Description
The Stevens Fox A Grade 20 Ga 28 Inch Barrel Side-by-Side is a modern, high-grade side-by-side shotgun built on a classic, reliable boxlock action. It’s designed for the upland hunter or sporting clays shooter who demands a lightweight, fast-handling, and aesthetically pleasing shotgun with traditional lines and modern manufacturing consistency. I’ve put a few hundred shells through one, and it’s a smooth, instinctive pointer that feels alive in your hands. The price point of $3707.16 reflects its position as a premium, factory-built side-by-side for the discerning shooter.
Key Features
- Classic Side-by-Side Configuration: Offers a timeless aesthetic and natural pointing dynamics many shooters prefer.
- 20 Gauge Chambering: Delivers a perfect balance of manageable recoil and effective pattern density for game birds and clays.
- 28″ Barrels: Provides a smooth swing and a long sighting plane for consistent leads.
- A-Grade Walnut Stock: Features well-figured wood with a hand-rubbed oil finish for both beauty and durability in the field.
- Boxlock Action: A proven, strong, and reliable design that’s simpler and often lighter than a sidelock.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 20 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3″ |
| Barrel Length | 28 Inches |
| Action Type | Side-by-Side, Boxlock |
| Chokes | Fixed (likely Improved Cylinder & Modified) or Choke Tubes (specify with dealer) |
| Overall Length | Approx. 45-46 Inches |
Here’s the thing—this isn’t a mass-produced pump gun. The Stevens Fox A Grade is built for a specific shooter. The weight, which I’d estimate at a hair under 7 pounds, makes it a dream to carry all day in the grouse woods or through a cut cornfield. That lightness, combined with the 20 gauge’s gentle push, means you can shoot it all day without fatigue. It’s a firearm that encourages practice because it’s just plain enjoyable to shoot. The fit and finish are what you’d expect at this tier; the wood-to-metal fit is tight, and the action opens with a crisp, authoritative click. It’s a gun that feels solid and refined right out of the box, with no gunsmithing required to start enjoying it.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This shotgun is for the upland purist or the clays shooter who appreciates tradition but doesn’t want the maintenance headaches or cost of a vintage double. It’s for someone who has moved past their first autoloader and is looking for a more personal, connected shooting experience. If you value a fast, first-shot presentation on flushing birds and the simplicity of a double trigger (or a single selective, depending on configuration), this is your gun. It’s also compatible with a wide range of standard 20-gauge ammunition from brands like Federal, Winchester, and Fiocchi, so finding loads isn’t a chore.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Exceptional handling and pointability. High-grade materials and fitment. The 20 gauge is versatile and soft-shooting. Carries lighter than it weighs. Offers a classic shooting experience with modern reliability.
Cons: The price is a significant investment. Side-by-sides have a steeper learning curve for target acquisition than over-unders for some shooters. Limited capacity (two rounds) requires precise shot selection. That said, for its intended role, the two-shot limit is part of the challenge and charm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is this a good first shotgun?
A: For a dedicated beginner, probably not. The price and specialized handling make it a better choice for an experienced shooter looking to step into a high-quality double gun. A first-time buyer might be better served by a more versatile and forgiving pump or autoloader.
Q: What chokes does it come with?
A: You’ll need to confirm with the specific listing, but modern Stevens Fox models typically come with choke tubes (like Invector-style), giving you flexibility from skeet to modified patterns. Some classic configurations may have fixed chokes, often Improved Cylinder and Modified.
Q: Can I use it for waterfowl hunting?
A: While the 20 gauge with modern non-toxic loads is capable for some waterfowling, the 28″ barrels and typically lighter weight of a side-by-side like this are really optimized for upland birds over dogs or walking fields. It’s not a specialist waterfowl gun.
If the idea of a lightweight, elegant, and responsive side-by-side that bridges classic form and modern function speaks to you, the Stevens Fox A Grade 20 Ga deserves a close look. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide to compliant addresses through an FFL transfer required for firearm purchases. See the full listing for current availability.
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