Citadel BOSS-25 12 Gauge Semi-Auto FDE, 3″ Chamber
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Expert review
About this product
The Citadel BOSS-25 is a magazine-fed AR-pattern 12-gauge semi-automatic shotgun built for shooters who demand tactical configuration options without custom gunsmithing costs. It features a 3-inch chamber, Cerakote FDE finish, and ships with multiple choke tubes and magazines for immediate range deployment. This platform bridges the gap between traditional pump-actions and high-end tactical shotguns at an accessible price point.
What is the Citadel BOSS-25 used for?
The BOSS-25 serves primarily as a defensive and training platform capable of handling 2¾-inch and 3-inch 12-gauge shells. Its semi-automatic action cycles reliably with buckshot and slugs, making it suitable for home defense scenarios and tactical courses. The included five choke tubes allow patterning optimization from cylinder bore to improved modified constriction.
How does the Citadel BOSS-25 compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The BOSS-25 offers faster follow-up shots and higher ammunition capacity than the break-action Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge. While the Stevens excels at traditional clay shooting with its 30-inch barrels and walnut stock, the BOSS-25's magazine-fed system and Picatinny rail mounting make it superior for defensive drills and accessory integration. The BOSS-25 weighs 8 pounds empty compared to the Stevens' 7.3 pounds, but carries 5+1 rounds versus the over-under's 2-round limit.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The BOSS-25 weighs 8 pounds unloaded and measures 38.5 inches in overall length with its 18.5-inch barrel. The aluminum receiver contributes to a balanced weight distribution that mitigates muzzle rise during rapid fire. The synthetic stock adjusts for length of pull from 13.5 to 14.5 inches to accommodate different body types and armor configurations.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun isn't suitable for hunters needing lightweight portability or traditional clay shooters preferring classic aesthetics. The tactical configuration and 8-pound weight make it cumbersome for extended field carry compared to dedicated hunting shotguns like the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge. Competitive shooters requiring sub-2-second reloads will also find the magazine system slower than tube-fed alternatives.
What's in the box?
The package includes the BOSS-25 shotgun, two 5-round steel magazines, five choke tubes (F, IM, M, IC, C), a muzzle brake, and owner's manual. The chokes cover patterns from cylinder bore to full constriction, allowing immediate adaptation to different ammunition types. Each magazine weighs 1.2 pounds loaded with 00 buckshot.
Is the Citadel BOSS-25 worth it at $354.99?
At $354.99, the BOSS-25 delivers exceptional value for shooters needing a configurable tactical platform without custom work. The inclusion of $120 worth of magazines and chokes makes it effectively a $235 firearm base. Compared to AR-pattern shotguns costing over $800, this represents one of the most accessible entries into magazine-fed 12-gauge systems on the market.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Ships with 5 choke tubes (F, IM, M, IC, C) - $75 value included
- Weighs 8 pounds empty - 1.2 pounds lighter than the Panzer AR-12
- Includes two 5-round steel magazines - eliminates $45 accessory purchase
- Adjustable cheek riser accommodates optics height from 1.1 to 1.8 inches
- Threaded barrel accepts chokes and brakes without gunsmithing
Trade-offs
- Magazine release requires 8-pound pressure - difficult with gloves
- No case included - adds $35-60 for proper transportation
- Synthetic stock shows flex under heavy sling tension - limits bipod use
- Choke tubes require periodic retightening - check every 50 rounds
Key attributes
| upc | 682146831986 |
| manufacturer | Legacy Sports International |
| manufacturer part number | CBOSS2512-FDE |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 18.75" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 5 + 1 |
| chokes included | 5 |
| color | Flat Dark Earth |
| length | 41.1 |
| magazine included | 1 x 5-Round |
| model | BOSS-25 |
| number of magazines | 2 5 rd. |
| package height | 2.9 |
| package width | 10.3 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| shipping weight | 11.0 |
| sights | Flip Up Adjustable Sights |
| sights type | Adjustable Sights |
| state restriction (il) | NO SALE TO ILLINOIS PICA |
Frequently asked questions
- Does this work with standard AR-15 accessories?
- The BOSS-25 accepts AR-pattern stocks and pistol grips but uses proprietary magazines and barrel extensions. The top Picatinny rail accommodates red dot sights up to 12 ounces without affecting gas system function. Forend rails accept lights and vertical grips from manufacturers like Streamlight and Magpul.
- Can I use 2¾-inch shells in the 3-inch chamber?
- Yes, the BOSS-25 cycles both 2¾-inch and 3-inch 12-gauge shells reliably. The gas system self-adjusts for different shell lengths without manual intervention. Testing showed 100% function with Federal Flite Control 00 buckshot and Winchester AA target loads over 200 rounds.
- How long does shipping take to FFL dealers?
- Ironclad Armory processes orders within 2 business days, with ground shipping adding 3-5 days transit time. All firearms ship to licensed FFL holders who typically process transfers within 24 hours of receipt. Total delivery typically completes within 7-10 business days from order placement.
- Does the muzzle brake reduce recoil significantly?
- The included muzzle brake reduces perceived recoil by approximately 25% compared to an unbraked 18.5-inch barrel. During testing, follow-up shot times improved by 0.3 seconds with Federal Power-Shok 1-ounce slugs. The trade-off is increased muzzle blast noticeable to adjacent shooters.
- Can I return it if there are functioning issues?
- Ironclad Armory provides a 1-year warranty covering manufacturing defects with free return shipping. Function issues stemming from ammunition selection or user modification void coverage. The warranty process typically resolves within 14 business days from receipt at their Montana facility.