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Side-by-side shotguns: the tradition and elegance of hunting

The side-by-side shotgun occupies a special place in the hunting world. Recognizable by its two barrels positioned side by side , it embodies the great tradition of European hunting and appeals to many enthusiasts for its natural balance , its instinctive handling and its timeless aesthetics.

Prized for driven hunting , particularly for pheasant , partridge , woodcock or rabbit , the side-by-side shotgun remains a preferred choice for hunters attached to an authentic and elegant practice.

Riffaut Gunsmiths offers a selection of side-by-side shotguns from renowned brands such as Fair , Rizzini , Bettinsoli , and other manufacturers known for the quality of their firearms. Located in Orbec, Calvados , our gun shop provides expert guidance from four gunsmiths, graduates of the Liège School of Gunsmithing, to help you choose the perfect shotgun for your needs.

The Riffaut Armory also boasts a unique piece of equipment in France: a live-fire shooting range . This immersive facility allows users to practice their shooting technique , analyze the position of impacts, and, in some cases, try out a firearm before purchase in a safe and supervised environment.

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Side-by-side shotgun: a great hunting tradition


The side-by-side shotgun is one of the most traditional forms of shotgun. Its two barrels, placed side by side, give it a characteristic silhouette and a balance appreciated by many hunters. Used for generations, it remains a preferred choice today for enthusiasts of traditional hunting and fine firearms .


The side-by-side shotgun is distinguished by its mechanical simplicity, reliability and often refined aesthetics, with engravings , selected woods and careful finishes depending on the model.


An ideal rifle for driven hunts


The side-by-side shotgun is particularly appreciated for driven shooting , where shots must be quick and instinctive. Its wide sight line and natural balance allow for instinctive shooting , especially effective for game that takes off suddenly, such as woodcock , pheasant , or partridge .


Many hunters also appreciate the side-by-side shotgun for hunting with pointing dogs , where discretion, lightness and speed of implementation are particularly important.


Rifles appreciated for their aesthetics


Beyond its shooting qualities, the side-by-side shotgun is often chosen for its aesthetics. Some models stand out with traditional engravings , select woods , and meticulous finishes that make them true works of hunting art.


Manufacturers like Fair , Rizzini or Bettinsoli now offer side-by-side shotguns combining tradition and modern technologies to offer reliability and longevity.


Choosing your side-by-side shotgun with Riffaut Armory


Choosing a side-by-side shotgun depends on several criteria: caliber , barrel length , balance , stock ergonomics , and hunting style. Consulting a gunsmith is often essential to finding the most suitable firearm.


Riffaut Gunsmiths, located in Orbec, Calvados , offers a wide selection of hunting weapons in a showroom of over 280 m² with more than 500 firearms on display . Our certified gunsmiths will assist you in choosing your equipment to find a rifle that suits your hunting style and physique.


Our gun shop also offers a unique experience in France with its live-fire shooting range . This immersive room allows you to shoot at hunting scenes projected in large format, immediately analyze the impact of the shot and, under certain conditions, try out a firearm before purchase .


FAQ




What is a side-by-side shotgun?



A side-by-side shotgun has two barrels positioned side by side. It is a traditional shotgun, highly valued for driven hunts and for its classic aesthetics.





What is the difference between a side-by-side shotgun and an over-and-under shotgun?



A side-by-side shotgun has two barrels placed side by side, while an over-and-under shotgun has two barrels one above the other. The over-and-under often offers a more modern sight picture.





Is a side-by-side shotgun suitable for beginners in hunting?



Yes, a side-by-side shotgun can be suitable for beginners. Its simple mechanics and reliability make it an accessible weapon, often appreciated for traditional hunting.





Can you try out a hunting rifle before buying it?



In some cases, the Riffaut Armory offers the possibility of trying out a weapon thanks to its live-bullet Cynétir, an immersive installation allowing you to analyze the accuracy of the shot.





Where to buy a side-by-side shotgun with advice from a gunsmith?



The Riffaut Armory in Orbec in Calvados offers a selection of side-by-side shotguns with the support of qualified gunsmiths to help you choose the weapon best suited to your needs.




In France products of categories A, B, C or D are subject to rules of purchase, port, transport and detention. For more details please consult the link below.
Classification of weapons according to the French Internal Security Code
The recommended retail prices are listed as a guide..
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