Heritage Badlander 12 GA Side-by-Side Black Chrome/Walnut

About this product

The Heritage Badlander 12 GA Side-by-Side is a modern interpretation of classic side-by-side shotgun design that combines traditional handling with corrosion-resistant finishes and interchangeable choke tubes. This isn't a period-correct replica but a functional field gun built for actual shooting, not display case admiration. At $712.99, it sits in the value segment of side-by-side shotguns, offering more features than many Turkish imports at this price point while maintaining the mechanical simplicity that made these guns legendary.

What is the Heritage Badlander used for?

This shotgun is designed for upland bird hunting and informal clay shooting where fast handling and pointability matter more than high-volume target breaking. The 6.8 lb weight balances perfectly between the hands, making it quick to mount but not so light that recoil becomes punishing with standard field loads. The included four-choke set (Improved Cylinder, Modified, Full, and Skeet) covers everything from close-range grouse to passing waterfowl, though the 28-inch barrels limit extreme long-range patterning compared to longer barreled guns.

How does the Heritage Badlander compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?

The Badlander offers more traditional handling and faster target acquisition than the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge, but sacrifices the over-under's inherent accuracy advantage for repeat shots. Where the Stevens 555 uses a single selective trigger and automatic safety reset—benefits for competitive shooting—the Badlander's twin triggers provide instant barrel selection without mechanical complexity. For walking-up pheasants in thick cover, the Badlander's 6.8 lb weight swings faster than the Stevens' 7.2 lb heft, but the over-under's single sight plane makes it more consistent on crossing targets.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

The Badlander weighs 6.8 pounds empty with 28-inch barrels that measure 711mm from breech to muzzle. The length of pull measures 14.5 inches with a 1.5-inch drop at comb and 2.25-inch drop at heel—dimensions that fit most adult shooters without modification. The chambers accept 3-inch shells (76mm) though most hunters will find 2.75-inch loads pattern better through the fixed chokes. Overall length measures 45 inches, making it manageable in blinds or thick cover where longer guns become cumbersome.

Who is this NOT for?

This shotgun isn't for competitive trap or skeet shooters who need consistent repeat shot performance or tactical users requiring magazine capacity. The side-by-side configuration creates two sighting planes that many shooters struggle with on moving targets, and the manual safety requires deliberate re-engagement after each shot. At 6.8 pounds, it's also heavier than many modern synthetic-stock pumps the like the Stevens 334 when loaded, making it less ideal for long days carrying through mountain terrain.

What's in the box?

You get the shotgun, four internal choke tubes (Improved Cylinder, Modified, Full, Skeet), a plastic choke tube key, and an owner's manual that covers basic disassembly. Unlike many Turkish imports, it ships with a properly fitted hard case with foam cutouts—not a cardboard box—which matters when paying $712.99 for a firearm that needs protection during transport. The chokes use standard Benelli/Beretta threads, so aftermarket options are readily available if you want specialized constrictions.

Is the Heritage Badlander worth it at $712.99?

At this price, the Badlander delivers authentic side-by-side handling with modern corrosion resistance that cheaper Turkish imports lack. The black chrome finish provides actual protection against moisture—not just appearance—and the Turkish walnut stock shows better figure than most guns under $1,000. Compared to spending $1,200+ for a used American-made side-by-side with worn bluing and fixed chokes, the Badlander offers better practicality for actual field use. It's not a collectible, but it's a reliable shooter that won't make you nervous about scratching the finish.