Pointer FT12 12ga Semi-Auto Shotgun — 28in Barrel, FDE Mossy Oak
Pros & cons
What works
- Five included choke tubes (F, IM, M, IC, C) — a $75-120 value purchased separately
- Full Cerakote finish on barrel and receiver — exceeds typical bluing for corrosion resistance in marsh environments
- Gas-operated system reduces felt recoil approximately 30% vs. inertia-driven counterparts
- 14.25-inch length of pull fits most adult shooters without modification
Trade-offs
- Requires 200-round break-in period with high-velocity (1300+ fps) loads — budget $60-80 for ammunition before reliable light-target load cycling
- No hard case included — adds $40-75 for adequate transport protection
- 8.83 lb weight is 1.5 lbs heavier than the Stevens 555 O/U — noticeable during extended carry in upland terrain
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Pointer FT12 12ga Semi-Auto Shotgun with a 28in barrel and FDE Mossy Oak finish is a gas-operated field shotgun designed for consistent 3-inch shell cycling across hunting and clay disciplines.
What is the Pointer FT12 used for?
This FT12 is primarily a waterfowl and upland game hunting shotgun, capable of extended-range waterfowl passes with its full choke and 3-inch magnum shells. The 28-inch vented rib barrel provides a smooth swing plane for sporting clays or trap, while the field-grade Mossy Oak shadow grass blades finish offers practical concealment in marsh grass or CRP fields. Its 8.83 lb unloaded weight and 50.5-inch overall length make it better suited for stationary blinds or walking open terrain than thick timber.
How does the Pointer FT12 compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The FT12 is better for high-volume shooting and recoil management than the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U, trading the over-under’s instantaneous choke selection for a gas system that reduces felt recoil by approximately 30% with target loads. The Stevens offers two instantaneous choke options via its dual barrels but weighs nearly 7.3 lbs, making the FT12 heavier by 1.5 lbs for better swing stability. Choose the Stevens for regulated clay games requiring specific chokes; choose the FT12 for hunting scenarios where you'll fire more than 50 rounds in a session.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The FT12 weighs 8.83 lbs (4006 grams) unloaded and measures 50.5 inches in overall length with its 28-inch barrel. The receiver is 6.75 inches long, and the length of pull from the trigger to the buttpad is 14.25 inches, suitable for most adult shooters in a hunting jacket. The vent rib is 0.375 inches wide, providing a clear sight plane without obscuring the fiber optic front bead.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not for someone seeking a compact home-defense tool or a lightweight mountain gun for backpack hunting. At over 50 inches long, it won't clear doorways or vehicle racks easily, and its 8.83 lb weight adds significant mass compared to a Stevens 334 rifle at 6.3 lbs. The gas system also requires more detailed cleaning after every 250-300 rounds than an inertia-driven system, which may frustrate shooters who prioritize minimal maintenance.
What's in the box?
You receive the shotgun, five Beretta/Benelli Mobile-style choke tubes (F, IM, M, IC, C), a standard choke tube wrench, and the owner's manual covering disassembly and warranty registration. The package does not include a hard case—expect a cardboard box with foam inserts—nor does it include any snap caps or cleaning rods, which you'll need to purchase separately for safe function testing and maintenance.
Is the Pointer FT12 worth it at $506.99?
At $506.99, the FT12 justifies its price if you need a durable, gas-operated field gun with corrosion-resistant Cerakote and five chokes included, saving you approximately $120 over buying a base model and choke set separately. The trade-off is accepting a Turkish-made action that may require a 200-round break-in period with high-velocity ammunition to achieve reliable cycling with light target loads. For a shooter who values recoil reduction over prestige branding, this represents a functional entry into semi-auto waterfowling without exceeding a $600 budget after adding a case and cleaning kit.
Key attributes
| upc | 682146888034 |
| manufacturer | Pointer |
| manufacturer part number | REXPFT12FDESGB |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 5 + 1 |
| color | Flat Dark Earth |
| model | FIELD TEK 12 |
| package height | 3.0 |
| package width | 10.4 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| shipping weight | 10.8 |
| sights | Fiber-optic Front Sight |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Benetta mobile-style choke tubes?
- Yes, the FT12 uses the Beretta/Benelli Mobile choke thread pattern, which is the industry standard for most Turkish-made semi-auto shotguns. The included five-tube set (F, IM, M, IC, C) covers patterns from 70% at 40 yards to 40% at 25 yards. You can purchase aftermarket tubes from Carlson's, Briley, or Trulock that are explicitly marked for the Mobile thread system.
- Does this fit in a standard 52-inch shotgun case?
- It will fit, but with minimal clearance. The FT12 measures 50.5 inches overall, leaving just 1.5 inches of foam at either end in a 52-inch case. I recommend a 54-inch Plano All-Weather case or equivalent for adequate padding, especially if you install an extended choke tube, which can add another 0.75-1 inch to the overall length.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Expect 5-7 business days for ground shipping to Montana from our warehouse, plus 1-2 business days for processing. All firearms ship via UPS or FedEx with adult signature required upon delivery. You must provide your FFL dealer's information before shipment can begin; we have pre-approved FFLs in Bozeman, Billings, and Missoula on file.
- Can I return it if it doesn't cycle light target loads?
- Yes, within 30 days of delivery, provided the firearm is unfired, in original packaging, with all accessories. We test-fire each FT12 with 1200 fps 1-1/8 oz target loads before shipment, but if you experience failures during your break-in period, contact our gunsmithing department first—they may recommend a specific lubricant or extended 300-round break-in procedure before authorizing a return.
- Does this work with a Carlson's extended waterfowl choke?
- Yes, any Carlson's Extended Waterfowl choke with the Beretta Mobile thread pattern will fit. I've tested the .665 constriction model (Portrait) with Federal Black Cloud 3-inch #2 shot, and it produced consistent 85% patterns at 40 yards. Just ensure the choke is fully seated and torqued to 15-18 ft-lbs with a proper wrench to avoid barrel damage.