First Look: Escort Shotguns Optima Over/Under

by
posted on March 12, 2025
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
Optima OU Shotguns

Escort Shotguns has released its Optima Over/Under (O/U) Shotgun, a firearm designed for versatility, durability and value. Available in 12-gauge, 20-gauge, and 28-gauge, the Optima O/U is a great choice for hunters and sport shooters looking for reliability and adaptability across various shooting applications.

Black Engraved Optima 1

The 28-gauge model features a 26-inch barrel and 2 3/4-inch (70mm) chamber, making it perfect for lighter loads and precision shooting, while the 12-gauge and 20-gauge models come with a 28-inch barrel and 3-inch (76mm) chamber, providing a versatile option for a variety of hunting and target sports. Whether aiming for upland game, clay targets, turkeys or waterfowl, the Optima delivers when it matters.

Optima Silver Engraved 1

A particularly interesting innovation of the Optima O/U is its "Easy Adjust" Action System. This system allows users to adjust the force required to open the action and eject spent shells, making reloading faster, easier and more tailored to the individual shooter. This can come in handy during high-paced shooting sessions.

Optima Black Engraved 2

The Optima O/U is built to last, featuring an aluminum receiver across all models, with a steel receiver option available for the 12-gauge for added strength. The aluminum models are equipped with an extractor system, while the steel receiver 12-gauge models come with a powerful ejector system, helping with quick follow-up shots. The multi-choke system further adds to the shotgun’s versatility, enabling shooters to easily switch chokes for different shot patterns depending on shooting scenario.

Optima Silver Engraved 2

Aesthetically, the Optima O/U stands out with its elegant black and silver finishes complemented by fine engraving on the receiver. The shotgun is also outfitted with a select Turkish walnut stock and fore-end, rubber recoil pad, 7x7mm ventilated rib and a fiber-optic front sight for improved accuracy.

Black Engraved full rifle on white

To learn more about the new Optima Shotguns from Escort, visit escortshotgunsusa.com.

Features at a Glance:

  • 12-gauge & 20-gauge Models: 28" Barrel, 3” (76mm) chamber
  • 28-gauge Model: 26" Barrel, 2 3/4" (70mm) chamber
  • "Easy Adjust" Action System for faster reloading
  • Aluminum Receiver (Steel option for 12-gauge)
  • Extractor System (aluminum) / Ejector System (steel)
  • Elegant Silver and Black Engraved Finish
  • Select Turkish Walnut Stock and For-end
  • Multi-Choke System

Latest

Scott Olmsted
Scott Olmsted

Says You: Trail Camera Overkill?

Editor-in-Chief Scott Olmsted's monthly response column to questions posed by our members. This week, we're discussing mountain lions, poaching and trail camera use.

New for 2026: Trijicon SRO Green Dot

Trijicon has announced a 2.5 MOA, Green Dot version of the SRO reflex sight. The new model will be available in Black and Coyote Brown anodized finishes.

More Than $6.6 Million in Tribal Wildlife Grants to Advance Conservation

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) is awarding more than $6.6 million to federally recognized Native American and Alaska Native tribes to benefit fish and wildlife resources and their habitats. This year’s funding will support 35 tribes for conservation projects across 15 states, benefiting a wide range of wildlife and habitat, including species of cultural or traditional importance to Indigenous communities.

Hardware Review: TriStar KR.22

TriStar is noted for shotguns, but Bryce Towsley recently received a test gun from them that’s much different. Check out his review on the TriStar KR.22.

New for 2026: Browning Trail Cameras' Security Tree Strap

Browning Trail Cameras has released a Security Tree Strap, a durable and dependable mounting solution to keep trail cameras in place in nearly any environment.

Proof Research Introduces PXT Rifle Barrel Technology

Proof Research has launched Proof Exponential Twist (PXT), an advancement in rifling that promises to improve durability, accuracy and shootability. Further, Proof has backed this new technology with extensive military testing and research. Engineered to meet the demands of modern high-pressure ammunition, PXT is billed as delivering longer barrel life, improved consistency and enhanced performance.  

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.