Description
I remember the first time I shouldered a classic side-by-side. There was a heft, a balance, a simplicity that felt right. It wasn’t about high-volume shooting; it was about connection, tradition, and a tool that does one job perfectly. That’s the feeling the Stoeger Uplander 12 Ga, 26″ Barrel, 3″ Chamber, A Grade Satin Walnut Stock brings back. It’s a no-nonsense, reliable workhorse built for the field, not the safe queen.
ANSWER CAPSULE: The Stoeger Uplander is a boxlock side-by-side shotgun chambered in 12 gauge. It features a 26-inch barrel, a 3-inch chamber, and comes with an A-grade satin walnut stock and forend. It’s a traditional, hammerless double gun designed for hunting and sporting clays, offering simplicity and reliability at an accessible price point.
Look, if you’re after a modern tactical shotgun with rails and a pistol grip, this isn’t it. But if you appreciate the timeless lines and intuitive handling of a classic double, the Uplander is a fantastic entry point. I’ve put a few hundred rounds of target loads and some heavier 2 ¾-inch game loads through one, and it just works. The action is smooth for the price, and it shoulders quickly. At $412.46, it represents a serious value in a market where traditional doubles can get eye-wateringly expensive.
The heart of the Uplander is its boxlock action. It’s a proven, durable design that’s simple to maintain. The 26-inch barrel length is a sweet spot—maneuverable in a duck blind or a pheasant field, yet still providing a smooth swing for crossing shots. The 3-inch chamber gives you flexibility, allowing you to run everything from light target loads up to magnum waterfowl or turkey shells. The A-grade satin walnut is a nice touch; it’s not exhibition-grade wood, but it has a warm, honest grain that looks and feels far better than you’d expect on a gun in this price range. It fits out of the box with a classic feel that doesn’t require any gunsmithing to get started.
Here’s the thing—this is a tool built for specific tasks. It excels at upland bird hunting, where its light handling and fast pointing are assets. It’s also a great learner’s gun for someone new to shotguns or for introducing a younger shooter to the fundamentals. The manual safety and selective single trigger (you choose which barrel fires first) are straightforward. The gun weighs in at a manageable 6.7 pounds, which makes it easy to carry all day without fatigue. It’s also compatible with a wide range of standard 12-gauge ammunition from brands like Federal, Winchester, and Remington, giving you plenty of options for practice or hunting.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3″ |
| Barrel Length | 26 Inches |
| Action Type | Side-by-Side, Boxlock |
| Stock | A-Grade Satin Walnut |
| Overall Length | Approx. 42.5 Inches |
| Weight | Approx. 6.7 lbs |
Pros & Cons
On the plus side, you get incredible value for a classic-styled double gun. The walnut stock is genuinely attractive, and the 26-inch barrel provides excellent balance. It’s simple, reliable, and serves as a perfect introduction to double gun handling. The cons? It’s a basic gun. The finish is functional, not fancy. The trigger pull can be a bit heavy, which is common in this segment, and the recoil with heavy 3-inch magnums is noticeable due to the lighter weight—but that’s true of most field guns.
Who is this for?
This shotgun is for the hunter who values tradition and simplicity over firepower. It’s for the upland bird hunter, the casual clay shooter, or the father looking for a durable, classic first shotgun for a son or daughter. It’s also for the shooter who wants a dependable, no-frills backup gun for the truck or cabin. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide to compliant states.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does this have a single selective trigger or double triggers?
A: The Uplander comes with a single selective trigger. A small selector on the tang lets you choose whether the right or left barrel fires first, which is handy for patterning different chokes or loads.
Q: What chokes does it come with?
A: It typically includes a set of interchangeable choke tubes (often Improved Cylinder and Modified), giving you flexibility for different shooting situations. Always verify the specific chokes included with your purchase.
Q: Is this a good gun for a beginner?
A: Absolutely. Its simple operation, manual safety, and manageable size make it an excellent platform for learning safe shotgun handling, mounting, and swing fundamentals. The lighter weight is easier for new shooters to manage, though recoil with heavier loads should be considered.
If the idea of a straightforward, handsome, and capable side-by-side that won’t break the bank speaks to you, the Stoeger Uplander deserves a close look. See the full details and availability on our site.
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