Description
You’re standing in a flooded timber hole at dawn, the cold Missouri air biting through your waders. A flock of mallards is working the decoys, and you need a shotgun that’s going to cycle reliably with heavy 3.5-inch magnums after sitting in the muck. That’s the exact scenario where the Stoeger M3500, Semi-Auto 12 Ga, 28″ Barrel, 3.5″ 4rd, Mossy Oak Bottomlands, earns its keep. I’ve put everything from light target loads to punishing turkey magnums through this inertia-driven system, and it just works.
The Stoeger M3500 is a 12-gauge semi-automatic shotgun built on Benelli’s proven inertia-driven operating system. It features a 28-inch barrel, handles 3.5-inch magnum shells, has a 4+1 capacity, and comes finished in Mossy Oak Bottomlands camouflage. Priced at $680.83, it’s a reliable, hard-working waterfowl and turkey gun that fits out of the box and ships to Missouri and compliant US states.
Let’s talk about that inertia system. Unlike gas-operated shotguns that can gum up with powder residue and moisture, the M3500’s action is driven by recoil. This means fewer moving parts, less maintenance in the field, and reliable cycling across a huge range of ammunition. I’ve gone from shooting clays with light 2¾-inch target loads to hunting geese with 3.5-inch steel without adjusting a thing. The 28-inch barrel, with its vent rib and fiber-optic front sight, gives you a smooth, consistent swing—perfect for tracking birds over decoys. The Mossy Oak Bottomlands finish isn’t just for show; it’s a durable, corrosion-resistant coating that stands up to the harsh, wet conditions we face in the Midwest.
Here’s the thing—this is a purpose-built tool. The stock and fore-end are textured for a solid grip, even with wet gloves. The 3.5-inch chamber gives you the versatility to handle any North American game bird, from doves to Canadas. At just over 7.5 pounds, it’s light enough to carry all day in the marsh but has enough heft to soak up recoil from those big loads. The gun comes with five choke tubes (C, IC, M, IM, F), so you’re ready for any range or shot type right from the start.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3.5″ |
| Barrel Length | 28 Inches |
| Overall Length | 49.5 Inches |
| Capacity | 4+1 Rounds |
| Weight | 7.5 lbs |
| Finish | Mossy Oak Bottomlands |
| Chokes | 5 (C, IC, M, IM, F) |
Pros: The inertia system is famously reliable and low-maintenance. The 3.5-inch chamber offers maximum shell versatility. The camouflage finish is functional and durable. It’s a tremendous value for a proven design. Cons: The recoil pad is basic and can be punishing with heavy magnums—an upgrade is a wise investment. The safety button is a bit small for gloved hands. Some may find the stock a little long; it benefits from personal fitting.
So who is this gun for? It’s for the dedicated waterfowler who needs a no-nonsense, all-weather shotgun that won’t fail when the ducks are cupped and committed. It’s for the turkey hunter who wants the reach and power of a 3.5-inch shell without breaking the bank. It’s also a solid choice for a high-volume shooter who wants a simple, durable semi-auto for clays or predator hunting. If you’re looking for a lightweight, reliable scattergun that can handle the toughest conditions, this is a compelling option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will it cycle light target loads reliably?
A: Yes, the inertia system is designed to handle a wide range of loads. In my experience, it cycles standard 1-ounce target loads at 1200 fps without issue, though the absolute lightest, low-recoil loads may sometimes require a break-in period or a heavier load.
Q: Is the barrel threaded for chokes?
A: Absolutely. It uses the Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke tube system, which is an industry standard. The gun comes with five tubes, and you can easily find aftermarket chokes from brands like Carlson’s or Patternmaster for specific needs.
Q: Can the stock be shortened or adjusted?
A: The stock is not adjustable from the factory, but it is a standard design that can be cut down and recoil pads like those from Limbsaver or Kick-EEZ can be fitted. For a perfect fit, a local gunsmith can handle it easily—no gunsmithing required for simple pad swaps.
If the idea of a simple, rugged, and versatile semi-auto shotgun that’s ready for Missouri’s marshes and fields speaks to you, the Stoeger M3500 in Mossy Oak Bottomlands is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
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