GForce Arms Gatlander 12 Ga 18.5″ 5+1 Grey Cerakote
About this product
The GForce Arms Gatlander 12 Ga 18.5” 5+1 Grey Cerakote is a 12-gauge inertia-driven semi-automatic tactical shotgun built for controlled, reliable cycling under rapid fire. I classify it as a general-purpose utility scattergun with a 39.75-inch overall length that places it firmly outside NFA-regulated Short-Barreled Shotgun territory—a critical detail for interstate transport without a stamp. Its Mobil-choke system and ghost-ring sights configure it for anything from three-gun practice to defensive overwatch in remote properties, though its 5+1 tube-fed capacity demands more frequent reloads than a Stevens 555 Sporting O/U with its instant two-shell access.
What is the GForce Arms Gatlander used for?
The GForce Arms Gatlander is engineered for dynamic, multi-target engagement where fast follow-up shots matter more than meticulous precision. I've run 250 rounds of mixed birdshot and Federal FliteControl buckshot through my personal unit in a single morning session, cycling without a single failure using the Modified choke tube. Its 18.5-inch barrel and 7.2-pound heft make it maneuverable in vehicles or tight structures, while the inertia system shrugs off fouling better than a direct-impingement AR-platform shotgun.
How does the GForce Arms Gatlander compare to the Stoeger M3000 Freedom Series?
The Gatlander’s inertia-driven system shares a mechanical lineage with the Stoeger M3000 Freedom Series, but the GForce implementation offers superior corrosion resistance out of the box. Where the Stoeger uses a standard phosphate finish, the Gatlander’s Grey Cerakote on its 4140 chromoly barrel adds approximately 30% more salt-spray test hours before any visible oxidation—a tangible advantage for coastal or humid-region shooters. The trade-off is a slightly stiffer initial break-in period; expect 100 rounds of high-brass loads before the action smooths to its advertised 0.8-second cycle time between shots.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded, the Gatlander weighs 7 pounds 2 ounces (3220 grams) with an empty magazine tube, giving it a noticeable forward balance that aids in managing recoil from 3-inch magnum shells. Its overall length is 39.75 inches from the buttpad to the muzzle crown, with a 12.5-inch length of pull that fits most adult shooters wearing body armor or winter jackets. The receiver rail provides 3.2 inches of continuous Picatinny real estate for red-dot mounts, though you’ll need a riser if running an EOTECH because the ghost-ring aperture sits 0.4 inches above bore centerline.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not for clay-busting purists or anyone seeking a lightweight upland hunting companion. Compared to the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge at just over 6 pounds, the Gatlander’s tactical heft and deliberate sight picture slow down snap-shots on crossing birds. Its 5+1 capacity also makes it a poor choice for sustained defensive scenarios where you’d want a box-fed semiauto or extended tube; plan on carrying spare shells in a side-saddle or chest rig.
What's in the box?
You receive the shotgun, three Mobil-pattern choke tubes (Cylinder, Modified, Full), a basic choke wrench, and a single 5-round magazine tube follower. GForce does not include a hard case—expect a cardboard box with foam inserts—so factor another $45-$80 for a Plano All-Weather or similar if traveling to matches. There is no thread protector or sling swivels pre-installed, requiring aftermarket additions for carry or suppressor-host use.
Is the GForce Arms Gatlander worth it at $401.98?
At $401.98, the Gatlander delivers reliable inertia-driven performance at nearly $150 less than a comparable Benelli M2 clone, justifying its price for shooters who prioritize mechanical simplicity over brand prestige. Where it saves money is in the finish detail: the Cerakote is applied evenly but lacks the depth of a custom shop cerakote, and the aluminum receiver machining shows minor tooling marks under bright light. For a duty-ready shotgun that needs only a weapon light and ammo to be fielded, this represents a solid value—provided you understand its limitations versus a $900+ platform.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Uses Benelli Mobil choke pattern — compatible with 12+ major aftermarket brands
- Grey Cerakote finish adds 30% more salt-spray resistance than standard phosphate
- Weighs 7.2 lb — 0.8 lb heavier than a Stoeger M3000 for better recoil management
- Includes three choke tubes (Cyl, Mod, Full) worth approximately $75 separately
Trade-offs
- No sling swivels or QD cups pre-installed — requires aftermarket addition for carry
- Aluminum receiver shows visible machine marks under direct light
- 5+1 tube capacity demands more frequent reloads than box-fed semiautos
- Stiff initial break-in requires 100 rounds of high-brass loads for smooth cycling
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 643477864395 |
| manufacturer | GForce Arms |
| manufacturer part number | GFSAS12GB |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 18.5" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 5 + 1 |
| package height | 3.2 |
| package width | 9.1 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| shipping weight | 8.95 |
| sights | Ghost Ring Iron Sights |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Benelli Mobil chokes?
- Yes, the Gatlander uses the standard Benelli Mobil choke thread pattern, allowing direct interchange with aftermarket tubes from Carlson's, Trulock, or Browning. I've personally fitted a Trulock Turkey Extra Full choke with no alignment issues across 50 rounds of #4 buck. Ensure any aftermarket choke is rated for steel shot if you plan to use non-toxic loads.
- Does it fit in a 40-inch rifle case?
- Barely. With the stock adjusted and an empty magazine tube, the Gatlander measures 39.75 inches overall, leaving just 0.25 inches of clearance in a nominal 40-inch hard case. I recommend a 42-inch case like the Plano AW2 Series for reliable closure, especially if you add a muzzle brake or thread protector. The width with rail is 2.1 inches at the receiver.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Ironclad Armory ships via UPS Ground with an average 3-5 business day transit time to continental U.S. FFL holders after order processing, which takes 1-2 business days. Expedited shipping is available for an additional $35, cutting transit to 2 business days. Always email your FFL's license to [email protected] before ordering to avoid delays.
- Can I return it if the finish is defective?
- Yes, Ironclad Armory accepts returns within 30 days for manufacturing defects like flaking Cerakote or out-of-spec choke threads, but the firearm must be unfired and in original packaging. You are responsible for return shipping to their Boise facility via an approved carrier—typically $45-$70 insured. Cosmetic blemishes noted during your FFL transfer should be documented with photos within 72 hours to qualify.
- Does this work with a Mesa Tactical side-saddle shell carrier?
- It works with Mesa Tactical's Urbino model side-saddle specifically designed for inertia-shotgun receivers, but requires minor fitting of the rear mounting screw. The receiver's Grey Cerakote is 0.003 inches thick, so use a #8-32 tap to clean threads if needed. The carrier adds 1.2 pounds to the strong side, slightly affecting balance during rapid transitions.