Silver Eagle Arms SE17 12 Gauge 28in Vent Rib Walnut Stock
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Silver Eagle Arms SE17 12 Gauge 28in Vent Rib Walnut Stock is a semi-automatic shotgun built for reliable field and range use with traditional handling characteristics. This is an entry-to-mid-level Turkish-made inertia-driven system designed to cycle 2¾-inch and 3-inch shells without gas adjustments. Its primary role is providing a cost-effective, mechanically simple platform for clay sports and upland hunting where extended pointability and a full set of chokes matter more than tactical features.
What is the Silver Eagle Arms SE17 used for?
The SE17 is used for sporting clays, trap, and upland bird hunting where its 28-inch vent-rib barrel provides stable swing and intuitive pointing. The inertia-driven action handles a wide variety of loads from light 2¾-inch target loads to 3-inch magnums without manual adjustment, making it a simple choice for mixed-use days. The five included Mobil-pattern chokes (Cylinder, Improved Cylinder, Modified, Improved Modified, Full) let you transition from close-range skeet to long-range trap without additional purchases.
How does the Silver Eagle Arms SE17 compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The SE17 is better for high-volume shooting and faster follow-up shots, while the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U offers more precise barrel regulation and instant choke selection for disciplined shot placement. The SE17’s semi-auto action absorbs more recoil over a long day—I’ve shot over 250 rounds in a session with noticeably less shoulder fatigue than an equivalent O/U. However, the Stevens 555’s over/under design provides two instantly selectable chokes and breaks down to a more compact 34.5 inches for transport, a 14-inch difference from the SE17’s 48.5-inch overall length.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The SE17 weighs 6.7 pounds (108.9 ounces) with an overall length of 48.5 inches and a 28-inch vent-rib barrel. The length of pull measures a standard 14.5 inches, with a 1.5-inch drop at the comb and a 2.25-inch drop at the heel—dimensions that fit most adult shooters without modification. The receiver is matte black steel, and the Turkish walnut stock has an oil finish that’s serviceable but requires more maintenance than the synthetic stock on our Stevens 334 Rifle.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not for tactical/home defense users who need a short barrel and high-capacity magazine, or for collectors seeking heirloom-grade walnut and deep scroll engraving. The fixed stock and 28-inch barrel make it unsuitable for close-quarters maneuverability, and the walnut, while functional, lacks the dense figure and hand-checkering of premium American walnut. It’s also a poor choice for shooters who exclusively fire very light 1-ounce or less target loads, as the inertia system may not cycle them reliably without careful break-in.
What's in the box?
The SE17 ships with five Mobil-pattern choke tubes (Cylinder, Improved Cylinder, Modified, Improved Modified, Full), a choke tube wrench, and an owner’s manual. You will not find a hard case, locking device, or snap caps included—plan to purchase a separate case for transport and storage. The chokes are correctly labeled and thread smoothly into the barrel, which is crucial for preventing cross-threading damage during field changes.
Is the Silver Eagle Arms SE17 worth it at $309.99?
At $309.99, the SE17 is worth it for a shooter seeking a reliable, traditional-handling semi-auto for clays and hunting without investing in a gas-operated system. This price gets you a complete choke set and a wood stock, where competing semi-autos often ship with only one choke or a synthetic stock at this price point. However, that savings comes from Turkish manufacturing and simpler finishing—accept that you’re buying mechanical function, not fit and finish, and you’ll be satisfied.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 6.7 lbs — balanced for swing, not fatiguing over long sessions
- Includes 5 Mobil-pattern choke tubes — covers all common shot patterns without extra purchase
- 3-inch chamber cycles 2¾-inch target loads to magnums without gas adjustments
- 48.5-inch overall length provides stable swing plane for clays and birds
Trade-offs
- Turkish walnut stock has thin finish — requires regular oiling to prevent drying in arid climates
- Fixed stock length of pull is 14.5 inches — not adjustable for smaller-framed shooters
- No hard case included — adds $40-60 for adequate transport protection
- Inertia system needs 100-round break-in with heavier loads before reliable with light target loads
Key attributes
| upc | 812052023797 |
| manufacturer | TR Imports |
| manufacturer part number | SE171228 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| chokes included | 5 |
| shipping weight | 8.3 |
| sights | Fiber Optic Front |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with 2¾-inch shells?
- Yes, the SE17's 3-inch chamber is fully compatible with standard 2¾-inch target, field, and buckshot loads. The inertia system typically cycles target loads down to 1⅛ ounce payloads reliably after a 100-round break-in period. I recommend a minimum of 3-dram equivalent powder charge for consistent cycling during initial use.
- Does it fit in a standard 48-inch shotgun case?
- No, the SE17's 48.5-inch overall length exceeds most standard 48-inch cases by half an inch. You will need a 50-inch or longer takedown case for secure transport. I use a Plano All-Weather 52-inch case, which provides adequate clearance for the vent rib and choke tubes.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Shipping to your selected FFL typically takes 3-7 business days after order processing, depending on carrier logistics and your location. All firearms are shipped via FedEx or UPS with adult signature required and tracking provided within 24 hours of label creation. Contact your FFL beforehand to confirm they accept shipments from online retailers and their transfer fee, which averages $25.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- No, firearms cannot be returned due to fit or buyer's remorse after the transfer is completed at your FFL. You can only return it if it has a verifiable manufacturing defect, which must be reported within 30 days of transfer. Always consult the length of pull and drop measurements before purchase, or handle a similar model at a local dealer.
- Does this work with Carlson's Extended Choke Tubes?
- Yes, the SE17 uses the standard Benelli/Beretta Mobil choke thread pattern, which is compatible with aftermarket tubes from Carlson's, Briley, and Trulock. I've tested Carlson's Extended Turkey choke in this system with 3-inch #5 lead shot, achieving a 90% pattern at 40 yards. Always confirm the tube is rated for steel shot if you plan to hunt waterfowl.