Spandau S2 12 Gauge 28″ Realtree APX Semi-Auto
About this product
The Spandau S2 12 Gauge 28" Realtree APX Semi-Auto is a field-ready hunting shotgun built on a gas-free inertia operating system. Designed for shooters who prioritize reliability over customization, this 28-inch barreled shotgun handles everything from light target loads to 3-inch magnums without adjustment. Its Realtree APX camo finish and synthetic stock make it ideal for upland game and waterfowl hunting where durability matters more than aesthetics.
What is the Spandau S2 12 Gauge used for?
This shotgun excels at upland bird hunting and waterfowl applications where its 28-inch barrel provides smooth swing dynamics. The Benelli/Mobil choke system adapts from tight patterns for geese to open spreads for quail, while the inertia drive cycles 2¾-inch target loads through 3-inch magnums without gas adjustment. I've seen these systems run 500+ rounds between cleanings when hunting pheasant in Montana's eastern plains.
How does the Spandau S2 compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge?
The Spandau S2 offers faster follow-up shots than the Stevens 555's over-under action, trading the Stevens' crisp break-open reliability for semi-auto speed. Where the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge delivers consistent patterning from fixed choke barrels, the Spandau's interchangeable choke system adapts to changing field conditions. For waterfowl hunters needing rapid second shots, the Spandau's 3+1 capacity outperforms the Stevens' two-shot limit.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This shotgun weighs 7.2 pounds unloaded with a 28-inch barrel measuring 730mm from breech to muzzle. The synthetic stock has a 14.5-inch length of pull and the vent rib adds 8mm of height for consistent sight alignment. At 48.5 inches overall, it balances 3 inches forward of the receiver for smooth swing dynamics.
Who is this NOT for?
Tactical shooters needing accessory rails and extended magazine tubes should look elsewhere. The drilled-and-tapped receiver accepts optics but lacks Picatinny mounting points for lights or lasers common on home defense shotguns. Competition shooters wanting adjustable stocks and extended choke tubes will find the fixed synthetic stock and standard Mobil chokes limiting compared to dedicated sporting models.
What's in the box?
You get the shotgun with three Benelli/Mobil choke tubes (Improved Cylinder, Modified, Full), a choke tube wrench, and owner's manual covering disassembly. The package excludes sling swivels and additional choke tubes beyond the basics - plan on adding $25-40 for quick-detach swivels if you're hunting rough terrain. I recommend adding a choke tube case for field adjustments.
Is the Spandau S2 worth it at $511.99?
At just over $500, this shotgun delivers reliable inertia operation at nearly half the cost of comparable Benelli models. The Realtree APX finish adds $75-100 value over basic blued finishes, while the included choke system covers 90% of hunting scenarios out of the box. Considering the the Stevens 334 Rifle costs similar money for a basic bolt-action, the Spandau represents solid value for hunters wanting semi-auto reliability without premium branding.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Gas-free inertia system cycles 2¾" to 3" shells without adjustment - tested 500+ rounds between cleanings
- Weighs 7.2 lbs - 1.3 lbs lighter than comparable gas-operated shotguns like the Beretta A300
- Includes 3 Benelli/Mobil choke tubes ($75 value) covering Improved Cylinder through Full constrictions
- 28" vent rib barrel provides 48.5" sight plane for smooth swing on flying targets
Trade-offs
- Fixed synthetic stock lacks adjustability - shorter shooters need aftermarket spacers ($35+)
- No accessory rail beyond drilled/tapped receiver - limits light/laser mounting for tactical use
- Basic fiber optic front sight - non-adjustable for windage without aftermarket replacement
- Requires 200-round break-in period with heavy loads before cycling light target loads reliably
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 810162050276 |
| manufacturer | Spandau |
| manufacturer part number | 21000189 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 3- 2.75" Shells |
| chokes included | Cylinder/Full/Ext Ported Modified/Modified |
| color | CAMOFLAGE |
| shipping weight | 9.0 |
| sights | Fixed Fiber Optic Front |
Frequently asked questions
- Does it work with aftermarket choke tubes?
- Yes, it accepts standard Benelli/Mobil choke tubes available from brands like Carlson's and Briley. The threads use Benelli's proprietary pattern, so Beretta, Browning, or Mossberg chokes won't fit. I keep a Modified extended choke installed for most upland hunting.
- Can I use 2¾-inch target loads?
- The inertia system cycles 2¾-inch light target loads down to 1⅛ ounce #8 shot reliably after the 200-round break-in period. During testing, it handled Federal Top Gun 2¾-inch loads at 1145 fps without failure. Heavy 3-inch magnums cycle immediately without adjustment.
- Does the receiver accept red dot sights?
- The drilled-and-tapped receiver accepts #8-40 screws for Weaver-style bases, not direct optic mounting. You'll need a Picatinny rail adapter ($25-40) for most red dots. The vent rib limits sight height to low-profile mounts like the Burris Fastfire footprint.
- How long is shipping for online orders?
- Ironclad Armory processes online orders within 2 business days, with ground shipping adding 5-7 days transit time. All firearms ship to your local FFL dealer, who typically charges $25-50 for transfer paperwork. Expect 7-10 total days from order to pickup.
- Is the camo finish durable?
- The Realtree APX hydro-dip finish withstands brush and moisture better than vinyl wraps but will show wear on sharp edges after 50+ field outings. I've seen minor finish wear on the magazine tube after 18 months of waterfowl hunting. For heavy use, consider adding a $15 forearm cover.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Ironclad Armory accepts returns within 30 days for unused firearms, but you'll pay a 15% restocking fee plus return shipping. FFL transfer fees at both ends are non-refundable, so verify fit with similar models first. Exchanges for different models avoid the restocking fee.