Description
You’re walking a brushy fence line in the Missouri River bottoms, or maybe you’re working a dense patch of timber for squirrels. You need a shotgun that’s light enough to carry all day, points naturally, and is utterly dependable when a flush happens fast. That’s the scenario where the Stoeger Uplander 20 Ga, 26″ Barrel, A-Grade Satin Walnut shines. It’s a classic side-by-side shotgun built for real-world hunting and practical use, offering a no-fuss, mechanical reliability that works when you need it to.
What is it? The Stoeger Uplander is a boxlock, side-by-side shotgun chambered in 20-gauge with a 26-inch barrel set. It features a single selective trigger and extractors, all housed in an A-Grade satin walnut stock. This is a straightforward, durable, and affordable double-barrel designed for hunters who value simplicity and quick handling in the field. At a total weight of just under 6.5 lbs, it’s easy to carry and swings smoothly on target.
Built for the Field, Not the Safe
When it comes to upland hunting or navigating thick cover, a long, cumbersome firearm is a liability. The 26-inch barrel length on this Uplander is the sweet spot—it provides a smooth swing for wing shooting while remaining compact enough to not snag on every branch. The side-by-side configuration gives you an immediate, wide field of view down the rib, allowing for fast target acquisition. The single selective trigger is a practical feature; you can choose which barrel fires first, typically setting the more open choke for a closer shot. The action is robust and drop-in ready, requiring no gunsmithing to get from the box to the field. It’s a tool that works.
Key Features in Practice
The A-Grade satin walnut stock isn’t just for looks—it provides a solid, textured grip even in wet conditions, and the satin finish resists glare. The 20-gauge chambering is versatile, capable of handling everything from light 7/8 oz target loads for clays to heavier field loads for pheasant or rabbit, all with significantly less recoil than a 12-gauge. This makes it an excellent choice for younger shooters or those sensitive to kick. The manual safety and barrel selector are positive and easy to operate, even with gloved hands. Here’s the thing—this shotgun doesn’t have a lot of moving parts to fail, which is exactly what you want when you’re miles from the truck.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 20 Gauge (3″ Chamber) |
| Barrel Length | 26 Inches |
| Overall Length | 42.5 Inches (Approx.) |
| Weight | 6.4 lbs |
| Stock | A-Grade Satin Walnut |
| Trigger | Single Selective |
| Chokes | Fixed Modified & Improved Cylinder (Choke Tubes may vary) |
Pros & Cons
Pros: Lightweight and exceptionally pointable. Simple, reliable boxlock action. The 20-gauge offers manageable recoil. The satin walnut stock provides a durable, functional grip. At $412.46, it represents a significant value for a hunting-ready side-by-side. It’s compatible with a wide range of 20-gauge ammunition from brands like Federal, Winchester, and Remington.
Cons: As a utilitarian gun, fit and finish are functional, not exquisite. The fixed chokes (typically Mod/IC) limit versatility compared to choke-tube models. It’s a hunting gun first, not a high-volume competition piece.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This is the hunter’s double. It’s for the Missouri upland hunter chasing quail, woodcock, or squirrels in tight timber. It’s for the landowner who needs a dependable tool for occasional pest control or farmstead security. It’s also an ideal first shotgun for a responsible new shooter, thanks to the softer-shooting 20-gauge platform. If your priority is mechanical reliability, fast handling, and getting the job done without complication, this Uplander is built for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does this model come with choke tubes?
A: Typically, this specific Uplander configuration comes with fixed chokes—usually Improved Cylinder in the right barrel and Modified in the left. Some production runs may include choke tubes; please confirm the exact specifications at the time of order. Fixed chokes are perfectly suited for most general hunting scenarios within 30-35 yards.
Q: Is the single trigger reliable?
A: Yes. The single selective trigger is a mechanical, inertia-driven system. It’s a proven design that switches to the second barrel after the recoil from the first shot. It’s simple and reduces the chance of user error compared to double triggers in high-adrenaline situations.
Q: Can it handle 3-inch magnum shells?
A: Yes. The chambers are 3 inches, so it can safely fire 2 3/4″ and 3″ 20-gauge shells. This allows you to use everything from light target loads to heavier waterfowl or turkey loads, giving you real versatility for different game and seasons.
Ready to add this classic, field-ready side-by-side to your collection? The Stoeger Uplander 20 Ga is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. All firearm purchases require an FFL transfer to your local licensed dealer.
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