The Escort Optima is a 28 gauge over/under that weighs 5.5 pounds, thanks to an aluminum receiver and aluminum extractors. Its 26-inch barrels carry a 7x7mm ventilated rib, a fiber optic front sight and 3-inch chambers, with the BER/BEN Mobil Pattern multi-choke system for pattern changes. A single selective trigger picks the barrel, the slide safety is manual, and the select Turkish walnut stock and forend end in a rubber recoil pad. Overall length is 42.9 inches, the receiver is engraved in silver and black, and the barrels are proof tested.

This gun is for upland birds and clays, not deer: Connecticut's deer rules name 12, 16 and 20 gauge shotguns, and the 28 is not among them. Where it belongs is a long walk in upland cover, where 5.5 pounds matters by late afternoon, and the Easy Adjust action and extractors keep reloading quick. The fiber optic bead stands out against varied backgrounds and changing light.

Key features

• 28 gauge over/under, 26-inch barrels, 3-inch chambers
• 5.5 pounds with aluminum receiver
• BER/BEN Mobil Pattern multi-choke system
• Single selective trigger, slide safety, extractors
• Select Turkish walnut, rubber recoil pad

The Optima ships to your chosen Connecticut FFL dealer, where the transfer paperwork is completed in person.