I have been saving up for a Ruger Red Label over and under shotgun, but some relatives at Christmas who shoot a lot more than I do, said that Yildiz shotguns are just as good for almost 1/3 of the price. Does anyone strongly disagree with statement? If not what are the differences and things to look for in Yildiz shotguns to get the best available. Thank you in advance. Houston Rick
I own two Red Labels, a 28" and a 26". The 28" was the first I bought and fell in love with; but I found it difficult to re-load in a cramped duck blind and if I held it muzzle down in my right hand while dove hunting the muzzle would drag the ground. I bought the 26" gun to resolve those issues.
I've shot live flyers for HRC Hunt Tests twice with a guy that had a Yildiz, and he would apologize for his gun while lusting for mine. I told him do not worry about it, you are dropping the birds. That's the only comparison I can make. I can give you my opinion and experiences with Red Labels.
My guns date to 1995 and 1997 and are 12 gauge with the long Briley choke tubes. They are muzzle heavy which I find helps me keep my swing going if I'm not well practiced. My worst tendency is stopping my swing when I pull the trigger. The action of the Red Labels will break open without struggle and are designed that way.
The Ruger also comes with Ruger's warranty and customer service. The guy that convinced me to give up my 870 and try his old Red Label (after that experience I bought my first Red Label, because my hit rate doubled) sent his late 1980s Red Label to Ruger two years ago because the stock had cracked. Ruger put a new stock on it for free. My 26" has been back to Ruger twice. Once because the the safety would engage after the first shot, the second trip back was because a post for the rib had come loose. They fixed the issues both times for free.
I've taken clay birds, dove, ducks, geese, sand hill crane, pheasant, snakes, an Emu, a few Nutria, a coyote, a feral Pit Bull, and a couple of crows with my Red Labels. If it came down to me having to give up my 629 or my 26" Red Label, I'd probably keep the Red Label.
The porting made me really popular; other shooters called it "The Earthmover". My new one is here, and the Aimpoint is mounted. Got a bit more to do, and it will be ready to try.
