I Have A Thing For 16 Gauge

And Stevens has the thing for me!

Stevens by Savage just announced they will be importing their Model 555 and Model 555 Enhanced in 16 gauge from Turkey. They had previously offered these in 12 and 20 gauge.

From their release:

Get the performance and style of the Stevens 555 Enhanced in a new 16-gauge model. Its light aluminum receiver is scaled to gauge and incorporates a steel insert that reinforces the breech, minimizing weight and maximizing strength. The fast-handling over-and-under boasts upgrades including an Imperial walnut stock and fore-end, auto shell ejector, and a silver, scroll-engraved filigree ornament receiver. Standard features include a manual safety and a single, selective mechanical trigger—all at a price that’s unmatched among comparable shotguns.

FEATURES:

•    New 16-gauge model

•    Auto ejectors

•    Imperial walnut stock

•    Silver, scroll-engraved filigree ornament

•    Five interchangeable chokes

•    Lightweight aluminum receiver

•    Single selective mechanical triggers

•    Chrome-lined barrels

•    Tang-mounted safety

The Stevens 555 Enhanced comes in at 6.45 lbs, has 28 inch barrels, and is made by Kofs of Turkey.

MSRP for the Enhanced version is $879 and the non-engraved blued version is $705. That's a lot of gun for the price given that most over-under shotguns start at over $1,000 and go up from there.

As to why I have a love for the 16 gauge, I just do. It is a classic gauge that has fallen out of favor and I think that is part of its appeal to me.