I own a Savage 24F in .223/12 and I love this gun. A friend of mine bought the SPR94 at the same time and he's been very happy with the gun. Ipersonally prefer the hammer and single trigger of the Savage and he likes the SPR94 for the same reasons.It's not the best .223 or the best 12ga. but IMO the combo is the best all around gun I could ask for. With a good selection of chokes and a good scope for the .223 I am able to handle most any hunting needs. Wish your friend the best if he decides to go the combo way.