A question of balance

I hear people talking about balancing their gun. What does this mean and how can I balance mine?

Tony says: The balance of a gun comes down to personal preference. A gun that is muzzle or stock heavy will feel awkward to handle. By changing the balance you can change the handling characteristics to best suit your style of shooting. The balance is determined with an empty and safe gun, closed, then finding the point at which it sits level without tipping forwards or back. The reference point is the hinge pin, but only in the respect of making adjustments, as position of the hinge pin can vary. Longer barrels and multichoke guns are likely to balance in front of the hinge pin as they carry more weight upfront.

A gun that balances in between your hands can feel lighter than one that is muzzle heavy. Use the space inside the stock to add weights to adjust the point of balance. I have seen cartridges, lead fishing weights and wheel balance weights used to good effect. Ensure weights are secure and then it is just trial and error to find what is best for you.