A day of driven grouse: tradition, thrill- and smart budgeting

For many shooters, driven grouse shooting represents the pinnacle of fieldsport. Yet with prices often exceeding £200 a brace, the sport can feel beyond reach. However, by balancing passion with practicality, you can still enjoy the grouse moor without overspending.

Since the Victorian era, driven grouse has been Britain’s most celebrated sport. Imagine dawn on a heather-covered hill. Guns gather behind stone butts, awaiting the thunder of wings overhead. The beaters’ rhythm, the flags in motion, and the camaraderie between sportsmen create a tradition steeped in pride.

The costs of a day on the moor

Commercial days can cost thousands per gun. A brace of grouse often sells for over £200, making these shoots rare indulgences. One solution is to budget carefully. Choosing a well-made yet affordable shotgun frees funds for that once-in-a-lifetime grouse day.

Below are six standout shotguns, all offering reliability and craftsmanship without straying above the £3000 mark.

Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon I Field

GMK

The Beretta 686 has long been known for reliability. The 2024 update features an improved opening lever, balanced receiver, and polished trigger. Its Steelium Optimabore HP barrels deliver consistent patterns and reduced recoil. The new floral engraving adds elegance to proven performance.

RRP £1,890

Browning B525 Composite

Browning

Modern in appearance, the B525 Composite offers an adjustable ambidextrous stock and five Invector+ chokes. The solid build ensures long afternoons on the moor without strain. Both the comb and trigger are adjustable, giving a tailored shooting experience.

RRP £2,030

Miroku MK60

Sportsman Gun Centre

Though slightly above £3000, the MK60 deserves mention. First introduced in the 1990s, it has built a strong reputation for barrel quality. At just 6.6lbs, this lightweight gun features a semi-pistol grip and tulip forend for ease of handling. Fixed chokes and a selective trigger add to its appeal.

RRP £3,015.99

Rizzini BR110

Anglo Italian Arms

The BR110 Game Gun offers excellent value. Its matt black action, Turkish walnut stock, and ventilated ribs combine style with practicality. With multichokes, automatic safety, and optional 32in barrels, it provides versatility for grouse shooters.

RRP £1,974

Blaser F16 Game

Blaser

The Blaser F16 is prized for its balance and speed. A mechanical selective trigger works instantly without recoil interference. The low-profile receiver enhances handling. Available in 28in and 30in barrels, with both left- and right-handed versions, it’s a refined choice for the grouse moor.

RRP £2,895

Zoli One

Edgar Brothers

Exclusive to the UK, the Zoli One bridges luxury and affordability. With a forged stainless steel monobloc action and Boss-type lock system, it promises durability and precision. The 10-year warranty, silver-soldered barrels, and Italian craftsmanship make it a serious contender.

RRP £2,995