I've enjoyed this thread immensely. 63 years ago my dad graduated me from my Savage hammerless 220 20ga single shot to a 20ga AYA Matador, an SST/Ejector nicely finished entry level SXS. It was my pride and joy, but it was lost in a home burglary when I was 20.

About a dozen years ago my stepson was shooting a cheap and simple Smith & Wesson 916 pump gun, and he had always eyed my doubles. He's a big strong guy and shoots 12ga guns.

An old friend was quitting hunting and had a 12ga Matador in sound condition. He gave me a sweet deal on it, and for years now it's been Kevin's favorite shotgun.

I was looking at it in detail a few months ago, and I was impressed with the general fit and finish of the gun. The early Matadors were finished very well for relatively inexpensive guns.

Thanks to all who posted photos of their AYAs. Shotgun eye candy is always appreciated.