CZ-USA Drake .410 Bore 28in Over/Under Shotgun
About this product
The CZ-USA Drake .410 Bore 28in Over/Under Shotgun is a purpose-built field over/under chambered for .410, designed for light game and introductory shooting. It delivers traditional over/under reliability and handling in a low-recoil, manageable package using proven mechanical components rather than gimmicks. For shooters familiar with centerfire rifles like the the Stevens 334 Rifle | .308 Win, 20in Matte Black Synthetic, the Drake represents a shift toward specialized, lighter-duty scenarios.
What is the CZ-USA Drake .410 used for?
The CZ Drake is used primarily for small game hunting, pest control on farms near structures where noise and over-penetration are concerns, and as an introductory firearm for new or recoil-sensitive shooters. Its .410 bore and fixed Improved Cylinder/Modified chokes pattern birdshot effectively out to about 25 yards, and its 6-pound weight and 14.5-inch length of pull promote fast mounting in dense brush for rabbits or squirrels. This is not a waterfowl or high-volume target gun; it’s a specialized tool for specific, close-range field applications.
How does it compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting .410?
The CZ Drake is the more durable, mechanically simpler field gun compared to the lighter, more target-oriented Stevens 555 Sporting Over/Under in .410. The Stevens 555 Sporting .410 weighs a full 1.2 pounds less at 4.8 pounds, making it faster to swing but also more susceptible to felt recoil and muzzle flip, while the Drake’s extra 6 pounds of heft soaks up more of the .410’s already modest impulse. The Stevens utilizes interchangeable chokes (included) for versatility, whereas the Drake’s fixed IC/MOD setup is a deliberate, no-adjustment choice for reliability in dirty conditions.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The CZ Drake weighs 6.0 pounds (2.72 kg) and measures 45.75 inches overall with its 28-inch barrels, featuring a 14.5-inch length of pull and approximately a 1.5-inch drop at comb and heel. This puts its balance point roughly 2.75 inches forward of the hinge pin, giving it a slightly muzzle-forward feel that promotes a steady swing rather than fast, whippy target transitions. In practical terms, it’s 3.25 inches shorter in overall length than a common 30-inch-barreled 12-gauge, but its weight distribution makes it feel more deliberate.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not for high-volume clay shooters, waterfowl hunters needing 3-inch or 3.5-inch 12-gauge shells, or anyone expecting aftermarket choke tube support. Its fixed chokes limit its patterning adaptability, and its single selectable trigger lacks the mechanical crispness of a high-grade adjustable competition trigger. Furthermore, shooters who process more than a couple of boxes of shells per outing will find the manual extractors require more attention than auto-ejectors on guns like some higher-grade Stevens 555 Sporting O/U models review, interrupting rhythm.
What's in the box?
In the box, you receive the shotgun fitted with its IC/MOD fixed-choke barrels, a single firearm lock, a basic owner's manual, and two CZ-branded plastic plugs for shipping compliance. Notably, it does not include a hard case, additional chokes, or any cleaning kit components—expect to spend an additional $50-$80 on a suitable padded soft case and basic cleaning rod kit. The manual is adequate but does not detail full disassembly for deep cleaning.
Is the CZ Drake worth it at $786.99?
At $786.99, the CZ Drake is worth the cost for a shooter seeking a dedicated, no-fuss .410 over/under for field use with a more robust build than budget Turkish imports, but it’s not the best value for a general-purpose or first-time shotgun. Its mechanical straightforwardness (extractors, fixed chokes) means fewer parts to fail and less required maintenance, a legitimate justification over cheaper, more complex guns. However, if your primary use is recreational clays or you demand choke versatility, the comparable Stevens 555 Sporting in .410 offers more features for slightly less money.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- 6.0 lb (2.72 kg) weight soaks up .410 recoil effectively -- 22% heavier frame than the 4.8 lb Stevens 555 Sporting .410
- Fixed IC/MOD chokes eliminate threads, o-rings, or wrench-turning for consistent, zero-maintenance field reliability
- Turkish walnut stock with 24 lines-per-inch laser-cut checkering provides a secure grip point in all weather conditions
- Single selectable trigger is simple, with a consistent 5.5 lb pull weight on both barrels and no complex inertia or mechanical selector to fail
Trade-offs
- Manual extractors only -- no auto-ejectors, requiring you to physically pull spent shells clear after each shot, slowing follow-ups
- No aftermarket choke support due to fixed, non-removable chokes -- a permanent limitation on patterning versatility
- Gloss black chrome/blued finish is durable but shows handling scratches and glare in bright sun more readily than a matte finish
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 806703064895 |
| manufacturer | CZ-USA |
| manufacturer part number | 06489 |
| action | Over / Under |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel finish | Gloss Black Chrome |
| barrel length | 28'' |
| caliber/gauge | .410 Bore |
| capacity | 2 |
| chokes included | IC,M |
| color | Black |
| length | 45.75'' |
| model | Drake |
| package height | 3.5 |
| package width | 11.0 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Top Tang |
| shipping weight | 12.9 |
| sights | Bead Front |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Does this work with 2.5-inch .410 shells?
- Yes, the CZ Drake's 3-inch chamber safely and effectively fires standard 2.5-inch .410 bore shells. The firearm will pattern slightly differently due to the longer chamber, but this is a non-issue for field use at ranges under 25 yards. Always refer to SAAMI pressure guidelines for your specific ammunition.
- Is the choke tube compatible with other CZ models?
- No, the barrels use fixed, non-removable Improved Cylinder and Modified chokes that are permanently brazed at 0.005" and 0.020" constriction, respectively. This is not an interchangeable choke system; it's a permanent configuration designed for reliability. Any modification would require specialized gunsmithing and likely void the warranty.
- How long does the transfer process take?
- From your online purchase to pickup at your chosen FFL, plan for a minimum of 3 to 7 business days for processing, shipping, and the mandatory NICS background check, assuming no state-specific waiting periods. Delays during peak seasons (October-December) can add 2-3 extra business days. Confirm your FFL's information is current with the retailer before ordering.
- Can I mount an optic or a rail?
- No, the receiver is NOT drilled and tapped for a scope mount or Picatinny rail, and its profile does not allow for saddle mounts. The vent rib is designed for traditional bead sight use only; installing any aftermarket mounting system would require significant, permanent gunsmithing work and is not recommended for this field-grade platform.