Description
The Dickinson Impala Plus 12 Ga, 28″ Barrel, Black Synthetic is a value-priced, inertia-driven semi-automatic shotgun designed for reliability in the field. It offers a no-frills approach to hunting and clays, providing core functionality where it counts—consistent cycling and a familiar pointability—at a price point that’s hard to beat for a new-in-box autoloader.
Key Features
- Inertia-Driven System: Borrows a proven, self-cleaning operating mechanism known for reliability with a wide range of loads.
- 28″ Vent Rib Barrel: Provides a long, smooth swing for improved accuracy on flying targets and clays.
- Black Synthetic Stock: Durable, weather-resistant, and low-maintenance, perfect for harsh field conditions.
- 5-Round Capacity: Offers a standard magazine tube capacity for most hunting and sport shooting scenarios.
- Budget-Friendly Price: Priced at $443.11, it undercuts many competitors while delivering essential performance.
Specifications & Details
| Gauge | 12 Gauge (3″ Chamber) |
|---|---|
| Barrel Length | 28 Inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 48.5 Inches |
| Weight | Approx. 6.8 lbs |
| Action | Inertia Semi-Auto |
| Stock/Forend | Black Synthetic |
Here’s the thing—you’re not paying for fancy engraving or a custom-grade wood finish. You’re paying for a workhorse shotgun that fits out of the box and gets the job done. The 28-inch barrel is a versatile choice, balancing maneuverability in a blind with the longer sight plane needed for consistent hits. Weighing in around 6.8 pounds, it’s light enough for all-day carry without being so light that recoil becomes punishing. The 3-inch chamber handles everything from light target loads to heavier hunting ammunition, giving you flexibility. Remember, an FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases when ordering online to your local dealer.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This shotgun is built for the budget-conscious hunter or recreational shooter who prioritizes function over flash. It’s an ideal first semi-auto for a new waterfowler or turkey hunter who needs a reliable tool that won’t cause anxiety when dragged through mud or marsh. It’s also a solid pick for the casual clay shooter who wants an affordable dedicated gun for weekend outings without the premium price tag of specialized competition models. If your primary metric is ‘bang-for-buck’ in a dependable package, this is a strong contender.
Practical Pros & Cons
Pros: The price is the headline feature, offering semi-auto functionality at a pump-action cost. The inertia system is simple and tends to run cleaner than gas-operated designs, which means less maintenance fuss. The synthetic stock is virtually indestructible and impervious to the elements. Its design is straightforward, with controls that will feel familiar to anyone who has handled a modern sporting shotgun.
Cons: You trade cost for refinement. The finish may be utilitarian, and the trigger pull might be heavier or less crisp than on guns costing twice as much. The synthetic stock may have a hollow feel compared to wood, and the recoil pad is basic. Aftermarket support for customization (like extended chokes or specialty stocks) is not as vast as for brands like Benelli or Beretta, though many standard chokes will be compatible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What chokes does the Dickinson Impala Plus use?
A: It typically uses a standard, interchangeable choke tube system (often Beretta/Benelli Mobil-style threads). Always verify the specific thread pattern with the manufacturer, but this common system means you have a wide range of affordable aftermarket choke options available.
Q: Is it reliable with light target loads?
A: Inertia systems generally require a certain amount of recoil energy to cycle properly. While it should cycle standard 1 1/8 oz target loads reliably, it may struggle with the very lightest (e.g., 7/8 oz) low-recoil loads. For consistent performance, stick with standard velocity ammunition, especially during the break-in period.
Q: How does it compare to a Stoeger M3000?
A: They operate on very similar inertia-driven principles and occupy the same value segment of the market. The Stoeger may have slightly more brand recognition and aftermarket support. The choice often comes down to specific ergonomics, price at the time of purchase, and availability—both are excellent proofs that you don’t need to spend a fortune for a reliable semi-auto. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
For the shooter seeking a dependable, no-nonsense semi-automatic shotgun that prioritizes performance over polish, the Dickinson Impala Plus presents a compelling argument. It delivers the core experience of a more expensive gun while leaving room in your budget for ammunition, a case, and range time. See if its practical value aligns with your needs.
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