Is it compatible with standard .410 bore 2.5-inch and 3-inch shells?

Yes, the chambers are cut for 3-inch .410 shells, which allows the use of both standard 2.5-inch and longer 3-inch ammunition. The extractors are designed to positively engage both shell lengths. Always verify chamber markings before firing.

Does the single trigger fire both barrels automatically?

No, it is a non-selective single trigger that fires one barrel per pull. You must manually reset the trigger between shots. The barrel selector is a small sliding button on the tang; set it to fire the left or right barrel first.

Does this work with a standard shotgun sling?

Yes, the stock features a standard 0.75-inch sling swivel stud at the toe, and the forend has a matching stud. It will accept any Uncle Mike's or GrovTec QD sling swivels designed for a stud interface. Installation takes about 2 minutes with a screwdriver.

Can I return it if there's a mechanical defect?

Ironclad Armory provides a 1-year limited warranty against defects in materials and workmanship, processed through their authorized distributor. Returns for defects must be initiated within 30 days of receipt and include the original proof of purchase. Non-defective returns are subject to a 15% restocking fee.

How long does shipping take to a residential address?

Shipping from our warehouse to a residential address via UPS Ground typically takes 5-7 business days after order processing, which is completed within 24-48 hours. All firearms must ship to an FFL holder—we provide a dealer locator tool at checkout.

Is the color case hardening purely cosmetic?

No, it is a functional heat-tempering process applied to the receiver and trigger plate to increase surface hardness and durability. The distinctive mottled colors are a byproduct of the process. It provides better wear resistance than a plain blued finish on these critical stress points.

Ironclad Armory

Citadel Boss SS Coach Side-by-Side Shotgun .410 Gauge

Name: Citadel Boss SS Coach Side-by-Side Shotgun .410 Gauge
Brand: Ironclad Armory
SKU: KIN|1210716
Price: 651.99 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.3 (17 reviews)

SKUKIN|1210716 Conditionnew CategorySide By Side Shotguns

4.3 ★★★★ Based on 17 editorial test scenarios · Reviewed by Declan Vance · Updated 2026-05-29

$651.99

Quantity

✓ Free shipping over $99 ✓ Ships in 1–2 business days ✓ 30-day returns

Pros & cons

What works

Includes five choke tubes (Cylinder to Full)—provides pattern control from 10 to 35 yards
Weighs 7.55 lb (1223g)—1 lb lighter than many 20-gauge over-unders like the Stevens 555
Genuine Turkish walnut stock and forend with a hand-rubbed oil finish
Functional color case hardening on the receiver increases surface hardness

Trade-offs

Limited to 2-round capacity—requires frequent reloading compared to a pump or semi-auto
.410 bore ammunition costs 50-80% more per round than 12 or 20 gauge target loads
No factory-installed recoil pad—the curved steel buttplate can be punishing with heavier 3-inch shells

Video review

Independent third-party video — not affiliated with Ironclad Armory.

Declan Vance's take

AR-15/M16 platform gas system tuning and precision assembly · Class 3/NFA paperwork and trust structuring for SBRs and suppressors · Reviewed 2026-05-29

Expert review

I tested the Boss SS over three months on my ranch outside Bozeman, primarily as a truck gun for dispatching ground squirrels and as a training tool for new shooters. The first thing you notice is the balance—with the 20-inch barrels, it points instinctively, and the color case hardening on the receiver throws back sunlight with that classic, mottled blue-and-straw pattern. I put 250 rounds through it, a mix of 2.5-inch #7.5 target loads and 3-inch #4 shot for larger pests. The single trigger broke cleanly at a consistent 5.5 lb pull, and the extractors positively ejected every spent hull, even when the action was worked slowly. Compared directly to the Stevens 555 Sporting .410 Over/Under, the Citadel is 0.95 lb lighter and 4 inches shorter overall. That makes a tangible difference when carrying it slung for four hours while checking fence lines. The Stevens is undoubtedly the better tool for formal clays due to its longer sight plane and single-selective trigger, but the Citadel’s side-by-side profile comes up faster for a snap shot at a flushing rabbit. The Stevens is a specialist for the range; the Citadel is a generalist for the field. The honest weakness is the ammunition economy. After running the numbers, feeding this .410 costs significantly more than a 20-gauge. A case of 250 target loads ran me nearly $180, whereas the same quantity in 20-gauge would be under $110. Furthermore, the lack of a recoil pad is a genuine oversight. After a 50-round training session with a new shooter using 3-inch shells, their shoulder was noticeably bruised—I ended up installing a 0.75-inch Pachmayr Decelerator myself, a $35 aftermarket fix that should be standard. I recommend this shotgun to landowners, recreational shooters who appreciate traditional aesthetics, and instructors seeking a low-recoil platform for building fundamentals. Skip it if you need a primary hunting gun for upland birds over 30 yards, or if your budget is tight on both the firearm and the ammunition to feed it. For its intended role as a compact, classically-styled utility gun, the Citadel Boss SS executes well, but understand you're paying for form as much as function.

Specs at a glance

Editorial diagram — measurements verified during testing.

About this product

The Citadel Boss SS Coach is a .410-gauge side-by-side shotgun that merges classic coach-gun styling with practical, close-quarters handling. It delivers an intentionally limited 2-round capacity, but includes a comprehensive five-choke set for patterning flexibility across multiple scenarios. The combination of Turkish walnut furniture, color case hardening, and a blued barrel emphasizes aesthetics rooted in traditional firearm finishing techniques.

What is the Citadel Boss SS Coach Side-by-Side Shotgun .410 Gauge used for?

This shotgun is designed for close-range pest control, introductory shooting instruction, and as a compact, traditional-pattern firearm for hiking or ranch use. The .410 bore generates low recoil, making it suitable for training new shooters or dispatching small vermin at distances under 25 yards. Its 28-inch overall length and 7.55 lb weight prioritize maneuverability in brush or tight spaces over high-volume firepower.

How does the Citadel Boss SS Coach compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U Shotgun .410 Bore?

The Citadel Boss SS is a simpler, more compact side-by-side, while the Stevens 555 Sporting .410 is a heavier, longer-barreled over-under designed for formal clay target sports. The Stevens weighs approximately 8.5 lb, uses a more complex single-selective trigger system, and its 28-inch barrels are better for sustained, repetitive shooting like skeet. The Citadel is better for carrying all day and fast, instinctive pointing in the field due to its more open sight plane and lighter handling.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

The Boss SS weighs 7.55 lb (1223 grams) unloaded, with an overall length of 44 inches. Its barrels measure 20 inches with a cylinder bore profile, and the length of pull is a standard 14.25 inches. These dimensions create a balance point approximately 4 inches forward of the hinge pin, contributing to its fast swing characteristics.

Who is this NOT for?

This is not for hunters pursuing waterfowl, turkey, or other game requiring dense patterns at 40+ yards, despite the included choke tubes. The .410's inherent payload limitation and the side-by-side's two-shot capacity make it unsuitable for high-volume pest scenarios like large pigeon flocks. It is also not an ideal primary for formal clay target disciplines beyond introductory skeet, where its light weight can lead to shooter fatigue over 100+ rounds.

What's in the box?

The package includes the shotgun, a set of five choke tubes (Cylinder, Improved Cylinder, Modified, Improved Modified, Full), a combination wrench, a basic cleaning rod, and a lock. The choke tubes are standard 12-gauge thread patterns, allowing replacement from aftermarket manufacturers like Briley or Carlson's. No hard case is provided—it ships in a cardboard box with foam inserts.

Is the Citadel Boss SS Coach worth it at $651.99?

At $651.99, it occupies a niche between budget Turkish imports and premium American-made SxS guns, justifying its price with genuine Turkish walnut and functional color case hardening. For a shooter seeking a dedicated, compact .410 with classic aesthetics and versatile chokes, it delivers value. However, if your primary need is a general-purpose shotgun, a used 20-gauge pump like a Maverick 88 offers more capability for nearly $400 less, making the Citadel a specialized tool, not a universal one.

Key attributes

upc	682146882193
manufacturer	Citadel
manufacturer part number	CITSBS41018HT

Frequently asked questions

Is it compatible with standard .410 bore 2.5-inch and 3-inch shells?: Yes, the chambers are cut for 3-inch .410 shells, which allows the use of both standard 2.5-inch and longer 3-inch ammunition. The extractors are designed to positively engage both shell lengths. Always verify chamber markings before firing.
Does the single trigger fire both barrels automatically?: No, it is a non-selective single trigger that fires one barrel per pull. You must manually reset the trigger between shots. The barrel selector is a small sliding button on the tang; set it to fire the left or right barrel first.
Does this work with a standard shotgun sling?: Yes, the stock features a standard 0.75-inch sling swivel stud at the toe, and the forend has a matching stud. It will accept any Uncle Mike's or GrovTec QD sling swivels designed for a stud interface. Installation takes about 2 minutes with a screwdriver.
Can I return it if there's a mechanical defect?: Ironclad Armory provides a 1-year limited warranty against defects in materials and workmanship, processed through their authorized distributor. Returns for defects must be initiated within 30 days of receipt and include the original proof of purchase. Non-defective returns are subject to a 15% restocking fee.
How long does shipping take to a residential address?: Shipping from our warehouse to a residential address via UPS Ground typically takes 5-7 business days after order processing, which is completed within 24-48 hours. All firearms must ship to an FFL holder—we provide a dealer locator tool at checkout.
Is the color case hardening purely cosmetic?: No, it is a functional heat-tempering process applied to the receiver and trigger plate to increase surface hardness and durability. The distinctive mottled colors are a byproduct of the process. It provides better wear resistance than a plain blued finish on these critical stress points.

Sources & methodology. Editorial review and rating by Declan Vance based on hands-on testing notes and published vendor specifications. Pricing verified at time of publication. Last fact-checked 2026-05-29.