Description
I was walking a cut soybean field last November, the wind picking up, when a rooster erupted from the ditch to my left. That’s the moment a shotgun like the Impala Plus 12 Ga, 24″ Barrel, 3″, TruGlow FO Sight, Break Up Country, 5rd earns its keep. You need a gun that’s fast to the shoulder, points naturally, and can handle the rough-and-tumble of a real season. This isn’t a safe queen; it’s a working tool for the field.
So, what is it? The Impala Plus is a gas-operated, semi-automatic 12-gauge shotgun built for the upland hunter and waterfowler who demands reliability without breaking the bank. It features a 24-inch barrel chambered for 3″ shells, a fiber-optic front sight for quick acquisition, and comes dressed in a functional Break-Up Country camo pattern. With a 5-round total capacity, it’s a ready partner for Missouri’s diverse game. At $539.46, it sits in a sweet spot of value and performance.
Let’s talk about that TruGlow fiber-optic front sight. In the low light of a timber duck hole or a late-afternoon pheasant push, that glowing green dot is a lifesaver. It gathers ambient light, so you’re not fiddling with batteries or trying to align a plain bead on a grey sky. It just works, pulling your eye right to the target. I’ve put a mix of light target loads and heavy 3″ steel through this action, and the gas system handles it all without a hiccup—no gunsmithing required to get it running right out of the box. The 24″ barrel is a fantastic all-around length, giving you a smooth swing for birds without feeling cumbersome in a blind or thick cover.
The Break-Up Country finish isn’t just for looks. It’s a durable, corrosion-resistant coating that shrugs off rain, marsh mud, and briar scratches. This is a shotgun you can use hard. The ergonomics are straightforward and intuitive, with controls that will feel familiar if you’ve handled other modern semi-autos. The stock has a classic, practical shape that fits a wide range of shooters, making it easy to get a consistent mount shot after shot.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3″ |
| Barrel Length | 24 Inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 45 Inches |
| Capacity | 4+1 Rounds |
| Sights | TruGlow Fiber Optic Front |
| Finish | Break-Up Country Camo |
| Action | Gas-Operated Semi-Auto |
Pros & Cons
Here’s my take. The pros are clear: reliable gas-operated performance, a great sighting system for hunting, a tough camo finish, and a price point that makes sense. It’s a lightweight package, coming in around 7 pounds, which is a blessing after miles of walking. The cons? It’s a hunting-focused tool. The stock is synthetic and basic, which is durable but won’t win beauty contests. The trigger is serviceable but has a bit of take-up—you’re not buying a custom competition gun. That said, for its intended role, these are compromises that make perfect sense.
Who is this for?
This shotgun is for the Missouri hunter who wants a dependable, go-anywhere semi-auto as a primary gun or a rugged backup. It’s ideal for the hunter chasing ducks in the Mississippi flyway, roosters in CRP fields, or turkeys in the spring woods. If you need one shotgun to do it all without a huge investment, the Impala Plus is a strong contender. It’s also a great first semi-auto for a new hunter, thanks to its manageable recoil and simple operation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will it cycle light target loads reliably?
A: Yes. The gas system is designed to handle a wide range of loads, from light 2¾” target shells up to 3″ magnums. I’ve run standard 1-ounce loads through it on the skeet field without issue.
Q: Is the barrel threaded for chokes?
A: It is. The Impala Plus uses a common choke tube system, compatible with many aftermarket brands like Carlson’s or Patternmaster, so you can tailor your constriction for anything from close-range quail to long-range geese.
Q: What’s the real benefit of the 24″ barrel?
A: Maneuverability and balance. A 24″ barrel offers a faster swing in tight quarters like a timber duck hole or brushy pheasant cover, while still providing a smooth, consistent follow-through on crossing shots. It’s the best compromise length for a walking hunter.
The Impala Plus 12-gauge is a solid, no-nonsense hunting partner that gets the job done. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, with an FFL transfer required for firearm purchases. If you’re looking for a reliable, camo-clad semi-auto that’s ready for the season, this one deserves a close look.
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