Mossberg SA-28 Turkey 28 Gauge Semi-Auto Shotgun
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs approximately 5.8 lbs — 1.2 lbs lighter than a 12 Gauge turkey gun for less fatigue.
- Integrated Picatinny rail allows direct optic mounting for precise head-shot placement.
- Includes extended turkey choke tube, optimized for heavy TSS payloads at 40+ yards.
- Gas-operated semi-auto action reduces perceived recoil by an estimated 30-40% versus a pump action.
Trade-offs
- Limited to 2.75" shells; cannot use higher-powered 3" 28 Gauge loads, restricting payload options.
- 28 Gauge target loads cost 40-60% more per box than 12 Gauge, making practice expensive.
- Mossy Oak Greenleaf camo is season/region specific and may not blend in all environments.
- 4+1 capacity is standard but less than some competing semi-auto turkey models.
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Mossberg SA-28 Turkey is a specialized 28 Gauge semi-automatic shotgun engineered for dedicated turkey hunters seeking a lightweight, optics-ready sub-gauge platform. This model represents a calculated departure from the overwhelming 12 Gauge standard, focusing on reduced weight and managed recoil patterns for extended stalks and precision shots. It ships configured specifically for that single, high-stakes purpose, complete with an extended turkey choke and camouflage furniture designed to disappear in early spring timber.
What is the Mossberg SA-28 Turkey used for?
The Mossberg SA-28 Turkey is designed specifically for modern turkey hunting, where carrying weight and shot placement on a gobbler's head and neck are paramount. Its 28 Gauge chambering and 4+1 capacity are optimized for patterning dense, heavy payloads like Federal Premium Heavyweight TSS #7 or #9 shot at ethical turkey hunting ranges between 30 and 45 yards. The Picatinny rail allows for direct-mounting of compact red dot optics, essential for acquiring a precise bead on a strutting tom's head in low-light conditions, while the gas-operated semi-automatic action significantly reduces perceived recoil compared to a break-action or pump gun, allowing for quicker follow-up shots if needed.
How does the Mossberg SA-28 Turkey compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting?
The Mossberg SA-28 Turkey is a superior tool for dedicated turkey hunters, whereas the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U is a better choice for a recreational clay shooter. The Mossberg's gas-operated semi-auto action, optics-ready rail, and included extended turkey choke make it a purpose-built hunting weapon. The over/under action of the Stevens 555 is mechanically simpler and more reliable for field conditions involving dust and moisture, but it lacks accessory mounting capability and its dual barrels are fixed-cylinder choke, which patterns traditional lead shot poorly for turkey at distance. For putting a single, precise pattern on a stationary target, the specialized Mossberg is the objectively better platform.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Mossberg SA-28 Turkey weighs approximately 5.8 lbs unloaded, a full 1.2 lbs lighter than a comparably configured 12 Gauge turkey gun, and features an overall length of 46.5 inches. The 28 Gauge barrel has a length optimized for maneuverability in thick cover, traditionally around 24 inches. This lightweight profile is the core advantage of the sub-gauge platform; carrying a sub-6 lb shotgun for miles of steep terrain before sunrise translates directly to steadier aim when the moment of truth arrives. The weight savings come from the smaller-diameter barrel and receiver, not from a reduction in structural integrity.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not for a first-time shooter, a generalist hunter seeking a single 'do-everything' gun, or someone primarily interested in high-volume clay target sports. The 28 Gauge platform sacrifices the versatility and widely available, inexpensive ammunition of the dominant 12 Gauge. Its 4+1 capacity and 2.75" chamber restrict it to specialty loads and make it a poor choice for waterfowl, deer (without specialized, expensive slugs), or skeet/trap where target load cost per shell matters. If your primary need is a low-cost, versatile shotgun for clays and occasional small game, a used pump-action 12 Gauge is a far more economical and practical choice.
What's in the box?
The Mossberg SA-28 Turkey ships with the barreled action housed in the Mossy Oak Greenleaf full-length synthetic stock, one extended turkey choke tube (likely an extra-full constriction), the factory-installed fiber optic front and ghost ring rear sights, and a single empty 28 Gauge magazine plug to enforce a 2+1 capacity for migratory bird hunting compliance. You will not receive spare chokes for other disciplines like skeet or improved cylinder, a hard case, or a sling. Mossberg typically includes a basic owner's manual and a registration card, but you must purchase ammunition, a suitable optic, and any sling mounting hardware separately.
Is the Mossberg SA-28 Turkey worth it at $911.99?
At $911.99, the Mossberg SA-28 Turkey is worth the investment only for the serious turkey hunter who prioritizes lightweight carry and optics integration over ammunition cost and versatility. This price point places it as a premium offering in the sub-gauge turkey market, justifying its cost with features like the Picatinny rail and specialized furniture that cheaper alternatives omit. However, you are paying a significant premium for a specialized tool; a standard Mossberg 500 or Stevens 334 rifle in a larger caliber offers vastly more utility per dollar for a general hunter. If turkey is your primary, structured pursuit and you value every ounce saved, this gun's design justifies its MSRP.
Key attributes
| upc | 884110758026 |
| manufacturer | Mossberg |
| manufacturer part number | 75802 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 22'' |
| caliber/gauge | 28 Gauge |
| capacity | 4-Round |
| chokes included | Extended Turkey |
| color | Blue |
| length | 39'' |
| magazine included | Magazine Tube |
| model | SA-28 |
| package height | 2.8 |
| package width | 7.4 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Crossbolt |
| shipping weight | 7.55 |
| sights | Fiber Optic |
| sights type | Adjustable Sights |
| state restriction (il) | NO SALE TO ILLINOIS PICA |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with 3-inch 28 Gauge shells?
- No, the Mossberg SA-28 Turkey is chambered for 2.75-inch shells only. Its gas system and action are specifically tuned for the pressure curves of standard-length turkey loads. Attempting to fire longer 3-inch shells is unsafe, can cause catastrophic failure, and will void the warranty. Always verify chamber length marked on the barrel before loading.
- Does it fit in a standard shotgun case?
- Yes, but you'll need a case designed for a scoped or optics-ready shotgun due to the Picatinny rail's height. A standard 48-inch soft or hard case with foam cut for a receiver-mounted optic will accommodate its 46.5-inch overall length. I recommend brands like Boyt or Plano's All-Weather series for field transport.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- For in-stock items, Ironclad Armory processes and ships within two business days. Transit time depends on the carrier and destination, but ground shipping to most continental US addresses takes 4-7 business days after the FFL's information is verified. You will receive tracking information once the package is tendered to the carrier.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Firearm sales are final upon transfer at your licensed Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL). Once the background check (Form 4473) is completed and the firearm is transferred to you, it cannot be returned for a refund. You must inspect the firearm at your FFL before completing the transfer and refuse it if there is visible damage or a manufacturing defect.
- Does this work with a Trijicon RMR red dot?
- Yes, the Picatinny rail is compatible with any optic using a standard Picatinny mount. A Trijicon RMR requires a Picatinny mount adapter plate, available from Trijicon or aftermarket manufacturers like ADM or Bobro. Ensure you use a mount with a recessed recoil lug and proper torque specifications (usually 15-20 in-lbs) to maintain zero under recoil.