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AYA No.2 de luxe 20-bore shotgun

Shotguns: AYA No.2 de luxe 20-bore shotgun: We test this more affordable version of AYA's No.1 lightweight sidelock.

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Many readers will be aware that the AYA No.1, a shotgun I reviewed in 2007, is their top-of-the-range gun, built in Spain but finished in the UK.

It’s a case of taking the slogan “English in all but name” to the limit of its meaning.

This kind of bi-national production should be no surprise as AYA-barrelled actions in the white have been sought after for many years as the basis of new builds, some bearing British names, very much in the way the Birmingham trade used to supply parts for London guns.

But the problem with producing a gun like the AYA No.1 is the extra time and cost involved, which means a more expensive gun.

The lock style is regarded as highly desirable and the ejectors are of the Southgate type.

ON TEST
At 6lb this is certainly a light enough gun, sensibly chambered for 2.3⁄4in (70mm) cartridges. The actual point of balance is right at the front edge of the cross pin (where the barrel hinges), meaning handling is potentially very fast.

This is aided by the lightweight; however, the 28in barrels give good pointability and impart a degree of steadiness that provides a reassuring feel.

Whether carried in a gunslip or broken empty over the arm, this slim gun is no burden at all and a good bet for the walking Gun.

Around the hedges on the way to the testing field, looking for the occasional pheasant or waiting expectantly while the dogs fussed around the bushes hoping for a rabbit, the No.2 felt like an extension of oneself.

I was itching to try it for real but it did not happen.

At the pattern plate a variety of cartridges were used, the main diet consisting of Eley Hi-Flyer 28g loads, Lyalvale Express 25g loads and Gamebore Pure Gold 30g loads.

The last I expected to be a bit snappy in this light gun, but the combination of this cartridge and a good-fitting gun was remarkably pleasant to shoot.

Everything functioned as it should, with good trigger pulls, positive ejection and a short-throw safety button that is a delight to use.

Patterns with any cartridge and combination of choke ranged from very acceptable to good, with a tendency to throw the centre of the pattern just slightly high to point of aim.

So, is it a mere imitation No.1?

Far from it the No.2 de Luxe has its own character and style, which I think will become appreciated as a worthy addition to the AYA range.

CONCLUSION
Most certainly English in all but name. A genuine lightweight game gun that is a delight to handle and shoot.

It incorporates all the features one expects on a good quality sidelock. This is the type of gun that is likely to appeal to the real enthusiast who is also a good, competent Shot.

Like any thoroughbred, the owner has to rise to the occasion and fully appreciate it, and really be able to use it to its best advantage.

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