Description
It was the third weekend of turkey season, and the old gobbler had outsmarted me twice. He’d hung up just out of range of my 28-inch barreled gun, refusing to commit. I needed something more agile for tight timber and long shots across fields. That’s when I switched to the Stoeger M3500 Predator/Turkey Special 12 Ga, 24″ Barrel, 3.5″, Overwatch, 4rd. This shotgun is a purpose-built tool for hunters who need a compact, hard-hitting, and reliable semi-auto that can handle the punishing 3.5-inch magnum loads favored for turkeys and predators, all without breaking the bank.
So, what is it? The Stoeger M3500 Predator/Turkey Special is a 12-gauge, 3.5-inch chambered semi-automatic shotgun with a 24-inch barrel, finished in Overwatch camo. It’s designed specifically for spring turkey hunting and predator calling, featuring a tight Modified choke tube, fiber optic rifle-style sights, and a 4+1 capacity. It’s a no-fuss, inertia-driven workhorse that’s drop-in ready for the woods. At a price of $710.54, it delivers serious performance where it counts.
Why This Gun Works in the Field
Look, the heart of this system is Stoeger’s proven inertia-driven action. I’ve put everything from light 2.75-inch target loads to heavy 3.5-inch turkey thumpers through it, and it cycles them all without a hiccup. That reliability is non-negotiable when a tom is strutting in at 40 yards. The 24-inch barrel is the sweet spot—maneuverable in a blind or thick brush, but still long enough to swing smoothly and maintain velocity for those longer shots. The Overwatch camo isn’t just for show; it’s a durable, full-coverage finish that breaks up your outline perfectly against early spring foliage.
The rifle-style sights are a game-changer for precise shot placement. We’re not shooting at flying birds here; we’re aiming for a vital area the size of a baseball. The bright green fiber optic front sight draws your eye instantly in low light, and the fully adjustable rear lets you dial it in for your preferred load. The gun comes with a Modified choke tube installed, which is a great all-around choice for #4, #5, or #6 turkey loads at typical ranges. For even tighter patterns, it uses the same Benelli/Beretta Mobilchoke thread pattern, so you have a world of aftermarket options from brands like Carlson’s or Trulock.
Here’s the thing—it’s a simple, robust design. There’s no complex gas system to clean, just the inertia spring in the stock. A quick field strip takes minutes, and you’re back in business. The synthetic stock and forend are tough as nails and shrug off moisture and abuse. With an overall length of just 45 inches and a weight around 7.3 pounds, it carries easily all day, whether you’re still-hunting ridges for coyotes or sitting motionless in a pop-up blind.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3.5″ |
| Barrel Length | 24″ |
| Overall Length | 45″ |
| Capacity | 4+1 Rounds |
| Finish | Overwatch Camo |
| Sights | Fiber Optic Rifle Sights |
| Choke System | Mobilchoke (Modified Included) |
The Good & The Considerations
Pros: Incredible value for a dedicated hunting semi-auto. The inertia system is famously reliable with all shell lengths. The 24-inch barrel and rifle sights make it a purpose-built turkey/predator slayer. Lightweight and easy to handle. Uses the common and versatile Mobilchoke system. The Overwatch camo is effective and durable.
Cons: The stock has a fixed length of pull, which might not fit every shooter perfectly. The 4-round capacity is standard for hunting but less than some tactical models. The action can have a bit more felt recoil with heavy magnums than a gas-operated gun, but it’s manageable.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This is the shotgun for the Missouri turkey hunter who wants a dedicated, reliable tool without a custom-shop price tag. It’s for the predator caller who needs a fast-handling gun for coyotes in the brush. It’s also a fantastic option for waterfowl hunters who frequent tight timber or need a backup gun. If your priority is a simple, tough, and effective semi-auto that you can grab, trust, and take into the field season after season, this Stoeger is calling your name. It is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will it cycle lighter 2.75-inch target loads for practice?
A: Yes, absolutely. The inertia system is designed to cycle a wide range of loads. I’ve run cheap field loads through it for clays practice without issue. Just remember, FFL transfer required for firearm purchases when you order online.
Q: Can I add a sling to this model?
A: You can. The stock is pre-drilled and tapped for a swivel stud, and the forend has a mounting point for the front swivel, making it easy to attach a standard shotgun sling.
Q: Is the choke tube that comes with it good for turkey hunting?
A: The included Modified choke is a solid starting point and will deliver effective patterns with many modern turkey loads. For maximum range and density, most serious hunters will eventually opt for an aftermarket Extra Full or turkey-specific choke tube, which are easy to find in the Mobilchoke pattern.
If you’re ready for a shotgun that bridges the gap between affordability and serious hunting performance, the Stoeger M3500 Predator/Turkey Special deserves a close look. Check availability and start the process on our site.
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