Description
You’re looking for a reliable, classic over/under shotgun that won’t break the bank. You want something for clays, small game, or a light-recoiling field gun, but the price tags on many models are a serious hurdle. Look, we get it—quality shotguns are an investment. That’s where the Mossberg Silver Reserve II Over/Under 20 GA, 3″, 2rd comes in, offering a traditional shooting experience at a surprisingly accessible price point. It’s a solid entry into the world of side-by-side and over/under shotguns without the premium cost.
The Mossberg Silver Reserve II Over/Under 20 GA, 3″, 2rd is a budget-friendly, gas-operated semi-automatic shotgun designed for hunting and sport shooting. It features a 28-inch barrel, a 3-inch chamber for versatile shell compatibility, and a durable synthetic stock, offering reliable performance for waterfowl, upland game, and clay targets at a value-focused price.
So, what do you actually get for your money? The Silver Reserve II is built around a boxlock action, which is a simpler, more cost-effective design than a sidelock but is plenty robust for the vast majority of shooters. It comes with a single selective trigger and automatic ejectors, which are features you often have to pay extra for in this price bracket. The 20-gauge chambering is a sweet spot—it’s manageable for newer shooters or those sensitive to recoil, yet still perfectly effective for dove, quail, squirrel, and even turkeys with the right load. The 3-inch chamber gives you that flexibility to run heavier payloads when you need them. Weighing in at a manageable 6.7 pounds, it’s easy to carry all day in the field.
The walnut stock is finished with a decent satin sheen, and the metalwork has a clean, blued look. Is it the hand-rubbed, exhibition-grade walnut you’ll find on a $3,000 shotgun? No. But it’s attractive, functional, and fits out of the box for most average-sized shooters. The 28-inch barrels (also available in 26-inch) provide a smooth swing for crossing shots on clays or flushing birds. The gun comes with five choke tubes (Improved Cylinder, Modified, Full, and two others), so you can tailor your pattern for different situations right from the start. This level of inclusion is a big part of the value proposition.
Here’s the thing—you’re making tradeoffs to hit this price. The action might feel a bit stiffer out of the box compared to a finely-tuned Beretta or Browning, but it smooths out with use. The engraving is laser-etched, not hand-cut. But for $674.63, you’re getting a complete, functional over/under that handles like a traditional shotgun. It’s compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories, including choke tubes from brands like Carlson’s and Briley, allowing you to customize performance. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide after the required FFL transfer.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 20 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3″ |
| Barrel Length | 28″ |
| Overall Length | 45.5″ |
| Weight | 6.7 lbs |
| Chokes | 5 Included (IC, M, F, etc.) |
| Action | Boxlock Over/Under |
Pros & Cons
The pros are clear: classic over/under feel, automatic ejectors and single selective trigger at this price, light and pointable 20-gauge platform, and it comes ready to hunt with five chokes. The main cons involve the expected compromises: the finish and wood are functional but not luxurious, and the initial break-in period requires some patience to smooth the action. It’s a tool, not a jewel.
Who is this for?
This shotgun is ideal for the budget-conscious hunter or recreational clay shooter who wants to step up from a pump or semi-auto to a traditional over/under without a major financial leap. It’s a great first over/under for a young adult, a reliable backup gun, or a dedicated small-game and upland bird firearm where its lighter weight is a real advantage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Mossberg Silver Reserve II reliable for hunting?
A: Yes, for its intended use. It’s a solid choice for upland birds, dove, and small game. The 20-gauge is effective with proper shot selection, and the 3-inch chamber allows for heavier turkey loads. It’s not a high-volume competition gun, but for typical hunting scenarios, it’s perfectly reliable.
Q: How does it compare to a Stoeger Condor or CZ Drake?
A: They’re direct competitors in the value over/under space. The Silver Reserve II often edges them out with its inclusion of automatic ejectors (which kick spent shells clear) versus extractors (which just lift them) on the base models of the others. It’s a feature worth comparing directly when shopping.
Q: What’s the break-in process like?
A: Plan to work the action open and closed repeatedly when you first get it. A light application of gun oil on the hinge and locking points helps. Dry-firing and cycling the action while watching TV for an evening can significantly smooth out the initial stiffness. It’s a normal process for guns in this category.
If you’ve been wanting the handling and simplicity of an over/under but needed a practical price point to make it happen, the Mossberg Silver Reserve II 20-gauge deserves a close look. See the full details and availability on our site.
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