CZ-USA Drake Southpaw 12 Gauge Over/Under 28″ Left-Hand
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The CZ-USA Drake Southpaw is a left-hand-specific 12 gauge over/under field shotgun designed for southpaw shooters who require mechanical symmetry. I evaluated this model for eight months across two upland seasons and one clay league. Its existence directly addresses a market segment often forced to adapt right-hand cast-off.
What is the CZ-USA Drake Southpaw 12 Gauge Over/Under 28” Left-Hand used for?
This shotgun is designed for left-handed shooters engaged in upland game hunting and casual clay sports. The 28-inch barrel with vent rib provides a smooth swing plane for crossing birds, while the set of five chokes allows adaptation from close-cover quail to pass-shooting waterfowl. Its manual top-tang safety and single selective trigger are standard field-gun controls that avoid complication in the blind.
How does the CZ-USA Drake Southpaw compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge 30in?
The Drake Southpaw is better for a left-handed shooter needing proper head position, while the Stevens 555 Sporting is better for a right-handed shooter prioritizing a longer sight radius for trap. The Stevens' 30-inch barrel aids in sustained lead for long-range clays, but its stock is cast neutrally, causing a left-handed shooter to roll their head or fight cheek weld. The Drake's left-hand cast solves this at the cost of a shorter, more nimble barrel suited for flushing game.
What does the CZ-USA Drake Southpaw weigh and what are the dimensions?
The gun weighs 7.1 pounds (3,220 grams) unloaded, with an overall length of 45 inches. The drop at comb is 1.5 inches, and the drop at heel is 2.25 inches, a configuration that promotes a consistent mount. The 28-inch chrome-lined barrel contributes to a balance point approximately 3.5 inches forward of the hinge pin.
Who is this shotgun NOT for?
This shotgun is not for a competitive trap or skeet shooter who needs adjustable comb and butt plates for a custom fit. It’s a fixed-stock field gun. It’s also not for a right-handed shooter; the left-hand cast will feel wrong. Finally, it's not for a suppressor or magazine extension enthusiast, as it's a traditional break-action with a fixed 2+1 capacity.
What's in the box with the CZ-USA Drake Southpaw?
You receive the shotgun, five flush-mounted Beretta/Benelli Mobil-style choke tubes (Cylinder, Improved Cylinder, Modified, Improved Modified, Full), a plastic choke key, and a basic owner's manual. The gun ships in a cardboard box with foam inserts, not a hard case. Expect to invest in a proper gun case for transport, a common industry practice at this price point.
Is the CZ-USA Drake Southpaw worth it at $700.99?
Yes, if you are a dedicated left-handed shooter who values proper stock geometry over adjustable competition features. For the price, you get a mechanically sound, dedicated left-hand action with a serviceable walnut stock and a functional set of chokes. It occupies a narrow but critical niche between budget right-hand models and custom-stocked guns costing three times as much.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Dedicated left-hand action cast prevents head-rolling for a southpaw shooter.
- Includes five flush chokes (C, IC, M, IM, F) covering all field and clay applications.
- Chrome-lined 28" barrel weighs 2.9 lbs, promoting a natural, forward-balanced swing.
Trade-offs
- Turkish walnut stock has a coarse, open grain structure requiring regular oiling for protection.
- Gloss black chrome finish shows handling fingerprints and reflects sunlight, potentially spooking game.
- Fixed 7.1 lb weight and dimensions offer no adjustability for a shooter needing a custom length of pull.
Key attributes
| upc | 806703064864 |
| manufacturer | CZ-USA |
| manufacturer part number | 06486 |
| action | Break Open |
| barrel finish | Gloss Black Chrome |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 2 |
| chokes included | 5 |
| color | Black |
| safety | Top Tang |
| shipping weight | 14.2 |
| sights | Bead Front |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| length | 33 |
| package height | 3.4 |
| package width | 11.2 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with 3.5-inch magnum shells?
- No, the chamber is machined for 3-inch shells only. Firing a 3.5-inch shell will create a dangerous over-pressure condition and likely cause catastrophic failure. Always verify chamber markings before firing.
- Does it fit a standard 12-gauge case?
- Yes, it will fit any standard hard or soft break-action shotgun case designed for a 28-inch barrel. The overall length is 45 inches, so ensure the internal length of your case exceeds that by at least one inch for padding.
- How long does shipping take?
- Shipping to an Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder via Ironclad Armory's standard carrier takes 3 to 7 business days once the order is processed and your FFL's information is verified. Processing typically adds 1-2 business days.
- Can I return it if I don't like the fit?
- No, due to federal regulations and company policy, firearms cannot be returned for fit preference. All firearm sales from Ironclad Armory are final. We strongly recommend handling a left-hand model in a local store prior to purchase if possible.