Hi,

The Savage 24 is available in a lot of calibres, not so easy finding a "C" model, so grab it if the price is good. The problem can be getting one with windage aligned barrels. Check out this site, dedicated to the Savage 24:

http://disc.server.com/Indices/180203.html

The guys there are really helpful. I also have a 24 in .22lr/20G. Very accurate rifle, but doesn't group as well on slugs. Luckily, alignment is good. It has a full choke, and I wonder if slug grouping would improve if I shortened it, giving it a cylinder bore.

There are other combo guns available. Sabbatti does a version, I think in the US sold under the Charles Daly trademark? I checked out a 12G/.223 the other day. The centrefire barrel is on the bottom, and looked really awkward to reload in a hurry. EAA also bring in a russian Baikal in the same style.

Even if it doesn't shoot great with slugs, I doubt that you would ever regret getting the Savage, especially in the rarish C (Camper) model.

I also had my son in mind when I bought mine, but I'll have to get another one for him now! Great rabbit gun, and I'm sure for squirrels. Bowl the sitter with the .22, and use the shotgun for the hidden one that runs off.

Cheers,

Tom