CZ Sharp-Tail Side-by-Side Shotgun Review

Description

The CZ SHARP-TAIL is a modern, American-made side-by-side shotgun built on a new, compact action. It’s a direct evolution of the classic Ringneck, featuring a color case-hardened receiver, a single selectable mechanical trigger, and Turkish walnut furniture. Priced at $899.99, it offers classic aesthetics with updated, reliable internal engineering for the upland hunter or clays shooter.

I’ve put a few hundred rounds of target loads through a Sharp-Tail, and the first thing you notice is how it shoulders. The balance is just right—not too muzzle-heavy, which makes for a quick, natural swing. The action is tight and crisp out of the box, a testament to that new CNC-machined receiver. Here’s the thing—CZ didn’t just rehash an old design; they built a new one from the ground up for durability.

Key Features

• New Compact Action: Smaller and stronger than its predecessor, with coil springs for consistent ignition.
• Single Selectable Mechanical Trigger: A reliable, non-electronic trigger you can set for right or left barrel first.
• Color Case-Hardened Finish: That beautiful, classic mottled finish on the one-piece receiver isn’t just for show.
• Turkish Walnut Stock: A gloss-finished, pistol-grip stock that provides a solid, traditional hold.
• Updated Internals: Independent floating firing pins and new sear design for a longer service life.

Specifications

Gauge	12 GA
Action	Side by Side
Capacity	2 Rounds
Trigger	Mechanical, Single Selectable
Receiver Finish	Color Case Hardened
Barrel/Stock Finish	Gloss Black / Turkish Walnut

Weighing in at a manageable heft typical for a field-grade side-by-side, the Sharp-Tail is built for miles walked, not just rounds fired. The 12-gauge chamber handles everything from light 2¾” target loads to standard field loads, making it versatile for different days afield. That new action isn’t just marketing fluff—the coil spring hammers and floating pins are serious upgrades for long-term reliability. No gunsmithing required to get this one running; it’s ready for your local skeet field or pheasant cover straight from the case.

Who It’s For

This shotgun is for the shooter who appreciates the timeless handling and pointability of a side-by-side but wants the behind-the-scenes reliability of modern manufacturing. It’s an ideal first double for a new wingshooter or a dependable, handsome companion for a seasoned hunter who values a simple, effective tool. If you’ve handled older doubles and wondered about their longevity, the Sharp-Tail’s engineering answers that concern.

Pros & Cons

Pros: The updated action with coil springs is a genuine improvement for consistency and wear. The selectable trigger is a huge practical benefit in the field. The fit and finish for the price point are excellent, offering classic looks without a custom shop price tag. It’s a straightforward, honest firearm.

Cons: As a two-shot side-by-side, it’s not for high-volume clay games or tactical use. The gloss finishes on the wood and barrels, while beautiful, can show scratches in heavy brush more than a matte finish would. That said, it’s a field gun meant to be used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the trigger truly mechanical?

A: Yes. It’s a single, non-inertial mechanical trigger. You manually select which barrel fires first via a small switch, providing reliable ignition regardless of load.

Q: What chokes does it use?

A: The CZ Sharp-Tail uses standard, interchangeable choke tubes (Invector-style). It typically comes with a set of flush-mounted chokes, making it compatible with a wide array of aftermarket options from brands like Briley or Carlson’s.

Q: How does it compare to the older CZ Ringneck?

A: The Sharp-Tail is a more compact, modernized action. The biggest differences are the switch from leaf springs to coil springs in the hammers and the new one-piece CNC-machined receiver. This translates to a potentially longer service life and more consistent lockup.

Look, the CZ Sharp-Tail fills a specific niche beautifully. It delivers classic side-by-side character with modern mechanical guts, all at a price that makes sense. This firearm is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. If the blend of tradition and updated reliability speaks to you, it’s worth a close look.