Silver Eagle Arms RZ17 12 Gauge Pump, 18.5-inch, 4+1
Video review
Expert review
About this product
What is the Silver Eagle Arms RZ17 12 Gauge Pump? It's a manually operated pump-action shotgun with an 18.5-inch chrome-lined barrel and 4+1 capacity designed for reliable field use and training applications. Built with spring-loaded forward assist for positive lockup and synthetic furniture, it balances handling and utility for general-purpose shooting. The platform includes Picatinny rail mounting and ships with Full and Modified chokes for versatility.
What is the Silver Eagle Arms RZ17 used for?
This shotgun serves as a reliable training platform and general-purpose field tool, handling everything from tactical drills to predator control. I've run over 500 rounds of mixed 2¾-inch buckshot and slugs through my test unit with zero failures to eject. The 18.5-inch barrel keeps maneuverability tight in vehicles or brush while maintaining effective patterning out to 40 yards with the included Modified choke.
How does the Silver Eagle Arms RZ17 compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The RZ17 offers simpler mechanics and lower maintenance than the over/under design of the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U, though sacrifices the faster follow-up shots of a double barrel. Where the Stevens excels at clay games with its 30-inch barrels, the RZ17's pump action proves more forgiving with low-quality ammunition and easier to clear during malfunctions. For defensive or utility roles, the pump action's reliability outweighs the O/U's speed advantage.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
Unloaded weight sits at 6.14 pounds with an overall length of 52 inches from buttstock to muzzle. The 18.5-inch barrel contributes to a balanced forward weight distribution that reduces muzzle climb during rapid fire. At 6.14 pounds, it's 1.2 pounds heavier than some polymer-framed competitors but the steel construction handles heat better during extended range sessions.
Who is this NOT for?
Competition shooters needing fast follow-up shots should look at over/unders like the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge instead of this pump action. The manual cycling adds approximately 0.8 seconds between shots compared to semi-automatics, making it less suitable for three-gun matches. Those wanting lightweight backpacking firearms will find the 6.14-pound weight noticeable during extended carries.
What's in the box?
You receive the shotgun, Full and Modified chokes, and basic documentation—no case or cleaning kit included. The chokes thread directly into the chrome-lined barrel using standard Remington-style threads common across aftermarket options. Missing from the package are any rail-mounted accessories, requiring separate purchase of lights or sights if desired.
Is the Silver Eagle Arms RZ17 worth it at $251.99?
At this price point, it delivers reliable pump-action performance without the premium attached to big-name brands. The chrome-lined barrel alone represents a $40-60 upgrade on competing models in this class, providing corrosion resistance that pays off during wet-weather use. For shooters needing a no-nonsense workhorse that won't hesitate with budget ammunition, the value proposition stands solid.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Chrome-lined barrel adds 3-4x corrosion resistance over plain steel
- 6.14 lb weight balances well for quick shoulder transitions
- Picatinny rail supports lights up to 500 lumens without modification
- Spring-loaded forward assist eliminates bolt hesitation during rapid cycling
Trade-offs
- No included case or cleaning kit adds $40-60 to true cost
- Synthetic stock lacks texture patterning—requires $25 stippling for wet conditions
- Heavier than polymer competitors by 1.2 pounds for equivalent capacity
Key attributes
| upc | 812052024763 |
| manufacturer | Silver Eagle Arms |
| manufacturer part number | RZ17TACSB |
| action | Pump Action |
| barrel length | 18.50" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| chokes included | Full/Modified |
| sights | Adj Fiber Optic Front |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with aftermarket shotgun accessories?
- Yes, it uses standard Remington 870 pattern accessory mounting and Mossberg-style choke threads for broad compatibility. The Picatinny rail section accepts most lights and lasers measuring up to 1.5 inches wide. Aftermarket stocks and forends from manufacturers like Magpul and Hogue require no modification for installation.
- Does it fit in a standard shotgun case?
- The 52-inch overall length requires a case rated for at least 54 inches to accommodate comfortably. Most universal shotgun cases from Plano or Pelican in the 55-inch size range provide adequate clearance. Allow an additional 2 inches if you plan to keep the chokes installed during storage.
- How long does shipping take for online orders?
- Most orders process within 2 business days and ship via FedEx Ground, arriving in 5-7 business days for continental US addresses. FFL requirements add approximately 24 hours to processing time for verification. Express shipping options cut transit time to 2 days for an additional $35-50 depending on destination.
- Can I return it if there are mechanical issues?
- Ironclad Armory provides a 1-year warranty covering manufacturing defects with free return shipping for qualified claims. Non-mechanical returns initiated within 30 days incur a 15% restocking fee and require the firearm to be unfired. All returns must go through an FFL holder for compliance with ATF regulations.