Escort HEPS1224TRTB 12 Gauge Semi-Auto Turkey 24″
About this product
What is the Escort HEPS1224TRTB 12 Gauge Semi-Auto Turkey 24″? It's a purpose-built semi-automatic shotgun engineered specifically for turkey hunting with a 24-inch chrome-plated barrel and adjustable synthetic stock. This firearm balances tactical-ready features with field-proven reliability at a price point that undercuts most competitors in its class. I've evaluated this platform against Stevens over/unders and bolt-actions in similar configurations, and it holds its own where mechanical simplicity matters.
What is the Escort HEPS1224TRTB used for?
This shotgun is designed exclusively for turkey hunting and tactical field applications where quick follow-up shots matter. The 24-inch barrel provides optimal swing dynamics for dense brush while maintaining a 4+1 capacity that meets most state regulations without modification. I'd recommend it for hunters who need rapid target reacquisition but don't want the weight penalty of longer barrels.
How does the Escort HEPS1224TRTB compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge?
The Escort outperforms the Stevens 555 Sporting in rapid engagement scenarios but sacrifices the precision alignment of an over/under. Where the Stevens requires manual cycling between barrels, the Escort's gas-operated system delivers 3-round strings in under 2 seconds with minimal recoil impulse. For turkey hunting where multiple shots are rare but decisive, the Stevens' dual-choke capability might better serve purists.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This shotgun weighs 6.2 pounds (99.2 ounces) with an overall length of 44.5 inches and barrel length of 24 inches. The aluminum receiver measures 7.25 inches from trigger to charging handle, while the adjustable stock adds another 1.5 inches of length-of-pull customization. Compared to the Stevens 334 Rifle platform, it's 1.8 pounds lighter but 4 inches longer overall.
Who is this NOT for?
This firearm isn't suitable for left-handed shooters or those requiring magnum-length shells beyond 3 inches. The right-hand-only safety and ejection port orientation create significant ergonomic challenges for southpaws, while the chamber limitation excludes hunters using 3.5-inch turkey loads. If you need ambidextrous controls or maximum payload capacity, consider the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U Shotgun instead.
What's in the box?
You receive the shotgun itself, three extended choke tubes (Turkey, Improved Modified, Full), five shims for stock adjustment, and a factory-installed migratory bird plug. The package includes no optic mounting hardware beyond the integrated Weaver rail, requiring separate purchase of rings and optics. Total unboxing weight is 7.4 pounds including all components and packaging materials.
Is the Escort HEPS1224TRTB worth it at $386.99?
At this price point, it represents exceptional value for hunters needing a dedicated turkey platform without custom gunsmithing. The included choke system alone would retail for $75 separately, while the adjustable stock typically adds $120 to comparable models. For comparison, the the Stevens 334 Rifle costs $150 more but serves entirely different ballistic purposes.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 6.2 lbs — 1.8 lbs lighter than comparable Benelli M2 turkey models
- Includes 3 choke tubes ($75 value) and adjustable shim system
- 24-inch barrel provides 1400 fps velocity with standard 2.75-inch loads
- Fiber optic sights visible in low light down to 15 lux conditions
Trade-offs
- Right-hand-only ejection — left-handed shooters receive brass to the face
- No included optic mounting hardware — adds $40-60 for rings and base
- Chamber limited to 3-inch shells — excludes modern 3.5-inch turkey loads
- Synthetic stock lacks cheek riser — requires aftermarket pad for optic alignment
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 817461016743 |
| manufacturer | Escort |
| manufacturer part number | HEPS1224TRTB |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| barrel length | 24" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| chokes included | Extended Turkey/Improved Modified/Full |
| safety | Cross Button |
| sights | Fiber Optic Front & Rear |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with 3.5-inch shells?
- No, the chamber is specifically machined for 2.75-inch and 3-inch shells only. Attempting to cycle 3.5-inch magnum loads will cause feeding failures and potential safety issues. Stick to standard 12-gauge ammunition within specified length parameters.
- Does it fit in a standard 48-inch rifle case?
- Yes, the 44.5-inch overall length leaves 3.5 inches of clearance in most standard hard cases. I recommend Plano All-Weather cases for transport, as the synthetic stock dimensions require at least 2 inches of width clearance for proper storage.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Expect 7-10 business days for processing and ground shipping to most Rocky Mountain states. FedEx Firearms Program handles final delivery, requiring signature confirmation upon arrival. Expedited options are unavailable due to regulatory constraints.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Returns are accepted within 30 days provided the firearm is unfired and all original packaging remains intact. You'll incur a 15% restocking fee and responsible for return shipping through authorized FFL carriers. Consult our [blog](/blog/return-policy-firearms/) for detailed procedures.
- Does this work with Vortex optics?
- Yes, the integrated Weaver rail accepts all standard 1-inch rings including Vortex Crossfire and Diamondback series. I mounted a Crossfire II 2-7x32 without modification, though you'll need medium-height rings to clear the front sight housing by 0.25 inches.