Description
Picture this: you’re walking a tight Missouri woodlot, the sun filtering through the oaks. A grouse flushes from the underbrush, and you need a shotgun that’s fast, instinctive, and utterly reliable. That’s the moment for a classic side-by-side. But in a market flooded with budget over/unders and tactical pumps, where do you find a true, no-compromise double gun that doesn’t demand a five-figure investment? The answer is the Stevens Fox A Grade 20 Ga 26 Inch Barrel Side-by-Side. It’s a modern iteration of a timeless American field gun, built for the hunter who values tradition, pointability, and simplicity over gadgetry.
Here’s the thing—at $3707.16, this isn’t an impulse buy. It’s a deliberate choice for a specific shooter. You’re not paying for a brand name inflated by competition shooters; you’re investing in a dedicated upland and light waterfowl tool. Compared to similarly-priced over/unders that often cut corners on internal mechanics or finish, the Fox A Grade’s side-by-side configuration offers a slimmer profile and faster handling in thick cover. Its 26-inch barrels keep the overall length and weight manageable for all-day carries, a key spec for the walking hunter.
Key Features
The Stevens Fox A Grade is built around a robust boxlock action. It’s a proven, strong design that’s less complex (and often more reliable in field conditions) than some more intricate mechanisms. This gun is drop-in ready for the field, requiring no gunsmithing to get started. The 20-gauge chambering is a sweet spot—offering plenty of power for pheasant and duck within range, with significantly less recoil and weight than a 12-gauge. That makes it a fantastic choice for younger shooters or those sensitive to kick, without sacrificing effectiveness.
Its 26-inch barrels contribute to a quick, lively swing. This isn’t a long-range pass-shooting gun; it’s designed for snap shots in timber and quick flushes. The side-by-side configuration itself is a feature. It lies flat in a scabbard, points naturally for many shooters, and provides two immediate choke options—typically Improved Cylinder and Modified in this configuration. You get instant versatility without fiddling with tubes. The classic walnut stock and blued steel finish aren’t just for looks; they’re durable, time-tested materials that develop character with honest use.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 20 Gauge |
| Barrel Length | 26 Inches |
| Action Type | Side-by-Side, Boxlock |
| Chamber | 3″ |
| Overall Length | Approx. 42.5″ |
| Weight | Approx. 6.5 lbs |
Pros & Cons
Pros: Excellent handling and pointability for upland hunting. The 20-gauge offers a great balance of power and shootability. The classic boxlock action is famously reliable and simple. The side-by-side design is slimmer and often faster to mount than an over/under for many shooters. It represents a solid value in the classic double gun market.
Cons: The side-by-side rib can be a slower sighting plane for shooters used to a single bead. It generally has more perceived recoil than a gas-operated semi-auto of the same gauge. At nearly 6.5 pounds, it’s not the absolute lightest 20-gauge available. The classic styling may not appeal to every modern hunter.
Who It’s For
This shotgun is for the traditionalist upland hunter who covers ground on foot. It’s for the shooter who appreciates mechanical simplicity and doesn’t need a third shot. It’s also an ideal introduction to fine doubles for the hunter who wants a heirloom-quality American gun without venturing into custom shop prices. If your hunting involves long walks in Missouri’s Conservation Areas or managed fields, where fast, instinctive shooting is the rule, this Fox A Grade is purpose-built.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is this gun suitable for a beginner?
A: It can be, particularly for a beginner focused on wing shooting and tradition. The 20-gauge is manageable, but the side-by-side sighting plane has a learning curve. A beginner might find a pump or semi-auto with a single bead simpler to learn on initially.
Q: What chokes does it come with?
A: The Stevens Fox A Grade typically comes with fixed chokes. The 26-inch barrel model commonly features Improved Cylinder and Modified, which is a perfect combination for most upland game and decoying waterfowl scenarios.
Q: Can it handle steel shot for waterfowl?
A: With its 3″ chamber and modern steel, it is safe for steel shot. However, always check the choke constriction. Using steel shot in anything tighter than Modified is not generally recommended, so stick to more open patterns for waterfowl hunting.
For the hunter seeking a dedicated, no-nonsense field gun with classic American pedigree, the Stevens Fox A Grade presents a compelling case. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, with an FFL transfer required for firearm purchases. See the full details on our site.
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