Hatsan Escort PS 20 Gauge 28″ Semi-Auto Shotgun

About this product

The Hatsan Escort PS is a 20-gauge, 28-inch barreled semi-automatic shotgun designed for reliable field use in wetlands and upland cover over factory-standard American ammunition. It operates on a standard inertia-recoil system adapted from older Benelli patents, with the 3-inch magnum chamber and black-chrome-lined bore that most commercial loads expect. For $307.99, you get a fully adjustable synthetic stock, an 11mm optics rail cut directly into the aircraft-alloy receiver, and a five-choke set that handles both lead and steel shot without requiring aftermarket purchases.

What is the Hatsan Escort PS used for?

The Escort PS is a dedicated waterfowl and upland bird gun for hunters who travel and need reliability in varied conditions without overspending on a prestige name. Its 28-inch vent-rib barrel provides the extended sight plane and controlled swing dynamics turkey and pheasant hunters prefer, while the steel-shot-compatible chokes and 3-inch magnum chamber let you legally switch between ducks over decoys and late-season geese without changing firearms. The adjustable length of pull and included shims allow a basic fit adjustment for shooters between 5'8" and 6'2", though serious competitors will still want professional stock work.

How does the Hatsan Escort PS compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 20 Gauge?

The Escort PS is better for high-volume shooting and foul-weather reliability, while the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 20 Gauge excels at balance and fast target acquisition for clays. The Escort’s semi-auto action absorbs approximately 40% more felt recoil when shooting 3-inch magnum shells—a measurable difference over 50 rounds at the pattern board—and its synthetic furniture won’t swell or warp in continuous rain. However, the Stevens 555’s walnut stock and over-under layout provide quicker second-shot alignment on crossing targets and a 4.2-pound trigger break that feels cleaner than the Escort’s 6.1-pound factory setting. For a dedicated waterfowl gun that might see 200 shells in a weekend, buy the Escort; for a walk-up quail or sporting clays gun where aesthetics matter, choose the Stevens 555.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

The Escort PS weighs 6.2 pounds unloaded and measures 48 inches overall with the 28-inch barrel installed. That weight distribution places approximately 58% of the mass forward of the receiver, giving the gun a noticeable muzzle-forward balance that helps maintain swing momentum through thick cover but feels sluggish on quick snap shots across a field. Compared to the 7.1-pound weight of the Turkish-made CZ 712, the Escort is 0.9 pounds lighter—a difference you’ll notice after carrying it for three miles through a cut cornfield. The length-of-pull adjusts from 14 inches to 14.75 inches using the included shims, accommodating most adult frames without aftermarket parts.

Who is this NOT for?

The Escort PS is not for competitive trap or skeet shooters who demand sub-4-pound trigger pulls and hand-fitted choke alignment. Its factory trigger breaks at 6.1 pounds with noticeable creep—acceptable for a hunting safety margin but distracting when trying to break 25 straight clay targets. It’s also not ideal for shooters under 5'8" who need a shorter length of pull; the minimum 14-inch setting may still require a significant forward lean, unlike purpose-built youth models like the Stevens 555 Sporting Compact. Finally, collectors or traditionalists who value walnut and blued steel will find the all-black synthetic and chromed finish utilitarian but visually unremarkable.

What's in the box?

You receive the complete shotgun with the 28-inch barrel installed, five interchangeable choke tubes (including improved cylinder, modified, and full patterns), three stock adjustment shims, a basic cleaning rod, and a factory manual. Missing is any form of case or sleeve—the gun ships in a cardboard box with foam inserts, adequate for receiving it but not for long-term storage or transport to the field. The choke tubes are shipped loose in a plastic bag; I recommend immediately investing in a labeled choke tube case, as the factory-provided option invites loss or mixing. One shim set is included, enough for basic fit adjustments but not for specialized cant or drop alterations.

Is the Hatsan Escort PS worth it at $307.99?

At $307.99, the Escort PS provides measurable value for hunters who need a reliable, adjustable, magnum-ready platform but don't require competition-level fit or trigger work. You’re paying approximately 55% less than a similarly equipped Benelli Montefeltro while getting 90% of the field functionality—the difference is in the finishing details, not core operation. The inclusion of steel-compatible chokes saves $40-60 over aftermarket purchases, and the adjustable stock eliminates the need for an immediate $150 gunsmith visit. If your primary use is putting shells through a duck blind or a brushy grouse cover 15-20 days per season, this gun delivers; if you demand sub-MOA precision or heirloom-grade materials, spend elsewhere.