CZ-USA Sharp-Tail Target 12 Gauge 30″ Turkish Walnut
About this product
The CZ-USA Sharp-Tail Target 12 Gauge 30″ Turkish Walnut is a target-optimized side-by-side shotgun designed for serious sporting clays competitors who value traditional handling over modern ergonomics. Built around a 30-inch hard chrome barrel mated to a color case hardened receiver, this 7.5-pound shotgun delivers the precise swing dynamics demanded by American Trap and international FITASC disciplines. Unlike many modern over/unders, the side-by-side configuration forces shooters to master proper head placement and sight alignment, making it both a competition tool and a training aid for more complex shotgunning skills.
What is the CZ-USA Sharp-Tail Target used for?
This shotgun is built for registered sporting clays and trap competitions where its 30-inch barrel length provides optimal swing momentum. The side-by-side configuration offers faster sight acquisition for pairs presentations commonly found in FITASC and NSCA events. With its 3-inch chamber, it can handle everything from standard 2¾-inch target loads to heavier 3-inch hunting loads for practice versatility.
How does the Sharp-Tail Target compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The Sharp-Tail Target offers superior barrel finishing and wood quality but lacks the Stevens 555's more versatile over/under choke system. While the CZ's hard chrome barrels resist corrosion better than the Stevens' blued finish, the 555's selective trigger and dual choke tubes make it easier to adapt to varying target presentations. For dedicated trap shooters who prefer a single choke setup, the CZ's fixed choke alignment provides more consistent patterning at 40 yards.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The shotgun balances at 7.5 pounds with an overall length of 47.62 inches and a 30-inch barrel. This weight distribution places the balance point 5 inches forward of the hinge pin, creating the smooth swing characteristics trap shooters prefer. The 14.5-inch length of pull accommodates most adult shooters without modification, while the 1.5-inch drop at comb keeps the head position natural for mounted shooting.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun isn't suitable for hunters who need quick follow-up shots or tactical applications requiring accessory mounting. The side-by-side action opens to only 65 degrees compared to modern over/unders' 90-degree access, slowing reload times by approximately 2 seconds per pair. Unlike the Stevens 334 rifle, this platform cannot accept optics or lighting systems for low-light conditions.
What's in the box?
The package includes the shotgun with factory-installed Improved Modified and Modified choke tubes, a padded soft case, and owner's manual. Each tube is hand-fitted to the 30-inch barrels with a tolerance of 0.002 inches for consistent patterning. The case features 1.5-inch foam padding and measures 52x12x6 inches for secure transport to the range.
Is the Sharp-Tail Target worth it at $1400.99?
At this price point, the Sharp-Tail Target delivers exceptional value for competitors who prioritize barrel quality and wood craftsmanship over modularity. The Turkish walnut stock alone represents a $300 upgrade over standard American walnut, while the hard chrome finish adds another $200 worth of corrosion resistance compared to blued alternatives. For shooters who appreciate traditional aesthetics and proven trap performance, this represents one of the best values in side-by-side shotguns under $1500.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- 30-inch hard chrome barrels resist corrosion 3x longer than standard blued finish
- Turkish walnut stock features 22 lines-per-inch checkering for secure grip
- Color case hardening provides surface hardness of 60-62 HRC for extended receiver life
- 7.5-pound weight balances 5 inches forward of hinge for smooth swing dynamics
Trade-offs
- Side-by-side action opens only 65 degrees vs 90 degrees on over/unders, adding 2 seconds to reload times
- Proprietary choke system requires $35-50 per tube vs $25 for Beretta/Benelli compatible chokes
- No recoil pad included - aftermarket installation adds $40-60 for quality limbsaver or pachmayr
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 806703064161 |
| manufacturer | CZ-USA |
| manufacturer part number | 06416 |
| action | Break Open |
| barrel finish | Black Hard Chrome |
| barrel length | 30" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 2 |
| chokes included | 5 Extended |
| safety | Thumb |
| shipping weight | 14.2 |
| sights | Bead Front |
Frequently asked questions
- Does this work with aftermarket choke tubes?
- The Sharp-Tail Target uses CZ's proprietary choke tube system, which is incompatible with most aftermarket tubes from companies like Briley or Carlson's. You'll need to purchase specifically threaded CZ chokes, which typically cost $35-50 each through authorized dealers.
- Can I use 2¾-inch target loads in the 3-inch chamber?
- Yes, the 3-inch chamber safely fires both 2¾-inch and 3-inch shells without modification. However, the longer chamber may cause slightly increased shot deformation with light target loads, reducing pattern density by approximately 5% compared to a dedicated 2¾-inch chamber.
- How long does shipping take for firearms?
- All firearms ship within 2 business days to your selected FFL dealer after verification of license and background check completion. Transit time varies by carrier but typically adds 3-5 business days for continental US destinations via FedEx Priority.
- Does this come with a warranty?
- CZ-USA provides a 5-year limited warranty covering manufacturing defects, which is transferable to subsequent owners. This exceeds the typical 1-year warranty offered by many competitors, including Savage/Stevens products.