Escort Optima O/U 28 Gauge Over/Under Shotgun

About this product

The Escort Optima O/U 28 Gauge is a modern, break-action over-and-under shotgun engineered for upland game and sporting clays with a focus on adjustable mechanics and classic aesthetics. It bridges the gap between European-style competition guns and mass-market utility models. Its aluminum receiver and Mobil-choke compatibility signal a deliberate move toward shooters who understand fitment and regulation from the factory.

What is the Escort Optima O/U 28 Gauge used for?

This shotgun is designed for hunters and casual clay shooters who need a lightweight, quick-handling platform for small game and 16-yard targets. The 28-gauge chambering produces lower recoil—about 40% less than a 12-gauge firing 1-ounce loads—making it ideal for extended practice sessions or introducing new shooters to the O/U format. Its 28-inch barrel strikes a balance between swing momentum and portability when navigating thick cover for grouse or quail. The 2-round capacity is standard for break-action hunting and keeps the overall profile trim and compliant in all 50 states without magazine restrictions.

How does the Escort Optima O/U 28 Gauge compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 20 Gauge?

The Optima offers more mechanical adjustability in its action, while the Stevens 555 provides a simpler, more robust construction at a slightly higher price point. The Optima’s aluminum receiver shaves nearly 0.8 pounds off the total weight compared to the 555’s steel action, a critical advantage when carrying it over rough terrain for hours. However, the Stevens 555’s monolithic steel receiver will typically show less wear on the hinge-pin contact surfaces after 5,000+ rounds, giving it a longevity edge for high-volume shooters who don’t prioritize weight savings above all else. For a dedicated field gun where ounces matter, the Optima takes the lead; for a club gun facing weekly trap leagues, the Stevens is the more durable choice.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

Unloaded with an empty chamber, the Optima 28-gauge weighs 6 pounds, 4 ounces (2.83 kilograms). Its overall length is 45.5 inches (1156 mm) with the 28-inch barrels (711 mm), and the length of pull measures 14.5 inches (368 mm)—a dimension that fits most adult shooters wearing light field clothing. The distance between the barrels' centerlines is 0.625 inches (15.9 mm), which contributes to its tight point-of-impact convergence at 30 yards. The forend is 7.25 inches (184 mm) long, providing adequate purchase for a two-handed mount without adding bulk.

Who is this NOT for?

Do not purchase this shotgun if your primary use is high-volume competitive skeet or sporting clays where you’ll fire 200+ rounds per week. The aluminum receiver and hinge design, while durable for hunting, are not engineered for the sustained thermal cycling and mechanical stress of professional-level competition. It’s also not suitable for waterfowl hunting where steel shot is mandated—the 28-gauge chamber pressures with heavy steel loads exceed the design parameters of this light field gun. Finally, if you require more than two quick shots for predator defense or vermin control, consider a semi-automatic rifle platform instead.

What's in the box?

You receive the complete shotgun, three Beretta/Benelli Mobil-pattern choke tubes (Improved Cylinder, Modified, and Full), a choke tube wrench, and a padded, soft-sided case for transport. The case measures 48x12x6 inches and includes a separate pocket for the choke tubes and wrench. The shotgun ships with a factory-applied corrosion-resistant oil coating that must be removed and replaced with your preferred lubricant before firing. No snap caps or dummy rounds are included, which I consider an oversight for a gun with an adjustable ejector system.

Is the Escort Optima O/U 28 Gauge worth it at $510.99?

At this price point, it represents strong value for a mechanically adjustable over-and-under with genuine walnut furniture. You’re paying approximately $200-$300 less than most entry-level Turkish competitors with similar features, and nearly $1,000 less than a base-model Browning or Beretta O/U in this gauge. The savings come from the aluminum receiver and simpler finishing processes, not from critical component shortcuts. If your budget is under $600 and you want an O/U that can be tuned for ejection force—a rare feature in this class—this is a logical buy. For shooters who prioritize absolute longevity over features, the similarly-priced Stevens 555 Sporting might be a more conservative investment.