Description
You’re at the sporting clays range, watching a shooter with a beautifully-finished side-by-side break the birds with a smooth, confident swing. You admire the classic lines and think, “That must be a $3,000 gun.” Then you find out it’s a CZ Sharp-Tail. That’s the moment you realize serious quality doesn’t have to break the bank.
The CZ Sharp-Tail 28 Ga, 28″ Barrels, Turkish Walnut, Color Case Hardened/Black Chrome is a side-by-side shotgun that delivers classic aesthetics and reliable performance at a practical price point. It’s a break-action, double-trigger shotgun chambered in 28 gauge, designed for upland hunting and clay sports where a lighter, faster-handling gun is preferred. This model features color case-hardened furniture and a black chrome finish for a distinctive look that stands out from basic blued options. With a price tag of $1165.03, it positions itself as a high-value alternative in the classic double gun market.
Let’s talk about what you’re actually getting for your money. The Turkish walnut stock is a major step up from the standard hardwood you’ll find on many guns in this category. It’s not just for looks—the checkering provides a solid, non-slip grip, which is crucial when you’re swinging on a flushing quail or a crossing clay. The 28-inch barrels are a versatile length, offering a smooth swing plane for clays and enough sight radius for precise shooting in the field. This gun is drop-in ready; you can take it from the box to the field or range without any fuss. It ships to Missouri and compliant US states, ready for your FFL to complete the transfer.
The color case hardening and black chrome finish isn’t just a pretty face. It’s a durable, corrosion-resistant finish that protects the metalwork from the elements—think early morning dew in a Missouri dove field. The double triggers offer instant selection between the two barrels’ chokes, a feature purists love for its simplicity and speed. You might wonder if a 28 gauge is practical. Look, it’s a fantastic choice for upland birds over dogs, where its lighter recoil and shot payload are perfect for species like quail, woodcock, and grouse. It uses 2 ¾-inch shells and weighs a manageable 6.3 pounds, making it easy to carry all day.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 28 Gauge |
| Chamber | 2 ¾” |
| Barrel Length | 28 Inches |
| Overall Length | 44.5 Inches |
| Weight | Approx. 6.3 lbs |
| Finish | Color Case Hardened / Black Chrome |
| Stock | Turkish Walnut |
| Triggers | Double (Non-Selective) |
Pros & Cons
The value here is clear. You get classic side-by-side styling, upgraded wood, and a unique finish for hundreds less than many competitors. The double triggers and lighter 28 gauge frame make it fast-handling and a joy to carry. On the downside, 28 gauge ammo is more expensive and less ubiquitous than 12 or 20 gauge. It’s also a fixed-choke system (typically Improved Cylinder and Modified), so you can’t swap tubes like a modern over-under. That said, those chokes are ideal for the game this gun is meant for.
Who It’s For
This shotgun is for the hunter or clays shooter who appreciates traditional lines and wants a distinctive, reliable gun without the custom-shop price. It’s ideal for the upland enthusiast who covers a lot of ground and values a light, quick-pointing shotgun. It’s also a great entry into side-by-side ownership or the 28 gauge platform for someone who wants quality but is budget-conscious. If you’re comparing it to a Stoeger or a used Stevens, the CZ’s fit and finish are noticeably superior.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the 28 gauge powerful enough for hunting?
A: Absolutely. With modern ammunition, the 28 gauge is highly effective on upland birds like quail, pheasant (within range), and dove. It offers less recoil than a 20 gauge, which can mean more accurate follow-up shots.
Q: What chokes does it come with?
A: The CZ Sharp-Tail features fixed chokes. The standard pattern is Improved Cylinder in the right barrel and Modified in the left, a versatile setup for most upland and clays scenarios.
Q: Can I use it for skeet or sporting clays?
A: Yes, it’s a capable clays gun, especially for sporting clays where its light weight and fast handling are assets. For dedicated skeet, some shooters prefer a single trigger and screw-in chokes, but the Sharp-Tail is more than fun and functional for recreational clay breaking.
If the idea of a classic, fast-handling shotgun that doesn’t compromise on looks or reliability appeals to you, the CZ Sharp-Tail 28 gauge deserves a close look. See the full details and check availability at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
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