youth shotguns

Question
Hi, I will be purchasing a shotgun soon for home defense and would like to ask a few questions as to what is best for me. I am female and am looking for a lightweight shotgun since having tried a Remington 870 in the range, I was tired after just a few rounds.  I have come up with 3 models after some research:
Mossberg 505 Youth #57110 20ga.  4+1 capacity, 5 1/4 lbs.
Mossberg 500 Super Bantam #54210 20ga, 5+1 cap, 5 1/4 lbs.
Remington 1100 20 gauge youth stock (Remington LT-20)

I was wondering if you're familiar w/ these youth shotguns and if so, which one would you get? There also is a Mossberg shotgun weighing 6 1/2 lbs. I've heard that lighter ones have more recoil, is this true with shotguns? If so, should I go with the 6 1/2 lbs.? Again, I want a lightweight shotgun with light recoil, if such a thing exists.  Thanks.

Answer
Jay,

Of the three that you have it narrowed down to I am the biggest fan of the Remington 1100 LT-20.

The LT-20 (although much more expensive that the other two) will provide you with the best overall usage and service. It is relatively light weight and plenty compact for home defense use and/or field/range use by those of smaller stature.

The fact that it is a gas operated semi-auto also will have the effect of reducing the felt recoil which I'm sure would meet with your approval.

This is a very subjective issue and most often will vary depending on who you ask. There are many strong (not necessarily more correct) opinions out there concerning home protection/self defense guns in general and even more so when it comes to all the various makes and models that are available on the market today.

When you ask of recoil.... in general yes, the felt recoil will seem more pronounced in the lighter firearms for caliber/gauge vs heavier ones. The plot thickens however when you throw in all the other variables such as, pump vs gas semi-auto, barrel porting or lack thereof, weight of gun/ammo, stock fit, etc. etc.

I rather doubt however that in 20ga. and for the designated purpose/s that perceived recoil is going to be a deterring factor. Which ever one that you select, shoot it often and become familiar with its operation and function with various loads.

The nice feature of the Remington LT-20 is that overall, the shotgun is much more versatile and will retain its value longer too. If you find that the recoil is unbearable (which I doubt) there are after market recoil reducing devices (ie. "Dead Mule") that will aid you with this problem. Check out sites such as Brownells at www.brownells.com and Midway at www.midwayusa.com for such items.

I hope this helps and thank you for the question Jay. If I can be of any further help, just let me know.

Sid Lark