Description
I was slogging through a wet Missouri bottomland last season, the kind of morning where the fog hangs in the cedars and everything you’re carrying feels heavier. That’s the day I truly appreciated a shotgun built to shrug off the elements without a second thought. The CZ DRAKE is exactly that—a purpose-built, no-nonsense over/under field gun. It’s a 20-gauge workhorse clad in a tough OD Green Cerakote finish over Turkish walnut, designed to be carried hard and perform reliably without demanding constant babysitting. I’ve put a few cases of target loads and plenty of hunting rounds through one, and here’s the straight story.
What is the CZ DRAKE? The CZ DRAKE is a 20-gauge over/under shotgun featuring a durable OD Green Cerakote metal finish and a walnut stock. Built for the field, it includes practical features like integrated rare-earth shell magnets and sling swivels, offering robust, weather-resistant performance at a competitive price point of $693.89.
Let’s talk about that finish first, because it’s the head-turner. The muted OD Green Cerakote isn’t just for looks—though I think it looks fantastic paired with the wood. Here’s the thing—it’s a functional armor. This isn’t a thin bluing that’ll show every scratch from briars or a safe ding. This coating seriously increases the gun’s hardiness against moisture, sweat, and rough handling. You can come in from a damp morning and wipe it down without that immediate panic about rust spots. It’s a feature that genuinely makes sense for how we actually use guns here, not just how they’re displayed.
The practical touches continue. Those rare-earth magnets in the forend? They actually work. I turned the gun upside down and gave it a shake, and the shells stayed put. It’s a small detail, but when you’re climbing a fence or navigating thick cover, it’s one less thing to worry about. The gun comes with sling swivels installed, which is another box you don’t have to check. At 13.1 lbs., it has a solid, balanced feel that soaks up recoil nicely, making it pleasant to shoot even with heavier loads. The 28-inch barrels provide a smooth, consistent swing for crossing shots on doves or flushing roosters.
Now, is it a $3,000 custom-fit competition gun? No, and it doesn’t try to be. It’s a field gun through and through. The action was smooth out of the box for me, with no gunsmithing required to get it running right. It points naturally, and the single selective trigger was consistent. It’s a simple, robust system that gets the job done without fuss.
| Gauge | 20 GA |
| Action | Over/Under |
| Capacity | 2 Rounds |
| Barrel Length | 28″ |
| Weight | 13.1 lbs |
| Finish | OD Green Cerakote / Walnut |
Pros & Cons
Pros: The OD Green Cerakote is incredibly durable and low-maintenance. The integrated shell magnets and sling swivels are brilliant, ready-to-go field features. It offers classic over/under reliability and pointability at a very accessible price. The 20-gauge chambering makes it a versatile, low-recoil option for upland game and clays.
Cons: At 13.1 pounds, some may find it a bit hefty for all-day carries in steep terrain—though that weight aids in recoil management. It’s a two-shot gun, so high-volume shooters on a dove field will need to reload more often. The aesthetics are utilitarian and modern, which may not appeal to purists seeking a glossy blue-and-walnut look.
Who is this for? This is the shotgun for the hunter who values function and durability over flash. It’s for the Missouri hunter chasing pheasants, quail, or squirrels who doesn’t want to baby their gear. It’s also a fantastic first over/under for a shooter looking to step up from a pump or autoloader into the world of break-actions without a massive financial leap. If you like the idea of a gun that looks ready for work and can handle a little rain or mud, the DRAKE is calling your name.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the green finish just paint? Will it wear off?
A: No, it’s not paint. It’s a Cerakote ceramic-based finish, which is baked on and is far more durable than traditional bluing or paint. It’s highly resistant to corrosion, chemicals, and wear. You’d have to really try to scratch through it.
Q: What chokes does it use?
A: The CZ DRAKE uses standard, interchangeable choke tubes. It’s compatible with the common Beretta/Benelli Mobilchoke pattern, which gives you a huge range of aftermarket options for everything from tight turkey tubes to open skeet chokes.
Q: Is it suitable for a beginner?
A: Absolutely. The over/under action is simple and safe, the 20-gauge has mild recoil, and the features are all geared towards real-world use. It’s a straightforward, reliable platform to learn on. Remember, an FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases when you order online.
If you’re looking for a rugged, feature-ready over/under that won’t break the bank and can handle the demands of the field season after season, the CZ DRAKE deserves a close look. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
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