around vehicles or running through buildings? If so, may be worth the hassle. If using weapon for point defense, stick with Title I.

BTW, if this is your first NFA weapon, I recommend a suppressed .22 rifle as your first Form 4. IME, easier to obtain CLEO than SBS or SBR (it's always the SBR for some reason).

 

[Dave McCracken]

I've done some shooting with a 14" barreled 870. Blast was severe, and low light use was enlightening, pun intended. However, both of those can be mitigated by load selection.

I saw little gain over a 18.5" version.

IMO, not worth the hassle. YMMV....

 

[Hkmp5sd]

If you decide to get one, instead of buying a SBS, get one of the Witness Protection type shotguns that has been registered as an AOW. Only costs $5 for the transfer. Unless you want a shoulder stock, of course.

 

[Rat-30]

M590 Factory AOW

My Mossberg 590 factory AOW has a 14-inch barrel, no fixed stock. I use the speedfeed pistol grip - the one that resembles the bird's head, or a 'sawed-off' and swollen standard stock.

Mine is relegated to 'God, I wished I had a shotgun because I'm in personal contact with (a) Bear, (b) Big Bear, or (c) two Bears' use. And then I would consider it 'assisted suicide'

It is extremely unpleasant to shoot with anything stronger than promo birdshot. And that wears on me pretty quick. 00buck is not fun. I don't think I've tried slugs, and I have no intention of trying them...

It has a powerful cool factor, might have a purpose as a breaching gun, and if I was in trench combat, might sling it as backup. Now, it's a safe queen.

Having said that, remember, this is the AOW, PG only that serves a very narrow purpose.

The stocked Short Barreled Shotgun (SBS) is more controllable, and has more positive attributes, still more cool than servicable in my opinion.

18'' barreled 870 or two, and a 21'' 11-87 keep the house warm and secure these days. I prefer the title 1 shotgun to keep things less complicated during practice sessions, and you can almost buy another 870 for what the SBS tax ($200) is...

BTW, the advice about the supressed .22 is good, those are fun too, even if it is for another forum.