I would choose an O/U if choosing only between those two. Why? Every O/U I have feels better to me than the autos I have shot. However, just as every auto isn't the same neither is every O/U. Let me say that I would not compare a top of the line auto with one of the numerous entry level O/Us currently flooding the U.S. market. Comparing a $700 auto to a $700 O/U is apples and oranges. For that price you should get a much better auto. Second, I wasn't raised shooting autos so the feel of the bolt opening and shutting doesn't feel right to me. Third, to me an O/U is usually much more aesthetically pleasing, assuming we aren't talking about a bottom of the line import. Reading through this thread I think I found more fallacy than fact and a few statements which were absolutely asinine. Quality is quality no matter what action you choose and selection is a matter of personal choice.

SH