It's new gun time again. I'm thinking about a sxs in a 20 gauge. Does anyone have any thoughts or preferances between the S&W Elite and the Marlin L.C. Smith. I am trying to keep the cost under 2K. Any help and honest opinions would be appreciated.

i went through this a few years ago. handled a marlin and just didn't like the feel of the gun. the s&w couldnt be had with choke tubes and a double trigger. i ended up with a weatherby d'italia, it fits me well and i shoot it good.

They didn't fit me and although probably fine guns, they were a bit light on the fit and finish. I tried a silverhawk in 20 with a straight stock and it fit perfect so that is what I am looking for at this time. Hard to find so far.

I suspect whichever fits best will be fine.

I have a 28GA Weatherby D'Italia that I really like. They are being closed out now that Weatherby has discontinued them. CDNN is selling them for around $1700 wholesale right now in 12, 20 and 28 GA. Most dealers can get one to you within your budget.

RBL!

I had a beretta 471 silverhawk. Great gun, a little pricey, about $3200, but I liked it and shot it very well. I ended up trading it to a friend for a gun that he had and I wanted. It is now his "go to" upland gun.

Try to find an older SKB. I have had two and they are fine.

I agree with the suggestion to look for a SKB. they were also marketed by Ithaca in the 100, 200 and 280 models. Great guns and a good value today for under $2k.

Forget about fit for the time, look at which gun feels the best, points the best and handles well, then spend a few dollars having it fitted. Having a gun fitted is well worth it.

SxS 20 gauge, for upland game? Something light. I favor the straight English stock. I just like the look, feel. I like double triggers too, seems traditional like the stock. But also, double triggers allows you to run two chokes and pick one for the shot.

I've never regretted "spending too much" on a gun. I have regretted "not spending enough."

bought a 28 guage straight stock sidelock spanish made american arms import derby grade for my grandaughter very nice for 1k

I have a 28ga skb SxS. I love shooting it, the only problem is they get loose after a little shooting.