Description
The Franchi Instinct SLX O/U 12 Ga, 28″ Barrel, 3″, AA Satin Walnut, 2rd is a premium Italian-made over/under shotgun designed for the discerning shooter who wants high-end features without a custom shop price tag. It blends classic aesthetics with modern, reliable mechanics for a shotgun that’s ready for the field or the clays course right out of the box.
Key Features
- AA-Grade Satin Walnut Stock: Offers a high level of wood-to-metal fit and a classic, elegant finish that belies its price point.
- 28″ Chrome-Lined Barrels: Provide excellent pointability for wingshooting and durability with minimal maintenance.
- 3″ Chamber: Versatility to handle a wide range of 12-gauge loads, from light target loads to heavier waterfowl or turkey shells.
- Mechanical Trigger: Delivers a crisp, consistent pull shot after shot, a key feature for competitive shooting.
- Automatic Safety: Engages each time the action is opened for added security.
Specifications & Details
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3″ |
| Barrel Length | 28 Inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 45.5 Inches |
| Weight | Approx. 6.6 lbs |
| Capacity | 2 Rounds |
| Stock | AA Satin Walnut |
| Chokes | Includes 3 (IC, M, F) |
Weighing in at a nimble 6.6 pounds, this shotgun is built for all-day carry without sacrificing the stable swing needed for consistent hits. The price of $1691.06 positions it as a serious contender against other imported over/unders, offering a tangible step up in fit and finish from many entry-level models. Here’s the thing—you’re paying for the wood, the reliable action, and the Franchi name, not for unnecessary engraving or gimmicks. It ships to Missouri and compliant US states, requiring an FFL transfer for firearm purchases like all our long guns.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This Instinct SLX is ideal for the serious upland hunter, dedicated sporting clays shooter, or the waterfowler who appreciates a lighter, fast-handling gun. It’s for the shooter who has outgrown their pump or autoloader and wants the precision and balance of an over/under but finds the price of a Beretta 686 or Browning Citori just a bit out of reach. It’s a practical bridge gun that delivers 90% of the performance for a significantly lower investment.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The standout value is the combination of genuine AA-grade walnut and proven mechanical reliability. The chrome-lined barrels resist corrosion, a real benefit for hunters in damp conditions. The mechanical trigger is a major plus for target work, and the overall package simply looks and feels more expensive than it is. It’s compatible with a wide range of aftermarket chokes from brands like Briley or Carlson’s, allowing for easy customization.
Cons: As a two-shot gun, it’s not for high-volume waterfowl spreads where a 3+1 semi-auto might be preferred. The satin finish, while beautiful, may show handling marks more quickly than an oil finish. Some may find the 28″ barrel a touch long for tight-cover grouse hunting, but it’s a fantastic all-around length.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is this gun suitable for a beginner?
A: It can be, if the beginner is committed to the over/under platform. Its simplicity and reliability are advantages, but the investment is significant compared to a starter pump. Many would recommend trying a few guns first to ensure the fit and balance are right for you.
Q: What chokes does it come with?
A: The Franchi Instinct SLX typically comes equipped with three flush-mounted choke tubes: Improved Cylinder, Modified, and Full. This covers most hunting and target shooting scenarios right from the start.
Q: How does it compare to a Stoeger Condor or CZ Drake?
A: The Franchi sits in a tier above. While those are functional entry-level guns, the Instinct SLX uses better materials (like the AA walnut and chrome-lined barrels), has a more refined action, and offers superior overall fit and finish. You feel the difference in the hands and see it on the scorecard or in the field.
Looking for a no-compromise over/under that makes sense for your budget? The Franchi Instinct SLX represents a smart allocation of funds into the areas that matter most: wood, steel, and a proven action. View this model and see its availability at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
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