One of the most common questions we get asked at NRA Family is what kind of shotgun is best for new shooters. Although there are many schools of thought, the main factors you're looking for are fit, features and friendliness to the shooter. Hatsan's Escort PS Youth, chambered in 20 gauge, is an all-new release for 2022 that promises all of the above.
As far as "friendliness" goes, semi-automatic, gas-operated shotguns offer the softest perceived recoil of all the various types on the market ... and that's exactly what the PS Youth is. For further comfort, the gun sports a well-designed rubber recoil TrioPad. The gun is also chambered for 3-inch magnum 20-gauge shells, meaning that it will cycle lighter 3-inch and 2 3/4-inch loads as well. That gives you the option of taking the shotgun out for clays shooting with light target shells, or out to the field to hunt waterfowl at 40+ yards with magnum shells. (Or both.)
Then there's the question of fit, which is so critical to shotgun success for beginning shooters. Spacers can be added or removed to the PS Youth's stock to adjust the length of pull. Stock shims provide adjustment of drop and cast for a better fit. You also really want a shotgun that's easy to carry. It weighs in at 6 lbs. and 41 inches overall length, which most shooters won't find too hefty. Mounted sling studs make for easy carry and firing support.
Just because this is a beginner's shotgun doesn't mean you don't get features that would please a pro. An aircraft-grade aluminum alloy receiver is fully anodized with an 11mm groove for optics mounts. The chrome-plated 22-inch barrel pulls everything together with a 7mm, checkered, ventilated, anti-glare rib ending with a classic brass bead. Of course safety is a significant concern for any firearm, but it's even more so when that firearm is purpose-built for new shooters. Therefore, a manual cross-button safety is built in.
It's also ready for just about any shotgun shooting sport or game pursuit. The Escort PS Youth can handle a variety of shots, including steel (with specific chokes). The multi-choke system includes five chokes (F, IM, M, IC, CYL). A migratory plug can be installed for 2+1 capacity and removed for a complete 4+1 capacity.
The finish is available in full black, and 3 camo options: Realtree Timber, Mossy Oak Bottomland, and Realtree Max-5. For more, visit HatsanUSA.com.
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