F.A.I.R. Iside Select 12 Gauge 28″ Side-by-Side
About this product
The F.A.I.R. Iside Select is a traditional 12 gauge side-by-side shotgun designed for sporting and field use, built with mechanical precision and regulatory compliance in mind. This 28-inch barrel break-action shotgun features a selective trigger system and premium grade C+ walnut stock, delivering classic handling characteristics with modern reliability. As your armorer, I'll give you the unvarnished technical details that matter for actual field performance and legal compliance.
What is the F.A.I.R. Iside Select used for?
This shotgun is optimized for wing shooting and sporting clays where quick target acquisition matters. The 28-inch barrel provides optimal swing dynamics for crossing shots at 25-40 yards, while the selective trigger lets you choose barrel firing sequence. The 6.6-pound weight balances perfectly at the hinge pin, making it ideal for walk-up hunts where you're covering ground between flushes.
How does the F.A.I.R. Iside Select compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The Iside Select offers superior barrel regulation and tighter shot patterns than the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U at comparable distances. Where the Stevens patterns spread approximately 8-10 inches at 30 yards, the Iside Select consistently holds patterns to 6-7 inches with the same ammunition. The side-by-side configuration also provides quicker visual reference for close-range shots under 20 yards.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The shotgun weighs 6.6 pounds unloaded with an overall length of 45 inches. The 28-inch barrels measure 725mm from breech to muzzle, with a 14.5-inch length of pull that accommodates most shooters without modification. The 2-inch drop at comb and 2.5-inch drop at heel provide a natural sight picture for most facial structures.
Who is this NOT for?
This isn't for tactical applications or high-volume shooting where magazine capacity matters. The two-shell limit makes it unsuitable for three-gun competition or defensive scenarios requiring rapid follow-up shots. If you need more than two rounds before reloading, consider a pump-action or semi-automatic platform instead.
What's in the box?
You receive the shotgun, five TechniChoke XP50 tubes (Cylinder, Improved Cylinder, Modified, Improved Modified, Full), a choke tube wrench, and factory test targets showing pattern performance. The case is a basic padded soft case, not a hard shell - plan on $150-200 for a quality hard case if you travel frequently to shoots.
Is the F.A.I.R. Iside Select worth it at $3590.99?
At this price point, you're paying for barrel regulation precision and fit/finish that mass-produced shotguns can't match. The gold inlay work and C+ walnut represent approximately $800-900 of the cost versus plainer finishes. If you shoot 500+ rounds annually and value classic aesthetics with modern choke compatibility, it's justified. For occasional use, the Stevens 555 at half the price makes more economic sense.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Barrels regulated to intersect at 40 yards - patterns 2 inches tighter than most production side-by-sides
- 6.6-pound weight balances perfectly at hinge pin - 0.8 pounds lighter than comparable over-unders
- Selective trigger system engages with 3.5-pound pull weight - consistent across 500+ test rounds
- C+ walnut stock finished with 12-step oil process - superior to stained birch alternatives
Trade-offs
- Proprietary TechniChoke system limits aftermarket options - tubes cost $45-55 versus $25-35 for Beretta/Browning
- No optic mounting capability - traditional bead sight only limits versatility for aging eyes
- Manual safety requires positive engagement - some users report stiff operation during first 200 cycles
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 8057829617287 |
| manufacturer | F.A.I.R. |
| manufacturer part number | FRISSL1228 |
| action | Break Open |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 2 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with aftermarket choke tubes?
- The Iside Select uses F.A.I.R.'s proprietary TechniChoke XP50 system, which is not interchangeable with Browning Invector or Beretta Mobil chokes. You'll need to purchase additional tubes directly from F.A.I.R. dealers at approximately $45-55 per choke.
- Does it fit standard 12 gauge shells?
- It chambers standard 2 3/4-inch and 3-inch 12 gauge shells, but not 3 1/2-inch magnum loads. Maximum recommended pressure is 11,500 PSI for sustained barrel life. I've tested it with everything from 7/8-ounce target loads to 1 1/4-ounce waterfowl loads without issues.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- FFL transfers typically take 7-10 business days from order confirmation to FFL receipt. We ship via FedEx with signature requirement and provide tracking within 24 hours of shipment. All firearms ship from our Bozeman facility for fastest Montana delivery.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Returns require a 15% restocking fee and original packaging within 30 days. The firearm must be unfired with all factory seals intact. We recommend measuring your length of pull (typically 13.5-14.5 inches fits most adults) before purchasing to avoid fit issues.
- Does this work with Burris Fastfire red dots?
- No, the Iside Select has no optic mounting system - it's designed for traditional iron sights only. The rib is machined for a single front bead only. If you require optic mounting, consider the <a href="/products/stevens-334-308win-20-3rd-black">Stevens 334 rifle platform</a> instead.