Top 10 · Compare
Compare Best Pheasant Shotguns head to head
Pick any two picks from this list and see specs, current price, pros, cons and reader ratings side by side.
Back to the full Top 10
#3 on this list
A400 Upland
Beretta
Gas-operated autoloader that soaks up recoil and runs dirty all season without complaint.
- Price
- Check current price
- Reader rating
- No reader votes yet
- How we assessed it
- Specification researched
#4 on this list
Instinct SL 20
Franchi
Aluminum-receiver over-under at 5.6 pounds — a genuine walking gun at a working price.
- Price
- Check current price
- Reader rating
- No reader votes yet
- How we assessed it
- Specification researched
Specs side by side
| Spec | A400 Upland | Instinct SL 20 |
|---|---|---|
| Action Type | Gas-operated Autoloader | — |
| Recoil System | Kick-Off Plus | — |
| Receiver | Aluminum Alloy | Aluminum Alloy |
| Stock Material | Walnut | — |
| Gauge Options | 12, 20, 28 | — |
| Chamber Length | 3 inches | — |
| Action | — | Over/Under |
| Gauge | — | 20 Gauge |
| Weight | — | Approx. 5.6 lbs |
| Origin | — | Italy |
| Chokes | — | Interchangeable |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
A400 Upland
- Excellent recoil mitigation for comfortable shooting
- Reliable gas system handles diverse ammunition loads
- Balanced swing for effective target acquisition
- Durable construction for long-term field use
- Classic aesthetics with modern performance features
- Higher price point compared to many alternatives
- Slightly heavier than some ultralight upland options
- Gas system requires more cleaning than inertia designs
- Walnut stock can be prone to dings in very rough cover
Instinct SL 20
- Exceptionally light, comfortable for all-day carry
- Excellent balance and natural pointing characteristics
- Reliable Italian craftsmanship and smooth action
- Manages recoil well for a light shotgun
- Classic looks combined with modern weight savings
- Lighter weight can lead to slightly more perceived recoil with heavy loads
- Not ideal for high-volume clays shooting due to its lightweight design
- Aluminum receiver finish may show wear sooner than steel counterparts
- Higher price point than some heavier, budget-oriented over-unders
Prices change constantly — the figure shown is the last verified catalog price, and the buy buttons always go to the current listing.