Description
Let me paint you a picture. You’re walking a cut soybean field in late October, the sun just starting to warm the frost off the grass. A covey of quail flushes from the edge, and you swing through, the gun coming up smooth and natural. That’s the kind of moment the American Tactical, Cavalry XS, Over/Under, 20 Gauge, 3″ Chamber, 26″ Barrels, Blued, Wood Stock, 2Rd is built for. It’s a no-fuss, field-ready over/under shotgun designed for the hunter who wants classic lines and reliable performance without a custom shop price tag. I’ve put a few boxes of target loads and some heavier 3-inch pheasant rounds through one, and here’s what I found.
Look, the first thing you notice is the balance. With those 26-inch barrels, it points like a dream—neither muzzle-heavy nor stock-light. The blued finish on the steel is a deep, traditional matte that handles field wear better than a high-polish, and the walnut stock has a straightforward, hand-filling shape. It’s not fancy, checkered wood, but it’s solid and the finish protects it from the elements. At just under 7 pounds, it’s light enough to carry all day but has enough heft to soak up the 20-gauge’s mild recoil, making it a fantastic choice for newer shooters or anyone sensitive to kick. The 3-inch chamber is a practical touch, giving you the flexibility to run everything from light 2¾-inch target loads up to heavier waterfowl or turkey shells when you need the extra punch.
Key Features & Handling
The action is where this gun defines itself. It uses a boxlock design, which is simpler and often more robust than a sidelock at this price point. The break action is crisp, with a positive lever that throws to the right for opening. The ejectors are selective—a nice feature—so you can pop out both spent shells or just the one you fired. The single selective trigger is mechanical, not inertia-based, which I prefer for its consistent reliability. It fits out of the box for most average-sized shooters, with a length of pull around 14.5 inches. The 26-inch barrels are cylinder and modified choked (often expressed as Improved Cylinder/Modified), which is arguably the most versatile fixed-choke setup for upland hunting over a dog. You’re covered for close-flushing birds in thick cover and have a bit more reach for crossing shots. For those wanting more flexibility, the chokes are not fixed; they use a common Beretta/Benelli Mobil style choke tube system, so you can easily swap in a full for turkeys or a skeet tube for clays.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 20 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3″ |
| Barrel Length | 26″ |
| Overall Length | Approx. 42.5″ |
| Weight | Approx. 6.8 lbs |
| Chokes | Fixed (Cyl & Mod) or Tube System (Model Dependent) |
| Stock | Walnut |
| Finish | Blued Steel, Walnut Stock |
The Pros & The Cons
On the plus side, you get a lot of gun for $491.61. The build is straightforward and durable, the handling is excellent for a field gun, and the 20-gauge chambering is versatile and forgiving. The use of a common choke tube system is a huge benefit for customization. That said, this is an entry-level over/under. The wood-to-metal fit is functional, not exhibition-grade. The trigger, while reliable, may have a bit more creep than a gun costing three times as much. It’s a tool, not a jewel—and that’s exactly the point for many of us.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This is the ideal first over/under for a Missouri hunter getting into upland birds or a seasoned shooter wanting a reliable, lightweight companion for dense covers where a longer barrel is a hindrance. It’s perfect for chasing quail, woodcock, or early-season doves. It’s also a great option for a younger shooter stepping up from a single-shot, thanks to the manageable 20-gauge recoil. If your priority is a dependable field performer that won’t cause heartache if it picks up a scratch from a briar patch, this Cavalry XS hits the mark.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is this shotgun suitable for trap or skeet shooting?
A: It can be used for casual clay shooting, especially sporting clays or skeet. The 26-inch barrels and improved cylinder/modified choke setup are a bit limiting for formal trap, but swapping in aftermarket choke tubes can improve its versatility on the clay range.
Q: What’s the difference between this and a more expensive over/under?
A: The main differences come down to fit, finish, and internal refinement. Higher-end guns often have better wood, finer engraving, hand-fitted actions for a smoother open/close, and crisper triggers. The Cavalry XS provides the core over/under experience and reliability at a fraction of the cost.
Q: Does it come with a case or choke tubes?
A: Typically, it comes with a basic hard case for protection. Choke tube inclusion varies; some models come with a set (often IC, M, F), while others may have fixed chokes. It’s best to confirm the exact package contents at the time of purchase. Remember, an FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases when ordering online to your local dealer.
If you’re looking for a classic, pointable 20-gauge that gets you into the over/under world without a huge investment, the American Tactical Cavalry XS deserves a close look. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. See the full details on our site.
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