Description
Picture this: you’re walking a cut soybean field in November, the sun low and golden, and a covey of quail erupts from the edge. Your swing is instinctive, the gun comes up like an extension of your arms, and the report is a crisp, classic bang-bang. That’s the experience the F.A.I.R. Iside Deluxe Prestige SXS 16 Ga, 28″ Barrel, Walnut Stock, Blued, 2rd is built for. It’s a modern Italian-made side-by-side shotgun that honors the timeless aesthetics and handling of a classic game gun, but with the precision manufacturing and reliability today’s shooter expects. I’ve put a few boxes of RST low-pressure shells through one, and it’s a smooth operator.
So, what is it? The F.A.I.R. Iside Deluxe Prestige is a boxlock side-by-side shotgun chambered in 16 gauge. It features 28″ barrels with a traditional splinter forend, a select walnut stock with a hand-rubbed oil finish, and deep, polished bluing. It’s a two-shot gun designed for the purist wing shooter who values balance, quick pointing, and understated elegance over high capacity. At a weight of around 6.5 pounds, it carries all day without fatigue.
Where Tradition Meets Modern Tolerances
Let’s talk about what makes this gun stand out in a rack. The first thing you’ll notice is the wood. This isn’t a sprayed-on polyurethane finish; it’s a hand-rubbed oil that lets the grain of the walnut speak for itself and will develop a patina with use. The bluing is deep and mirror-like, a clear step above utilitarian finishes. The 16 gauge chambering is the sweet spot for many—offering more payload than a 20 gauge with less recoil and weight than a 12. It’s a gentleman’s caliber for upland birds. The action is hand-fitted and locks up tight. Here’s the thing—while it feels like a bespoke piece, it’s built with modern CNC precision, so it’s drop-in ready and reliable right from the case.
Handling & Practical Considerations
On the shoulder, the 28″ barrels provide a smooth, steady swing. The balance point is right at the hinge pin, making the gun feel alive and responsive in your hands, not muzzle-heavy. The trigger is crisp, and the automatic safety is where it should be. This isn’t a clay-busting machine gun; it’s a deliberate, one-shot-per-barrel hunting tool. That said, its pointability makes it a natural for skeet or sporting clays if you want to practice your wingshooting fundamentals. You’ll need to source 2 3/4″ shells, but brands like Fiocchi, RST, and Federal make excellent 16 gauge loads for everything from dove to pheasant. With an overall length just over 44 inches, it handles beautifully in blinds or thick cover.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 16 Gauge (2 3/4″ Chambers) |
| Barrel Length | 28 Inches |
| Capacity | 2 Rounds |
| Action Type | Boxlock Side-by-Side |
| Stock | Select European Walnut, Oil Finish |
| Finish | Polished Blued Steel |
| Approx. Weight | 6.5 lbs |
Pros & Cons: An Honest Take
Pros: Exceptional fit and finish for the price point. The 16 gauge offers superb ballistic balance. The handling is fast and instinctive. The classic aesthetics are simply beautiful. It’s a conversation piece that’s also a serious hunting tool.
Cons: The two-shot capacity demands precision. 16 gauge ammunition, while available, is less common and sometimes more expensive than 12 or 20 gauge. It’s a specialized tool—if your only gun needs to do everything from waterfowl to home defense, look elsewhere. This is a focused instrument.
Who This Gun Is For
This shotgun is for the hunter who appreciates the journey as much as the harvest. It’s for the upland purist chasing quail, woodcock, or grouse over a good dog. It’s for the shooter who values craftsmanship and tradition, who doesn’t need a magazine tube but does need perfect balance. If you see a shotgun as more than just a tool—if it’s part of the ritual and respect of the hunt—you’ll understand the appeal. At $2821.12, it sits in a space between production guns and true custom bespoke pieces, offering remarkable artistry without a five-figure price tag. It is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, with an FFL transfer required for firearm purchases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the 16 gauge obsolete or hard to find?
A: Not at all. While not as ubiquitous as 12 gauge, 16 gauge shells are readily available from major manufacturers and specialty brands like RST. You’ll find a full range of loads for game and target shooting. It’s a niche that’s well-supported by enthusiasts.
Q: What chokes does this model come with?
A: The Iside Deluxe Prestige typically comes with a set of interchangeable choke tubes (often Improved Cylinder and Modified), giving you flexibility for different ranges and game. Always verify the specific chokes included with your purchase.
Q: Can this gun handle steel shot for waterfowl?
A: I would not recommend it. This is a classic-style shotgun with 2 3/4″ chambers and likely not proofed for modern high-pressure steel loads. It’s best suited for lead shot on upland birds, clays, or with bismuth/tungsten alternatives where non-toxic is required. Stick to low-pressure ammunition to preserve the gun and your shoulder.
If the idea of a graceful, perfectly balanced side-by-side that connects you to a century of wingshooting tradition speaks to you, the F.A.I.R. Iside Deluxe Prestige deserves a close look. See the full details on our site.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.