Description
Picture this: you’re walking a Missouri field edge at dawn, the air crisp. A covey flushes, and the classic, instinctive point of a side-by-side feels like second nature. That’s the world the F.A.I.R. Iside Side-by-side 12 Ga, 28″ Barrel opens up. It’s a modern, reliable over-and-under built for the budget-conscious traditionalist who wants classic form without vintage headaches.
The F.A.I.R. Iside is a 12-gauge side-by-side shotgun with 28-inch barrels, built in Italy by Fratelli Alessandro Isidoro Rizzini. It offers a blend of classic aesthetics and modern manufacturing for hunters and clay shooters who appreciate the side-by-side’s fast handling and pointability, without the premium price tag of bespoke English guns. At $1725.74, it sits in a sweet spot between utilitarian imports and luxury doubles.
Let’s talk value. For the money, you get a lot of gun that feels solid and ready for work. The action is built on a durable boxlock design, which is simpler and often more cost-effective than a sidelock. It comes with a single selective trigger and automatic ejectors—features that were luxuries on doubles not long ago. The 28-inch barrel length is a versatile choice, offering a good swing for clays and a manageable profile for upland hunting. The chrome-lined barrels are a practical touch for easier cleaning and longevity, a nod to the gun’s intended use as a tool, not just a showpiece.
Fit and finish are where the Iside shows its budget-conscious design. The wood-to-metal fit is good for the class, and the checkering is functional. You won’t get exhibition-grade walnut or deep-relief engraving, but you get a handsome, honest gun. It’s a tradeoff: you’re paying for the core mechanics and handling, not elaborate cosmetics. The gun comes with a set of five interchangeable choke tubes (Cylinder, Improved Cylinder, Modified, Improved Modified, Full), giving you flexibility from close-range skeet to passing waterfowl. This package is drop-in ready for your next hunt or sporting clays session, needing only your preferred ammunition.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge (3″ Chambers) |
| Barrel Length | 28 Inches |
| Chokes | 5 Interchangeable (IC, M, IM, F, CYL) |
| Trigger | Single Selective |
| Ejectors | Automatic |
| Weight | Approx. 6.8 lbs |
Pros: The classic, fast-handling side-by-side profile. Modern conveniences like a single trigger and choke tubes at a reasonable price. Solid, reliable Italian construction. The 6.8-pound weight makes it lively and easy to carry all day. It’s a straightforward, no-fuss design that gets the job done.
Cons: The stock dimensions are fixed, so it may not fit every shooter perfectly without adjustment. The finish and wood are functional but not luxurious. As with any side-by-side, mastering the double sighting plane takes practice compared to a single-barrel gun. That said, the learning curve is part of the appeal for many.
So who is this for? It’s for the hunter who dreams of a side-by-side but has a practical budget. It’s for the shooter tired of synthetic-stocked pumps and autos who wants a touch of tradition in the field. It’s also a solid entry point for clay shooters wanting to try doubles events without a five-figure investment. Think of it as a working man’s classic, available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the F.A.I.R. Iside suitable for a beginner?
A: It can be, if the shooter is committed to learning the side-by-side platform. The single trigger and manageable recoil help, but the unique sighting and swing dynamics differ from more common shotguns. A beginner focused purely on utility might start with a pump, but one drawn to the double-gun tradition will find the Iside a accessible starting point.
Q: What kind of warranty or support comes with it?
A: F.A.I.R. shotguns are typically imported and distributed by reputable companies like F.A.I.R. USA (F.A.I.R. Armi), which provide warranty service. Always confirm the current importer and warranty terms at the time of purchase, as these can change. Quality firearms distributors stand behind their products.
Q: Can it handle steel shot for waterfowl?
A: With its 3-inch chambers and modern steel-compatible choke tubes (check tube markings), the Iside is generally safe for standard steel shot loads. Always consult the owner’s manual and use chokes explicitly rated for steel. For heavy, high-velocity steel loads, moderation is key to preserving the barrels and your shoulder.
If the idea of a reliable, handsomely-built side-by-side that doesn’t require a second mortgage speaks to you, the F.A.I.R. Iside deserves a close look. See more details and availability on our site.
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