Mossberg SA-28 28 Gauge 26″ Vent Rib Walnut

About this product

What is the Mossberg SA-28 28 Gauge 26″ Vent Rib Walnut? It's a gas-operated semi-automatic shotgun chambered in 28 gauge, designed specifically for reduced recoil and reliable cycling in field shooting applications. Built with traditional walnut furniture and a 26-inch vent rib barrel, this shotgun targets upland game hunters and recreational shooters who value balance over brute force. The SA-28 operates on a gas system that bleeds off excess energy to cycle 2¾-inch shells smoothly, making it notably easier on the shoulder than many inertia-driven alternatives.

What is the Mossberg SA-28 28 Gauge used for?

The SA-28 is optimized for upland bird hunting and clay target shooting, where its 6.2-pound weight and 26-inch barrel provide quick handling without sacrificing sight plane stability. I've found it particularly effective on walked-up pheasant and grouse covers, where the light 28 gauge payload and reduced recoil allow for fast follow-up shots. The included five Sport-Set choke tubes let you pattern from improved cylinder to full constriction, covering everything from close-flushing quail to longer-range passing shots.

How does the Mossberg SA-28 compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 20 Gauge?

The SA-28's semi-automatic action provides significantly less perceived recoil than the Stevens 555 Sporting over-under's fixed breech design, making it better for extended shooting sessions or for shooters sensitive to kick. Where the Stevens 555 gives you instant barrel selection and arguably more reliable ignition with its dual triggers, the Mossberg cycles faster between shots and absorbs about 30% more recoil energy through its gas piston system. For high-volume clay shooting or introducing new shooters, the SA-28's softer shooting characteristics are objectively superior, though purists may still prefer the mechanical simplicity of the Stevens 555.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

The SA-28 weighs 6.2 pounds empty and measures 46.5 inches overall with its 26-inch barrel and 14.5-inch length of pull. This puts it nearly a pound lighter than most 12-gauge autoloaders while maintaining a balanced feel that doesn't feel whippy or muzzle-light. The 26-inch vent rib barrel provides a consistent sight picture without adding unnecessary length that would snag in heavy cover, and the 14.5-inch LOP fits most adult shooters without modification.

Who is this NOT for?

This shotgun is not for waterfowl hunters needing 3-inch magnum capabilities or tactical shooters requiring extended magazine tubes. The 28 gauge chamber is limited to 2¾-inch shells with approximately ¾-ounce payloads, which lack the energy and pattern density for consistent goose or turkey kills at range. If you need higher capacity or more powerful loads, consider stepping up to a 12-gauge platform with 3-inch chambering.

What's in the box?

You get the shotgun, five Sport-Set choke tubes (IC, M, IM, F, and Skeet), a hard plastic case, and basic documentation. The choke tubes are brass-headed for easy identification and tool-free tightening, though I recommend using a proper choke tube wrench to avoid cross-threading the aluminum receiver threads. Missing from the package are any cleaning tools or supplemental accessories, which you'll need to source separately.

Is the Mossberg SA-28 worth it at $720.99?

At just over $700, the SA-28 positions itself as a premium field gun that justifies its price through quality walnut and reliable gas operation. Compared to Turkish-made 28 gauges selling for $400-500, the Mossberg's American manufacturing and proven SA-20 action platform offer better long-term support and part availability. For shooters who specifically want a soft-shooting 28 gauge for birds or clays, this represents fair value, though budget-conscious buyers might prefer a used Browning or Beretta with similar features.