Description
The F.A.I.R. Iside Side-by-side 28 Ga, 28″ Barrel is a modern Italian-made side-by-side shotgun built for the upland hunter who demands a lightweight, fast-handling, and beautifully crafted field gun. It’s a refined tool that blends classic aesthetics with reliable mechanical performance, offering a distinct and enjoyable alternative to the ubiquitous over-under. I’ve put a few boxes of shells through one on a Missouri quail hunt, and its handling is where it truly shines—it points like an extension of your will.
Key Features
- 28 Gauge Chambering: Offers a superb balance of light recoil and effective pattern density for small game and upland birds.
- 28″ Barrels: Provide a smooth swing and a longer sighting plane, ideal for crossing shots in open fields.
- Side-by-Side Configuration: Delivers a classic, fast-pointing profile that many seasoned hunters prefer for instinctive shooting.
- Italian Craftsmanship: Built by F.A.I.R. (Fabbrica Armi Isidoro Rizzini) with attention to fit, finish, and reliable mechanics.
- Boxlock Action: A robust and time-tested design known for its durability and clean lines.
Specifications & Details
| Gauge | 28 Gauge |
| Barrel Length | 28 inches |
| Chamber | 3″ |
| Action Type | Side-by-Side, Boxlock |
| Chokes | Likely includes fixed or choke tubes (IC & M common) |
| Weight | Approx. 6 – 6.5 lbs (estimated for this configuration) |
Here’s the thing—this isn’t a mass-produced item. You’re looking at a price of $1656.46 for a reason. The value is in the hand-finished wood-to-metal fit, the crisp trigger, and the overall balance that makes a long day in the field feel shorter. It’s a gun that feels solid without being heavy, a nuance that’s hard to appreciate until you’ve carried one for miles. The 28-inch barrels on a side-by-side give it a very different feel than the same length on an over-under; it seems to pivot more naturally from the shoulder. For reference, its quality and handling philosophy sit in a similar realm to a CZ Bobwhite or an older Browning BSS, but with its own distinct Italian character.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This F.A.I.R. Iside is for the upland purist or the hunter looking to step into a classic configuration without sacrificing modern reliability. It’s for the shooter who values a light, lively gun for quail, dove, or woodcock. It’s also for the collector-shooter who appreciates functional elegance on a working firearm. If your idea of a perfect day involves a good dog, briar pants, and a shotgun that feels like part of you, this is worth a very close look.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Exceptionally quick and natural pointability. The 28 gauge is gentle and efficient. The craftsmanship is evident in the finish and detailing. It’s a lifetime gun that’s built to be used, not just admired. A standard FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases, but it’s drop-in ready for the field with no gunsmithing required.
Cons: The side-by-side sighting plane takes practice if you’re used to a single rib. Ammunition cost and variety for 28 gauge is higher and less common than 12 or 20 gauge. It’s a specialized tool, not a do-everything shotgun. The investment is significant, placing it in a considered purchase category.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the 28 gauge powerful enough for upland hunting?
A: Absolutely. With modern shells, the 28 gauge is a highly effective and efficient choice for birds like quail, dove, grouse, and woodcock within typical ranges. It offers less shot payload than a 20 gauge, but with superior pattern density from its bore size, resulting in clean kills with less recoil and muzzle blast.
Q: What chokes does it come with?
A: While we recommend confirming the exact configuration at time of order, guns in this class typically come with a set of choke tubes (like Improved Cylinder and Modified) or are offered with fixed chokes suited for the field. This provides the versatility needed for different hunting scenarios.
Q: How does it compare to an over-under?
A: It’s mostly about handling and tradition. A side-by-side is often perceived as faster to mount and point instinctively, with a wider field of view over the barrels. An over-under offers a single, precise sighting plane that many prefer for sustained leads. Both are valid—it’s a profound matter of personal feel and what you shoot best.
If the idea of a graceful, lively shotgun for Missouri’s fields appeals to you, this F.A.I.R. Iside deserves your attention. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide to compliant states. See the full details on our site.
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