Are you sure you know everything about automatics? If you want to buy one, update yourself on the market or even test your expertise, here it is: read!
The use of the semi-automatic shotgun in hunting offers a series of significant technical advantages compared to other types of weapons, such as over-and-under or side-by-side. Of course it has only one barrel, instead of two, but the benefits of the semi-automatic translate into greater effectiveness in the field, greater speed of engagement and, in certain situations, greater safety for the hunter. Here I will examine models intended for migratory or sedentary hunting with dogs: lightweight shotguns, proven to be efficient, with walnut stocks and frames that are little or not engraved at all. In 12 gauge, the most common, but I'll also give you information on the availability of other gauges. 
Quickness of shot and follow-up
The most obvious advantage of the semi-automatic shotgun lies in its ability to automatically chamber a new round after each shot, without the hunter having to perform any manual action. This translates into a significantly faster firing rate : the ability to quickly fire a second, or especially a third, shot can make the difference between a successful kill and a game that runs away. As is well known, in Italy, three shots is the maximum possible when hunting, so the capacity of the tubular magazine is a topic I won't discuss.
The fluidity of the semi-automatic rearming cycle allows you to keep the target in the sights continuously and this significantly increases the probability of an ethical and rapid kill, avoiding unnecessary suffering to the animal. The more “refined”, modern and balanced the rifle is, the better the shot is managed. It is also possible to study the sequence in which to insert the cartridges into the magazine to make the most of loads and weights depending on the type of hunting practiced. After the last shot, the bolt remains open. 
Versatility and customization
Interchangeable chokes are now common for all smoothbore barrels, allowing you to tailor the shotgun's pattern to specific hunting needs and the type of game being hunted. They are not only used for semi-automatics ; fixed chokes are traditionally preferred for side-by-side and over-under shotguns. For semi-automatics, which are considered the most versatile shotguns, chokes have also been designed to "tighten" and "stretch" the shot swarm and thus the pattern, or even disperse it.
The only rod is available in different lengths to optimize handling in different environments and to influence the ballistics of the shot. Generally 660, 710 and 760 mm. In some cases also 620, but these are almost exclusively cylindrical slugs, i.e. for ball cartridges, or radiused or semi-radiused to favor the dispersion of the pellets at the exit from the muzzle. For our type of semi-automatic the right barrel is 660 or 710 mm, suitable for rapid and also "long" shots. The length of the barrel influences the ability to "lengthen" the pellets in flight, but from experience I am more inclined to recommend a good match with the cartridge. 
The stock can be made of wood or synthetic material: the response on the hunter's body is different, but nothing too complex to get used to. Some models offer the option of equipping the stock and forend with components of different sizes or materials to improve ergonomics and recoil absorption. The frame or receiver is now always made of aluminum or Ergal with various finishing options in addition to the classic anodizing.
What really matters is how the rifle fits your body: and the “secret” is all in the length of the kick (generally 360-365 mm) and in the fold, which can be modified, from 50 to 65, on almost all models generally using the good old plates that are placed between the stock, and the receiver or frame. This is exclusive to semi-automatic shotguns and is not possible for over-and-unders (with the sole exception of the Benelli 828U) and side-by-side shotguns. 
Operating system
The operating systems of modern semi-automatic rifles are essentially gas outlet o inertial. In the first case, a portion of the combustion gases is diverted from the barrel to operate a piston that moves the bolt, which in turn is then pushed closed, after the shot, by a long recoil spring located in the stock. The most advanced systems then provide mechanical solutions (such as compensator valves) to use the right amount of gas for the rearming, dispersing the residue. In the inertial system, however, the recoil energy compresses a spring located inside the bolt group and the subsequent release of this energy activates the rearming cycle. Here too, there is a recoil spring, in the stock or under the barrel and around the magazine. 
Both systems absorb some of the propulsive energy, reducing the sensation of recoil transmitted to the shooter's shoulder. Typically, the gas-operated or gas-operated system absorbs more energy, feeling "softer" on the shoulder . A less violent recoil makes it easier to maintain the aiming line between shots, improving accuracy on subsequent shots. The reduction in recoil-related discomfort decreases the shooter's tendency to contract or deflect the gun when firing, a phenomenon (called "flinch") that can compromise accuracy.
It is precisely these characteristics of semi-automatics that make them preferable for longer hunting sessions: they are less tiring, especially if you use powerful cartridges. 
Modern semi-automatic systems, both gas-operated and inertial, have achieved high levels of reliability, especially when properly maintained. Although gas-operated systems require more frequent cleaning of the components affected by combustion residues, general maintenance of a semi-automatic is generally simple.
But here are the magnificent 8 rifles we have chosen: Benelli Raffaello Black AI, Beretta A400 Upland, Browning Maxus 2 Hunter, Fabarm L4S Grey hunter, Franchi Affinity 3 wood, Hatsan Escort magnum, Istanbul Impala plus, Winchester SX4. In the next episode we will analyze the real peculiarities and differences, the strengths and weaknesses.
