Stevens 555 28 Gauge Over/Under Shotgun: The Ultimate Lightweight Field & Sporting Companion

Are you searching for a versatile, reliable, and beautifully crafted over/under shotgun that won't weigh you down during a long day in the field or on the range? Do you need a firearm that offers superior handling, reduced recoil, and classic aesthetics, making it perfect for both seasoned enthusiasts and those new to the sport? The Stevens 555 28 Gauge Over/Under Shotgun (SKU: 22167) stands out as an exceptional choice, engineered to meet the demands of discerning shooters who value performance, portability, and timeless design.

This exquisite 28-gauge shotgun from Stevens, a brand renowned for producing quality firearms, is a testament to the idea that a high-performing shotgun can also be light and elegant. Whether your passion lies in upland game hunting, competitive skeet, or enjoying a day of sporting clays, the Stevens 555 in 28 gauge delivers a superior shooting experience.

Why Choose a 28 Gauge Shotgun? The Perfect Balance of Power and Comfort

Many shooters often ask, "What's the best gauge for bird hunting?" or "Which shotgun offers the most comfortable shooting experience?" The 28 gauge is frequently overlooked but provides an ideal answer for many scenarios. It strikes a remarkable balance, offering:

• Significantly Reduced Recoil: Compared to 12 or 20 gauge shotguns, the 28 gauge produces considerably less felt recoil. This makes the Stevens 555 an excellent option for:
  • New Shooters: Easing them into the sport without the intimidation of heavy recoil.
  • Youth and Women: Providing a more comfortable and manageable shooting platform, encouraging longer practice sessions and greater enjoyment.
  • Experienced Shooters: Reducing fatigue during high-volume shooting days at the range or during extended hunts.
• Nimble Handling and Quick Target Acquisition: The smaller bore and lighter ammunition contribute to a shotgun that swings effortlessly and points naturally. This agility is crucial when tracking fast-moving targets like doves, quail, or clay pigeons.
• Effective Patterns: Despite its smaller size, a 28 gauge, when paired with appropriate loads and chokes, delivers surprisingly effective and dense patterns for its intended purposes. It’s more than capable of cleanly taking upland birds and breaking clays.

The Stevens 555 leverages these inherent advantages of the 28 gauge, presenting them in a finely tuned over/under platform.

The Stevens 555 Over/Under Advantage: A Blend of Tradition and Innovation

The over/under shotgun design is revered for its inherent balance, simplicity, and reliability. The Stevens 555 takes these classic attributes and enhances them with modern materials and thoughtful engineering.

• Traditional Break-Open Action: The robust break-open action is time-tested for its dependability and ease of loading/unloading. It offers a single, clean sight picture, free from the distractions of moving parts often found in semi-automatic or pump-action designs.
• Lightweight Aluminum Alloy Receiver: A key feature contributing to the Stevens 555's exceptional portability is its lightweight aluminum alloy receiver. Finished in a sleek black semi-gloss, this receiver significantly reduces the overall weight of the shotgun to a mere 5.50 lbs. This answers the common question, "What's a good lightweight shotgun for hunting?" or "Which over/under is easiest to carry all day?" Its reduced weight minimizes shooter fatigue, allowing for longer, more comfortable days afield or at the range.
• Elegant Oiled Turkish Walnut Stock: The Stevens 555 doesn't just perform well; it looks the part too. It features a stunning oiled Turkish walnut stock, known for its beautiful grain patterns and durability. The stock is meticulously checkered, providing a secure and comfortable grip even in adverse conditions. This aesthetic appeal, combined with ergonomic design, elevates the shooting experience.
• Ambidextrous Hand Orientation: Designed with versatility in mind, the Stevens 555 boasts an ambidextrous stock and controls, ensuring comfortable and efficient handling for both right-handed and left-handed shooters. This inclusive design means more individuals can comfortably and confidently wield this superb firearm.

Unpacking Key Features & Performance Enhancements

Every component of the Stevens 555 28 Gauge is meticulously chosen to optimize its performance and user experience.

• 26" Chrome-Lined Vent Rib Barrel:
  • Optimal Barrel Length: The 26-inch barrel length is a sweet spot for the 28 gauge, offering excellent maneuverability in thick cover during hunts while providing enough swing weight for smooth follow-through on clays. This length helps in questions like "What barrel length is best for a versatile shotgun?"
  • Vent Rib Design: The ventilated rib provides a flat, elevated sighting plane, aiding in quick and consistent target acquisition. It also assists in dissipating heat during rapid firing, preventing mirage effects that could obscure your sight picture.
  • Chrome Lined: The chrome-lined bore significantly enhances durability, resisting corrosion and making cleaning considerably easier. This is a crucial feature for longevity and low maintenance, addressing concerns about "how to easily clean a shotgun barrel."
• Versatile Multi-Choke System (5 Chokes Included):
  • One of the most valuable assets of the Stevens 555 is its comprehensive set of five interchangeable Multi-Choke chokes: Full (F), Improved Modified (IM), Modified (M), Improved Cylinder (IC), and Cylinder (C). This full complement of chokes allows the shooter to precisely tailor the shot pattern to the specific shooting scenario, whether it's tight patterns for distant targets or wider spreads for close-range flushing birds.
  • Applications:
    • Cylinder (C): Widest spread, ideal for very close ranges, brush hunting, or skeet.
    • Improved Cylinder (IC): Slightly tighter than Cylinder, excellent for close-to-medium range upland game or first shots on sporting clays.
    • Modified (M): A good all-around choke for mid-range targets, effective for various hunting and clay shooting disciplines.
    • Improved Modified (IM): Tighter than Modified, suitable for longer shots on game or second shots on sporting clays.
    • Full (F): Tightest pattern, reserved for long-range targets or specific hunting scenarios requiring maximum reach.
  • This versatility answers the question, "Which shotgun chokes should I use for different types of hunting or clay shooting?"
• Single Selective Mechanical Trigger: The Stevens 555 features a reliable single selective mechanical trigger. This design allows the shooter to choose which barrel fires first, a crucial capability in an over/under shotgun. Mechanical triggers are known for their consistency and reliability, less susceptible to light primer strikes than inertia-driven systems, ensuring a crisp and predictable break every time.
• Bead Sight: A simple yet highly effective bead sight is mounted on the barrel, providing a clear and unobtrusive aiming point that aligns naturally with the shooter's eye for intuitive target leading.
• Tang Safety: The intuitive tang-mounted safety is easily accessible with the thumb, allowing for quick and secure manipulation before and after shooting.

Who is the Stevens 555 For? Common Questions Answered

• "What's the best shotgun for quail or dove hunting?" The Stevens 555 28 Gauge is ideally suited for upland bird hunting. Its lightweight design makes it easy to carry all day, the 28 gauge offers sufficient power with low recoil for fast-flying birds, and the interchangeable chokes allow for perfect pattern selection based on the environment.
• "Is the Stevens 555 a good shotgun for sporting clays or skeet?" Absolutely. Its balance, quick-pointing characteristics, and the advantage of the 28 gauge's low recoil make it a fantastic choice for breaking clays on the sporting clays course or skeet field. The multiple chokes ensure adaptability to various target presentations.
• "Which shotgun is best for new shooters or smaller individuals?" The Stevens 555's 28 gauge chambering, combined with its ergonomic design and manageable 5.50 lbs weight, makes it an outstanding entry-level over/under shotgun. It offers a comfortable introduction to shooting sports without the discomfort of heavy recoil, fostering confidence and enjoyment. The 14.57" Length of Pull (LOP) is also designed for comfortable fit for a wide range of shooters.
• "Are lightweight shotguns durable?" Yes, the Stevens 555's aluminum alloy receiver is designed for durability and longevity, despite its lighter weight. Paired with a robust blued finish and chrome-lined barrels, it's built to withstand the rigors of field use and provide years of reliable performance.
• "What are the benefits of a Turkish walnut stock?" Beyond its undeniable beauty, Turkish walnut is prized for its strength, stability, and ability to be finely checkered for superior grip. Its natural properties also contribute to vibration absorption, enhancing shooting comfort.
• "Where can I buy a reliable Stevens 555 shotgun?" The Stevens 555, including this versatile 28 gauge model, is available at reputable firearms dealers like DEGuns.com. When seeking a new firearm, trusting a knowledgeable and well-stocked retailer like DEGuns ensures you receive a genuine product with excellent customer support.

Durability, Design, and Ergonomics in Harmony

The Stevens 555 28 Gauge is more than just a collection of features; it's a cohesive system designed for superior user experience. The black semi-gloss finish on both the barrel and receiver provides a durable, low-glare surface that complements the rich tones of the oiled Turkish walnut stock. The precision checkering on the stock and forend ensures a firm, non-slip grip, even with gloves or in wet conditions.

Its overall length (OAL) of 43.31 inches and a balanced weight of 5.50 lbs make it exceptionally easy to handle and carry during long treks across fields or through dense brush. This attention to ergonomic detail ensures that the shooter remains comfortable and fatigue-free, enhancing accuracy and overall enjoyment. The 2.75" chamber is standard for 28 gauge shells, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of available ammunition.

The Stevens Legacy and Unbeatable Value

Stevens has a long-standing history of producing dependable and affordable firearms. The 555 series embodies this legacy, offering a well-built, feature-rich over/under shotgun that represents exceptional value in its category. For shooters looking for a blend of classic aesthetics, modern lightweight construction, and versatile performance without breaking the bank, the Stevens 555 28 Gauge (UPC: 011356221674) presents an compelling proposition. It’s a firearm that will not only perform reliably but will also be a source of pride for years to come.

Investing in a Stevens 555 means acquiring a shotgun that excels across multiple disciplines – from the field to the range – and caters to a diverse range of shooters. Its design prioritizes ease of use, comfort, and adaptability, making it an intelligent choice for anyone seeking a high-quality 28 gauge over/under shotgun.

Comprehensive Specifications

Feature	Detail
Brand	Stevens
Model	555
SKU / MPN	22167
UPC	011356221674
Gauge	28 Gauge
Capacity	2rd (Max 2)
Action	Break Open
Barrel Length	26"
Chamber	2.75"
Barrel Description	Chrome Lined Vent Rib
Barrel Finish	Black Semi-Gloss
Receiver Material	Aluminum
Receiver Finish	Black Semi-Gloss
Stock Material	Wood
Stock Finish	Oiled Turkish Walnut
Stock Finish Group	Brown
Hand	Ambidextrous
Sights	Bead
Trigger	Single Selective Mechanical
Safety	Tang
Overall Length (OAL)	43.31"
Length of Pull	14.57"
Weight	5.50 lbs
Application	Field
Chokes Included	Full, Improved Mod, Modified, Improved Cylinder, Cylinder (5 Multi-Chokes)