Kansas Gunshop is a Wichita, KS-based retailer specializing in firearms and accessories. The Stoeger Double Defense 12 Gauge Side by Side Shotgun is a robust, no-nonsense firearm designed for home defense and practical applications. Its dual-trigger system offers reliable, instantaneous firing capability. Available now for $799.00.
Reviewed by Derek, Owner & FFL Holder at Kansas Gunshop. Kansas-licensed FFL dealer since 2008, NRA Range Safety Officer.
Last updated: April 2026
What are the specifications of the Stoeger Double Defense 12 Gauge Side by Side Shotgun?
| Product Type | Side by Side Shotgun |
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3″ (accepts 2-3/4″ and 3″ shells) |
| Barrel Length | 20 inches |
| Material | Steel Receiver, Steel Barrels |
| Manufacturing | Stoeger Industries |
| Finish | Matte Black |
| Sights | Fiber Optic Front Sight |
| Stock Material | Black Synthetic |
| Extractors | Yes |
| Chokes | Fixed Improved Cylinder/Modified |
| Overall Length | 36.5 inches |
| Weight | 6.5 lbs |
| Country of Origin | Brazil (manufactured by CBC for Stoeger) |
| Condition | New |
| SKU | 31080 |
What are the key features of the Stoeger Double Defense 12 Gauge Side by Side Shotgun?
- Dual Triggers: This Stoeger Double Defense 12 gauge side by side shotgun features independent triggers for each barrel, providing a mechanical firing system that bypasses potential single-trigger selector issues. This is a practical consideration for a defensive firearm.
- Compact 20-inch Barrels: The shorter barrel length on this Stoeger Double Defense 12 gauge 3 inch side by side shotgun makes it more maneuverable in confined spaces, a significant advantage for home defense scenarios. It also helps keep the overall length manageable.
- Fixed Cylinder/Modified Chokes: The integrated chokes are set for Improved Cylinder and Modified patterns, offering a versatile spread for close to medium range engagements, whether for home defense or informal target shooting.
- Fiber Optic Front Sight: The bright fiber optic front sight on the Stoeger Double Defense 12 gauge black model aids in quick target acquisition, especially in lower light conditions, which can be critical.
- Integrated Sling Swivels: Ready for a sling right out of the box, this feature is useful for carrying the shotgun hands-free, whether moving through a property or transitioning between tasks.
- Picatinny Rail: A rail on the barrel allows for easy attachment of accessories like a tactical light or laser, enhancing the shotgun’s utility for defensive purposes.
- Durable Synthetic Stock: The black synthetic stock is resilient to weather and impacts, making it a low-maintenance option that can withstand demanding use without concern for scratches or swelling.
Who is the Stoeger Double Defense 12 Gauge Side by Side Shotgun for?
Buy it if:
- You need a straightforward, reliable shotgun primarily for home defense.
- You appreciate the simplicity and mechanical reliability of a dual-trigger side-by-side design.
- You’re looking for a compact shotgun that handles well in tight quarters.
- You want a shotgun that can easily mount a light or laser for defensive use.
- You’re on a budget but still require a dependable firearm for personal protection.
- You want a shotgun for informal target shooting or plinking.
Skip it if:
- You need a shotgun for competitive clay shooting or hunting waterfowl at long ranges; consider a dedicated over/under or a semi-automatic with interchangeable chokes.
- You prefer a higher capacity magazine; pump-action or semi-automatic shotguns may be more suitable (browse pump-action shotguns).
- You require a softer shooting experience; 12 gauge can have significant recoil, consider a 20 gauge or a semi-auto with a recoil-reducing system.
What are the Pros and Cons of the Stoeger Double Defense 12 Gauge?
Pros:
- ✅ Mechanical Reliability: The dual-trigger system means no single-trigger mechanism to fail, offering a high degree of reliability in critical situations.
- ✅ Compact Design: The 20-inch barrels make the Stoeger Double Defense 12 gauge side by side shotgun highly maneuverable, particularly useful for indoor defense.
- ✅ Accessory Ready: The integrated Picatinny rail allows for easy attachment of lights or lasers, enhancing its utility for home defense.
- ✅ Simple Operation: Straightforward to load and operate, making it accessible for users who prefer a less complex firearm.
- ✅ Durable Finish: The matte black finish and synthetic stock are robust and low-maintenance, designed to withstand practical use.
Cons:
- ❌ Limited Capacity: Being a double barrel, it only holds two rounds, which can be a disadvantage in extended engagements compared to pump or semi-automatic shotguns.
- ❌ Fixed Chokes: The fixed Improved Cylinder/Modified chokes limit versatility for specialized shooting tasks like long-range hunting or specific clay target games.
- ❌ Recoil: Like many lightweight 12 gauge shotguns, the recoil can be substantial, especially with heavier defensive loads, which might be a factor for some shooters.
How does the Stoeger Double Defense compare to other defensive shotguns?
| Feature | Stoeger Double Defense 12 Gauge | Maverick 88 Security 12 Gauge | Benelli M4 Tactical 12 Gauge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Product Type | Side-by-Side | Pump-Action | Semi-Automatic |
| Material | Steel Receiver, Steel Barrels, Synthetic Stock | Aluminum Receiver, Steel Barrel, Synthetic Stock | Aircraft-Grade Aluminum Receiver, Steel Barrel, Synthetic Stock |
| Quality | Good utility grade, robust construction | Good utility grade, reliable workhorse | Premium, military-grade reliability |
| Compatibility | Standard 12 gauge 2-3/4″ & 3″ shells, Picatinny accessories | Standard 12 gauge 2-3/4″ & 3″ shells, Mossberg 500 parts compatible | Standard 12 gauge 2-3/4″ & 3″ shells, proprietary accessories |
| Shipping | Ships from Wichita, KS | Ships from various distributors | Ships from various distributors |
| Lifespan/Durability | Very durable, simple mechanicals mean fewer points of failure | Highly durable, proven design with many years of service life | Extremely durable, designed for combat environments, very long service life |
| Price | $799.00 | ~$250 – $350 | ~$1,800 – $2,200+ |
Frequently Asked Questions about the Stoeger Double Defense 12 Gauge Side by Side Shotgun
Where are Stoeger side by side shotguns made?
Many Stoeger shotguns, including the Double Defense, are manufactured in Brazil by Companhia Brasileira de Cartuchos (CBC) for Stoeger Industries.
What is the capacity of the Stoeger Double Defense 12 gauge 3 inch side by side shotgun?
The Stoeger Double Defense is a two-shot shotgun, meaning it holds one round in each of its two barrels.
Can I use 2-3/4″ shells in the Stoeger Double Defense 12 gauge?
Yes, the Stoeger Double Defense 12 gauge is chambered for 3-inch shells, which means it can safely and effectively fire both 2-3/4″ and 3″ 12 gauge ammunition.
Does the Stoeger Double Defense 12 gauge side by side shotgun have external hammers?
No, the Stoeger Double Defense features internal hammers, giving it a sleek profile without external hammer spurs.
Is the Stoeger Double Defense 12 gauge suitable for hunting?
While technically capable, its short barrels and fixed chokes (Improved Cylinder/Modified) make it less ideal for most traditional hunting applications compared to shotguns with longer barrels and interchangeable chokes. It’s more suited for close-range defensive use or informal target shooting.
What kind of accessories can I mount on the Picatinny rail?
The Picatinny rail on the Stoeger Double Defense 12 gauge black model allows for the mounting of various accessories such as tactical lights, laser sights, or small optics designed for shotgun use.
Where can I buy shotguns online?
You can buy shotguns online from licensed FFL dealers like Kansas Gunshop (kansas-gunshop.com). We facilitate the transfer process to your local FFL dealer.
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