No SASS/CAS shooter can really tell you how it is everywhere, cuz it ain't the same everywhere: some clubs can't afford more "high tech" targets, some like more precision shooting, some like more moving targets, etc...

Here's where you need to go:

Sass wire forum

It's a free registry talk forum like this one, but JUST for SASS, if you go to www.sassnet.com, you can download the handbook too, it'll help you with lots of these little questions-it has "advice" for target sizes and ranges for each of the three gun types...

If I recall correctly, it's recommended they be something like 16"x16" targets for all of them, placed at something like 12-30yrds for shotguns and pistols and 20-50yrds for rifles, but don't quote me on that, check it out in the handbook for certain.

As for the 97, it depends on what you want...I shoot two SxS hammerless's, one 28" selective trigger and one double trigger 20" coach gun (both are $250 new Baikals=EAA), I've had a 97, really liked it, but reloading is faster in the SxS's, for me at least, shooting is slower for me too-some guys are faster in both counts, but I'm faster with the SxS's. Only time I wish I had a 97 still is when I'm in a side match where 10shotgun shots are required and 97's can be loaded full, instead of just two at a time.

If you can find a good price on the Norinco, ($250-350 I'd say on a new/like new), then it might be worth getting, they sure look good, and it's a lot easier for most fellas to shoot a pump than a SxS.

If you don't mind my asking, what are your other arm choices? Like I said, I'm a Baikal SxS shooter, standing beside a Marlin 1894 .44mag and all Ruger wheelguns-two .44mag vaqueros, one Superblackhawk .44mag, and one (soon to be two? I hope) .32H&R "Vaquerito" single six. I've also got a Cobra Derringer .38spcl O/U two bbl and have a Marlin 1895 Cowboy .45-70 on the way for my side match fun...maybe by the end of summer I can run down a .45-70 H&R Buffalo Classic single shot too.

I'm pleased as punch with all of mine-I slicked up my SxS's, and the rest are factory, shoot great, the Derringer leaves a bit to be desired, but I'm not going to pay $300-500 for a derringer like the Bond's.