Steel Vs. Aluminum Receivers

[Roadwild17]

I was wondering what the pros and cons of each. The only thing I can think of is strength vs. weight. With most people adding additional weight to there shotty for a HD situation, I cant imagine a steel receiver causing that much of a handling problem when compared to steel. I am planing on adding a side saddle to the receiver, so over-torquing the screws could be an issue with the aluminum.

 

[ArmedBear]

Every gun does have a different balance point. But a HD barrel is short enough that the balance point won't shift much with a slightly lighter or heavier receiver. Put a 30" barrel on the gun and you'll see more of a difference.

Durability, especially with heavy loads, is the main reason for steel. Cheap machining is the main reason manufacturers use aluminum. Ever mill steel or aluminum? Aluminum is much easier! A side benefit of aluminum for HD is that it doesn't rust.

The rust factor is important. Durability is less important. You'll never shoot the thing anyway. (Never means less than 100 rounds per year on average, vs. 1000 or 10,000 rounds for a sport shooter).

 

[riverdog]

Weight vs Strength is the major factor for the shooter. Manufacturers have other things to consider, like price and profit margin. As for never shooting it, that may be true for some, but I have one 870 for HD and a second that I use occassionally for Trap. Put on a short barrel and the Trap gun could be used for HD. Using it will keep you more proficient.

 

[ArmedBear]

Oh, I agree. Besides, trap is fun. Too much fun.

And I'd recommend an 870.

But I also have to say that you won't crack a Mossberg in 1000 rounds. You might, however, rust an Express if you ignore it for too long in a humid environment.

Weight is a non-issue with a full-sized shotgun. They're all pretty close in weight.

 

[cameron.personal]

An aluminum receiver is fine, I have a Winchester Defender (with a side saddle) that has functioned flawlessly for many thousands of rounds.

There has been zero problems even after shooting so called "heavy loads" the receiver in a shotgun does not take a lot of stress and aluminum is more than up to the task.

Pick whichever SG floats you boat forget about the one you didn't get and buy a HUGE amount of ammo...

 

[mnrivrat]

Aluminum receivers on shotguns are a non-issue when it comes to durability . I have yet to see my first bad Mossberg or Winchester aluminum receiver.

Doesn't mean they don't exist, but after doing a couple decades of firearms repair I haven't replaced one shotgun receiver. The lockup and shooting pressure is taken between the bolt and the barrel extension which are both steel.

 

[Roadwild17]

Alright thanks for the help!