Upland hunting is often considered a “gentlemen’s sport,” associated with fancy, engraved shotguns. However, shotguns are becoming more readily accessible to the everyday hunter. If you're in the market for a new upland gun, check out these great new options introduced at the 2020 SHOT Show.
1. Winchester Model 101 Light
Winchester’s new Model 101 Light utilizes the same stock design as the original, but adds the conveniences of modern technology for a more satisfying shooting experience, and is more than a pound lighter than other 101 models. The low-profile receiver means that the recoil occurs in-line and allows the shooter to make faster follow-up shots with less muzzle jump. A Pachmayr recoil pad prevents you from being beat up and has a snag-free heel to allow for quick and easy shouldering. Every Model 101 comes with a durable ABS hard case and a set of five Invector-Plus choke tubes. MSRP: $1,869.99; winchesterguns.com.
2. Franchi Affinity 3 Elite Upland
Franchi is well-known for its over/unders and exceptional attention to detail. Backing on the success of the Affinity 3 Elite designed for waterfowlers, Franchi has redesigned the Affinity for the upland hunter. The Affinity 3 Elite Upland semi-automatic shotgun brings a new look to the fields. Available in 12- or 20-gauge, this shotgun is perfect for any hunter. The barrel and receiver have a Gun Metal Gray Cerakote to protect the metal from the elements and abrasions. The buttstock is made from Grade A walnut and sports a TSA recoil pad to save your shoulder and reduce felt recoil. Oversized and textured bolt controls, along with an enlarged loading port ease operation with gloves in wet or cold conditions. The inertia-driven action is designed to excel in the harshest conditions and delivers a super reliable semi-automatic action that requires fewer parts and less maintenance. MSRP: $1,249; franchiusa.com.
3. ATI Crusader Field
American Tactical has always pushed the limits of technology with their over/unders and side-by-sides, making them a serious competitor in that field. The Crusader Field is no different. It features 26-inch barrels, and the Turkish walnut stock has an oiled finish to give it a beautiful shine and make it stand out in the field. Like most over/unders, the Crusader has extractors but does not have ejectors. It comes with a full set of choke tubes and is available in 12-, 20-, and 28-gauge, as well as .410-bore. MSRP: $499.95; americantactical.us.
4. TriStar Trinity
TriStar has consistently come out with quality firearms that the everyday person can afford. Last year it was the TT-15, and this year, it is the Trinity. The Trinity is the mid-level over/under that fills the gap between the Setter S/T and the TT-15 lines. The receivers have some beautiful engraving work, along with gold inlay on the receiver. The oil-finished Turkish walnut stocks add to the beauty of a functional shotgun that will serve you for years to come in the field. Each Trinity comes with a set of five choke tubes to suit any sporting or hunting endeavor. MSRP: $685; tristararms.com.
