Description
The CZ Upland Sterling 12 Ga, 28″ Barrels, Turkish Walnut is a side-by-side shotgun built for the upland hunter who values classic aesthetics and reliable performance without a custom-shop price tag. It’s a field-ready, no-fuss shotgun that balances beautifully and swings smoothly on game birds like pheasant and quail. I’ve put a few cases of target loads and a couple boxes of pheasant loads through one, and it’s exactly what you’d expect from CZ’s hunting line: solid, dependable, and handsome. At $938.02, it sits in a sweet spot between budget over-unders and premium doubles.
Key Features
- Classic side-by-side configuration with 28″ barrels for a smooth, traditional swing.
- Striking Turkish walnut stock with a satin oil finish that feels great in the hand.
- Single selective trigger and automatic ejectors for convenience in the field.
- Chrome-lined barrels and a boxlock action built for durability.
- Weighs in at a very manageable 6.6 lbs, making it easy to carry all day.
Specifications & Details
| Gauge | 12 Gauge (3″ Chambers) |
|---|---|
| Barrel Length | 28 Inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 45 Inches |
| Weight | 6.6 lbs |
| Stock | Turkish Walnut |
| Chokes | Includes 5 Choke Tubes (IC, M, F, etc.) |
This shotgun is drop-in ready for the season. The fit and finish are good for the price point, and the action was smooth from the first open. It comes with a set of five choke tubes, giving you flexibility from close-in woodcock to longer passing shots. The 28″ barrels provide a nice sighting plane without being overly long for navigating brush—a classic upland compromise that just works. Here’s the thing—it’s not a bespoke English gun, but it doesn’t pretend to be. It’s a working man’s classic.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This is for the hunter who appreciates the pointing instinct and fast handling of a side-by-side. It’s ideal for Missouri pheasant hunters, grouse chasers, and those who walk fields for quail. If you’re tired of synthetic-stocked pumps and want a shotgun with some soul for your weekends afield, this CZ delivers. It’s also a great first double gun for someone stepping into traditional styles without a massive investment. The 6.6 lb weight is a key data point here—light enough for all-day carries but with enough heft to soak up recoil from standard field loads.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Excellent value for a true side-by-side. The Turkish walnut is genuinely attractive. The single selective trigger and ejectors are features often missing in guns at this price. It points naturally and comes up to the shoulder quickly. The chrome-lined barrels promise easier cleaning and long life.
Cons: As with many imported doubles, the wood-to-metal fit might have a minor imperfection if you look closely—it’s a production gun, not hand-fitted. The stock dimensions are standard; if you need a drastic length of pull adjustment, you’ll be visiting a gunsmith. Some purists might prefer a straight English stock, but this pistol grip design suits most American shooters better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What chokes does it come with and are they compatible with other brands?
A: It includes five flush-fitting choke tubes (typically Improved Cylinder, Modified, Full, and often Skeet and Improved Modified). They are CZ’s own pattern, so you’ll need to source replacements or aftermarket tubes specifically for CZ shotguns, not Beretta/Benelli Mobilchokes.
Q: Is this a good gun for a beginner?
A: It can be, if a side-by-side is what they’re drawn to. The manual safety and single trigger are simple to operate. The light weight is great for carrying, but new shooters should start with light target loads to manage recoil effectively. The classic style often inspires more respect for safe handling, too.
Q: How does it compare to a Stoeger or Mossberg double gun?
A: The fit, finish, and wood quality on the CZ Upland Sterling are typically a noticeable step up. You’re paying a bit more for those nicer materials and more refined details, like the satin oil finish on the walnut versus a glossier, cheaper finish. The action also tends to be a bit smoother out of the box.
Look, if you want a reliable, classic-styled side-by-side that you won’t be afraid to actually take into briars and fields, the CZ Upland Sterling makes a compelling case. It’s a functional piece of hunting tradition that ships to Missouri and compliant US states. Check availability and see if it’s the right fit for your next season.
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