Description
Let me paint you a picture. It’s an hour before sunrise in a Missouri river bottom, the air is cold enough to see your breath, and you’re waiting for the first flight of mallards. You need a shotgun that’s reliable, swings smooth, and won’t let you down when your hands are numb. That’s the scenario the CZ REDHEAD PREMIER was built for. I’ve put hundreds of rounds through this over-under, from clays to dove fields, and it’s earned its keep as a true all-rounder.
So, what is the CZ REDHEAD PREMIER? It’s the flagship over-under shotgun from CZ, built on a robust, one-piece CNC-machined receiver. Available in 12 or 20-gauge, it’s a versatile 2-shot break-action designed for both hunting and sport shooting, featuring automatic ejectors and a set of five interchangeable chokes for pattern control. At $917.99, it bridges the gap between entry-level and high-end guns with exceptional fit and Turkish walnut furniture.
Here’s the thing—the heart of any good over-under is its action. The Redhead Premier’s one-piece CNC receiver isn’t just a marketing bullet point; it’s what gives the gun its solid feel and consistent lockup. I’ve opened and closed this action more times than I can count, and it’s still as tight and smooth as the day it came out of the box. That monolithic construction translates directly to durability and a clean, classic profile that looks great in the field. The gloss black chrome finish is surprisingly resilient, shrugging off light scratches and morning moisture without a fuss.
Where this shotgun really shines is in its handling. The 26-inch barrel model balances right at the hinge pin, making it quick to mount and easy to follow through. Weighing in at 7.7 pounds, it’s substantial enough to soak up recoil during a long trap session but never feels like a burden after a full day of carrying it through CRP fields. The Turkish walnut stock has a well-executed oil finish with decent figure, and the 14.5-inch length of pull fits a wide range of shooters right out of the box—no gunsmithing required for most. The overall length is a handy 43.75 inches, making it manageable in a blind or a gun case.
Versatility is the Premier’s middle name. It comes with a full set of five CZ chokes (F, IM, M, IC, C), which is a huge value-add. You can screw in the Improved Cylinder for early-season doves, then swap to a Modified for pheasants or trap. The automatic ejectors are a nice touch, positively kicking spent shells clear so you can reload fast—a small luxury that feels anything but small when you’re trying to get a second shot off at a flushing rooster. The 3-inch chambers handle everything from light target loads to hefty waterfowl steel.
Pros & Cons
The Good: The one-piece CNC receiver is rock-solid. The five-choke system offers incredible versatility for the price. The Turkish walnut and finish offer great aesthetics for the class. Ejectors are a premium feature you don’t always see at this point. It points naturally and swings smoothly.
The Considerations: At 7.7 lb, some may find it a touch heavy for a dedicated upland gun. The gloss finish, while pretty, can reflect light in the blind (a matte tape fix is easy). It’s a break-action, so your capacity is two rounds—know your limits.
Who is the CZ Redhead Premier For?
This is the perfect shotgun for the shooter who wants one quality, do-everything double gun. If you’re a Missouri hunter who chases squirrels, ducks, turkeys, and doves, and also likes to bust clays on the weekend, this one gun can cover it all. It’s also an ideal step-up for someone moving past a pump or semi-auto who wants the balance and simplicity of an over-under without a custom-shop price tag. It’s compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories, like pads from brands like Kick-eez or Pachmayr, and its choke threads work with the extensive aftermarket from companies like Carlson’s.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 (3″ Chamber) |
| Action | Break Open Over/Under |
| Capacity | 2 Rounds |
| Barrel Length | 26 Inches |
| Overall Length | 43.75 Inches |
| Weight | 7.7 lb |
| Stock | Turkish Walnut |
| Chokes | 5 Included (F, IM, M, IC, C) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the CZ Redhead Premier good for a beginner?
A: Absolutely. Its simple operation, manageable recoil for a 12-gauge due to its weight, and the fact it comes ready to shoot with all necessary chokes make it an excellent and inspiring first over-under. The fit is very standard, so most new shooters will find it comfortable.
Q: Does it have ejectors or extractors?
A: It has automatic ejectors. This means when you break the action open, the spent shells are positively launched out of the chambers, rather than just being lifted partway for you to pull out by hand. It’s a faster, more convenient system.
Q: What’s the difference between the Redhead and the Redhead Premier?
A: The Premier is the flagship. The key upgrade is the one-piece CNC-machined receiver, which is stronger and often has tighter tolerances than the multi-piece assembly of the standard model. The Premier also typically features better wood and finer finish details.
Look, in the world of over-unders, the CZ Redhead Premier delivers a level of refinement and capability that punches well above its price class. It’s a trustworthy companion that won’t let you down, whether you’re on your fifth box of shells at the trap range or watching the horizon for ducks. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. Remember, an FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases. If you’re ready for a single, versatile shotgun that handles like a dream, the Redhead Premier deserves a long, hard look.
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