Description
Picture this: you’re working the edge of a Missouri woodlot at first light, the air crisp. A covey of quail flushes from the brush, and the classic, instinctive point of a side-by-side is the only tool for the job. That’s the realm of the Moss Silver Reserve II Side by Side EXT 28ga 26″ CT5 3″ Black Walnut Finish. It’s a modern, accessible take on the timeless double-barrel shotgun, chambered in the efficient 28-gauge for upland hunting and sporting clays. This model delivers classic aesthetics and reliable performance with a 26-inch barrel, 3-inch chambers, and a rich black walnut finish, all for a price that brings a heritage design within practical reach.
When it comes to handling dense cover or a fast-paced sporting clays course, the Silver Reserve II’s side-by-side configuration offers a distinct advantage. The wide, flat sight plane allows for incredibly fast, instinctive target acquisition—you point it, not aim it. The 28-gauge chambering is its secret weapon: it delivers decisive patterns with significantly less recoil and shot load than a 12 or 20-gauge, making it a joy to shoot all day. Weighing in at approximately 6.5 pounds, it carries light and swings smoothly, a critical feature when you’re covering miles of field. The 26-inch barrels strike a perfect balance between maneuverability and swing dynamics, making it versatile for both the field and the range.
The Turkish walnut stock with its satin finish isn’t just for show; it provides a solid, non-slip grip in all weather conditions. The single selective trigger and automatic ejectors are features you expect on guns costing twice as much, ensuring a smooth, reliable cycle shot after shot. Here’s the thing—this shotgun is drop-in ready. It requires no gunsmithing to get you from the box to the field, a straightforward tool for the practical shooter. The 3-inch chambers give you flexibility with a wide range of modern 28-gauge loads, from light target loads to heavier field loads for larger game like pheasant.
Specifications
| Gauge | 28 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3″ |
| Barrel Length | 26″ |
| Overall Length | Approx. 42.5″ |
| Weight | Approx. 6.5 lbs |
| Stock | Turkish Walnut, Satin Finish |
| Chokes | 5 Choke Tubes (IC, M, F included) |
Pros: Classic, fast-handling side-by-side design. Mild-recoiling 28-gauge is effective and enjoyable. Quality walnut stock and reliable mechanical features like auto ejectors. Excellent value at its price point of $713.83. Ships to Missouri and compliant US states.
Cons: Limited ammunition selection compared to 12/20 gauge, requiring planning. Side-by-side sighting takes practice for shooters used to a single bead. Not designed for high-volume waterfowl or turkey hunting with heavy magnum loads.
This shotgun is for the upland hunter who values tradition and fast handling in tight cover, or the clays shooter looking for a lightweight, low-recoil option for sporting or skeet. It’s also an ideal first double-gun for a younger shooter or someone sensitive to recoil, thanks to the manageable 28-gauge. It pairs perfectly with a quality leather slip like those from Galco or a simple canvas gun sleeve for field transport.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the 28-gauge powerful enough for hunting?
A: Absolutely. With proper shot selection and within its effective range, the 28-gauge is highly effective on game like dove, quail, woodcock, grouse, and even pheasant. It’s about precision and pattern density, not just raw power.
Q: What chokes does it come with?
A: The “CT5” designation means it includes five choke tubes (Improved Cylinder, Modified, and Full are standard). This gives you great versatility for different shooting scenarios, from close-flushing birds to longer clays presentations.
Q: Is this a good home defense shotgun?
A: That said, while any shotgun can serve in a defensive role, the side-by-side’s two-shot capacity before reloading and its longer barrel make it less ideal than a dedicated defensive firearm. Its primary design and strengths are for hunting and sport.
If the idea of a classic, fast-pointing shotgun that won’t punish your shoulder aligns with your time in the field, the Moss Silver Reserve II in 28-gauge warrants a close look. FFL transfer required for firearm purchases. See more details and availability at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
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