Mossberg SA-20 All Purpose Field 20 Gauge 28″ Barrel

Description

You know that feeling when you’re walking a field for hours, and your shoulder starts reminding you of every 12-gauge round you’ve ever fired? That’s why I keep a 20-gauge like the Mossberg SA-20 All Purpose Field in my rotation. It’s the workhorse you grab when you need reliability without the heft, perfect for a long day chasing dove or busting clays. Let’s talk about what makes this specific model—the Mossberg SA-20 All Purpose Field 20 Ga, 28″ Vented Rib Barrel, Black, 4rd – NO BOX—a solid pick for the Missouri hunter or sport shooter.

So, what is it? The Mossberg SA-20 All Purpose Field is a gas-operated, semi-automatic shotgun chambered in 20-gauge. This specific configuration features a 28-inch vented rib barrel, a black synthetic stock, and a 4-round capacity (2+1 in the magazine plus one in the chamber). It’s designed as a lightweight, low-recoil field gun for hunting and sport shooting, and this unit is offered without its original factory packaging.

I’ve put a few hundred target loads through a similar model, and the first thing you notice is how it shoulders. The 28-inch barrel with that vented rib gives you a clean, consistent sight plane that’s great for tracking crossing shots. The gas system does a respectable job soaking up recoil, which makes those long practice sessions or a full day in a dove field much more pleasant. At just over 6.5 pounds, it’s easy to carry all day without feeling like you’re lugging a boat anchor. The synthetic stock is the practical choice here—it shrugs off rain, mud, and the occasional bump against a fence post without a second thought.

Here’s the thing—this is a no-frills, get-the-job-done firearm. The controls are classic Mossberg: a tang-mounted safety that’s intuitive to use with your thumb, and a bolt release located just forward of the trigger guard. The action is compatible with a wide range of 20-gauge loads, from light 2¾-inch target loads to 3-inch magnums, which gives you flexibility for different game. It’s a design that fits out of the box for most shooters and requires no gunsmithing to get into the field. Think of it as the reliable companion to more specialized guns, like a Browning Silver or a Franchi Affinity, but at a very accessible price point of $501.10.

Mossberg SA-20 All Purpose Field Specs

Specification	Detail
Gauge	20 Gauge
Chamber	3″
Barrel Length	28″
Overall Length	48.5″ (Approx.)
Weight	6.6 lbs (Approx.)
Capacity	4+1 Rounds
Stock	Black Synthetic
Sights	Bead Front, Vented Rib

Pros & Cons
The pros are clear: it’s lightweight, has soft recoil thanks to the gas system, and is built to handle the elements. The 28-inch barrel is a great all-around length for both wingshooting and clays. The price is a major advantage for a name-brand semi-auto. The cons? It’s a basic field model, so you won’t find fancy engraving or adjustable combs. The “NO BOX” note means it’s just the firearm, so factor that in for storage or transport. Some shooters might prefer a wood stock for aesthetics, but that adds weight and cost.

Who is this for? This shotgun is ideal for the new hunter looking for a first semi-auto that won’t punish them, the seasoned shooter wanting a dedicated, light-recoil option for small game or dove, or a parent looking for a youth-friendly shotgun that an adult can also use comfortably. It’s a fantastic “loaner” gun for taking friends out. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, following all applicable regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does “NO BOX” mean in the listing?

A: It means the firearm is being sold without its original factory cardboard packaging. You will receive the Mossberg SA-20 shotgun itself, and it will be transferred to you in secure, compliant packaging. Always remember an FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases.

Q: Can it shoot steel shot for waterfowl?

A: Yes, the SA-20 is chambered for 3″ shells and its barrel is rated for steel shot. This makes it a capable option for waterfowl hunting, provided you’re using non-toxic shot as required by federal and state regulations.

Q: Is the stock length adjustable?

A: The stock on this All Purpose Field model is a fixed-length synthetic stock. It’s designed to fit an average adult shooter. For a more customized fit, aftermarket recoil pads or spacers can be added, or you could consider Mossberg’s SA-20 models that come with adjustable stocks.

If the idea of a lightweight, dependable 20-gauge that can handle everything from squirrels to clays fits your needs, this Mossberg SA-20 deserves a close look. Check its current availability on our site.