Description
For the upland hunter or clay target shooter who values a lightweight, responsive platform, the ATI Cavalry Over/Under in 28 gauge offers a refreshing alternative to heavier 12-gauge models. This shotgun, built around a 26-inch barrel and a Turkish walnut stock, is designed to carry well through a day in the field while delivering reliable performance on everything from quail to skeet. Whether you are working a pointing dog in the Midwest or breaking clays at your local range, this over/under provides a balanced, classic feel without unnecessary weight.
Product Overview and Intended Audience
The ATI Cavalry Over/Under 28Ga 26″ 3″ is a traditional break-action shotgun manufactured by American Tactical Imports (ATI). It is chambered for 28-gauge shells with a 3-inch chamber, allowing you to shoot both 2 ¾-inch and 3-inch loads. This firearm is intended for shooters who prioritize quick handling and reduced recoil, making it a strong fit for upland bird hunting, small game, and recreational target shooting. It is not marketed as a tactical or home defense shotgun—its design is rooted in field and range use. Collectors will also appreciate the Turkish walnut stock and clean lines, though this is a working gun built for regular use.
Key Specifications
- Caliber: 28 Gauge (3-inch chamber)
- Action: Over/Under break-action
- Barrel Length: 26 inches
- Overall Length: Approximately 42 inches
- Barrel Finish: Blued steel
- Receiver: Aluminum alloy with a silver or matte finish
- Stock: Turkish walnut with a pistol grip and checkered forend
- Weight: Approximately 6.5 to 7.0 pounds (unloaded)
- Chokes: Typically includes multiple screw-in choke tubes (IC, M, F or similar set)
- Sights: Front bead sight (brass or fiber optic)
- Capacity: 2 rounds (1 in each barrel)
- Safety: Manual tang-mounted safety selector
Feature Deep-Dive
The ATI Cavalry’s 26-inch barrels strike a practical balance between swing speed and sight radius. For a 28-gauge shotgun, this length provides enough forward weight to maintain a smooth swing on crossing targets, while remaining short enough for maneuvering in dense brush or thickets. The 3-inch chamber gives you the option to use heavier loads for larger game like pheasant or turkey, though the 28-gauge is best known for its mild recoil and efficient pattern on smaller birds. The aluminum receiver keeps the overall weight low—typically under seven pounds—which reduces fatigue during long walks or extended shooting sessions.
Turkish walnut is a material commonly found on higher-end shotguns, and ATI uses it here to provide a durable, attractive stock set. The wood is finished with a semi-gloss lacquer that resists moisture and handling marks, while the cut checkering on the pistol grip and forend gives you a secure hold even with gloved hands. The stock also features a ventilated rubber recoil pad, which helps absorb some of the felt recoil from magnum loads. The forend is designed with a slight beavertail shape, offering a comfortable palm swell that aids in consistent hand placement.
The barrel set includes a ventilated rib that runs the full length of the barrels, reducing heat mirage and providing a flat sighting plane. This rib is topped with a single brass bead front sight—simple, reliable, and easy to pick up in low light. The screw-in choke system allows you to adjust your pattern for different distances and target types. The set typically includes Improved Cylinder, Modified, and Full chokes, giving you flexibility from close-flushing quail to longer-range clays. Changing chokes is straightforward with the included choke wrench.
Mechanically, the Cavalry uses a boxlock action with single selective trigger. The tang-mounted safety selector doubles as the barrel selector—push it to the left or right to choose which barrel fires first. This is a standard feature on many over/unders and gives you control over your shot sequence. The ejectors are automatic, meaning spent shells are thrown clear of the action, while unfired shells are lifted for easy removal. The action locks up tight with a sturdy underlug system, and the break-open action is smooth right out of the box. The trigger pull is crisp and consistent, with minimal creep.
Durability is addressed through the blued steel barrels and anodized aluminum receiver. The aluminum receiver keeps weight down without sacrificing structural integrity for the pressures generated by 28-gauge loads. The barrel-to-receiver fit is tight, and the hinge pin is machined for long-term reliability. While this is not a competition-grade shotgun, the build quality is appropriate for a field gun in this price range. The finish on the barrels is evenly applied and resists rust well when properly maintained. The overall fit and finish are clean, with no sharp edges or tool marks visible on the wood or metal.
Ideal Use Cases
This shotgun is best suited for upland bird hunting, where its light weight and 28-gauge chambering make it a natural choice for pursuing quail, grouse, partridge, and woodcock. The 26-inch barrel and open chokes provide quick handling in thick cover, while the 3-inch chamber allows for occasional use on pheasant or turkey with appropriate loads. It is also a strong option for recreational clay shooting, particularly on skeet fields or for casual trap rounds. The low recoil makes it a good fit for new shooters or those who prefer a gentler shooting experience. It is not intended for home defense, concealed carry, or high-volume competition use.
Compatibility Notes
- Ammunition: Accepts 28-gauge shells in 2 ¾-inch and 3-inch lengths. Use standard field loads for most hunting and target work. Steel shot is not recommended unless the chokes are specifically marked for steel.
- Chokes: Uses standard Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke tube threads (common pattern). Aftermarket chokes from brands like Carlson’s or Trulock are compatible if they match this thread pattern.
- Accessories: The receiver is drilled and tapped for a scope mount or rail, though most users will rely on the bead sight. A sling swivel stud is installed on the forend cap; the stock may require a stud for rear attachment. Hard and soft cases for 26-inch barrel shotguns will fit.
- Holsters/Mags: Not applicable. This is a break-action shotgun with no detachable magazine or holster compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How does shipping work for U.S. customers?
We ship to all states where this shotgun is legal. Once your order is placed and your FFL dealer’s information is confirmed, we typically ship within 1-3 business days via UPS or FedEx. You will receive a tracking number once the package is in transit.
2. What is the FFL transfer process?
You must select a licensed Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer in your state to receive the shotgun. We will ship it directly to that dealer. You then visit the dealer, complete the ATF Form 4473, and pass the background check. The dealer will charge a transfer fee, which is not included in our price. We cannot ship to a residential address.
3. What ammunition is compatible with this shotgun?
This shotgun is chambered for 28-gauge shells with a maximum length of 3 inches. You can safely shoot 2 ¾-inch and 3-inch loads. For best performance on clays and small game, use standard lead shot loads. Avoid using steel shot unless the choke tubes you install are specifically rated for steel. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines printed on the barrel.
4. What warranty does ATI provide?
American Tactical Imports (ATI) offers a limited lifetime warranty to the original owner against defects in materials and workmanship. This covers the receiver, barrels, and stock under normal use. The warranty does not cover damage from misuse, improper ammunition, or unauthorized modifications. To file a claim, contact ATI customer service directly with your proof of purchase.
5. What is your return policy for this shotgun?
We accept returns on unused, unfired firearms within 30 days of delivery. The shotgun must be in its original packaging with all accessories. Once received and inspected, we will issue a refund minus a 15% restocking fee and any shipping costs. Firearms that have been fired or show signs of use cannot be returned. If you receive a defective firearm, please contact us immediately to arrange a warranty claim with ATI.
Closing Call to Action
The ATI Cavalry Over/Under 28Ga 26″ 3″ is ready to ship to your local FFL dealer. If you are looking for a lightweight, well-balanced shotgun for upland hunting or clay shooting, this model offers solid construction and classic lines at a practical price point. Order now and we will handle the shipping to your licensed dealer anywhere in the United States.




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