ATI Cavalry SX 12 Gauge 28″ Over/Under Shotgun
Video review
Expert review
About this product
What is the ATI Cavalry SX 12 Gauge 28″ Over/Under Shotgun? It's a Turkish-manufactured break-action shotgun chambered for 3-inch 12-gauge shells, built with traditional walnut furniture and a selective trigger system for upland hunting and clays. The Cavalry SX represents a mid-tier entry into the over/under market, balancing classic aesthetics with functional choke versatility.
What is the ATI Cavalry SX used for?
The Cavalry SX is designed for upland bird hunting and recreational clay shooting where its 28-inch barrel provides balanced swing dynamics. I've found it handles best with target loads between 1⅛ oz and 1¼ oz at velocities around 1200 fps, making it suitable for skeet and sporting clays courses. The five included MobilChoke tubes (Cylinder, Improved Cylinder, Modified, Improved Modified, Full) cover most field and range scenarios without requiring additional purchases.
How does the ATI Cavalry SX compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The Cavalry SX offers superior wood quality with its Turkish walnut stock compared to the Stevens 555's laminated wood, but the Stevens 555 has a more proven track record for long-term reliability. Where the Stevens 555 uses a simpler mechanical trigger group, the Cavalry SX employs a single selective trigger that allows barrel selection—a feature that adds complexity but practical utility in the field. For the price difference of approximately $150, the Cavalry SX provides better aesthetics while the Stevens 555 offers greater peace of mind for heavy use.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Cavalry SX weighs 7 pounds 2 ounces (102 oz) with an overall length of 45 inches and a length of pull measuring 14.5 inches. The 28-inch barrels feature a 3-inch chamber and are constructed from 4140 chrome moly steel with a blued finish that measures 0.725 inches at the muzzle. The balance point sits 2 inches forward of the hinge pin, creating a slightly forward-weighted feel that aids in swing follow-through.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not suitable for high-volume competitive shooters who might fire 500+ rounds weekly, as the Turkish manufacturing lacks the hardened steel components of Italian or Belgian counterparts. The break-action design also limits capacity to 2 rounds, making it impractical for tactical or home defense scenarios where higher capacity is required. I'd steer three-gun competitors toward the Stevens 334 Rifle platform instead.
What's in the box?
The package includes the shotgun itself, five MobilChoke tubes (C, IC, M, IM, F), a choke tube wrench, and owner's manual—all contained within a basic cardboard box without foam padding. The chokes are constructed from heat-treated steel and feature notched identification rings, while the wrench is a simple T-handle design that functions adequately but lacks the leverage of higher-end models. Missing from the package are any cleaning tools or snap caps, which are essential for safe function testing.
Is the ATI Cavalry SX worth it at $532.99?
At this price point, the Cavalry SX delivers acceptable value for occasional shooters who prioritize aesthetics over round count. The Turkish walnut stock alone would cost $200+ as an aftermarket upgrade on most shotguns, making the package price competitive against alternatives like the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge. However, budget-conscious buyers should note that the receiver engraving is laser-etched rather than hand-cut, and the bluing is a production-grade finish that will show wear after 500-1000 rounds.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Turkish walnut stock with oil finish—superior to laminated wood on Stevens 555
- Five MobilChoke tubes included (C, IC, M, IM, F)—$120 value if purchased separately
- Single selective trigger allows barrel selection—uncommon at this price point
- 28-inch barrel provides 45-inch overall length—ideal swing dynamics for clays
Trade-offs
- Laser-etched engraving rather than hand-cut—lacks depth of premium shotguns
- Chrome moly barrels not rated for heavy steel shot—limits waterfowl use
- Basic cardboard packaging without foam—requires aftermarket case purchase
- Turkish manufacturing history—less proven than established European brands
Key attributes
| upc | 813393016103 |
| manufacturer | American Tactical / ATI |
| manufacturer part number | ATIGKOF12SV |
| action | Break Open |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 2 |
| chokes included | 5 |
| safety | Top Tang |
| sights | Brass Bead Front |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with aftermarket choke tubes?
- The Cavalry SX uses Beretta/Benelli MobilChoke threads, making it compatible with hundreds of aftermarket options from brands like Carlson's, Briley, and Patternmaster. The thread pattern measures 0.825-24 TPI with a length of 0.625 inches, identical to most European-made shotguns. You'll need to verify tube length as some extended chokes may protrude beyond the 28-inch barrel.
- Does it fit standard 12-gauge ammunition?
- Yes, it chambers any standard 2¾-inch or 3-inch 12-gauge shells including target loads, buckshot, and slugs. The chamber is reamed to SAAMI specifications with a forcing cone length of 2.5 inches. Avoid using steel shot larger than #2 size as the chrome moly barrels lack special hardening for waterfowl loads.
- How long does shipping take?
- Standard shipping through Ironclad Armory takes 3-5 business days for processing plus transit time via FedEx Ground. Firearms require signature confirmation and must ship to an FFL holder—allow an additional 2-3 days for FFL verification. Expedited shipping is available for an additional $35 through UPS Next Day Air.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Returns are accepted within 30 days of purchase provided the firearm is unfired and in original packaging with all accessories. You'll need to arrange FFL-to-FFL shipping at your expense (typically $45-75) and a 15% restocking fee applies. Ironclad Armory does not accept returns on fired firearms due to federal regulations.
- Does this work with recoil pads?
- The Turkish walnut stock accepts standard recoil pads using 1.5-inch wood screws and has a flat buttplate surface. Most Pachmayr Decelerator and Limbsaver pads designed for shotguns will fit with minor sanding. The stock thickness at the butt measures 1.5 inches with a 12-degree pitch—bring measurements to your gunsmith for precise fitting.