It’s not the newest design on gun store shelves and getting more than two shots off with it won’t be blazing fast. That combination may sound like an unlikely suspect for a hot seller in a year when first-time firearm buyers drove sales figures to new all-time records, but side-by-side shotguns also flew off the shelves during 2020.
Among the top sellers in that category was the CZ USA Bobwhite G2. Its original version was introduced in 2005 and, unfortunately, discontinued 10 years later. Despite the commensurate drop in availability enthusiasts recognized the quality, and that demand kept it hovering in GunBroker.com’s annual top-10 selling rankings for the category. Then, in 2019, the new and improved G2 versions began appearing on gun store shelves and in less than 12 months, it climbed to second-place honors in the list.
There’s much more to it with the CA USA Bobwhite G2, though, including classic English-style straight grip, Turkish walnut furniture, double triggers and slim design that enhances the already nimble handling. The receiver in the new model is precision machined and metalwork is finished in the company’s black chrome, which resists rust better than traditional bluing. Those are the kind of touches that allow the gun to retain its value.
All three models come with five interchangeable choke tubes. The tang-mounted safety is a familiar feature for enthusiasts, but there’s no doubt its convenient position enhanced sales among first-time buyers last year.
CZ USA currently has models available in 12, 20 and 28 gauge. MSRP’s are $675 for the bigger-bore duo, with the latter coming in at $725. All three chamber 3" shotshells, have 28" barrels, feature an extractor and have a 14.5" length of pull. Weights run from 7.3 to 5.5 lbs.
The budget friendly price, simple method of operation and sound, classic build made the Bobwhite G2 a popular choice among side-by-side shotguns last year. Add those timeless looks, and it’s little wonder its hard to find one on gun store shelves today.
