I've watched some videos and I've been reading some of the posts on this site and other websites. I'd like to hear 590 owners' opinions on 12 vs 20 Thanks, in advance.
Hello
Susie, I'm a new member here who joined looking for feedback on the 590 shockwave myself. My research tells me it's the wrong firearm to get for your idea, I'm sure it can be done but aiming towards the sky with that little blaster would not be that comfortable when you set it off. The key to shooting these guns is the technique, pushing it out away from you just about shoulder level and nowhere near your face. And it's not hip shooting either.
If you set that thing up to take a bird out you may take your teeth out with it. Or bust your nose.
These firearms are design primarily for close quarters in the home and make a good truck/car blaster.
To give you some perspective of how powerful the 3 major shotshells are, a .410 bore has twice the energy of a .45 a.c.p. 2x __ a 20 gauge has twice the energy of a .44 magnum 2x ___ a 12 gauge is just about off the charts.
Did you get all that.
Take a look at this video for the proper shooting technique with these little blasters.
Be mindful that if you modify the gun in anyway you no longer have a firearm as classified by the NFA and run the risk of violation which means fine and possible prison but most definitely loss of your gun rights.
If you put an arm brace on it you lose the true beauty of this firearm,
which is compactness in a chambering that within 20 feet with the right load no matter if it's .410 bore, 20 gauge or 12 gauge the threat will be stopped and within 50 feet they will at least know they got blasted.
(note we said feet not yards)
I personally have my eyes set on getting the 12 gauge version because I like a little wider patterning, but it will depend if I can get strong enough to handle it as I restart my exercise program as I have some medical issues. The good news is I can run a .357 magnum snubby one handed and from both sides so I have somewhat of an idea how bad the recoil can be.
But even so that won't compare to how powerful these Shockwave blasters are. I once own a S&W Governor and shooting the .410 bore out of that was an eye opener. It didn't scare me but surprised me at how powerful it was.
Susie the bottom line to all of this is
getting the right tool for the job. If you want a bird gun then get a bird gun.
The Shockwave is trench warfare, down and dirty, up close and personal.
Good luck to you. (and be safe)