SDS Imports Spandau Premier Target 12 Gauge 30″ Barrel
Video review
Expert review
About this product
What is the SDS Imports Spandau Premier Target 12 Gauge 30" Barrel? It's a purpose-built over-under shotgun designed specifically for competitive clay shooting, featuring mechanical triggers, adjustable comb, and Benelli/Mobil choke system compatibility for consistent patterning. Built on Turkish manufacturing traditions with modern regulatory compliance in mind, this shotgun bridges the gap between budget over-unders and premium European models. The 30-inch barrel length represents the current competitive standard for sustained swing dynamics in sporting clays and trap disciplines.
What is the SDS Imports Spandau Premier Target used for?
This shotgun is engineered specifically for competitive clay target shooting and serious range practice, delivering the predictable mechanics and consistent patterning required for repetitive target work. The 30-inch barrel provides optimal sight plane and swing momentum for sporting clays and trap, while the mechanical triggers ensure consistent pull weight shot-to-shot. With Benelli/Mobil choke compatibility, shooters can fine-tune pattern density for specific target presentations and distances.
How does the SDS Imports Spandau Premier Target compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The Spandau Premier Target offers superior mechanical trigger reliability and adjustable comb precision compared to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U, though the Stevens comes in at nearly $800 less. Where the Stevens uses simpler inertial triggers that can be affected by lubrication and temperature changes, the Spandau's mechanical system maintains consistent 3.5-pound pull weights regardless of conditions. The adjustable comb adds $200-300 worth of custom fitting capability that the fixed-comb Stevens lacks for serious competitors.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The shotgun weighs 6.28 pounds unloaded with a 30-inch barrel length and 14 3/8-inch length of pull, placing it squarely in the competitive target shotgun weight class. The overall length measures 46.5 inches, providing excellent balance point just ahead of the hinge pin for smooth swing transitions. At 8.2 pounds fully loaded with target loads, it remains manageable for extended shooting sessions without excessive fatigue.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not suitable for hunters needing quick handling or tactical shooters requiring higher capacity, as the 2-round limit and 30-inch barrel hinder mobility in field conditions. The gloss blued finish shows scratches more readily than matte finishes common on field guns, and the weight distribution favors deliberate shooting over fast target acquisition. For hunters, consider the Stevens 555 Sporting Compact with its 26-inch barrel instead.
What's in the box?
The package includes the shotgun with factory-installed improved cylinder and modified choke tubes, a plastic hard case, owner's manual, and choke tube wrench. Unlike some competitors, SDS Imports includes both choke tubes standard rather than requiring separate purchase, saving approximately $40-60. The hard case provides adequate protection for range transport but lacks the foam customization of premium cases.
Is the SDS Imports Spandau Premier Target worth it at $2,073.99?
At just over two thousand dollars, this shotgun delivers approximately 85% of the performance of Turkish-made over-unders costing $3,000+ while including features competitors charge extra for. The adjustable comb alone represents a $250-300 value absent from similarly priced models, and the mechanical trigger system outperforms many inertial systems in its price class. For shooters moving beyond entry-level guns but not ready for NFA-regulated competition shotguns, it represents solid intermediate value.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Mechanical triggers maintain consistent 3.5-pound pull weight regardless of ammunition
- Adjustable comb provides ¾-inch vertical adjustment for precise eye alignment
- 30-inch barrel delivers optimal 65/35 balance point for smooth swing dynamics
- Includes both IC and MOD choke tubes ($60 value) when competitors charge extra
Trade-offs
- Gloss blued finish shows handling marks more readily than matte finishes
- 14 3/8-inch length of pull may be short for shooters over 6'2" without spacer kits
- Turkish walnut stock lacks the dense grain of premium European walnut ($200-300 upgrade)
- Limited to 2-round capacity versus 3-round field models for the same price
Key attributes
| upc | 723551442531 |
| manufacturer | Spandau |
| manufacturer part number | 22000101 |
| action | Over / Under |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 30" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 2 |
| length | 42 |
| package height | 3.0 |
| package width | 10.5 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| shipping weight | 19.95 |
| sights | Fiber Optic Front Bead |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with aftermarket Benelli Mobil chokes?
- Yes, the Spandau Premier Target uses standard Benelli Mobil choke threads, compatible with any aftermarket Mobil-style choke tubes. The factory includes improved cylinder and modified tubes, but you can add full, skeet, or specialty chokes from brands like Briley or Carlson's. Expect to pay $25-45 per additional choke tube from major manufacturers.
- Does it fit standard 12 gauge target loads?
- The 3-inch chambers accept all standard 2¾-inch target loads and 3-inch magnum shells for versatility. For competitive shooting, I recommend 1⅛ ounce #8 shot loads at 1,200 fps for optimal pattern consistency. The mechanical triggers handle light target loads more reliably than some inertial systems that require heavier loads to reset properly.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Standard shipping to Montana addresses takes 5-7 business days via FedEx Ground, with FFL processing adding 1-2 additional business days. Express shipping options are available for 2-3 day delivery at additional cost. All shipments require signature confirmation and FFL transfer upon arrival at your local dealer.
- Can I return it if the stock doesn't fit properly?
- Returns are accepted within 30 days for unfired specimens in original packaging, but you'll incur a 15% restocking fee and return shipping costs. The adjustable comb provides ¾-inch of vertical adjustment, which accommodates most shooters, but extreme fit issues may require professional stock modification. Consider visiting a local gunsmith for fitting before purchase if you have unusual dimensions.