Dickinson OA Hunter O/U 12 Ga Shotgun Review

Description

I remember the first time I shouldered a Dickinson OA Hunter O/U 12 Ga, 26″, 3″, Wood Stock. It was at a local sporting clays range, and a buddy had just picked one up. I was skeptical—how good could a sub-$800 over/under really be? After running a box of shells through it, my opinion shifted. Here’s what I found after putting more rounds downrange with this surprisingly capable shotgun.

The Dickinson OA Hunter is a 12-gauge over/under shotgun built for the field and the clay range. It features a 26-inch barrel, 3-inch chambers for versatile shell options, a manual safety, and a classic wood stock. At $793.16, it offers a reliable, no-fuss entry into the world of double guns for hunters and recreational shooters who want traditional looks without a custom-shop price tag.

Let’s talk about what makes it work. The action is where many budget over/unders fall short, feeling gritty or loose. The OA Hunter’s action is clean and locks up tight. It’s not a Perazzi, but it’s solid. The single selective trigger is crisp, and the automatic ejectors are a nice touch you don’t always see at this price—they positively kick your spent shells out, which is great when you’re focused on the next bird. The manual safety is a simple, positive cross-bolt design right behind the trigger. It weighs in at a manageable 7.5 pounds, which is light enough for a long day in a dove field but has enough heft to smooth out your swing on clays.

The 26-inch barrels are chrome-lined, which is a huge plus for longevity and easier cleaning. They’re fixed choke, typically Improved Cylinder and Modified, which is arguably the most practical and versatile setup for a do-it-all field gun. You’re covered from close-in woodcock to passing pheasants. The 3-inch chamber capability means you can run everything from light target loads to heavier waterfowl or turkey shells, giving you real flexibility. The gun shoulders naturally, and the length of pull felt standard right out of the box—no gunsmithing required for most average-sized shooters to get a good fit.

Now, the wood. It’s a Turkish walnut stock with a satin finish. It’s not highly figured, but it’s honest, clean, and looks far better than the laminate or plastic you often see. It has a classic Prince of Wales grip that fits the hand well and a decent recoil pad that takes the bite out of those 3-inch magnums. The forend is slim and comfortable. The overall finish is utilitarian but complete; there are no rough edges or glaring oversights. It ships to Missouri and compliant US states ready for your FFL transfer, which is required for all firearm purchases.

Specifications

Gauge	12 Gauge
Chamber	3″
Barrel Length	26″
Overall Length	Approx. 43.5″
Weight	Approx. 7.5 lbs
Chokes	Fixed (IC & Mod)
Trigger	Single Selective
Ejectors	Automatic

Pros: The value proposition is its biggest strength. You get automatic ejectors, a chrome-lined barrel, and a real wood stock for under $800. It’s reliable, points naturally, and the fixed chokes are perfectly chosen for a general-purpose gun. It’s also simple—there’s nothing to overthink, just load, shoot, and repeat.

Cons: It’s a basic tool. The fixed chokes limit long-range specialization, and the finish, while good, isn’t fancy. The action will smooth with use but starts a bit stiff. It’s not the gun for someone who wants interchangeable choke tubes or deep, laser-cut engraving.

So who is this for? Look, if you’re a seasoned competitor shooting 500 rounds a weekend, you’ll likely want more gun. But for the Missouri hunter hitting the fields for dove, pheasant, or rabbit, or the recreational shooter who wants a dependable, classic-looking over/under for weekend clays without a second mortgage, the OA Hunter makes a ton of sense. It’s also a great first double gun for a younger shooter stepping up from a pump or auto, teaching the fundamentals of a two-shot discipline.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are the chokes really fixed? Can I have choke tubes installed?

A: Yes, they are fixed from the factory. A competent gunsmith can likely install removable choke tubes, but that adds cost. For most hunting and recreational clay scenarios, the provided Improved Cylinder and Modified pattern is ideal.

Q: What’s the fit and finish like compared to a Stoeger or CZ?

A: It’s in the same ballpark as an entry-level CZ or a step above a Stoeger Condor. The wood tends to be nicer, and the chrome-lined barrel is a standout feature. The action is comparable—solid, functional, and built for work, not for show.

Q: Is it suitable for steel shot for waterfowl?

A: With its 3-inch chamber and chrome-lined barrels, it is rated for steel shot. The fixed Modified choke is a good choice for pass shooting over decoys. Just always ensure you’re using ammunition appropriate for your barrel’s constriction.

If you’ve been looking for a straightforward, reliable over/under that gets the job done with traditional style, the Dickinson OA Hunter is a compelling option to consider. You can find it available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.