Description
I was packing for a multi-day hike in the Mark Twain National Forest, and my usual truck gun was just too much. I needed something that could disappear into my pack, handle a snake or a grouse, and not weigh me down. That’s the exact scenario the Midland Backpack Shotgun 20 Ga, 18.5″ Barrel, 3″, Black, Single Shot was built for. It’s a purpose-driven tool, not a range toy, and after putting a few boxes of shells through it, I can tell you exactly where it shines and where you need to manage expectations.
The Midland Backpack Shotgun is a lightweight, single-shot 20-gauge break-action shotgun with an 18.5-inch barrel. It’s designed for portability and utility as a minimalist hunting, survival, or truck/ATV firearm. Chambered for 3-inch shells, it offers simple, reliable operation at an accessible price point of $152.27.
Let’s talk about the weight—or lack thereof. This thing is light. I mean, you can hold it with two fingers and not feel strained. That’s the whole point of the “Backpack” moniker. It’s meant to be carried for miles and forgotten about until you need it. The 18.5-inch barrel keeps it compact and maneuverable in thick brush, and the simple break-action is about as foolproof as it gets. No complex manual of arms, just point, break it open, load, close, and you’re ready. It’s a no-frills system that works.
Here’s the thing—this isn’t a competition gun. It’s a single shot, so you get one chance before you have to reload. That forces discipline and marksmanship, which isn’t a bad thing for a survival tool. The synthetic stock is durable and shrugs off moisture, which is crucial for Missouri’s humid summers. I found the action to be stiff out of the box, as expected with any new break-action, but it smoothed up nicely after a few dozen openings. The extractor is manual, not an ejector, so you’ll be plucking the spent shell out yourself.
I’ve run a mix of 2 3/4-inch and 3-inch shells through it, from light target loads to heavier #4 buck. The gun handled them all without complaint. Recoil with heavy 3-inch loads is… noticeable, given the light weight. It’s not unpleasant, but you’ll know you touched one off. For a utility gun, its versatility is its strength. With the right shell, it can take small game, defend against predators, or bust clays in a pinch. It’s also drop-in ready—no assembly or gunsmithing required. You can pick it up from your FFL and head straight to the range or field.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 20 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3″ |
| Barrel Length | 18.5″ |
| Action | Single Shot, Break-Action |
| Overall Length | Approx. 34″ |
| Weight | Approx. 4.5 lbs |
| Finish | Black Synthetic Stock & Blued Barrel |
Pros: Incredibly lightweight and packable. Dead-simple, reliable operation. Very affordable. Durable synthetic construction stands up to the elements. Chambered for versatile 3-inch shells.
Cons: Single-shot capacity is a limitation. Manual extractor only. Recoil is stout with heavy loads due to light weight. The trigger is functional but has a long, heavy pull typical of budget single-shots.
So who is this for? It’s perfect for the hunter who wants a dedicated small-game or turkey gun to stash in an ATV. It’s for the backpacker or survivalist who values ounces and needs a reliable tool for remote areas. It’s an excellent first firearm for a young hunter, teaching fundamentals with zero complexity. And frankly, it’s a brilliant truck gun—inexpensive, reliable, and easy to secure. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, with an FFL transfer required for firearm purchases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can this shotgun fire 2 3/4-inch shells as well as 3-inch?
A: Absolutely. The 3-inch chamber safely fires both 2 3/4-inch and 3-inch 20-gauge shells, giving you plenty of ammunition options for different tasks.
Q: Is the barrel threaded for chokes?
A: No, it features a fixed cylinder bore choke. This is typical for a utility shotgun of this type, providing a wide pattern ideal for close-range use with buckshot or slugs.
Q: What’s the real-world weight and length for packing?
A: At just over 4.5 pounds and roughly 34 inches overall, it will easily fit in a standard-sized backpack or can be strapped to the side of a pack without throwing off your balance on a long hike.
If you’re looking for a minimalist, go-anywhere shotgun that won’t break the bank, the Midland Backpack Shotgun deserves a hard look. See the full details on our site.
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