Rizzini USA 2203-1228 Aurum EVO 12 Gauge Break Open 3″ 2rd 28″ Black Over/Under Vent Rib Barrel, Coin Anodized Receiver Engraved w/Game Scene, Fixed Turkish Walnut Stock w/Prince of Whales Grip
About this product
The Rizzini USA 2203-1228 Aurum EVO is a premium 12-gauge over/under shotgun built for the serious field or clays shooter who demands mechanical precision and hand-finished aesthetics. This isn't a mass-produced tool; it's a refined evolution of Rizzini's Aurum line, distinguished by its coin-anodized receiver and select-grade Turkish walnut. It ships with five flush choke tubes (Cylinder, Improved Cylinder, Modified, Improved Modified, Full) in a dedicated hard case, representing a significant step above entry-level sporting guns.
What is the Rizzini Aurum EVO used for?
The Aurum EVO is primarily used for driven game shooting, upland hunting, and sporting clays where quick handling and pointability are critical. Its 28-inch vent rib barrel provides a clean, consistent sight plane for fast target acquisition on crossing birds. The Prince of Wales grip offers a secure, traditional hold that excels in snap shooting scenarios, making it less ideal for sustained fire at a trap range compared to a Monte Carlo stock.
How does the Rizzini Aurum EVO compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The Aurum EVO is a superior firearm in materials, finishing, and mechanical precision, reflected in its price point that is over $2500 higher than the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge. Where the Stevens uses a basic black oxide finish and machine-cut checkering, the Aurum EVO features a deep, coin-anodized receiver with extensive hand-engraved game scenes and a hand-fitted, oil-finished Turkish walnut stock. For the budget-conscious shooter wanting a reliable first over/under, the Stevens is better; for the shooter seeking a heirloom-quality tool, the Rizzini is the clear choice.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Aurum EVO has an overall length of 46 inches and weighs 6.8 lbs (3.08 kg). The 28-inch barrels feature a 10mm vent rib for glare reduction, and the receiver width measures 1.8 inches at its thickest point. This balance point, combined with its weight, results in a swing momentum that feels deliberate and stable, not whippy like a lighter field gun.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not for the first-time buyer on a tight budget or the shooter who prioritizes tactical utility. The Prince of Wales grip and intricate engraving offer no advantage in a defensive scenario and add significant cost. If your primary use is waterfowl hunting in harsh, muddy conditions where you'll treat the gun roughly, a durable, synthetic-stocked model like the Stevens 334 Rifle (in a different category) represents a more practical investment. This is a gun for appreciation as much as application.
What's in the box?
The Aurum EVO ships with five Beretta/Benelli Mobil-style flush choke tubes (Cyl, IC, M, IM, F), a custom hard plastic case with foam inserts, a snap cap, and owner's manual. Unlike many imports, the chokes are included, not a separate purchase. The case has keyed locks and measures 50x12x8 inches internally, providing secure transport.
Is the Rizzini Aurum EVO worth it at $3595?
Yes, if you are an experienced shooter who can appreciate and will utilize the enhancements in fit, finish, and handling. The $3595 price buys you a hand-engraved, coin-anodized receiver, a select piece of Turkish walnut that's been hand-inletted and oil-finished, and the precise mechanical lockup of a true mid-tier competition-ready action. For a shooter moving up from a workhorse like the Stevens 555, the difference in smoothness, balance, and pride of ownership is tangible and justifies the cost.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Coin-anodized receiver is 30% more corrosion-resistant than standard bluing.
- Hand-engraved game scene and scrollwork adds significant value over laser etching.
- Select-grade Turkish walnut stock is hand-fitted, reducing receiver-to-wood gaps to less than 0.005 inches.
- Includes 5 Mobil-choke tubes (a $120 value if purchased separately).
Trade-offs
- Fixed stock dimensions (14.5" LOP) are not adjustable - not ideal for shooters far from average proportions.
- Intricate engraving and oil finish require more careful maintenance than a matte synthetic finish.
- Prince of Wales grip has less defined palm swell than a pistol grip, which some shooters find less secure for follow-up shots.
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 853418412695 |
| manufacturer | Rizzini |
| manufacturer part number | 2203-1228 |
| action | Break Open |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 2 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with aftermarket choke tubes?
- Yes, it uses the common Beretta/Benelli Mobil-style choke tube threading. This is a standard thread pattern, so tubes from brands like Carlson's, Briley, and Trulock will fit. The five included tubes (Cylinder through Full) cover most sporting and hunting needs.
- Does this shotgun have automatic ejectors or extractors?
- The Aurum EVO features automatic selective ejectors. This means after firing, spent shells are ejected from the barrels while unfired shells are gently extracted, a critical feature for safety in the field. The ejector springs are robust and consistent.
- What is the length of pull and drop at comb?
- The fixed Turkish walnut stock has a length of pull of 14.5 inches, a drop at comb of 1.5 inches, and a drop at heel of 2.25 inches. These are classic field dimensions; significant alteration would require a custom stock from a gunsmith, a process taking 8-12 weeks and costing $400+.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Ironclad Armory's policy is that all firearm sales are final once the transfer is initiated at your FFL, due to federal regulations. We strongly recommend handling a similar model at a local dealer first. Contact our support team within 48 hours of delivery if there is a manufacturer defect.