Description
I remember the first time I shouldered a Browning BPS. It was a friend’s 12-gauge, and the smoothness of the action and the solid feel stuck with me. When I got my hands on this Browning BPS Pump 20 ga 22″ 3″ Satin Walnut Blue Finish model, it was like meeting an old friend in a more refined, nimble package. Here’s the thing—this isn’t just another pump-action; it’s a bottom-ejecting, tang-safety workhorse built with a heirloom-quality mindset. I’ve put a few hundred target loads and a couple boxes of heavier upland game shells through it, and it’s proven itself as a reliable companion from the clay range to the field.
So, what is it? The Browning BPS Pump 20 ga 22″ 3″ Satin Walnut Blue Finish is a bottom-ejecting, pump-action shotgun chambered in versatile 20-gauge. It features a 22-inch barrel with a 3-inch chamber, a classic satin walnut stock, and a durable blued steel finish. It’s designed for smooth operation, ambidextrous use, and lasting durability, making it an excellent choice for hunting, sport shooting, and home defense.
Let’s talk about that bottom-eject and tang safety combo. It’s a signature BPS feature that makes this shotgun truly ambidextrous. Shells eject straight down, keeping hot brass out of your face and making it perfect for left-handed shooters or anyone sharing a gun with family. The tang-mounted safety is intuitive—your thumb finds it naturally when you mount the gun. The action itself is buttery smooth once broken in, thanks to a dual-action bar system that prevents binding. The 22-inch barrel is a sweet spot, offering quick handling in thick cover without sacrificing too much sight plane for wing shooting. It weighs in at a very manageable 7 pounds, which is light enough for all-day carry but heavy enough to soak up 20-gauge recoil comfortably.
The fit and finish are pure Browning. The satin walnut stock has a classic, understated elegance—it’s not overly glossy, so it won’t glare in the woods. The blued metal has a deep, rich hue that complements the wood perfectly. This is a shotgun that looks and feels like a quality tool. From my experience, it fits out of the box for most average-sized shooters, with a length of pull that’s just right for quick mounting. The inertia-assisted shell lifter is a nice touch, making loading the tubular magazine under the barrel a smooth process. The magazine holds 4+1 rounds of 2¾-inch shells, giving you solid capacity for most scenarios.
| Gauge | 20 Gauge (3″ Chamber) |
| Barrel Length | 22 Inches |
| Overall Length | 42.5 Inches (Approx.) |
| Weight | 7 lbs (Approx.) |
| Capacity | 4+1 Rounds (2¾”) |
| Finish | Blued Steel, Satin Walnut |
Pros & Cons
The pros are clear: ambidextrous design, superb build quality, and that timeless Browning reliability. The smooth pump action and classic aesthetics are major wins. The 20-gauge chambering offers lighter recoil than a 12-gauge, making it fantastic for newer shooters or smaller-framed hunters, without sacrificing effectiveness on game like turkey or deer with the right loads. On the downside, the BPS design is a bit heavier than some modern synthetic-stocked pumps. Disassembly for deep cleaning is also more involved than a simple 870 or 500, but it’s not a deal-breaker by any means. At $565.87, it sits at a premium price point compared to entry-level pumps, but you’re paying for that Browning craftsmanship and unique feature set.
Who is this for? This shotgun is for the hunter who appreciates a classic, reliable tool—think turkey hunters in Missouri’s hardwoods or upland bird hunters working a field. It’s for the shooter who wants a soft-recoiling, versatile 20-gauge that can be passed down. It’s also a superb choice for a home defense firearm where its manageable recoil and bottom-eject design are real assets in tight spaces. It pairs perfectly with aftermarket sights from brands like TruGlo or a simple saddle from Uncle Mike’s if you want to add shell carriers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Browning BPS good for left-handed shooters?
A: Absolutely. The bottom-eject design means spent shells never cross your line of sight, and the tang safety is completely ambidextrous. It’s one of the best pump-action platforms available for southpaws.
Q: Can this 20-gauge handle 3-inch magnum shells for turkey or deer?
A: Yes, the 3-inch chamber allows you to use the full range of 20-gauge ammunition, from light 2¾-inch target loads to heavier 3-inch magnum loads for larger game. Always ensure your ammunition matches your intended use and that you practice with your chosen load.
Q: What chokes does it come with?
A: The Browning BPS typically comes equipped with an Invector-Plus choke tube system and includes one choke (often a Modified or Improved Cylinder). You can purchase additional Invector-Plus tubes from Browning or compatible aftermarket brands to tailor your pattern for different purposes.
If the blend of classic craftsmanship, ambidextrous functionality, and proven Browning reliability speaks to you, this BPS 20-gauge is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. An FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases.
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