ATI Cavalry SX Compact 20ga 26″ O/U 3″ Chamber
About this product
What is the ATI Cavalry SX Compact? It's a youth-proportioned 20-gauge over/under shotgun built with a 12.47-inch length of pull, a 26-inch barrel set, and a 3-inch chamber to handle a full range of field and target loads for smaller-statured shooters. The platform prioritizes accessible fit and operation over competition-grade durability, pairing an engraved aluminum receiver with traditional Turkish walnut furniture. Its mechanical simplicity and included five-choke system make it a functional entry point into double-barrel ownership.
What is the ATI Cavalry SX Compact used for?
This shotgun is primarily for introducing smaller shooters—youth, petite adults, or those seeking a very compact field gun—to over/under mechanics and wing-shooting fundamentals. The 6.2-pound weight and truncated 45.5-inch overall length make it highly maneuverable in blinds or brush for small game and upland birds. Its MobilChoke compatibility supports everything from tight-patterning turkey loads to open-spread skeet, though its aluminum receiver limits sustained high-volume use.
How does the ATI Cavalry SX Compact compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting Compact?
The ATI Cavalry SX is a more cost-conscious, mechanically simplified alternative to the Stevens 555 Sporting Compact, trading some robustness for a lower price point. Where the Stevens uses a steel receiver for greater long-term durability under repetitive firing, the ATI employs a lighter, engraved aluminum alloy to hit a sub-$550 price. The Stevens is better for sustained clay target practice, while the ATI is better for occasional field use where budget and reduced weight are primary concerns.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The shotgun weighs 6.2 pounds (2.81 kg) unloaded, with an overall length of 45.5 inches (1156 mm) and the critical youth-length of pull measuring 12.47 inches (317 mm). The 26-inch chrome-moly barrels have a vent rib width of 8 mm and a 3-inch (76 mm) chamber. This compact package is approximately 2.5 inches shorter in the stock and 1.8 pounds lighter than a standard adult-sized over/under like the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not for adult shooters with a standard 14-14.5 inch length of pull requirement, as the stock will be too short without modification. It's also not for high-volume shooters running multiple cases of shells annually; the aluminum receiver and lighter construction aren't designed for that sustained stress. Finally, it's not for those needing 3.5-inch chamber capability for waterfowl or specialized turkey loads—the chamber is 3 inches maximum.
What's in the box?
You receive the shotgun, five interchangeable MobilChoke tubes (Improved Cylinder, Modified, Full, Skeet, and an optional aftermarket Turkey tube), a basic choke wrench, and owner's manual. The package does not include a hard case—expect a cardboard box with foam inserts. Total unpacked shipping weight is approximately 9.5 pounds, accounting for packaging materials. No additional maintenance tools or spare parts are provided.
Is the ATI Cavalry SX Compact worth it at $507.99?
At just over five hundred dollars, it's worth it as a dedicated first over/under for a young shooter where fit is non-negotiable for safety and technique. The price buys a mechanically functional, traditionally styled shotgun with a usable choke set, avoiding the purely tactical or single-shot alternatives at this price point. It is not worth it if you need a gun to withstand thousands of rounds annually or require a standard adult stock dimension you won't immediately have to replace.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 6.2 lbs — 1.8 lbs lighter than a standard adult O/U for easier youth handling
- 12.47-inch length of pull — correct fit for shooters with a 24-26 inch arm measurement
- Includes 5 MobilChokes — provides immediate patterning versatility from skeet to turkey
- 26-inch barrel length — offers a 45.5-inch OAL for excellent balance and maneuverability in brush
Trade-offs
- Aluminum alloy receiver — not designed for sustained high-volume fire over thousands of rounds
- Youth-length stock is non-adjustable — requires gunsmith work for adult fit, adding $150+
- No included hard case — ships in cardboard/foam, requiring separate $60-$100 purchase for protection
- Vent rib is 8mm wide — narrower than the 10-11mm rib common on dedicated target models
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 813393017315 |
| manufacturer | American Tactical / ATI |
| manufacturer part number | GKOF20SVY |
| action | Over / Under |
| barrel length | 26" |
| caliber/gauge | 20 Gauge |
| capacity | 2 |
| chokes included | 5 |
| color | Silver |
| model | Cavalry SX |
| product type | Rifle |
| shipping weight | 7.2 |
| sights | Bead |
Frequently asked questions
- Does it fit in a standard 48-inch rifle case?
- Yes, the 45.5-inch overall length allows it to fit in most standard 48-inch takedown rifle and shotgun cases with room for chokes and accessories. For a precise fit, look for an interior length of at least 46 inches in the case specifications.
- Is it compatible with Benelli MobilChokes?
- Yes, the included and specified chokes use the Benelli/Beretta MobilChoke thread pattern. This means aftermarket chokes from brands like Carlson's, Trulock, and Briley marketed for MobilChoke systems will fit. Always verify thread pattern before purchase.
- Can an adult use this by adding a recoil pad?
- Potentially, but adding a standard 1-inch recoil pad only extends the length of pull to about 13.5 inches, which may still be short for many adults. For a proper adult fit (14-14.5 inches), you would likely need a full stock replacement, which can cost $150-$300 from a gunsmith.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Shipping for firearms to an FFL in Montana typically takes 5-7 business days from order processing, depending on carrier (usually FedEx or UPS). Note that the FFL must receive the firearm, log it, and then notify you for pickup, which can add 1-2 business days.
- Does this work with a standard 20-gauge bore snake?
- Yes, any standard 20-gauge bore cleaning snake or brush will work with the 20-gauge, 26-inch barrels. The chrome-plated bore is relatively easy to clean. I recommend a .20 caliber brush for the choke tubes themselves during detailed maintenance.