Review of features of 16 gauge and the most popular shotguns

Every experienced hunter probably has one universal 16-gauge weapon in his collection. A hunting caliber with this number can be used for hunting small rodents, game and even large animals. A beginner who purchases his first smoothbore firearm should listen to experienced shooters and pay attention to this particular caliber.

Relatively recently, the popularity of 16 gauge has noticeably decreased. Some factories have discontinued production of cartridges and guns of this caliber, and some have reduced production. This is due to the emergence of new types of weapons for hunters and athletes.

The difference between rifled and smooth trunks

The main difference between a smoothbore gun and a rifled gun is that the former has barrels made in the form of a smooth cylinder. The muzzle may taper closer to the muzzle, or it may be completely straight. It all depends on the number of lead bullets of the same mass used in the weapon sample. The standard 16 gauge cartridge weighs 453.6 grams. The diameter of the shot must correspond to the diameter of the middle part of the barrel.

Equipment and ammunition for the gun

At different times, the equipment of Bekas shotguns, both 16 and 12 gauge, was different. If we take the first options that went on sale, Bekas-3 was equipped with two barrels of different lengths. Taking into account the fact that replacing the barrel of a weapon does not pose any problem, and the barrels themselves were sold separately, it was possible to purchase the shortest version of the gun, and then separately purchase longer barrels and magazine extensions, thus obtaining two different weapon options in one. It was possible to observe a variety of configuration options in stores that were not factory-made, since the sellers themselves offered to purchase certain additions to the weapon. This applies to all weapons with the name Bekas, including modern ones.

Several variants of guns based on one weapon

Advantages of shotguns

Fans of 16-gauge shotguns call it a universal shotgun, since a shotshell of this size is suitable for any hunting. It also has good muzzle energy and excellent combat sharpness. Compared to other, more powerful weapons, firearms of this caliber are lightweight, which is very important during long hikes. Experts also note the elegance and aesthetics of 16-gauge hunting rifles.

Smoothbore guns were wildly popular among hunters in the past. The advantages of 16-gauge shotguns also include the fact that in the middle of the last century, shooters preferred them.

About cartridges

The quality of the choice of ammunition should always be approached very responsibly, since if any discrepancy is found in the shape of the cartridge case, this can lead to a disastrous result - weapon failure. When using factory cartridges, the automation does not cause any complaints; most opinions agree that the Bekas’ automation is quite reliable.

The combat is excellent, the recoil is not very high, and besides, the automatically adjustable gas outlet and cut-off of powder gases have a positive effect on the sharpness of the shotgun’s combat. Cartridges with a shot weight of 32-36 g are suitable. It is not recommended to use a semi-magnum, although there is the opinion of some experts that the powder gases in these ammunition do not develop pressure in the barrels beyond the permissible limits. And perhaps this is true, but, most likely, their use will significantly reduce the service life of the Bekas.

Types of smoothbore guns

Smoothbore shotguns of 16 caliber are divided into single-barreled and double-barreled. Double-barreled ones, in turn, are divided into the following categories:

• horizontal, that is, the gun barrels are soldered next to each other in a horizontal plane;
• vertical, that is, the gun barrels are located vertically.

It will be more convenient for a novice hunter to catch a target with a single-barreled 16-gauge weapon. Firstly, it does not block the arrow’s view forward, and secondly, it is almost 2 times lighter than a double-barreled one. In case of a miss, a double-barreled weapon allows you to shoot a second time without reloading. The placement of barrels on this type of weapon differs only in the specifics of aiming and holding the shot.

Horizontally positioned barrels make the gun widest, and this impairs visibility. But it has good windage. In a 16-gauge over-and-under, the arrangement of the barrels allows you to take aim faster after the first shot. To understand which barrel placement is most comfortable for you, you need to practice shooting more.

What to buy?

Today no independent expert can give a clear answer to this question. Both models have many of their own and common disadvantages with advantages. The final choice is made only by the consumer based on his personal preferences. Both Bekas-Auto and MP-155 deserve due attention in the process of choosing a semi-automatic machine.

As a result, two recommendations can be made:

• If the license holder is a novice hunter who is choosing a gun without the help of a knowledgeable specialist, then he should opt for Bekas-Auto. The likelihood of getting a defect here is lower than when buying an MP-155.
• Based on the totality of quality parameters, the purchase of an MP-155 will be justified provided that the weapon is carefully selected by a specialist.

In practical hunting, guns from both manufacturers are comparable in their tactical and technical achievements and the results of real production. With proper handling and care, both semi-automatic weapons will give their owners a lot of positive emotions, as well as pleasant memories of the beauty and rate of fire.

MiscellaneousComment

Domestic horizontal benches

One of the popular domestic 16-caliber smoothbore shotguns with horizontally welded barrels is the IZH-58 model. This firearm has internal hammer locks with safety cocks, a triple bolt (the barrels are held closed by 3 hooks at once), and two smooth triggers. A modification of this gun called IZH-58 MAE differs from the basic version by the presence of an ejector, which can be turned off if desired. The weight of the weapon is no more than 3.3 kg, and its length is 710 mm.

Another high-quality model of a weapon that fires 16-caliber shot is called MP-43 (previously called IZH-43). Its main difference from other guns of the same caliber is the presence of a USM (universal double-trigger mechanism). Thanks to this design, the shooter can fire from two barrels alternately, or from one barrel. Not long ago, the manufacturer significantly improved the quality of assembly and production of weapons.

general information

Over the long and long years of production, this hunting rifle has not lost its popularity.
Snipe 16m and 12 are used by gun enthusiasts for both hunting and self-defense. The highest popularity is explained by the good price-quality ratio, which is even better than other pump-action guns on the Russian market. At the site where the new Bekas 16 and 12 are manufactured, specialists painstakingly keep the quality of manufactured goods under control. This allows you to operate the weapon in a wide variety of weather conditions, while having the highest supply of working resources.

There are a huge number of modifications of this weapon, the main differences between which are the stock, the caliber of the cartridges used and the length of the barrel. Some guns are sold complete with two barrels: a long one and a small one, which allows you to change them depending on the tasks at hand.

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Verticals of domestic production

TOZ-34 is a 16 gauge shotgun (over-and-under). It is unique in that the barrels of this model are locked with a wedge that fits into the groove of the barrel coupling. The sector protrusions of the coupling enter into the groove of the block when the barrels are closed. The model's stock is adjustable for the shooter's convenience and has a comfortable cheek piece. The weight of the weapon does not exceed 3.1 kg.

MP-27 (previously called IZH-27) has a pistol stock and is equipped with an internal trigger trigger. The model also protects the owner of the gun from an accidental shot with the help of fuses called interceptors. The barrels have a standard choke. The first barrel has a choke type drill, the second one has a semi-drill. To lock the barrels, it is used using a wedge that fits into the groove of the barrel coupling. The weight of the assembled gun is 3.3 kg.

Bekas-M and Bekas-M Auto

Bekas-M is an improved version of the basic models of the Bekas family. Although the gun has remained virtually unchanged in appearance, there have been several improvements in the design that have been able to increase the accuracy of the pump-action shotgun and increase the firing distance.

Bekas-M Auto is practically no different from the Bekas-M modification, except for one interesting feature - this pump-action shotgun has a powder gas discharge system and is equipped with a smart cut-off system. In this regard, this shotgun reloads automatically, using the energy of the powder gases and the action of the return spring.

Bekas-M Auto is available in the following modifications:

• Chambered for 12x70 mm caliber;
• Chambered for 16x70 mm;
• The latest Bekas-M Auto model is designed specifically for 12x76 Magnum cartridges. This model additionally has a gas engine equipped with automatic adjustment.

Single-barreled Russian shotguns

The popular single-barreled 16-gauge IZH-18 has an internal trigger. There is a front sight on the barrel, but there is no aiming bar, which complicates the aiming process. It can be easily disassembled into its component parts. Pistol stock neck. The fuse on the sample is a push-button one, not automatic.

If the gun is not completely closed, the blocker will prevent the shot from being fired. If the gun is hit or accidentally dropped, the trigger will automatically switch to safety mode. The total length of the barrel from the muzzle to the end of the chamber is 730 mm, and the weight of the assembled gun is no more than 2.8 kg.

The single-barreled 16-gauge shotgun MTs21, also produced in our country, is automatic. Due to the pressure of the powder gases, the moving parts of the gun roll back, and the extractor catches the spent cartridge case. At the same time, a new cartridge enters the chamber of the barrel. The tubular magazine of the sample is located in the forend; no more than four rounds fit there.

Another example of a smoothbore gun is the very reliable M-21 model. It has won particular love among hunters who prefer to go hunting in areas with severe frosts. The M-21 16 gauge shotgun has the following characteristics: barrel length is 750 mm, weight does not exceed 3.2 kg.

Features of 16 gauge

Shotguns of this caliber can be safely called universal, since they allow you to use:

• hares;
• bird;
• beavers;
• wild boars;
• fox

A lot comes down to the skill of the shooter, his ability to hit a target at a distance of 50 meters. If the skill is sufficient, then the hunter will easily cope with the task and will be able to take a good trophy. Shotguns of this size are suitable for hunting in swamps and meadows, as well as in thickets.

16-gauge weapons are often used for hunting game birds

For obvious reasons, the sixteenth caliber is ideal for accurately shooting birds, be it snipe, capercaillie, corncrake, snipe, pheasant and others. This is facilitated by good spread of the shot. It is much wider when compared with 12 gauge. This quality is very important because it helps:

• shoot in the air (taking into account a well-chosen hunting rifle);
• spend less time aiming, allowing for minor errors;
• take more ammunition with you (16 gauge has a smaller proportion of gunpowder than 12 gauge).

Many hunters adore the sixteenth gauge for these qualities. Having shot the gun well at the shooting range and improved handling of the weapon, they show excellent results in real conditions.

The sixteenth is considered a more modern, technologically advanced caliber. This quality gave rise to many controversies around him, which continue to this day. Adherents of the immortal classic (12 gauge) call it not serious enough (they often lack bite when fired, noticeable recoil and power). Owners of 16-gauge shotguns claim the opposite: the weapon is very easy to handle and increases the shooter’s maneuverability.

An important factor is that 16 gauge is designed for smoothbore shotguns, providing good opportunities for shooting in real conditions. Often, hunters get so used to it that they completely abandon rifled weapons even after the 5-year period of handling smooth-bore guns has expired.

The active popularization of 16 gauge is explained by another interesting factor. Domestic arms companies received a lot of additional opportunities from the government, which helped expand the line of smoothbore guns. This affected consumers as follows:

• the cost of 16-gauge shotguns has decreased, and the price range has expanded;
• the range of modern carbines has increased;
• additional opportunities have appeared for tuning guns, including the installation of modern sighting devices;
• The possibilities for loading cartridges based on the size of the shot have expanded.

Horizontal three-barreled shotgun 16 gauge

Important note

Here it is necessary to draw the readers' attention to a key factor. 16 gauge shotguns come in a variety of designs:

• with one and two trunks;
• with vertical and horizontal arrangement of trunks.

To this it is worth adding the general physical parameter for a hunting weapon of this type. We are talking about an increased barrel length, and if the 16 gauge is inferior in power to the 12, then some models of shotguns help compensate for the disadvantage by providing a high initial velocity of the bullet/shot.

In addition to this, domestic designers managed to find the ideal balance between the size of the guns and their weight. The shooter can carry a 16-gauge carbine and a full load of ammunition on long treks over difficult terrain without experiencing a debilitating feeling of fatigue. This is an excellent indicator that makes 16 gauge so popular among commercial hunters.

Smoothbore vertical gun IZH-27E

How does the number of trunks affect circulation?

Another important factor that deserves attention. In terms of aiming, single-barreled shotguns are much easier to handle. They are more accurate, simpler, more maneuverable, and do not block the view when aiming. Despite this, they are more difficult to hit the target with. A simultaneous shot from two barrels at once increases the chance of a successful hit.

On the other hand, double-barreled shotguns are more difficult in terms of aiming and require additional time. The shooter needs to get used to the characteristics of the gun, “feel” the spread of the shot after a shot (it is recommended to shoot at the shooting range), and determine the optimal range for yourself.

16 gauge single barrel shotgun

Keep in mind that the highest accuracy and lethality rates of 16 gauge are observed at a distance of 50 meters. At 100 meters it also poses a considerable threat, but overall its effectiveness is significantly reduced. The strong spread of the shot affects it.

Some recommendations for choosing guns

When purchasing a 16-gauge carbine, you need to start from the most important parameter - application. The gun should fit well in your hands and not complicate the aiming process. It should not be overly heavy, as long-term aiming will be a real test of endurance.

A correctly selected center of gravity is a real gift from the manufacturer. This way, a 16-gauge shotgun will sway less from side to side, making targeting accurate. This gives the shooter additional confidence when shooting, which is especially important when hunting medium game and predators.

The correct center of gravity is important for a hunting rifle

Features of the fraction itself

To hunt without wounded animals and keep the trophy, you must have good marksmanship. The number of the fraction also plays an important role. When hunting fur-bearing animals, it is recommended to use shot number 5. When going for a wild boar, you can use a unit.

Recommendations for choosing a gun

Many novice shooters wonder: how to choose a good 16-gauge hunting rifle? The caliber of a firearm plays a secondary role. First of all, it must have the following important characteristics:

1. Good balancing. This parameter is checked as follows: the gun is placed perpendicularly on an outstretched arm so that it does not fall. If the breech cut of the barrels is no further than 70 mm from the hand, then the balancing is good. You can also determine the balance of a gun by weighing the gun with the fore-end and then without it. The difference in weight should be about 10%.
2. Posadism. In a good gun, the main mass is concentrated in the center of the product. Otherwise, it will be difficult to aim, and after reloading it will be harder to close and raise it to fire.
3. Appropriateness. This parameter determines how well the gun matches the shooter's physique. It is checked as follows: raising the gun several times in a row, a person must immediately accurately point the front sight at the target. The aiming point for a gun that is not suitable for a hunter will be located lower or higher relative to the sight line. For an accurate hit, the shooter will have to spend time moving the barrels towards the target. This extra maneuver will most likely result in a miss, especially if the target is moving.

When choosing a weapon for personal use, you should remember that its technical characteristics fade into the background. The most important thing is that the gun is comfortable to hold, aim and shoot. Based on reviews, 16 gauge, so beloved by numerous hunters, will be an excellent choice for Russian hunting for any animal.

Hunting with a shotgun "Snipe"

And now the most interesting thing is how relevant it is to use the Bekas pump-action shotgun for hunting. If you believe the reviews of hunters on the Internet, this family of guns has proven itself quite well when hunting large game birds (geese, ducks, pheasants, wood grouse, and so on). Some fishermen even went with a semi-automatic to hunt wild boar, but for shooting they used not only a 12-gauge modification, but also ammunition with an increased amount of gunpowder.

Can the Bekas gun be called universal? Considering that most modifications are designed for 12 and 16 gauges - quite. Although for catching swamp-meadow game and small fur-bearing animals it is better to use something simpler. As for clay pigeon shooting, the Bekas is almost ideal, because it has a spacious magazine and an impressive reload speed.

Despite the fact that the Bekas turned out not to be ideal, it is still one step ahead of those Russian pump-action shotguns that were produced before it. The Bekas-M and Bekas-Auto versions, as well as the new VPO-201 and VPO-202, turned out to be especially successful. So if you have long dreamed of acquiring a smooth-bore semi-automatic machine, then, most likely, it will be able to satisfy your requirements.

Gun systems

Hunting weapons are divided into two types:

1. With non-retractable trunks.
2. With folding trunks.

The latter are the most common among those who like to hunt. People call them “fractures.” The choice of such a device for reloading and disassembling weapons was not without reason. The mechanism is very reliable, easy to operate and durable. To load the gun, you will need to place a round in the chamber and then close the gun. In "breakdowns" there is no mechanism for automatically feeding cartridges for subsequent shooting, but it will not be difficult for the hunter to remove the spent cartridge case and place a new cartridge in its place. This operation is performed within a few seconds.

Servicing a gun with folding barrels is much easier than with an automatic cartridge rammer. This is why “breaks” are so popular among professional shooters.

Shotguns with the ability to flip barrels have their own classification:

1. Firearms with external hammers. This cocking mechanism is the simplest, most reliable and wear-resistant. However, such weapons are obsolete; many manufacturers have abandoned such a system. Basically, such guns are produced by factories to individual orders. Their cost exceeds several thousand dollars.
2. Weapons with an internal trigger mechanism. It has a complex design, but is extremely popular.

Internal trigger mechanisms differ from each other depending on the design:

• the mainspring is pumped and the firing pin is cocked when the barrel is lowered;
• cocking is carried out when the hunter opens the gun; if the barrel is raised, the firing pin will switch to combat mode;
• the spring responsible for the firing process inside the weapon is compressed if the hunter switches the shutter key.

Comparative differences between models

The similarity of guns in a number of basic parameters does not indicate the identity of the samples. There are many technical solutions in the design of products that make them different from each other. Some gun design features may be welcomed by some, or completely rejected by other potential buyers. Below are the most significant differences.

1. There are different algorithms for assembling and disassembling shutter mechanisms. To disassemble the Bekas-Auto, you need a drift with a hammer, which allows you to remove the mounting axis of the trigger mechanism and the trigger itself. Without this, further disassembly of the gun is impossible. This makes it difficult to disassemble and reassemble the weapon in field conditions. In this regard, the MP-155 gun is more convenient; it does not require any tools for disassembly. Of course, in both cases we are talking about incomplete disassembly and reassembly of guns for cleaning and lubrication.
2. The design of the trigger mechanism for the MP-155 shotgun uses some plastic parts; a similar unit in Bekas-Avto is made entirely of steel.
3. The trigger travel of the MP-155 is shorter, the trigger itself is much more informative and softer than that of the Bekas-Auto.
4. The gas engine of the MP-155 has an adjustment mechanism for using cartridges with different attachments. "Bekas-Auto" is deprived of such an advantage.
5. Externally, the MP-155 looks more aesthetically pleasing than the Bekas-Auto, but the quality of the fitting of the second one is higher than that of the MP-155.
6. All metal parts of the Bekas-Auto gun are coated with black paint on the outside. The MP-155 has a protective and decorative coating made using the classic blued method of steel surfaces.
7. The MP-155 gained the ability to independently adjust the angles of the stock relative to the longitudinal axis of the receiver by installing gaskets of various configurations.
8. The Bekas-Auto stock is equipped with a more comfortable pistol grip with a deep relief notch to ensure a secure grip.
9. The soldering of the sighting bar to the barrel of the Bekas-Auto is made of better quality than that of the MP-155.
10. “Bekas-Auto” does not work well with lightly loaded cartridges; automatic gas reloading does not work when firing with charges of 28 grams or less. This is less typical for the MP-155; the gas engine has the ability to fine-tune.
11. Under comparable conditions, shooting at a 100-length target in terms of the quality of the scree and the accuracy of the battle is better for the Bekas-Auto than for the MP-155, but the difference is not significant. It is difficult to achieve complete comparability; the barrel length of the first gun is 4 cm longer.
12. The barrels of the products are made of better quality than those of the MP-155. The inner surface of the choke constrictions of the former is chrome-plated, while the latter are not.
13. "Bekas-Auto" is more expensive than its competitor due to the fact that the product is equipped with a second shortened barrel for firing a bullet. The MP-155 also has the ability to install a second barrel, but the manufacturer itself does not impose it on the buyer.
14. The likelihood of an inexperienced shooter acquiring a defective product when choosing an MP-155 is higher than when purchasing a Bekas-Auto.

Removing cartridges

An ejector or extractor is used to remove the spent cartridge case from the chamber. The first device ejects the cartridge case from the barrel when opened, the second is only capable of prying the cartridge case at the bottom. Then you need to grab it with your hand and pull it out of the gun.

The ejector operates much faster than its competitor. However, it breaks down much faster, is quite expensive, and in addition, it must be regularly maintained (cleaned of dust and dirt, wiped with gun oil). In addition, he is afraid of water, so when hunting in swampy areas or near bodies of water, it is preferable to take with him a weapon with an extractor mechanism.

Shotguns with non-retractable barrels

16-gauge shotguns with non-retractable barrels consist of a barrel, a magazine that can hold several cartridges, and a mechanism for automatically ejecting cartridges. These types of weapons have a faster rate of fire.

One of their significant drawbacks is their whimsical nature when using the gun. Such a mechanism requires careful lubrication, periodic adjustment, and high-quality cartridges.

Fans of weapons with non-reclining barrels most often choose pump-action shotguns. They are reloaded manually; to do this, simply move the bolt with one hand. Such models are unpretentious and reliable.

Difference in modifications

Hunting rifles and 20 gauge cartridges: pros and cons

As mentioned above, the modular principle used in the design of the Bekas family of hunting weapons allows you to easily combine the main components, creating one or another configuration, as in a children's construction set, for example, the Bekas 12 RP 12 m model.

The main details of this “constructor” are the following:

• classic stock;
• replaceable pistol grip;
• barrels chambered for 16x70, 12x70, 12x76 cartridges with lengths of 535, 660, 680, 720 and 750 mm.

However, there are also so-called basic configurations, which will be discussed further.

"Bekas 16"

“Bekas 16” is a traditional classic pump-action shotgun, reloading of which is carried out by moving a movable forend sliding along the tube of an under-barrel magazine that holds 6 rounds of 16-gauge (+1 in the barrel).

The very first version of the hunting rifle of this family, produced in three modifications:

• “Bekas” with a rifle butt and a barrel 717 mm long;
• "Bekas-1" with a butt and a short barrel (572 mm);
• "Bekas-2" with a pistol grip and a barrel 572 mm long;
• “Bekas-3” is a set that includes a stock, a “pistol” and two interchangeable barrels, long and short.

"Bekas-M"

An improved version of the previous version, chambered for 16- and 12-gauge cartridges. The principle of operation remained the same, although certain changes were made to the design aimed at increasing the accuracy of fire and the combat range. The gun can also be equipped with either a pistol grip or a classic butt. The under-barrel magazine holds 4 cartridges of 12x70 or 16x70 mm and another cartridge is carried in the barrel. The spring-loaded firing pin and push-button safety eliminate the possibility of an accidental discharge.

List of models on sale:

VPO-202

"Bekas-M auto"

A self-loading shotgun chambered for 12x70 or 16x70 mm, equipped with a system for smart cutting and discharge of powder gases. The weapon is reloaded using the energy of powder gases and the action of a return spring. Later modifications of the Bekas Auto 12x76, developed for the appropriate cartridge, are also equipped with a gas engine with automatic adjustment. In all other respects, this version of the gun is structurally similar to its older pump-action “brothers”. There is also the possibility of replacing the stock or barrel.

List of models on sale:

• VPO-201-05
• VPO-201M

Separation of guns by purpose

Weapons for sporting and hunting purposes are divided into two types: sporting and hunting. Their reloading and cocking systems are similar, but during operation you can notice their significant differences. Sporting shotguns can be equipped with additional parts such as:

• weighting agent;
• choke;
• orthopedic handle;
• stock with many adjustments for length and height.

Such guns are inconvenient to use while hunting an animal; they are only suitable for sport shooting at moving targets, such as skeet.

Models for hunting are significantly lighter; the choke constrictions, depending on the model, can have different shapes and constrictions. Hunters divide them into two groups:

• fishing;
• hunting

The first option should be easy. Since they are used much more often and are subject to wear and tear, the manufacturer makes them from durable materials and also equips the gun with a simple mechanism. This helps to facilitate maintenance and repair in its subsequent operation.

Analogs

Models that, according to their technical characteristics, can be classified as analogues of the carbine of the model in question include the following smooth-bore carbines:

• Browning Auto-5 / Remington model 11;
• Benelli M4 Tactical / M1014 JSCS / M1015 JSCS.

A comparison of the Saiga MK and Bekas-16M/RP-16M carbines is given in this video:

The Bekas-auto VPO-201-05 self-loading smoothbore shotgun operates on the principle of removing part of the powder gases from the barrel bore. This is a reliable and easy-to-use weapon, which is used for hunting small and medium-sized animals, as well as waterfowl.

Description of the shotgun Bekas-auto VPO-201-05

Self-loading smooth-bore weapon of 12 caliber with a tubular under-barrel magazine. The principle of operation of the automation is based on the selection of part of the powder gases from the barrel.

This video talks about the Bekas Auto VPO 201-05 shotgun:

Advantages and disadvantages

Good workmanship, reliable and unpretentious design. Not capricious regarding the ammunition used. It calmly withstands short-term drowning, which often happens during duck and goose hunts.

Insert your text here Unfortunately, the gauge is only 12 gauge; due to the powerful recoil, the gun is not suitable for everyone. And the length of the chamber is also the same - 76 mm, but this is better than if only a short one, 70 mm long, was offered. Firing low-power cartridges is possible, but the accuracy of the battle is significantly reduced.

• The manufacturer offers four standard barrel sizes - from 535 to 750 mm. They have a chrome-plated channel, the gas chamber has the same coating, this makes it easier to clean the weapon and allows you to shoot bimetallic bullets. But it forces the owner to take special measures to preserve it, since damage to the coating leads to the activation of electrochemical corrosion processes. There is no clear opinion in favor (or against) of chrome coating among hunters.
• The magazine holds only three rounds, the fourth can be driven into the barrel. There is no way to replace it with a more capacious one; this drawback was eliminated in the subsequent model - 201M.
• The gas engine consists of many small parts, which makes it very difficult or completely impossible to fully clean it in the field during a long hunt.
• Sights on models with a long barrel consist only of a ventilated rib and a bronze front sight. Short-barreled ones are equipped with a rifle rear sight and a front sight. There are grooves on the receiver that form a kind of dovetail strip, but their holding capacity is low; due to harsh recoil, optical sights can come off.
• Quite a rich basic set, including replaceable choke constrictions, tools, spare parts for the most loaded parts of the automation mechanism.
• Good ergonomics of the stock, allowing you to successfully shoot from any position.
• The trigger mechanism is not adjustable. The safety box is located on the rear branch of the trigger guard; the convenience of this technical solution is disputed by hunters.
• It is possible to lock cartridges in the magazine, which allows you to quickly change the type of ammunition or unload the weapon for transportation. However, the cut-off lever is very small and is not very convenient to operate.

Photo of the gun VPO-201-05

Purpose

The gun is used for all types of hunting for small and medium-sized animals, waterfowl and upland game. Models with a pistol grip instead of a stock are suitable for self-defense.

Varieties

The gun is manufactured in only one caliber - twelve, with a chamber length of 76 mm. The manufacturer offers several models.

1. VPO-201.00.00 – barrel length 680 mm, semi-pistol stock.
2. VPO-201.00.00-01 – barrel length 720 mm, semi-pistol stock.
3. VPO-201.00.00-02 – barrel length 750 mm, semi-pistol stock.
4. VPO-201.00.00-03 – barrel length 680 mm, supplied with a barrel 535 mm long and a pistol grip.
5. VPO-201.00.00-04 – barrel length 720 mm, supplied with a barrel 535 mm long and a pistol grip.
6. VPO-201.00.00-05 – barrel length 750 mm, supplied with a barrel 535 mm long and a pistol grip.
7. VPO-201.00.00-06 – barrel length 680 mm, supplied with barrel 750 mm long. The stock is only half-pistol.

The technical characteristics of the Bekas-auto VPO-201-05 shotgun are given below.