Stoger Uplander SxS 20 ga. (deluxe)

[russlate]

OK, I've got me an 1100 12 ga. with mag extension, and the tactical black stocks, I've got me a 20 ga. Auto-5, cut down to 18.5" barrel that handles like an M1 Carbine.

You know what I'm missing? An excuse. Something I can use as a reason to get out of the house and go walking in the vicinity of some lovely ghost towns and little creeks. So the thing will probably only get fired if I spot a rattlesnake - I'm hunting birds. That's my story and I'm sticking to it.

Anyway, I like side-by-sides, and the only gun around that looks decent for around $500 bucks is the Stoger. If there are others, please tell me.

Does anyone have experience with any Uplander or other Stoger side-by-side like the coach guns? The few I saw looked decent.

I'd like to get the deluxe model with walnut stock and screw-in chokes. It ought to look kinda pretty, and work solidly, and handle like an upland game gun should, all within reason. If I could find a Savage-Stevens double in 20 ga. I could probably live with that.

Open to suggestions or comments...

 

[Okiecruffler]

There's nothing like a day in the woods with your trusty SXS. Helps if you got a good dog too. Then you look like something out of a Norman Rockwell painting. All of the Stoegers I've played with have looked ok. A little rough around the edges, but functional. That little 28g uplander certainly has it's charm. But for me, I'd look long and hard for a nice 311 20g. It should be cheaper than the Stoeger, and will probably last longer. But for no more shooting than you're talking about doing, either would probably serve you well.

 

[Johnpl]

I have a 12 gauge Uplander. I'd like to think the Uplanders are the "311's" of today...a solid, no frills shotgun for a reasonable price. I got mine after talking to several Cowboy shooters, who raved about their coach gun versions. These guys had hundreds of shells through theirs and never had any problems. I did have an issue with my first Uplander: the rib came loose in one spot about midway down the barrels-nothing major, but I could feel about 6 inches move when I pushed on the rib. I contacted Stoeger/Benelli and they had me ship the gun to them for repair or replacement-they ended up sending me a brand new gun. This one had very nice wood, but the finish was thin, so I gave it some True-oil, and boy, it looks nice. I use mine for grouse and pheasant, hunting some pretty rough areas, so it does get dinged up, but for what I paid, each little scratch doesn't break my heart! I've had mine for 5 years, and not had any problems...the CAS shooters I know have not any problems, even after several years of lots of use...I think that speaks to the Stoegers' durability. Hope this helps.

 

[russlate]

Ten hours up to Reno and back. 5 hours driving, 5 hours shopping. Stopped and went into Silver State Arms in the 3000 block of Kietzke.

They had Stoeger Condors ( O/U ) and Stoeger Uplanders ( SxS ) in the deluxe models in 20 ga. Walnut, screw in chokes.

I think they were both the same length.

The over-under felt like it had a long barrel and longer L.O.P. Felt like holding a length of 2x4 narrow side on top and wanting to tilt to one side or the other. Just not right, which means wrong.

The side-by-side felt more compact in barrel and stock, and nestled nicely between my hands. Ready to jump into action. Felt familiar and comfortable as an old friend.

Also saw a 12 ga. Stevens. OK for a 12. Just wasn't a 20.

Both O/U and SxS seems well enough built. Seem worth what they're asking. Think I've found what I wanted. Thanks for help.

 

[RatFink]

My brother and I both have them in 20 gauge, they work very well and look nice. My biggest complaint is that the 20 gauge is the same size as the 12 gauge. My fault though for not paying attention. I was looking for a light little SXS for quail, and I got a SXS that weighs as much as my 870.