Description
The Stevens S1200 12 ga 28u2033 3u2033 Synthetic Stock Black Rcvr is a no-frills, reliable pump-action shotgun built for the budget-conscious shooter who needs dependable performance in the field or on the range. It’s a modern iteration of a classic design, offering a 28-inch barrel for a smooth swing and a synthetic stock to handle the elements, all at a price point that’s hard to beat. I’ve put a few hundred rounds of target and field loads through one, and here’s my take.
Key Features
- Proven Pump Action: Smooth, dual-action bars provide reliable feeding and ejection, a system that’s stood the test of time.
- Versatile 3″ Chamber: Handles everything from light 2 3/4″ target loads up to powerful 3″ magnum shells for waterfowl or turkey.
- Durable Synthetic Stock: Built to resist weather, moisture, and rough handling better than wood, making it a true all-weather tool.
- Clean, Simple Design: Focuses on function over flash, with a matte black finish that’s easy to maintain.
- Cross-Bolt Safety: Simple, positive safety located right behind the trigger for quick, intuitive operation.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3″ |
| Barrel Length | 28 Inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 48.5 Inches |
| Stock | Synthetic |
| Action | Pump Action |
| Capacity | 4+1 Rounds |
Weighing in at a manageable 7.5 pounds, it balances well for a 28-inch barrel, making it feel lively rather than sluggish. The 28-inch length is a sweet spot for many—long enough for a clean swing on clays or birds, but not so long it becomes cumbersome in a blind. The receiver is drilled and tapped for optics, a nice modern touch, and the whole package is drop-in ready for a standard set of sling swivels if you want to add one. Look, you’re not getting fancy checkering or a high-gloss finish for $444.61. You’re getting a solid, working shotgun.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This is the shotgun for the new hunter looking for a trustworthy first gun that won’t break the bank. It’s for the landowner who needs a reliable tool for pest control or property defense. It’s also a perfect candidate for a dedicated beater gun—something you can toss in the truck or take into muddy conditions without a second thought. If your priority is function and value over prestige, this is your huckleberry.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The price is the headline act, offering serious utility for under $450. The synthetic stock and matte metal are incredibly low-maintenance. The action, while not buttery-smooth out of the box, wears in nicely with use. It’s a simple design that’s easy to strip and clean, with parts and knowledge that are widely available.
Cons: The trigger is utilitarian, with a bit of creep and a heavier pull. The stock’s fit and finish are basic, which is expected but worth noting. The pump stroke can feel a bit stiff initially compared to higher-end models, but that loosens up. You might find the bead sight a bit small, but it’s a standard thread and easily upgraded.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What chokes does this shotgun come with?
A: It typically comes with a Modified choke tube installed, which is a great all-around choice for hunting and some clay sports. It uses the common and widely available Stevens/Savage Accu-Choke thread pattern, so you can easily find cylinder, improved cylinder, or full choke tubes to suit your needs.
Q: Is this a good home defense shotgun?
A: It can be, but the 28-inch barrel is long for indoor maneuvering. That said, the reliable pump action and potent 12-gauge chambering are proven defensive tools. For a dedicated home role, you might prefer a shorter 18.5-inch barrel model, but this one will work in a pinch with the right load and training.
Q: Can I use it for trap or skeet shooting?
A: Absolutely. The 28-inch barrel is excellent for trap and serviceable for skeet. The Modified choke is a fine starting point for trap. Just remember it’s a pump, so you’ll be working the action between each shot—great for building fundamentals, even if you’re a bit slower than the semi-auto crowd.
In the end, the Stevens S1200 delivers exactly what it promises: dependable, no-nonsense performance at a price that leaves room in your budget for ammo, a case, and range time. It’s a tool that gets the job done without fanfare. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. If a straightforward, reliable 12-gauge pump is what you’re after, take a closer look at the S1200.
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