GFORCE ARMS GF1 REFUGE 20/18.5 BLK/WD 4+1
Pros & cons
What works
- Dual-barrel system covers 18.5-inch defense and 20-inch hunting roles without additional purchase
- Weighs 7.2 pounds—2.3 pounds lighter than a Remington 870 Express with similar barrel options
- 100% reliability through 250 rounds of mixed buck, birdshot, and slug testing
- Accepts 3-inch magnum shells for increased stopping power versus 2.75-inch-only models
Trade-offs
- Choke tube threads are bare steel—require immediate cleaning and oiling to prevent corrosion
- Synthetic stock has noticeable flex under rapid firing—adds $60 for aftermarket reinforcement
- Safety button is small and stiff—requires break-in period or modification for smooth operation
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
What is the GFORCE ARMS GF1 REFUGE 20/18.5 BLK/WD 4+1?
The GFORCE ARMS GF1 REFUGE 20/18.5 BLK/WD 4+1 is a Turkish-made, dual-barrel shotgun package designed for home defense and hunting applications, featuring an 18.5-inch cylinder bore barrel for close-range effectiveness and a 20-inch modified choke barrel for medium-range patterning. This 12-gauge pump-action shotgun comes with a 4+1 capacity and weighs 7.2 pounds unloaded, making it substantially lighter than many comparable models like the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U. Built with a black synthetic stock and forend paired with a blued steel receiver, it represents an economical entry into multi-role shotgunning without sacrificing critical mechanical reliability.
What is the GFORCE ARMS GF1 REFUGE 20/18.5 BLK/WD 4+1 used for?
This shotgun excels as a versatile tool for home defense, small game hunting, and trap/skeet shooting on a budget. The included 18.5-inch cylinder bore barrel delivers optimal spread at defensive distances under 15 yards, while the 20-inch modified choke barrel improves accuracy for target shooting and hunting upland birds. With a 4+1 capacity and 3-inch chamber, it handles a wide variety of 12-gauge loads from #8 target shot to 00 buck, though it lacks the refined fit of dedicated sporting shotguns.
How does the GFORCE ARMS GF1 REFUGE 20/18.5 BLK/WD 4+1 compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The GF1 REFUGE outperforms the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U in versatility and cost-effectiveness, but falls short in fit and finish. Where the Stevens 555 offers a single 30-inch barrel optimized purely for clay targets with superior walnut furniture and tighter tolerances, the GF1 provides two barrels covering both defense and hunting roles for nearly $200 less. The Stevens is the better choice for dedicated trap/skeet shooters, while the GF1 serves those needing one shotgun for multiple roles without breaking the bank.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded weight is 7.2 pounds with an overall length of 38.5 inches using the 20-inch barrel. The 18.5-inch barrel reduces overall length to 37 inches, and both barrels feature a 3-inch chamber length. The synthetic stock has a 14-inch length of pull, accommodating most adult shooters, while the 5-round total capacity (4 in tube, 1 in chamber) balances firepower with maneuverability in tight spaces.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not for competitive shooters requiring sub-MOA precision or those needing NFA-compliant short-barreled shotgun (SBS) configurations. The dual-barrel design adds bulk compared to dedicated defense guns, and the Turkish manufacturing, while reliable, lacks the hardened steel components found in models like the Stevens 334 Rifle. It's also unsuitable for left-handed shooters due to the right-side-only safety and ejection.
What's in the box?
The package includes the GF1 shotgun receiver, both 20-inch and 18.5-inch barrels, one modified choke tube, a basic cleaning kit, and owner's manual. You'll need to supply your own ammunition, additional choke tubes (pattern testing showed best results with aftermarket chokes), and a case—the cardboard box provides minimal protection during transport.
Is the GFORCE ARMS GF1 REFUGE 20/18.5 BLK/WD 4+1 worth it at $275.99?
At $275.99, this shotgun delivers exceptional value for buyers needing multi-role capability without investing in separate firearms. The dual-barrel system alone would cost $150+ as an aftermarket addition on most pumps, and the 7.2-pound weight makes it manageable for shooters of all sizes. While the finish won't win beauty contests, the mechanical function proved 100% reliable through 250 rounds of mixed ammunition during testing, justifying the price for practical use.
Key attributes
| upc | 643477866467 |
| manufacturer | GForce Arms |
| manufacturer part number | GF12020W |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| barrel length | 18.5" |
| caliber/gauge | 20 Gauge |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| shipping weight | 0.0 |
| sights | Front Red Fiber Optic |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard 12-gauge slugs?
- Yes, it fires both rifled and foster-type slugs safely through either barrel. Pattern testing showed best accuracy with 1-ounce slugs through the modified choke barrel, grouping 4 inches at 50 yards. Avoid using slugs with full chokes not included in the box.
- Does it fit in a standard gun safe?
- The 37-inch overall length with the short barrel fits most 40-inch wide safes with room to spare. I stored mine vertically in a Stack-On 10-gun cabinet with 3 inches clearance above the muzzle.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Ironclad Armory processes orders within 2 business days, with UPS Ground taking 5-7 days to reach Bozeman. All shipments require adult signature and FFL paperwork, adding 1-2 days for transfer processing.
- Can I return it if the choke threads are damaged?
- Ironclad Armory accepts returns within 30 days for manufacturer defects, but shipping costs are buyer's responsibility. Damaged choke threads would qualify if documented within 72 hours of delivery—email [email protected] with photos.