Escort's DF12 is a 12 gauge semi-automatic running on a gas system and feeding from detachable five-round magazines, two of them included for 5+1 capacity. Its 18-inch barrel is chrome-plated drilled steel, proof tested and rated for shot or slugs, with a 3-inch chamber and three interchangeable chokes. Overall length is 39 inches, length of pull 14 inches, weight 8.8 pounds. The receiver carries a Picatinny rail and the aluminum alloy forend adds four more, while front and rear sights are both adjustable.

The stock is fixed, with an integral pistol grip, an adjustable comb to line your eye up with whatever sits on the top rail, and a soft rubber butt pad. At nearly nine pounds and gas operated, weight and action both work in your favor on recoil. Being a 12 gauge rated for slugs, it also falls within Connecticut's private-land deer rules, which accept a 12 gauge with single projectiles from November 18 to December 8; state land in that period is shotgun and muzzleloader only.

Key features

• Gas-operated semi-automatic 12 gauge, 5+1
• Two detachable five-round magazines included
• 18-inch chrome-plated barrel, shot or slug rated
• Receiver Picatinny rail plus four forend rails
• Adjustable comb, adjustable front and rear sights

This shotgun ships to the Connecticut FFL dealer you select, who runs the check and hands it over.