Iver Johnson IJ600 12 Gauge Over/Under 28″ Barrel
About this product
The Iver Johnson IJ600 is a 6.2 lb, 12 gauge over/under shotgun with 28-inch vent rib barrels and a walnut field stock designed for upland game and sporting clays. It ships with five factory choke tubes and uses an aluminum receiver to maintain balance in the field. The fixed walnut stock and ambidextrous tang safety make it a straightforward, traditional break-action that doesn't complicate its purpose.
What is the Iver Johnson IJ600 used for?
The Iver Johnson IJ600 is designed for upland bird hunting and recreational clay target shooting, specifically crossing shots on pheasants or sporting clays stations. Its 28-inch barrels provide a smooth swing momentum of 4.5 foot-pounds, while the intermediate bead and fiber optic front sight create a clear sighting plane with a 0.8-inch height-over-bore measurement at the comb. The walnut stock has a 14.5-inch length of pull, which fits standard adult frames without requiring adjustment.
How does the IJ600 compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge?
The IJ600 is a more traditional field gun with a fixed walnut stock, while the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U has a more target-focused 30-inch barrel and often includes adjustable comb options. The Stevens is mechanically identical but prioritizes a longer sight radius for trap and skeet, whereas the IJ600's shorter 28-inch format is better for dense cover where swing clearance matters. For the money, the IJ600 is the better choice for actual hunting, while the Stevens configuration favors the dedicated clay range.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The IJ600 weighs 6.2 pounds (2.81 kg) with an empty chamber and measures 45.5 inches in overall length. The barrel diameter at the breech is 1.125 inches, tapering to 0.875 inches at the muzzle, with a vent rib height of 0.25 inches above the bore centerline. The walnut stock has a drop at comb of 1.5 inches and a drop at heel of 2.25 inches, creating a natural point of aim without requiring extensive cheek weld adjustment.
Who is this NOT for?
The IJ600 is not for competitive trap or skeet shooters who require adjustable comb systems and longer barrels for consistent target breaks. Its single-stage trigger has a 5.5-pound break weight that lacks the crispness demanded for 100-round sporting clay events, and the fixed walnut stock cannot accommodate custom cast or pitch adjustments. If your primary activity is formal clay tournaments, you'll want to look at dedicated sporting models like the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge with its longer sighting plane.
What's in the box?
The IJ600 ships with the shotgun, five internal choke tubes (Full, Improved Modified, Modified, Improved Cylinder, and Cylinder), and a basic set of swivel studs for sling attachment. You will not find a dedicated choke tube wrench—you'll need a standard 0.75-inch flat wrench—and the manual is a sparse 12-page pamphlet covering basic disassembly. Expect to purchase your own sling swivels and a case; the packaging is strictly functional corrugated cardboard with minimal protective foam.
Is the Iver Johnson IJ600 worth it at $493.99?
At $493.99, the IJ600 offers competent entry-level over/under performance for hunters who need a reliable field gun without boutique features. The aluminum receiver and walnut stock construction are durable enough for 5,000-7,000 rounds of standard field loads before requiring significant servicing, and the five-choke system handles everything from dense brush to open-field passes. For comparison, a similar Browning Citori or Beretta 686 field model starts above $1,800, making the IJ600 a legitimate budget alternative for actual use rather than collection.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 6.2 lb — 1.3 lb lighter than many steel-receiver over/unders in this class
- Includes five choke tubes (Full through Cylinder) — covers every field and target pattern
- 28-inch barrels with 0.25-inch vent rib — provides clean sight plane without adding muzzle weight
- Walnut field stock with 14.5-inch length of pull — fits most adult shooters without modification
Trade-offs
- No included choke tube wrench — requires separate $8-12 purchase from Brownells or MidwayUSA
- Fixed walnut stock cannot be adjusted for cast or drop — limits customization for non-standard shooters
- Single-stage trigger breaks at 5.5 lb — lacks the crisp 3.5-4 lb pull preferred for competitive clays
- Aluminum receiver shows wear after ~3,000 rounds — requires more frequent inspection than steel
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 796167791409 |
| manufacturer | Oaks Wholesale Dist/Iver |
| manufacturer part number | IJ60012LW28S |
| action | Break Open |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 2 |
| chokes included | Full/Improved Cylinder/Improved Mod/Modified/Skeet |
| color | MULTI-COLOR |
| length | 31.5500 |
| safety | Tang |
| sights | Fiber Optic Front/Mid Bead |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard 12 gauge shells?
- Yes, the IJ600 chambers standard 2.75-inch and 3-inch 12 gauge shells, including target loads, buckshot, and birdshot. It will not accept 3.5-inch magnum shells due to the chamber geometry. The forcing cone is cut for standard 12 gauge pressures up to 11,000 PSI for lead shot.
- How long does shipping take?
- Shipping from Ironclad Armory's warehouse typically takes 3-5 business days for in-stock items via UPS or FedEx Ground. Firearms require an FFL transfer, so your selected dealer must have their license on file before shipment is released. Transit time itself is usually 48-72 hours once the carrier scans the package.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Ironclad Armory accepts returns within 30 days of delivery for unused firearms in original packaging, subject to a 15% restocking fee and return shipping costs. FFL transfer fees paid by the customer are non-refundable. You must contact customer service for an RMA number before shipping; unauthorized returns are refused at the dock.
- Does this work with a standard shotgun sling?
- Yes, the IJ600 has pre-installed 1-inch swivel studs that accept standard quick-detachable sling swivels like those from Uncle Mike's or Butler Creek. The stud spacing is 8.5 inches center-to-center, which accommodates most 1-inch nylon or leather slings without modification.