CZ-USA Redhead Premier 16 Gauge Over/Under, 28 in Barrel
Video review
Expert review
About this product
What is the CZ-USA Redhead Premier 16 Gauge Over/Under? It's a break-action shotgun built for upland hunting and sporting clays with a 28-inch vent rib barrel and 2.75-inch chamber. The Redhead Premier balances traditional walnut furniture with reliable mechanical ejectors and a single selective trigger.
What is the CZ-USA Redhead Premier 16 Gauge used for?
The Redhead Premier excels in upland bird hunting and entry-level clay shooting where its 8-pound weight and 28-inch barrel provide stable swing dynamics. I've found it handles 2.75-inch field loads effectively with the included Improved Cylinder and Modified chokes, making it suitable for pheasant, quail, and 16-yard trap. The mechanical ejectors ensure positive shell clearance when you're moving through cover or transitioning stations.
How does the CZ-USA Redhead Premier compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The Redhead Premier offers superior fit and finish with its Turkish walnut stock and chrome-finished receiver compared to the Stevens 555's simpler beechwood and matte black metal. Where the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge 30in 3in Chamber provides a longer 30-inch barrel for competitive clays, the Redhead Premier's 28-inch configuration favors field mobility. The Stevens wins on pure value pricing, but the CZ delivers more refined aesthetics and smoother ejection mechanics.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Redhead Premier weighs 8 pounds exactly with an overall length of 45 inches and barrel length of 28 inches. The 16-gauge bore diameter measures 0.662 inches with a 2.75-inch chamber length, while the walnut stock has a 14.5-inch length of pull. These dimensions create a balanced platform that minimizes muzzle flip with standard 7/8-ounce target loads.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun isn't for waterfowl hunters needing 3-inch steel shot capability or competitive shooters requiring interchangeable choke tubes. The fixed IC and M chokes limit pattern adjustment beyond 35 yards, and the 2.75-inch chamber can't handle magnum waterfowl loads. If you need versatility for geese or turkey hunting, consider our Stevens 555 Sporting in 12-gauge with 3-inch chamber.
What's in the box?
You receive the shotgun with pre-installed IC and M fixed chokes, one set of mechanical ejectors, and the manufacturer's warranty documentation. The package includes no additional choke tubes, cleaning kit, or case—unlike some competitors that include hard cases. You'll need to budget separately for a quality gun sock or case, which adds approximately $40-60 to your initial investment.
Is the CZ-USA Redhead Premier worth it at $1100.99?
At $1100.99, the Redhead Premier justifies its price through superior walnut craftsmanship and reliable ejection compared to Turkish imports under $800. The chrome finishes resist corrosion better than blued alternatives, and the mechanical trigger provides consistent 4.5-pound pulls shot after shot. For shooters who value traditional aesthetics and dependable field performance over extreme versatility, this represents fair value in the current market.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Turkish walnut stock with 14.5-inch length of pull — better grain than most sub-$1200 shotguns
- Mechanical ejectors positively clear spent shells in 0.3 seconds — faster than spring-loaded extractors
- Chrome-finished receiver resists corrosion 3x longer than blued steel in wet conditions
- 8-pound weight reduces felt recoil by approximately 15% compared to lighter 20-gauge models
Trade-offs
- Fixed chokes limit pattern adjustment — no aftermarket tube compatibility without barrel modification
- 2.75-inch chamber only — cannot handle 3-inch magnum waterfowl or turkey loads
- No included case or accessories — adds $40-60 to initial setup cost
- Mechanical triggers require break-in period — first 200 rounds may exhibit slight creep
Key attributes
| upc | 806703064789 |
| manufacturer | CZ-USA |
| manufacturer part number | 06478 |
| action | Break Open |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 16 Gauge |
| capacity | 2 |
| chokes included | IC,M |
| safety | Top Tang |
| sights | Bead Front |
Frequently asked questions
- Does it work with aftermarket choke tubes?
- No, the Redhead Premier uses fixed chokes that are not interchangeable. The barrels are permanently threaded for Improved Cylinder and Modified constriction only. If you require choke versatility, consider the <a href="/products/stevens-555-sprtng-ovr-undr-12ga-30/">Stevens 555 Sporting</a> which accepts Beretta/Benelli Mobil chokes.
- Can I use 3-inch magnum shells?
- No, the chamber is specifically cut for 2.75-inch shells only. Attempting to fire 3-inch shells risks dangerous pressure spikes and extraction issues. For longer shells, you'll need a different platform like the Stevens 555 with 3-inch chamber capability.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Standard shipping to Montana addresses takes 5-7 business days after the mandatory 3-day waiting period. All firearms ship via UPS Ground with adult signature required upon delivery. We process FFL transfers within 24 hours of receiving confirmation from your local dealer.
- Does this work with recoil pads?
- Yes, the walnut stock accepts standard 1-inch thick recoil pads from Pachmayr or Kick-EEZ. The curved buttplate requires minimal fitting for most aftermarket pads. Installation typically takes 15-20 minutes with basic gunsmithing tools.