The Ultimate Guide to the CZ-USA Redhead Premier 12 Gauge Over/Under Shotgun: A Versatile Choice for Field and Range

Are you searching for a high-performance, reliable, and aesthetically pleasing over/under shotgun that won't break the bank? Do you need a versatile firearm that excels whether you're chasing pheasants across golden fields or competing in a challenging round of sporting clays? For discerning shooters who demand quality and features typically found on much higher-priced models, the CZ-USA Redhead Premier 12 Gauge Over/Under shotgun stands out as an exceptional choice. This comprehensive guide will explore why the Redhead Premier has become the flagship of CZ-USA's over/under lineup and how it can elevate your shooting experience.

Why Choose an Over/Under Shotgun? The Redhead Premier's Advantage

Over/under shotguns are revered for their balance, slim profile, and inherent reliability. Unlike semi-automatics, there are no gas systems or cycling mechanisms to malfunction, making them incredibly dependable. The CZ-USA Redhead Premier takes these inherent advantages and enhances them with premium features. It's an ideal option for anyone asking:

• "What's the best shotgun for both hunting and clay target shooting?"
• "I'm looking for a durable and reliable break-action shotgun."
• "Which over/under shotgun offers the most value for its price?"

The Redhead Premier answers these questions with its robust construction, thoughtful design, and performance-driven specifications. It's a firearm that seasoned hunters and competitive shooters respect, while also being accessible and manageable for those newer to the sport. Its design prioritizes a smooth swing, consistent patterns, and a comfortable shooting experience, making long days in the field or at the range enjoyable.

Unpacking the Features: What Makes the Redhead Premier Shine?

The CZ-USA Redhead Premier 12 Gauge shotgun, identified by UPC 806703064703, is engineered with meticulous attention to detail, boasting a suite of features that contribute to its outstanding performance and longevity.

The Heart of the Shotgun: One-Piece CNC Machined Receiver

At the core of the Redhead Premier's renowned durability and precision is its one-piece CNC machined receiver. This isn't just a fancy term; it signifies superior manufacturing. Unlike receivers made from multiple pieces or less precise casting methods, a single piece of steel machined to exact tolerances offers:

• Unrivaled Strength: A solid block of steel minimizes weak points and enhances structural integrity, crucial for absorbing the forces of repeated firing.
• Exceptional Durability: This robust construction ensures the shotgun can withstand harsh environmental conditions and years of active use, maintaining its tight lock-up and reliability.
• Perfect Alignment: Precision machining guarantees that all internal components fit perfectly, leading to smoother operation, consistent trigger pulls, and reliable barrel alignment for optimal shot patterns.

The satin chrome finish on the receiver not only provides an elegant, subdued aesthetic but also offers practical benefits. It's highly resistant to corrosion and wear, making the Redhead Premier an excellent companion in various weather conditions, from damp hunting blinds to dusty shooting ranges.

Versatility in the Field: 26" Barrels with Vent Rib and 3" Chambers

The 26-inch barrels are a sweet spot for versatility. They offer an excellent balance between maneuverability in tight cover, like grouse woods or duck blinds, and sufficient length for a smooth swing on fast-moving targets, whether they are clay pigeons or flushing pheasants.

• Vent Rib: The elevated vent rib aids in quick target acquisition and provides a clear, uncluttered sight picture, essential for instinctive shooting. It also dissipates heat, reducing mirage effect during extended shooting sessions.
• 3" Chambers: The ability to chamber 3-inch shells significantly expands the shotgun's utility. While 2 ¾-inch shells are standard for most clay shooting and upland hunting, 3-inch magnum shells are invaluable for longer-range shots on ducks, geese, or turkeys, delivering more payload and energy downrange. This capability makes the Redhead Premier a true all-around performer.

Reloading Efficiency: Selectable Barrels and Independent Auto-Ejectors

These features enhance the shooting experience, particularly in fast-paced scenarios:

• Mechanical Trigger Selectable for Barrel: The mechanical trigger system ensures reliability, even with light loads, which can sometimes be an issue with inertia-driven triggers. The ability to select which barrel fires first (typically controlled by a safety-mounted switch) allows the shooter to choose the optimal choke for the shot. For instance, you might use a more open choke in the first barrel for close flushing birds and a tighter choke in the second for follow-up shots at distance. This adaptability is key for maximizing your effectiveness in diverse shooting situations.
• Independent Auto-Ejectors: After firing, the independent auto-ejectors forcefully kick out spent casings, clearing the chambers instantly. This feature is a huge time-saver, allowing for incredibly fast reloads, which is critical during a flurry of birds or in competitive shooting where every second counts. Unlike extractors that merely lift the shells, ejectors completely remove them, preventing fumbling and ensuring smooth operation.

Precision and Adaptability: The Included Choke Set

The Redhead Premier comes with a comprehensive set of five extended chokes:

• Full (F): Delivers the tightest pattern for long-range shots.
• Improved Modified (IM): A tighter pattern than Modified, ideal for slightly longer distances.
• Modified (M): A versatile mid-range choke, excellent for many hunting scenarios and clay targets.
• Improved Cylinder (IC): Provides a more open pattern for closer shots.
• Cylinder (C): The most open choke, best for very close range, brush hunting, or large patterns.

This selection allows shooters to fine-tune their shot patterns for specific targets and distances. Whether you're hunting fast-flying doves with an Improved Cylinder or taking a long-range pheasant shot with a Modified, the Redhead Premier ensures you have the right tool for the job. Changing chokes is quick and easy, providing unparalleled flexibility.

Ergonomics and Aesthetics: Turkish Walnut Stock

The beauty and feel of a firearm's stock significantly impact the shooting experience. The Redhead Premier features a Turkish walnut stock, renowned for its rich grain patterns, durability, and classic appearance. Beyond aesthetics:

• Superior Feel: Walnut provides a natural, warm grip that synthetic stocks often lack, enhancing comfort and control.
• Traditional Elegance: The gloss black finish of the metalwork perfectly complements the deep hues of the walnut, creating a sophisticated and timeless look.
• Length of Pull (LOP) 14.5": This standard LOP accommodates a wide range of shooters, providing a comfortable and natural mount for consistent target acquisition. For most adult shooters, a 14.5" LOP allows for proper gun fit and reduces felt recoil.

Performance in Action: Where the Redhead Premier Excels

The CZ-USA Redhead Premier is not just a collection of impressive features; it's a performer designed for real-world scenarios.

Upland Hunting Companion

For the upland hunter pursuing pheasant, grouse, quail, or chukar, the Redhead Premier is an ideal partner. Its balance and moderate weight (7.7 lbs) make it comfortable to carry over long walks, reducing fatigue. The 26" barrels are maneuverable enough for fast-flushing birds in thick cover, while the selectable barrels and varied choke options allow for quick adjustments based on the terrain and shot distance. The robust construction and satin chrome finish are built to withstand the rigors of field use, from dusty trails to damp mornings.

Clay Target Dominator

Whether you're breaking clays on the trap, skeet, or sporting clays course, the Redhead Premier delivers consistent results.

• Sporting Clays: The versatility of the choke system and selectable barrels makes it perfectly suited for the varied presentations found in sporting clays. You can quickly switch between tight and open chokes to tackle everything from rabbit targets to high overheads.
• Trap & Skeet: Its solid construction, smooth swing, and reliable mechanical trigger provide the consistency needed for high scores in these disciplined events. The auto-ejectors ensure rapid reloading for squads.

Reliability and Maintenance

One of the often-cited benefits of an over/under shotgun, and particularly the Redhead Premier, is its inherent reliability and ease of maintenance. With fewer moving parts compared to semi-automatic shotguns, there's less to go wrong and less to clean. Basic cleaning involves breaking the gun down, wiping down the barrels and action with a good solvent, and applying a light coat of oil. The robust build quality of the Redhead Premier means it will reliably cycle thousands of rounds with proper care, providing years of trouble-free service.

Is the CZ-USA Redhead Premier the Right Shotgun for You?

Considering an investment in a new shotgun? Here are common questions prospective buyers ask and how the Redhead Premier provides compelling answers:

• "What's a good entry-level over/under with quality features?" The Redhead Premier offers features usually found on premium shotguns, making it an excellent value for those looking for a high-quality O/U without an exorbitant price tag.
• "How does the CZ Redhead Premier compare to other shotguns in its price range?" It consistently stands out due to its CNC machined receiver, independent auto-ejectors, and robust mechanical trigger, features often absent in competitors at a similar price point.
• "Can this shotgun handle different types of shooting?" Absolutely. Its 3-inch chambers, five included chokes, and balanced design make it equally adept at upland hunting, waterfowl hunting, and all forms of clay target shooting.
• "Is it comfortable to shoot?" The Turkish walnut stock and balanced weight contribute to comfortable handling and reduced felt recoil, especially important during long shooting sessions.

The CZ-USA Redhead Premier 12 Gauge over/under shotgun is a testament to CZ-USA's commitment to delivering quality firearms. It represents a harmonious blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern engineering, resulting in a shotgun that is both beautiful and exceptionally functional. For anyone seeking a versatile, reliable, and high-performing shotgun that offers outstanding value, the Redhead Premier is a compelling choice available through reputable dealers like DEGuns.com. Its ability to serve as a faithful companion in the field and a consistent performer on the range solidifies its position as a top-tier option for a wide range of shooting enthusiasts.

CZ-USA Redhead Premier 12 Gauge Specifications

Feature	Detail
UPC	806703064703
Gauge	12 Gauge
Action	Break Action Over/Under
Barrel Length	26 inches with Vent Rib
Chamber Size	3 inches
Capacity	2 Rounds
Receiver	One-Piece CNC Machined, Satin Chrome Finish
Ejectors	Independent Auto-Ejectors
Trigger	Mechanical, Selectable for Barrel
Chokes Included	5 (Full, Improved Modified, Modified, Improved Cylinder, Cylinder)
Stock Material	Turkish Walnut
Length of Pull (LOP)	14.5 inches
Overall Length (OAL)	43.75 inches
Weight	7.7 lbs
Finish	Gloss Black (Metalwork)