Description
Picture this: you’re tucked into a blind before dawn, the Missouri woods coming alive around you. You need a shotgun that’s reliable, maneuverable, and won’t spook a wary tom with a glint of sun on the barrel. That’s the exact scenario the Dickinson Arms 212 Turkey Auto 12 Ga, 24″ Barrel, Mossy Oak Obsession, is built for. It’s a dedicated, budget-friendly autoloader designed to deliver consistent performance where it counts, without the premium price tag of some big-name brands.
So, what is it? The Dickinson Arms 212 Turkey Auto is a gas-operated, semi-automatic 12-gauge shotgun featuring a 24-inch barrel, a full Mossy Oak Obsession camouflage finish, and a synthetic stock. Priced at $373.83, it’s a purpose-built tool for turkey hunters and upland shooters who prioritize function and value over flashy branding. It ships to Missouri and compliant US states, ready for the field.
Key Features & Practical Performance
Let’s break down what you’re actually getting for your money. The heart of this system is its gas-operated action. This design soaks up a significant amount of recoil compared to a pump or inertia system, which is a major benefit when you’re patterning heavy turkey loads or spending a day in the dove field. You’ll stay on target faster for follow-up shots, and your shoulder will thank you. The 24-inch barrel is the sweet spot for a turkey gun—long enough for a tight, effective pattern with modern chokes, but short enough to swing easily in thick cover or a cramped blind.
The full Mossy Oak Obsession dip isn’t just for looks; it’s a functional finish that breaks up your outline and protects the metal from the elements. Weighing in at approximately 7.5 pounds, it strikes a solid balance between being steady to aim and easy to carry all day. Here’s the thing—this shotgun is drop-in ready. It comes with a set of interchangeable choke tubes (typically Improved Cylinder, Modified, and Full), so you can tailor your pattern to #4 turkey shot or lighter upland loads right out of the box. No gunsmithing required to get started.
Compatibility is straightforward. It uses standard Beretta/Benelli Mobil-style choke tubes, a common and widely available pattern. This means you have a huge aftermarket selection for specialized turkey chokes from brands like Carlson’s, Jeb’s, or Primos. The synthetic stock is durable and weather-resistant, built to handle bumps, scrapes, and Missouri’s unpredictable spring weather without a second thought.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge (3″ Chamber) |
| Action | Semi-Automatic, Gas-Operated |
| Barrel Length | 24 Inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 45.5 Inches |
| Finish | Mossy Oak Obsession Camo (Full Coverage) |
| Capacity | 4+1 Rounds |
| Choke System | Includes 3 Mobil-style Tubes (IC, M, F) |
Pros, Cons, and Who It’s For
Pros: The value proposition is clear. You get a gas-operated, camo-clad turkey specialist for well under $400. Recoil management is excellent for the price point. The 24″ barrel is highly practical. It uses a popular, affordable choke tube system. The finish is durable and functional for concealment.
Cons: As a value-focused firearm, fit and finish may not match a $1,200 name-brand model. The trigger may be heavier or less crisp than on premium guns. It’s a dedicated hunting tool, not a refined competition or tactical platform. Some may prefer a shorter pistol-grip stock for turkey hunting, which would be an aftermarket addition.
This shotgun is for the practical hunter. It’s for the Missouri turkey chaser who wants a reliable, no-fuss tool that gets the job done without draining the bank account. It’s ideal for new hunters building their kit, seasoned hunters wanting a dedicated backup gun, or any shooter who believes performance doesn’t require a designer label. If your priority is putting meat in the freezer and memories in the book, not impressing folks at the lodge, this is a compelling option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What shells does this shotgun cycle reliably?
A: Gas-operated systems like the 212 are generally less finicky with lighter loads than inertia guns. It should cycle standard 2 3/4″ and 3″ field loads (target, dove, duck) and heavy turkey loads without issue. As with any auto-loader, always test your chosen ammunition for reliable function before a hunt.
Q: Can I use this for waterfowl or deer hunting?
A: While the camo pattern is suitable, always check local regulations. For waterfowl, you would need to use non-toxic shot and ensure your choke is steel-rated. For deer, you could use rifled slugs with an appropriate choke (typically Improved Cylinder or a dedicated slug choke), but a dedicated rifled barrel would be more accurate for slug use.
Q: What is the process for purchasing this firearm?
A: All firearm purchases require an FFL transfer. You can have the Dickinson Arms 212 shipped to your local licensed dealer for the required background check and paperwork completion. We facilitate this process directly when you order, available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Ready to see if the Dickinson Arms 212 Turkey Auto is the right value-packed partner for your next season? View availability and start the simple transfer process on our site.
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