Greetings! I’m delighted to present you with a comprehensive review of the Stoeger M3500 12-gauge shotgun. Many of our viewers have expressed interest in affordable shotguns, and I’m pleased to introduce the first one I’ve had the opportunity to test. While I haven’t had the chance to fire numerous rounds through it prior to filming this review, my initial impressions have largely been favorable. Today, I am eager to impart my insights and opinions on this firearm.

Detailed Specifications

  • Gauge and Operation: This firearm operates on an inertia-driven system and is designed to accommodate 12 gauge shotgun shells;
  • Chamber Size: It features a chamber capable of handling shells up to 3.5 inches in size, providing versatility for various types of ammunition;
  • Barrel Length: The 28-inch barrel is tailored for waterfowl hunting; however, other styles are available with a 26-inch barrel option;
  • Weight: At 7 pounds and 13 ounces, the weight is balanced to aid in handling and reduce fatigue during extended use.

Dimensions:

  • Length of Pull: The stock is set at a length of pull of 14 3/8 inches right out of the packaging;
  • Drop at Comb: With a drop at comb of 1 1/2 inches, it provides a comfortable alignment for aiming;
  • Drop at Heel: The 2 1/2-inch drop at heel assists in the gun’s shouldering and fit;
  • Customization: The shotgun comes pre-drilled and tapped for optics and accessory attachments;
  • Chokes: A set of five chokes is included, allowing for adaptability and precision in different shooting situations.

Ergonomics and Aesthetics

  • General Impression: Within its price range, the shotgun impresses with its overall feel and handling;
  • Grip Design: The forearm and pistol grip are designed larger than standard models, providing a more robust hold;
  • Stock: The stock and cheek piece are standard, fulfilling the basic requirements without unnecessary frills.

Controls:

  • Charging Handle: Features an oversized design for easy operation;
  • Bolt Release: Also oversized, enhancing the user experience, especially in high-pressure situations;
  • Trigger Guard: Ample size to accommodate gloved hands, combining comfort and practicality;
  • Sights: Equipped with a fiberoptic front bead and mid bead to aid in target acquisition (experts recommend focusing on the target rather than the bead after mounting the shotgun);
  • Loading Port: Thoughtfully designed to facilitate smooth loading.

Trigger Mechanism

  • Weight: The trigger pull is measured at an average weight of 9 pounds and 7.4 ounces;
  • Feel: It delivers a robust pull that might require a bit of muscle, being heavier than one might expect or prefer;
  • Performance: The trigger exhibits surprisingly minimal pre-travel, which is impressive for its price category, providing a cleaner break than anticipated.

Construction Quality

Build Relative to Price: The construction quality is assessed in relation to the cost, meeting expectations for its price bracket.

Assembly Observations:

  • The junction where the barrel and forearm connect to the receiver may not be seamless, prompting curiosity about this design choice;
  • Handling: Despite the forward weight distribution, which is unusual for an inertia-operated shotgun, it contributes to its manageability and makes the shotgun feel well-balanced and easy to control during shooting sequences.

Disassembly Process

Modern firearms are often praised for their modular designs, allowing for swift disassembly and maintenance. In the case of this particular shotgun, its disassembly process presents a notable departure from the conventional mechanisms seen in other gas-operated firearms. The steps involved in breaking down the gun are both unique and require less effort than one might anticipate. Here are some expanded insights into the disassembly process:

  • Trigger Group Pin: Unlike other gas-operated firearms, the trigger group pin of this shotgun can be removed and reinserted with surprising ease. This is a significant advantage when it comes to regular maintenance or troubleshooting;
  • Maintenance Frequency: It is observed that this shotgun accumulates debris and residue at a faster rate compared to its counterparts, indicating a potential need for more frequent cleaning sessions to maintain optimal performance;
  • Complexity: While the disassembly process has its quirks, it’s worth noting that this shotgun is not the most user-friendly when it comes to taking it apart. Potential owners should be prepared for a learning curve and possibly reference instructional guides for assistance.

Recommendations for maintaining the shotgun include:

  • Routine Inspection: Due to its propensity to get dirty quickly, regular inspection and cleaning are recommended after each use to prevent long-term issues;
  • Expert Assistance: For those unfamiliar with the unique disassembly process, consulting with a professional gunsmith or experienced owners could provide valuable hands-on learning;
  • Proper Tools: Ensuring the use of the correct tools for disassembly can prevent damage to the firearm and aid in a more efficient maintenance process.

Recoil Management

The recoil experienced when firing a shotgun can greatly influence the shooter’s comfort and accuracy. This shotgun’s performance with various loads provides insight into its recoil profile:

  • Heavy Loads: Firing 3 and 3 1/2-inch shells from this shotgun can be physically demanding, as these loads generate significant recoil. However, the difference between the recoil of the 3-inch and 3 1/2-inch shells is less pronounced than one might expect;
  • Standard Target Loads: When using standard target loads, the recoil felt is on par with what is typically expected from a shotgun of this class, offering no surprises in terms of handling.

Tips for managing recoil with this shotgun include:

  • Recoil Pads: Utilize a high-quality recoil pad to mitigate the physical impact when shooting heavy loads;
  • Proper Technique: Learning and practicing proper shooting stance and grip can greatly reduce the perceived recoil and improve overall shooting comfort;
  • Gradual Progression: Start with lighter loads to build tolerance and technique before moving on to heavier loads.

Reliability in Performance

Reliability is a cornerstone of any firearm’s performance. This shotgun’s reliability varies with different types of ammunition, as observed in various tests:

  • Initial Expectations: Given its price point, expectations may be moderated regarding the cycling of light target loads. Early tests indicate some difficulty in cycling these lighter rounds, coupled with a trigger that has a noticeable reset time;
  • Performance with Heavier Loads: Contrary to the initial performance with light loads, the shotgun shows reliable cycling with the heavier 3 and 3 1/2-inch rounds. It’s important to note that the shotgun’s cycling improved significantly after a thorough cleaning, underscoring the importance of maintenance for optimal function.

To enhance reliability, consider the following:

  • Break-in Period: Allow a break-in period with new shotguns, during which cycling may improve with use;
  • Ammunition Selection: Some firearms are selective with ammunition. Experiment with different brands and loads to determine which cycles most reliably in this shotgun;
  • Regular Cleaning: As noted, cleanliness affects cycling performance. Maintaining a clean firearm is crucial, especially after using heavy loads.

Speed Shooting Capabilities

The speed shooting evaluation is an excellent measure of a firearm’s overall performance, reflecting on several key factors, such as target acquisition, trigger discipline, recoil recovery, and the efficiency of the cycling mechanism.

Close up of stoeger m3500
  • Performance Metrics: During tests, a noteworthy speed shooting time was recorded with the Stoeger M3500, clocking in at 1.37 seconds. This showcases the firearm’s potential in a rapid-fire scenario;
  • Consistency in Cycling: Throughout the speed shooting tests, the shotgun demonstrated consistent cycling with no reported failures. This is encouraging, especially considering the earlier mentioned issues with cycling lighter loads;
  • Handling New Firearms: Some difficulty was encountered in consistently shouldering the gun, which is not uncommon with new firearms as users acclimate to their balance and ergonomics;
  • Trigger Weight: A point of critique is the shotgun’s heavy trigger, which could impact quick follow-up shots. Shooters might consider training to adapt to the trigger’s weight or exploring customization options to enhance performance.

Recommendations for speed shooting with this shotgun include:

  • Practice Sessions: Frequent practice will help shooters become more familiar with the gun’s handling and improve muscle memory for faster mounting;
  • Customization: Investigate options for trigger adjustments or upgrades that can lead to a lighter pull, thereby potentially improving speed shooting times;
  • Drills: Engage in various shooting drills that emphasize speed and accuracy to capitalize on the firearm’s reliable cycling during rapid fire.

Insights and Recommendations

  • Customization: Considering the shotgun is pre-drilled and tapped, users can easily enhance their firearm with a variety of optics and accessories;
  • Choke Utilization: Experiment with the provided chokes to determine which one best suits your shooting scenario, optimizing your performance;
  • Ergonomic Adjustments: If the larger grips do not suit your hand size or preference, aftermarket modifications can be considered for a personalized fit.

Maintenance Tips:

  • Regular cleaning and inspection of the barrel-forearm-receiver junction are recommended to ensure optimal functionality;
  • Familiarizing oneself with the weight of the trigger pull and practicing accordingly can improve shooting precision and comfort;
  • Shooting Technique: Practice shooting without relying on the bead, instead focusing on instinctive shooting techniques, which can enhance accuracy and reaction times in dynamic hunting situations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Stoeger M3500 12ga shotgun proves itself as a reliable and versatile firearm, suitable for a wide range of shooting applications. With its durable construction, ample magazine capacity, and adjustable features, it offers excellent value for both seasoned hunters and recreational shooters alike. The ability to handle a variety of loads, from lighter target loads to heavy waterfowl loads, adds to its versatility. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end shotguns, the M3500 consistently delivers consistent performance and dependable operation. Whether you’re in pursuit of game in the field or breaking clays at the range, the Stoeger M3500 is a shotgun worth considering for your arsenal. Overall, it’s a testament to Stoeger’s commitment to providing quality firearms at an affordable price point.

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