ORIGINAL: Pilgrim South
Hi all. I am a very small lady about 5' tall and 100 lbs dripping wet. I want to learn how to clay target shoot with my teenage son and some day shoot some geese (wishful thinking?). I have never had a shot gun before and we have looked at pawn shops (for lower prices) and gun stores. Everything I pick up is too leavy or they tell me will kick me over. The only suggestion has been a gas powered Baretta which we can't begin to afford. We want to spend 2-300$ or less. Any suggestions? thank P. South
Based upon your budget; experience, and what you wish to do I would recommend a Mossberg® Mdl 500 Bantam. It has a shorter stock; and, the forearm is positioned closer to the receiver. They are available in both 12 & 20GA. The only thing you need the 12GA for is to shoot geese; and then only because of the steel shot requirement.
http://www.mossberg.com/bantam_diagram.htm
I'm 6'2" & 210lbs and I use a 20GA. My wife is about your size & build and she uses the 20GA. The 12GA kicks way too much for her.
You can also buy a Ladies/Youth Model from NEF in a 12, 20, 28, or 410GA for about $100. Great little gun but it's a single shot.
http://www.hr1871.com/firearms/index.php?cat=3&subcat=1