Description
You know that feeling when you pick up a shotgun and it just… fits? The balance is right, the weight isn’t a chore, and you can tell it’s built to work without a fuss. That’s the experience I had with the CZ 720 G2. After putting a few hundred rounds of everything from light target loads to 3-inch magnums through it, I can tell you this: for under five hundred bucks, this 20-gauge semi-auto is one of the most straightforward, capable shotguns you can get your hands on. No gunsmithing required—it’s ready to roll right out of the box.
The CZ 720 G2 is a gas-operated, 20-gauge semi-automatic shotgun built on a lightweight alloy receiver. It’s a versatile field gun designed for hunting and competition, coming with five interchangeable chokes to tailor your pattern. Weighing just 6.3 pounds, it’s easy to carry all day and swings smoothly on target.
Why This Shotgun Works
Let’s start with the action. Gas operation is the key to the G2’s personality. It soaks up a lot of the recoil, making follow-up shots faster and a long day in the duck blind or on the sporting clays course a lot more pleasant. I’ve found it cycles reliably with a wide range of loads, which is crucial when you’re switching between light 7/8-ounce target loads for practice and heavier stuff for hunting. The system is simple to break down for cleaning, too—no special tools needed.
The heart of its versatility is in the chokes. CZ includes five of them right in the case: Full, Improved Modified, Modified, Improved Cylinder, and Cylinder. That’s a complete set. Swapping from a Modified for early-season doves to a Full for turkeys takes seconds. The 26-inch barrel gives you a good balance for maneuverability in a blind or woods, without sacrificing too much sight plane. At an overall length of 47 inches, it handles more like a nimble upland gun than a long, cumbersome waterfowler.
Here’s the thing—the Turkish walnut stock is a nice touch at this price point. It’s not just a slab of stained birch; it has actual figure and a clean, matte finish that feels secure in your hands. The 14.5-inch length of pull is pretty standard, fitting a wide range of shooters comfortably. The whole package, with its matte black chrome metalwork, looks and feels like a tool, not a toy. And at $499.49, it sits in a sweet spot where you’re getting genuine features without paying for a fancy name.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 20 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3″ |
| Capacity | 4+1 Rounds |
| Barrel Length | 26 Inches |
| Overall Weight | 6.3 lbs |
| Chokes Included | 5 (F, IM, M, IC, C) |
The Good & The Considerations
Pros: The value is undeniable. You get a reliable gas system, a full choke set, and a decent wood stock. It’s light enough for younger shooters or all-day carries, and the 20-gauge platform is plenty effective for most game with less kick. The fit and finish are consistently good for the category.
Cons: It’s not a Benelli. The action can feel a bit more utilitarian compared to higher-end models. Aftermarket support for stocks, forends, and extended magazine tubes isn’t as vast as for something like a Mossberg 930, so if you’re looking to heavily customize for 3-Gun, you might hit some limits.
Who Should Grab One?
This is an ideal first semi-auto shotgun, a perfect companion for the Missouri turkey or squirrel hunter, or a solid backup gun. If you’re a shooter who wants one reliable, do-it-all shotgun for the field without a second mortgage, the CZ 720 G2 makes a compelling case. It’s also a great option for introducing a new shooter to the sport, thanks to the manageable 20-gauge recoil.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will it cycle light target loads reliably?
A: In my experience, yes. The gas system is adjustable by nature of its design and has handled standard 7/8-oz and 1-oz target loads from brands like Federal and Winchester without issue. Always break it in with a few dozen heavier loads first.
Q: Is the length of pull adjustable?
A: The stock is a fixed traditional stock. For most adult shooters, the 14.5-inch LOP is fine, but for a significant custom fit, you’d need to have the stock cut down or add a pad.
Q: What’s the warranty and support like?
A: CZ-USA stands behind their products with a good warranty. They have solid customer service, and parts are available. It’s a known quantity, not some obscure import.
Look, if you need a dependable, versatile 20-gauge that won’t let you down in the field and leaves room in your budget for ammo and a good case, the CZ 720 G2 deserves a long look. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. An FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases, as always. See if it’s the right fit for your rack.
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