Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the Franchi Instinct Sporting II 12GA, a shotgun that has been making waves in the sporting clays and hunting communities. If you're in the market for a reliable, elegant, and high-performing over-under shotgun, you've come to the right place. Let's break down everything you need to know about this beauty.

First Impressions: Aesthetics and Build Quality

When you first lay your eyes on the Franchi Instinct Sporting II 12GA, you'll immediately notice its refined aesthetics. Franchi has managed to blend traditional craftsmanship with modern design, resulting in a shotgun that looks as good as it performs. The receiver is typically finished with an elegant case-hardened look or a sleek blued finish, providing a striking contrast against the AA-grade walnut stock and forend. This combination of materials not only enhances the gun's appearance but also ensures durability and longevity.

The wood-to-metal fit is exceptionally well done, showcasing Franchi's attention to detail. The checkering on the stock and forend is precise, offering a secure and comfortable grip, which is crucial for maintaining control during rapid target acquisition and follow-up shots. The overall balance of the gun feels natural, making it easy to shoulder and swing, an essential factor for sporting clays and hunting scenarios.

Moving beyond aesthetics, the build quality of the Franchi Instinct Sporting II is robust. The shotgun is built on a solid steel frame, providing a sturdy foundation that can withstand the rigors of frequent use. The barrels are constructed from high-quality steel, ensuring consistent performance and pattern density. The ejectors are reliable and well-timed, efficiently expelling spent shells, allowing for quick reloading and minimizing downtime between shots. All these features combine to make a shotgun that not only looks great but is also built to last.

Key Features and Specifications

Let's get into the nitty-gritty. The Franchi Instinct Sporting II 12GA comes packed with features designed to enhance your shooting experience. Here’s a rundown:

• Gauge: 12GA, a versatile choice for both sporting clays and hunting.
• Chamber: Typically 2.75 inches, accommodating a wide range of loads.
• Barrel Length: Available in 30 or 32 inches, catering to different shooting styles and preferences. The longer barrels provide a smoother swing and increased accuracy.
• Chokes: Comes with a set of extended chokes (usually five) – Cylinder, Improved Cylinder, Modified, Improved Modified, and Full. This allows you to fine-tune your shot pattern based on the target distance and type of game.
• Stock: AA-Grade Walnut with a traditional Prince of Wales grip or a more modern pistol grip, depending on the model. The stock is designed for comfort and to reduce felt recoil.
• Receiver: Steel with either a case-hardened or blued finish, adding to the gun's aesthetic appeal and durability.
• Ejectors: Automatic ejectors that reliably expel spent shells.
• Trigger: Single, selective trigger that allows you to choose which barrel fires first.
• Safety: Tang-mounted safety that is easy to operate, even with gloves on.
• Weight: Around 7.5 to 8 pounds, providing a good balance between stability and maneuverability.

These specifications make the Franchi Instinct Sporting II 12GA a versatile and well-rounded shotgun suitable for a variety of shooting disciplines. The inclusion of multiple chokes, different barrel lengths, and a comfortable stock ensures that you can customize the gun to fit your specific needs and preferences.

Performance on the Range

Now, let’s talk about how this shotgun performs where it matters most – on the range. The Franchi Instinct Sporting II 12GA is designed to deliver consistent and reliable performance, making it a favorite among sporting clays enthusiasts and hunters alike.

The swing of this shotgun is incredibly smooth and balanced. The weight distribution is well-engineered, allowing for effortless target acquisition and follow-through. Whether you're tracking fast-moving clays or lining up on a flushing game bird, the Franchi Instinct Sporting II feels natural and intuitive.

The trigger is crisp and responsive, providing a clean break that enhances accuracy. The single, selective trigger allows you to quickly switch between barrels, giving you the flexibility to adapt to different target presentations. The ejectors are another standout feature, reliably ejecting spent shells without fail, ensuring that you can quickly reload and stay in the game.

Recoil is manageable, thanks to the well-designed stock and the gun's overall weight. The AA-grade walnut stock not only looks great but also helps to absorb some of the recoil, reducing fatigue during long shooting sessions. The included chokes allow you to fine-tune your shot pattern, ensuring optimal performance at different distances. Whether you're shooting close-range targets with an improved cylinder choke or reaching out to longer distances with a full choke, the Franchi Instinct Sporting II delivers consistent and effective patterns.

Pros and Cons

No product is perfect, so let's weigh the pros and cons of the Franchi Instinct Sporting II 12GA:

Pros:

• Aesthetic Appeal: Beautifully designed with high-quality materials and finishes.
• Build Quality: Robust construction ensures durability and longevity.
• Performance: Smooth swing, crisp trigger, and reliable ejectors.
• Versatility: Suitable for both sporting clays and hunting.
• Customization: Comes with multiple chokes and barrel length options.
• Manageable Recoil: Well-designed stock helps to absorb recoil.

Cons:

• Price: It might be a bit expensive for some budgets, but you get what you pay for.
• Weight: At around 7.5 to 8 pounds, it might be a bit heavy for some shooters, especially during long days in the field.

Compared to the Competition

When considering the Franchi Instinct Sporting II 12GA, it's essential to see how it stacks up against its competitors. Some of the notable shotguns in the same category include the Beretta Silver Pigeon I, the Browning Citori, and the CZ Redhead Premier. Here’s a quick comparison:

• Beretta Silver Pigeon I: The Beretta is a classic over-under known for its reliability and smooth action. It’s often considered the gold standard in this category. The Franchi, however, offers similar performance at a potentially lower price point.
• Browning Citori: The Citori is another well-respected shotgun with a reputation for durability and consistent performance. It’s often favored by serious sporting clays shooters. The Franchi offers a more modern design and may be more appealing to those looking for a blend of tradition and innovation.
• CZ Redhead Premier: The CZ is a more budget-friendly option that still offers good performance. While it may not have the same level of refinement as the Franchi, it’s a solid choice for beginners or those on a tighter budget. The Franchi justifies its higher price with superior build quality and aesthetics.

Overall, the Franchi Instinct Sporting II 12GA holds its own against the competition. It offers a compelling combination of performance, aesthetics, and value, making it a worthy contender in the over-under shotgun market.

Who is This Shotgun For?

The Franchi Instinct Sporting II 12GA is ideal for a variety of shooters. If you're a sporting clays enthusiast looking for a reliable and high-performing shotgun that can handle the demands of frequent use, this is an excellent choice. The smooth swing, crisp trigger, and customizable chokes make it well-suited for breaking clays.

It’s also a great option for hunters who appreciate a well-built and aesthetically pleasing shotgun. The 12GA chambering is versatile enough to handle a wide range of game, from upland birds to waterfowl. The comfortable stock and manageable recoil make it a pleasure to carry and shoot in the field.

Additionally, if you’re someone who values craftsmanship and attention to detail, the Franchi Instinct Sporting II will not disappoint. The beautiful wood, elegant finishes, and precise checkering showcase Franchi's commitment to quality.

Final Verdict

In conclusion, the Franchi Instinct Sporting II 12GA is a fantastic over-under shotgun that offers a compelling blend of performance, aesthetics, and value. Whether you're a seasoned sporting clays shooter or a passionate hunter, this shotgun is sure to impress. Its smooth swing, crisp trigger, and reliable ejectors make it a joy to shoot, while its beautiful design and robust construction ensure that it will last for years to come. If you're in the market for a high-quality over-under shotgun, the Franchi Instinct Sporting II is definitely worth considering. You won't be disappointed!