News ESCORT Optima Over/Under Shotgun [NEW] David Lane July 30, 2025 Join the Conversation At RECOIL, we review every product fairly and without bias. Making a purchase through one of our links may earn us a small commission, and helps support independent gun reviews. Read our affiliate policy. Find out more about how we test products. NOW AVAILABLE: ESCORT’s Optima Over/Under shotgun line! Announced at SHOT 2025, these budget-priced shotguns are now shipping to dealers and retailers.ESCORT’s Optima Over/Under shotgun is being offered in 12, 20, and 28 gauge variants, built around a shared aluminum receiver platform. A steel receiver option is also available in 12 gauge for those who want the added weight and durability. Barrel lengths vary by gauge: the 28 gauge ships with a 26-inch barrel and 2 ¾” chamber, while the 20 and 12 GA models use 28-inch barrels and 3″ chambers.One nice feature is ESCORT’s “Easy Adjust” action system, which allows users to tune the resistance required to break open the shotgun. That adjustment also affects the force of ejection, which can make a difference in faster-paced clay sports or field use. The aluminum-receiver models come standard with an extractor system that lifts spent shells. In contrast, the steel 12 gauge version includes an ejector setup for more aggressive shell clearance.Aesthetics haven’t been ignored. The Optima O/U is available in black or silver finishes, with laser-engraved details on the receiver for a traditional look. A multi-choke system is standard, and the gun ships with interchangeable chokes to accommodate a range of game and target scenarios from upland birds to buckshot. The Optima is positioned as a do-it-all O/U for shooters who want flexibility without jumping into the higher price tiers. It's built for hunters and sport shooters who need a tool that doesn’t quit and won’t complain when the weather gets ugly.Best of all, it's highly affordable. MSRP is $450 for most models.SPECS:12 gauge & 20 gauge, 28″ Barrel, 3” /76mm chamber over/under shotgun 28 gauge, 26″ Barrel, 2 3/4″ / 70mm chamber over/under shotgun “Easy Adjust” action system for faster reloading Aluminum receiver (12 gauge available in steel) Extractor System (Aluminimum) / Ejector System (steel) Single selective trigger Elegant silver and black engraved finish Select Turkish walnut stock and forend Rubber recoil pad All barrels are proof tested 7x7mm ventilated rib Fiber optic front sight Multi-Choke System Slide Safety Overall Length: 12 & 20 gauge 44.9″; 28 gauge 42.9″ Weight: 12 gauge Aluminimum 6.2 lbs; 12 gauge Steel 7.3lbs; 20 gauge 5.7 lbs; 28 gauge 5.5 lbs Why you can trust RECOIL Since our founding in 2012, RECOIL remains the premier firearms lifestyle publication for the modern shooting enthusiast. We deliver cutting-edge coverage of guns, gear, accessories and technology. We go beyond basic reviews, providing no B.S. buyer’s guides, hands-on testing and expert analysis on everything from firearms and survival equipment to watches and vehicles. Our reviewers are the backbone of our operation and come from diverse shooting backgrounds: Former law enforcement, military veterans, competitive shooters, seasoned hunters and plain old firearms enthusiasts. Furthermore, we’re not just gun experts, but dedicated journalists who adhere to the strictest standards of our profession. At RECOIL, editorial independence is the foundation of everything we publish and the cornerstone of reader trust. Our editors, writers and content creators make all editorial decisions independently, free from outside influence. That boils down to: advertisers don’t dictate our coverage, the outcomes of our reviews or what we recommend in our buyer’s guides. First and always, our commitment is to our audience—ensuring every review and article is accurate, unbiased, and driven by real-world experience. Whether you’re selecting your next firearm, upgrading your gear, or exploring the latest innovations in the shooting world, RECOIL provides the trusted insights you need to make informed decisions. Learn more about our Editorial Standards and how we review products. NEXT STEP: Download Your Free Target Pack from RECOILFor years, RECOIL magazine has treated its readers to a full-size (sometimes full color!) shooting target tucked into each big issue. Now we've compiled over 50 of our most popular targets into this one digital PDF download. From handgun drills to AR-15 practice, these 50+ targets have you covered. Print off as many as you like (ammo not included). Get your pack of 50 Print-at-Home targets when you subscribe to the RECOIL email newsletter. We'll send you weekly updates on guns, gear, industry news, and special offers from leading manufacturers - your guide to the firearms lifestyle.You want this. Trust Us.