ATI Nomad 28ga Single-Shot Shotgun 18.5in Black Synthetic
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 4.2 lbs (1905g) — 1.2 lbs lighter than a typical single-shot 20-gauge
- Folds to 19.6 inches — fits in backpacks or small storage compartments
- 3-inch chamber capacity — accepts maximum-length 28-gauge shells
Trade-offs
- Single-shot action only — zero follow-up capability without manual reloading
- Fixed cylinder bore choke — no pattern adjustment for different game or ranges
- Synthetic stock has minimal texture — can be slick with wet or gloved hands
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The ATI Nomad 28ga Single-Shot Shotgun is a folding, break-action firearm engineered for minimalist, ultralight field carry where regulatory simplicity and basic functionality are paramount. Built with a synthetic stock and 18.5-inch barrel, it prioritizes portability and straightforward operation over versatility or speed. This is a tool for the specific niche where legal compliance and carry weight are the primary constraints.
What is the ATI Nomad 28ga Single-Shot Shotgun used for?
The ATI Nomad is best used as a compact, regulation-compliant tool for small-game hunting, pest control, or as an emergency survival gun where concealment and featherweight carry are non-negotiable. Its 28-gauge chamber is effective for rabbits, squirrels, and birds at short ranges, while the single-shot action forces deliberate use and ensures Title II (NFA) compliance in virtually all folding configurations due to the minimum 26-inch overall length rule. I recommend it as a stowaway gun in a tractor, survival kit, or for teaching absolute firearm safety fundamentals.
How does the ATI Nomad compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge?
The ATI Nomad’s design philosophy is the polar opposite of a shotgun like the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U, making direct comparison about intended use, not quality. The Nomad exists purely for portability and regulatory simplicity; the Stevens 555 is built for repeated, comfortable shooting with two barrels, a dedicated target stock, and chamberings like 12-gauge for clays or hunting. The Stevens 555 is superior for sport shooting and sustained use; the Nomad is better at being forgotten in a backpack or ATV glovebox until needed.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Nomad weighs approximately 4.2 pounds, or 1905 grams, making it a significant 2.3 pounds lighter than most break-action 20-gauge shotguns of similar barrel length. Unfolded, it measures 33.5 inches overall; folded, it collapses to a compact 19.6 inches for storage. The 18.5-inch barrel length is a calculated choice—it keeps the factory configuration safely above the federal 18-inch minimum barrel requirement, providing a buffer against accidental legal issues, especially important given the folding stock.
Who is this NOT for?
Do not buy this if your primary use is recreational clay shooting, waterfowl hunting, or home defense. The single-shot, 28-gauge capacity is woefully inadequate for sporting clays, illegal for migratory bird hunting in many jurisdictions, and a poor tactical choice for defense compared to almost any modern repeating firearm. If you need a shotgun for frequent, high-volume shooting or one to handle multiple roles, consider an over/under like our Stevens 555 in .410 Bore for smoother action and two-shot capacity.
What's in the box?
You receive the complete, assembled shotgun and no meaningful accessories beyond the required gun lock and basic owner’s manual. Expect no case, no cleaning tools, and no spare parts. The setup from box to first shot is under 60 seconds: verify the action is clear, install the included trigger lock if required for transport, and check that the crossbolt safety is functioning correctly before loading a single 3-inch 28-gauge shell.
Is the ATI Nomad worth it at $109.95?
At $109.95, the Nomad is worth the cost only if your requirement is a durable, legal, single-shot firearm at the absolute lowest price and weight point. This is not an investment in a refined shooting experience; it’s paying for a specific mechanical and legal solution. For less than $50 more, you could begin looking at used pump-actions with greater utility, but those won't fold or weigh under 4.5 pounds. The value is strictly in its niche—ultra-compact, ultra-light, and complication-free.
Key attributes
| upc | 810113114644 |
| manufacturer | American Tactical / ATI |
| manufacturer part number | ATIG28NMD18 |
| shipping weight | 4.7 |
Frequently asked questions
- Can I use 2.75-inch 28-gauge shells in this shotgun?
- Yes, the Nomad's chamber accepts both 2.75-inch and 3-inch 28-gauge shells. The 3-inch capacity allows for heavier payloads, but the shorter 2.75-inch shells will cycle without issue.
- Does this shotgun fit in a standard pistol case?
- No, the Nomad's 33.5-inch overall length, even when folded to 19.6 inches, exceeds the typical interior dimensions of a handgun case. You'll need a compact rifle case or a dedicated 20-inch tactical bag for legal transport.
- Is the barrel threaded for chokes?
- No, the 18.5-inch barrel has a fixed cylinder bore choke. This provides a wide, even pattern ideal for close-range pest control or defensive use, but limits versatility for hunting at distances beyond approximately 25 yards.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL dealer?
- Ground shipping from our warehouse typically takes 3-5 business days before the firearm arrives at your chosen FFL holder. The FFL's own processing and background check will add additional time before you can take possession.