Description
The CZ QUAIL is a 20-gauge over/under shotgun designed for comfort and quick handling. It’s a value-focused variant of the popular CZ Drake, featuring a shorter length of pull for youth and smaller-framed shooters and a mid-rib delete to reduce muzzle weight. This makes it an affordable, easy-swinging option for upland hunting and clay sports. At $571.49, it offers a durable, feature-rich entry into the over/under market without the premium price tag.
Key Features
- Youth/Compact-Friendly Design: Shorter length of pull improves comfort and control for smaller shooters.
- Lightened Muzzle: Mid-rib delete trims weight at the front for faster, easier swing dynamics.
- Complete Choke Set: Ships with five interchangeable choke tubes (likely including IC, M, F) for versatility in the field or on the range.
- Durable Build: Turkish walnut stock and corrosion-resistant black chrome finish ensure longevity.
- Simple Operation: Single mechanical extractor lifts spent shells—reliable and straightforward.
Specifications & Details
| Gauge | 20 GA |
|---|---|
| Action | Over/Under |
| Barrel Length | 28″ |
| Capacity | 2 Rounds |
| Weight | 6.3 lbs |
| Finish | Black Chrome |
Weighing just 6.3 pounds, the CZ QUAIL is built for carrying all day in the field. The 28-inch barrels provide a smooth swing plane, while the removed mid-rib shaves off crucial ounces where it matters most—at the muzzle. This isn’t just a scaled-down gun; it’s a thoughtfully engineered platform where every spec aims for balance and shootability. The included choke system offers immediate flexibility, whether you’re chasing Missouri quail or breaking clays. Here’s the thing—you’re getting a hand-fitted, walnut-stocked over/under with multiple chokes for hundreds less than many competitors. That’s the core of its budget-conscious appeal.
Who Is The CZ Quail For?
This shotgun is ideal for younger shooters, adults with a smaller frame, or anyone seeking a lightweight, fast-handling over/under for upland birds like quail, grouse, or pheasant. It’s also a perfect first over/under for a new hunter who wants quality without a four-figure investment. The design prioritizes comfort and quick pointability over long-range precision, making it a specialized tool for close-cover hunting. If you’ve found standard field guns too long or muzzle-heavy, the Quail’s proportions might be the solution. It’s a niche gun that fills a common need.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Excellent value for a walnut-stocked O/U; lighter muzzle aids swing speed; shorter stock improves fit for many; comes ready with a full choke set; durable, low-maintenance finish. It’s essentially drop-in ready for a new shooter after a proper fitting and safety check.
Cons: The 2-round capacity limits it compared to semi-autos; single extractor (not ejectors) means manually removing spent shells; the shorter stock may feel cramped for very tall shooters. It’s a trade-off: you get premium features at a budget price by accepting some utilitarian mechanics.
Comparing it directly to its sibling, the CZ Drake, highlights its purpose. The Drake, with its standard dimensions and full rib, is a generalist field gun. The Quail is a specialist—it sacrifices some weight-forward stability for agility. For a walking hunter covering miles, that 6.3-pound weight is a genuine advantage. The black chrome finish provides substantial corrosion resistance, a practical touch for rainy days or damp mornings in the blind. This firearm is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, following all applicable regulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can an adult of average size use the CZ Quail effectively?
A: Absolutely. While beneficial for youth, many adults, especially those with shorter arms or who prefer a very compact mount, find the shorter length of pull and lighter muzzle extremely fast and comfortable for snap-shooting in thick cover.
Q: What chokes are included with the shotgun?
A: The CZ Quail typically ships with five choke tubes: Cylinder, Improved Cylinder, Modified, Improved Modified, and Full. This range covers everything from close-range skeet to tighter patterning for longer shots, providing great out-of-the-box versatility.
Q: Is the finish durable enough for hard hunting use?
A: Yes. The black chrome finish is notably more corrosion-resistant than standard bluing. It’s a practical choice that holds up well to moisture, handling, and the occasional bump against brush, making it a true field-grade finish that requires minimal babying.
In the crowded field of budget over/unders, the CZ QUAIL carves out a smart niche by focusing on fit and handling. It makes a classic, reliable design accessible. For the hunter or shooter who values a quick, comfortable mount and doesn’t want to compromise on materials, it represents serious bang-for-buck. See if the CZ Quail is the right fit for your next season.
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