Description
Picture this: you’re walking a Missouri field edge at dawn, the air crisp. A covey flushes, and you shoulder your shotgun instinctively. That’s the moment the CZ-USA SHARP TAIL SXS 28/28 BL/WD is built for. It’s a classic side-by-side shotgun chambered in 28 gauge, offering a lightweight, fast-handling upland and small game experience without the premium price tag of many traditional doubles. For the hunter who values tradition and pointability over high-volume firepower, this CZ represents a serious value proposition in a niche often dominated by four-figure guns.
So, what exactly is the CZ-USA SHARP TAIL SXS 28/28 BL/WD? It’s a boxlock side-by-side shotgun with 28″ barrels chambered for 28 gauge shells. It features a blued finish over a Turkish walnut stock, a single selective trigger, and automatic ejectors. Priced at $917.09, it delivers classic double-gun aesthetics and handling at a point that undercuts many competitors. This specific model is a dedicated 28 gauge, a favorite for its light recoil and effectiveness on birds like quail, woodcock, and dove.
Let’s break down the key features. The heart of the Sharp Tail is its reliable boxlock action. It’s a proven, simple design that’s durable and keeps the overall profile slim. The single selective trigger is a huge practical advantage—you can choose which barrel fires first with a simple switch, a feature not always found on budget-friendly doubles. Automatic ejectors positively kick spent shells clear, speeding up reloads in the field. The 28″ barrels provide a smooth swing, and the 28 gauge chambering means the whole package is light, often around 6.5 pounds, making it a joy to carry all day. The walnut stock and fore-end offer a classic look that improves with use, and the checkering provides a secure grip.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 28 GA |
| Action | Side by Side |
| Barrel Length | 28 Inches |
| Capacity | 2 Rounds |
| Trigger | Single Selective |
| Ejectors | Automatic |
Here’s the thing—no gun is perfect, and understanding the trade-offs is key for a budget-conscious buyer. The pros are clear: you get classic side-by-side handling, a lightweight 28 gauge platform, and features like a selective trigger and ejectors that are often reserved for more expensive guns. The value compared to an American or Italian-made double is significant. On the cons side, it’s a two-shot gun, so it’s not for waterfowl or tactical use. The finish and wood-to-metal fit, while good for the price, won’t match a $3,000 shotgun. Some purists might prefer a double trigger, but the single selective is objectively more practical for most.
Who is this shotgun for? It’s for the upland hunter, the walk-and-flush enthusiast who covers miles and values a fast, instinctive pointer. It’s for the shooter who wants to step into the world of side-by-sides without a massive financial commitment. It’s also a fantastic choice for a younger or smaller-framed shooter thanks to the mild recoil of the 28 gauge. If you’re used to a pump or autoloader, this forces a more deliberate, shot-conscious approach. It’s compatible with standard 28 gauge ammunition from all major brands like Federal, Fiocchi, and Winchester.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the 28 gauge powerful enough for hunting?
A: Absolutely. The 28 gauge is a highly effective cartridge for upland birds like quail, grouse, woodcock, and dove at typical ranges. It uses less shot and powder than a 20 or 12 gauge, resulting in less recoil and a lighter gun, but with proper shot placement, it is plenty lethal.
Q: Does it come with chokes?
A: Yes, the CZ Sharp Tail typically comes with a set of interchangeable choke tubes (often Improved Cylinder and Modified), providing flexibility for different hunting situations. This is a major upgrade over fixed-choke doubles, adding to its practical value.
Q: What’s the process for buying it?
A: FFL transfer required for firearm purchases. The gun can be shipped to your local licensed dealer for the mandatory background check and pickup. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide to compliant states.
Look, if you’ve been wanting the quick-handling, timeless feel of a side-by-side but balked at the typical cost, the CZ-USA SHARP TAIL SXS 28/28 BL/WD makes that experience accessible. It’s a working man’s double that gets you in the field with a reliable, classic-style shotgun. For under a thousand dollars, that’s a hard combination to beat. See if it’s the right fit for your next hunt.
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