Description
I remember the first time I shouldered a CZ Redhead Deluxe. It wasn’t on a fancy clays course, but in a muddy Missouri field after a morning rain. The balance was immediate, the swing smooth as butter. That’s the experience this over/under is built for. So, what is the CZ REDHEAD DELUXE 103 DE 20-26 SILVER? It’s a 20-gauge, 26-inch barreled over/under shotgun designed for the upland hunter and sporting clays shooter who demands reliable, elegant performance without a custom shop price tag. It’s a workhorse dressed for Sunday, and I’ve put hundreds of shells through its chrome-lined barrels.
Here’s the thing—CZ doesn’t just make guns; they build legacies from the old Brno factories, and that heritage shows. The Redhead Deluxe feels solid, not heavy, coming in at a field-friendly weight. The silver nitride receiver isn’t just for looks; it provides a durable, corrosion-resistant finish that wipes clean after a long day. The single selective mechanical trigger is crisp, and the automatic safety engages smoothly every time. I’ve found it to be drop-in ready for most standard 20-gauge shells, from light target loads to heavier field loads, with no fussing required.
Let’s talk about the key features that make this shotgun stand out. The 26″ barrels are a perfect sweet spot. They’re long enough for a stable swing on crossing clays or flushing birds, but short enough to maneuver through thick cover without hanging up on every branch. The chrome-lined bores are a huge plus for longevity and easy cleaning. The Turkish walnut stock is where the “Deluxe” name earns its keep. It’s got a handsome, hand-checkered pistol grip and fore-end that provides a secure hold, even with damp hands. The ventilated rib between the barrels helps with sight alignment and dissipates heat on warm days.
This isn’t a gun that needs you to adapt to it. The dimensions are classic, and it shoulders naturally. The extractors are positive, lifting spent shells high for easy removal. While it’s a dedicated over/under, its reliability and pointability remind me of why platforms like the Beretta 686 are so beloved—it just works. And at $899.66, it sits in a very compelling spot in the market.
| Gauge | 20 Gauge |
|---|---|
| Barrel Length | 26 Inches |
| Chamber | 3″ |
| Overall Length | 42.5″ (Approx.) |
| Weight | Approx. 6.6 lbs |
| Trigger | Single Selective Mechanical |
| Chokes | Includes 5 Chokes (IC, M, F, Skeet, Cylinder) |
Pros & Cons
Pros: Excellent balance and pointability right out of the box. The silver nitride finish is both attractive and tough. The included five choke tubes give you incredible versatility for field or range. The Turkish walnut is genuinely handsome for the price point. Cons: It’s a field gun, so don’t expect extravagant engraving. The weight, while good for carry, might feel a bit light for some high-volume clay shooters who prefer more heaver guns to soak up recoil.
Who is this for? This shotgun is for the Missouri hunter chasing quail, dove, or pheasant who wants a step up from a pump or autoloader. It’s for the recreational clays shooter who appreciates the simplicity and reliability of an over/under. It’s also an ideal first over/under for a shooter looking to move into that world without a massive financial leap. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide where compliant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What chokes come with the CZ Redhead Deluxe 20-gauge?
A: It comes with a very complete set of five choke tubes: Improved Cylinder, Modified, Full, Skeet, and Cylinder. This covers you for everything from close-range skeet to longer turkey shots.
Q: Is the safety automatic?
A: Yes. The safety automatically engages when you open the action, a standard and safe feature on quality over/unders. You must manually disengage it to fire.
Q: What’s the difference between the Redhead and the Redhead Deluxe?
A: The Deluxe model features the upgraded silver nitride receiver finish and generally finer wood with more detailed checkering. The standard model has a blued finish.
Look, if you’re in the market for a dependable, classically-styled over/under that performs far above its price tag, the CZ Redhead Deluxe 103 DE 20-26 SILVER deserves your attention. See the full details and availability on our site.
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