Gun Of The Week: Tokarev USA TT 12

by
posted on May 24, 2024
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **

In this "Gun Of The Week" episode, we’re on the range taking a closer look at an AR-style shotgun, the Tokarev TT 12. Watch above as we run through the details of this semi-automatic, 12-ga. shotgun.

The exclusive import partners for Tokarev Arms of Turkey, SDS Imports and Tokarev USA bring an assortment of semi-automatic and pump-action shotguns to U.S. shores. There’s even a bullpup configuration available, as well as differently colored examples in a variety of themes. But for this week’s feature, we’re delving into the TT 12, a gas-operated, semi-auto 12 gauge somewhat inspired by the AR-15.

Right side of the Tokarev USA TT 12 shotgun.

While the TT 12 may have a similar layout as the AR, its mechanics are wildly different. You do get the split receivers that separate much the same as Eugene Stoner’s legendary design, but parts interchangeability between the two is virtually nonexistent, aside from its grip and stock. But in terms of controls and handling, the TT 12 shares a lot with the AR.

With the TT 12, you get that AR-style, straight-line bore axis and operation that transfers directly to the shoulder through the stock, though, the stock is fixed and not adjustable for length of pull. The layout of the TT 12’s grip, safety, trigger and bolt hold-open levers were all inspired by America’s Rifle, too, and the controls are all bilateral. It is important to note, unlike the AR, the TT 12 features a reciprocating charging handle attached to the bolt, which is reversible from right to left.

The choked muzzle of the Tokarev USA TT 12's 18.5 inch barrel.

Just like the many of the modern ARs on the market, you’ll get a flattop receiver. Only, on this model, you get a molded-in Picatinny rail for optics. Tokarev includes a set of adjustable flip-up “irons” here, too, with the front sight attached to a small section of rail formed into the top of the handguard. Should you need to further accessorize, M-Lok slots adorn the gun as well. There are even QD sockets front and rear and slots for web-type slings molded into the buttstock.

Overall weight for the TT 12 comes to about 7.5 lbs., and it measures 37.75” from butt to muzzle. Included with it is an 18.5” barrel chambered for up to 3” 12-ga. shells. The smoothbore barrel comes threaded for Beretta Mobil-pattern chokes. Tokarev also includes three chokes with the gun; full, modified and cylinder bore. But the most salient feature of the TT 12 is the five- and 10-round T1919 detachable box magazines. As with any defense-oriented shotgun, how it feeds and loads makes the difference, and this design has proven effective.

A man aiming the Tokarev USA TT 12 shotgun downrange.

Our testers took the TT 12 to the range with a mix of 12-ga. shells and found its gas system handled all with confidence—it fed, fired and expelled shells flawlessly. It is important to note that while the TT 12 has a versatile gas-regulating system, excess gases are vented into the handguard, so for long range days, a shooting glove is preferred.

Also, despite the simplicity of the Stoner-inspired receiver halves and takedown pins, thoroughly cleaning the TT 12 is a bit more involved than simply popping the pins and separating the receiver halves. Following range time with the TT 12, American Rifleman staffers also noted its ease of use, thanks to the mirrored layout of the AR-15.

Tokarev USA TT 12 Specifications
Manufacturer: Tokarev Arms (Turkey)
Importer: Tokarev USA
Action Type: semi-automatic shotgun
Bore: 12 gauge
Receiver: steel, matte black
Barrel: steel; 18.5"; 3" chamber
Magazine: five-round detachable box
Stock: polymer
Sights: polymer; flip-up aperture rear, post front
Overall Length: 37.75"
Weight: 7 lbs., 8 ozs.
MSRP: $440

Latest

smith & wesson performance center model 19 carry comp moss
smith & wesson performance center model 19 carry comp moss

Unlocking The Future: Smith & Wesson's "No Lock" Revolvers

The future is shaping up to be a good one for fans of Smith & Wesson revolvers. The iconic American company had released 14 new models thus far in 2025 at the time this was written mid-year. And, with one exception, they have all shared a common feature—no internal lock.

The Armed Citizen® Oct. 6, 2025

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

FEMA Notes Decline In Disaster Preparedness

A recent report from the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) noted a decline in local government preparedness for natural disasters, putting increased pressure on individuals to prepare themselves for emergencies.

Army Announces Type Classification Of New Infantry Rifle, Machine Gun

In May 2025, the U.S. Army’s Soldier Lethality Project at the Picatinny Arsenal in New Jersey announced the official type classification of SIG Sauer’s M7 rifle and M250 automatic rifle, previously known as the XM7 and the XM250, respectively.

RXR22: Savage Arms Redefines The Budget Rimfire Rifle

Savage Arms has a long history of producing affordable and accurate rimfire rifles, but with its RXR22, the company is bringing a new level of affordability and modularity to rimfire rifle fans.

SARCO: A Lifetime Covered Up With Surplus Firearm Parts

When it comes to selling gun parts and gun-related military surplus, Charles “Cholly” Steen has been at it for longer than almost anyone. It all started when, as a 5-year-old, he began stashing odds and ends in the drawers of his clothes dresser.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.