Quick Answer
The Stoeger Condor remains one of the most affordable over/under shotguns currently in production. While many over/under shotguns begin around the $1,000 mark and quickly climb into several thousand dollars, the Condor lineup continues to offer hunters, clay shooters, and first-time shotgun buyers an accessible entry point into the break-action market. The current Condor family includes the Condor Field, Condor Supreme, Condor Competition, Compact, and Outback models, giving buyers multiple options depending on their intended use. For shooters seeking a dependable over/under without spending Browning Citori or Beretta 686 money, the Stoeger Condor remains one of the strongest value-oriented choices available.
Key Takeaways
- The Stoeger Condor remains in active production with multiple current variants available.
- Current models include the Field, Supreme, Competition, Compact, and Outback.
- The Condor is one of the most affordable over/under shotguns on the market.
- Available in multiple gauges including 12, 20, 28, and .410 depending on model.
- The Competition model offers upgraded features for clay-target shooters.
- The Supreme provides upgraded wood and automatic ejectors.
- The Outback offers a compact 20-inch barrel configuration designed for maneuverability.
Why the Stoeger Condor Continues to Be Popular
Over/under shotguns have always carried a certain appeal.
The design is elegant, mechanically simple, and has been trusted by hunters and competitive shooters for generations. Unfortunately, quality over/under shotguns have also traditionally been expensive.
Many shooters quickly discover that popular models from Browning, Beretta, Caesar Guerini, and other premium manufacturers often cost well over $2,000, with some competition guns exceeding $10,000.
This is where the Stoeger Condor enters the conversation.
For decades, the Condor has served as one of the most common entry points into the over/under market. It offers the classic handling characteristics shooters expect from a break-action shotgun while remaining affordable enough for first-time buyers.
The Condor is not intended to compete directly with premium competition guns. Instead, it provides a practical and accessible option for hunters, recreational clay shooters, and firearm owners who simply appreciate the versatility of an over/under shotgun.
What Is the Stoeger Condor?
The Stoeger Condor is a break-action over/under shotgun manufactured by E.R. Amantino in Brazil and imported by Stoeger Industries, a subsidiary of the Beretta Holding Group.
Unlike pump-action or semi-automatic shotguns, the Condor utilizes two vertically stacked barrels and a break-open action. This design allows the shooter to load and unload quickly while maintaining a simple and reliable operating system.
Depending on the specific model, modern Condor shotguns may include:
- Single selective trigger
- Ventilated rib
- Screw-in choke tubes
- Tang-mounted safety
- Walnut or synthetic stock options
- Multiple gauge choices depending on model
The platform has evolved significantly over the years, resulting in several specialized versions tailored to hunting, clay shooting, youth shooters, and defensive applications.
Current Stoeger Condor Models
One of the biggest mistakes many older reviews make is discussing only the original Condor.
Today's lineup is considerably broader.
| Model | Primary Use | Gauge Options | Barrel Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| Condor Field | Hunting & General Use | 12, 20, 28, .410 | 26" or 28" |
| Condor Supreme | Upgraded Hunting & Sporting | 12, 20 | 28" |
| Condor Competition | Sporting Clays & Trap | 12, 20 | 30" |
| Condor Compact | Youth & Smaller Shooters | 20, .410 | 22" |
| Condor Outback | Brush Hunting & Utility Use | 12 Gauge | 20" |
Current model availability, barrel lengths, and gauge offerings vary by configuration and distributor.
Stoeger Condor Specifications
| Specification | Condor Field 12 Gauge |
|---|---|
| Action | Over/Under |
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3" |
| Barrel Length | 26" or 28" |
| Capacity | 2 Rounds |
| Trigger | Single Selective |
| Chokes | Interchangeable |
| Stock | Walnut or Synthetic |
| Weight | Approx. 7.3 lbs |
| MSRP | Approximately $500-$600 |
Specifications vary by model and configuration.
Budget Over/Under Comparison
| Model | Gauge Options | Weight | Barrel Length | MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stoeger Condor Field | 12, 20, 28, .410 | 6-7.5 lbs | 26"-28" | ~$500 |
| Stevens 555 | 12, 20, 28, .410 | 5.5-6.5 lbs | 26"-28" | ~$800 |
| Mossberg Gold Reserve | 12, 20, .410 | 7-8 lbs | 28"-30" | ~$900 |
| CZ Drake | 12, 20, 28, .410 | 6-7 lbs | 28" | ~$800 |
| Weatherby Orion | 12, 20 | 6.5-7 lbs | 28" | ~$1,000 |
Design and Ergonomics
One reason the Condor has remained successful for so long is that it largely avoids unnecessary complexity.
The shotgun follows the traditional over/under formula. The controls are straightforward, the balance is familiar, and the handling characteristics are easy to understand even for newer shooters.
The Field models tend to balance well between the hands, making them comfortable for upland hunting and casual clay shooting. The shotgun mounts naturally, and the ventilated rib provides a familiar sighting plane.
While the fit and finish may not rival higher-end over/unders, the Condor generally offers more refinement than many shooters expect at its price point.
The walnut-stock models in particular provide a classic appearance that many hunters appreciate.
Condor Field Model
The Field model is the version most shooters encounter first.
This is the all-purpose Condor designed for hunting and recreational shooting. Available in multiple gauges and barrel lengths, it serves as the foundation of the entire lineup.
For many buyers, the Field model represents the best value because it offers the core Condor experience without additional cost associated with premium upgrades.
Whether used for upland birds, small game, or occasional sporting clays, the Field model remains one of the most versatile options in the series.
Condor Supreme
The Supreme takes the standard Condor formula and elevates it.
The most noticeable upgrade is the AA-grade walnut stock and enhanced finish. The shotgun also includes automatic ejectors, which speed up reloads by actively ejecting spent shells when the action is opened.
For shooters who appreciate traditional aesthetics, the Supreme often feels like the sweet spot within the lineup.
It retains the affordability that defines the Condor family while adding features commonly associated with more expensive over/under shotguns.
Condor Competition
The Competition model is arguably the most specialized Condor currently offered.
Designed for sporting clays, skeet, and trap shooting, depending on the specific configuration, it may include 30-inch barrels, automatic ejectors, an adjustable comb, and other competition-oriented features.
These features significantly improve its suitability for clay-target sports.
While it still sits well below the price of dedicated competition shotguns from Browning or Beretta, the Competition model offers enough upgrades to satisfy many recreational clay shooters.
For buyers interested primarily in sporting clays, this is generally the best Condor variant currently available.
Condor Outback
The Outback is one of the more unique members of the family.
Featuring a compact 20-inch barrel, the Outback was designed for maneuverability in dense cover and tight environments. Its shorter overall length makes it easier to carry through brush and quicker to shoulder than traditional field guns.
Although its compact dimensions have led some owners to consider it for defensive roles, most buyers are likely to appreciate it as a utility shotgun or compact hunting option.
Its handling characteristics are noticeably different from the longer-barreled Field and Competition models.
Reliability and Durability
The Condor has built its reputation primarily around simplicity.
Break-action shotguns have fewer moving parts than many semi-automatic designs, and the Condor benefits from this straightforward operating system.
While it may not withstand the same volume of shooting as premium competition guns costing several times more, many owners report years of reliable service when used for hunting and recreational shooting.
The design is proven, maintenance requirements are minimal, and replacement parts and service support are generally available through Stoeger and authorized service channels.
For the average shooter, durability is rarely a major concern.
Accuracy and Practical Performance
Shotguns are not generally evaluated by group size the way rifles are, but performance still matters.
The Condor patterns consistently with quality ammunition and performs exactly as expected for an over/under shotgun in its price range.
The interchangeable choke system allows shooters to tailor the gun to different applications, whether hunting upland birds, shooting sporting clays, or targeting small game.
The Competition model's adjustable comb provides an additional advantage by allowing shooters to better fit the gun to their individual dimensions.
Who Should Buy a Stoeger Condor?
The Condor is particularly well suited for:
- First-time over/under buyers
- Budget-conscious hunters
- Recreational clay shooters
- Upland bird hunters
- Youth shooters (Compact models)
- Shooters seeking a simple break-action shotgun
The platform's affordability remains one of its biggest advantages.
Who Should Look Elsewhere?
The Condor may not be ideal for:
- Serious competitive clay shooters
- High-volume tournament shooters
- Buyers seeking premium wood and engraving
- High-volume competitive shooters expecting extremely high lifetime round counts
In those situations, stepping up to a Browning Citori or Beretta 686 may be worthwhile.
Final Thoughts
The Stoeger Condor continues to occupy an important place in today's shotgun market.
While countless firearms have become more expensive over the years, the Condor remains one of the few over/under shotguns that delivers genuine versatility at an accessible price point. The current lineup is broader than ever, offering specialized models for hunting, sporting clays, youth shooters, and general recreational use.
The Competition model is arguably the most refined version currently offered, while the Field model remains the best value for most buyers. The Supreme adds traditional aesthetics, and the Outback provides a unique compact alternative.
The Stoeger Condor remains one of the best values in the over/under market, especially for new shooters and hunters looking for a dependable break-action shotgun. If you're still weighing an over/under against a traditional side-by-side, our guide to the best double-barrel shotguns explores a variety of proven models across every budget.
Federal 12 Gauge Ultra Clay & Field 2-3/4" 1 Oz. #8
$10.75
at Pro Armory
Prices accurate at time of writing
Ratings
Ratings represent editorial assessments based on reliability, build quality, ergonomics, features, value, and intended use.
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Reliability | 4.5/5 |
| Ergonomics | 4.4/5 |
| Build Quality | 4.2/5 |
| Features | 4.4/5 |
| Value | 4.9/5 |
| Versatility | 4.6/5 |
| Overall | 4.5/5 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Stoeger Condor still in production?
Yes. The Condor remains in active production with several current variants, including the Field, Supreme, Competition, Compact, and Outback models.
Who makes the Stoeger Condor?
The Condor is manufactured by E.R. Amantino in Brazil and imported by Stoeger Industries, which is part of Beretta Holding Group.
Is the Stoeger Condor good for hunting?
Yes. The Field and Supreme models are particularly well suited for upland hunting, small game, and general field use.
What is the best Stoeger Condor model?
For most buyers, the Condor Field offers the best value. For clay-target shooters, the Condor Competition is typically the strongest option.
Does the Stoeger Condor have ejectors?
The Supreme and Competition models feature automatic ejectors, while some standard models use extractors. Specifications vary by model.
Is the Stoeger Condor worth the money?
For buyers seeking an affordable over/under shotgun, the Condor remains one of the strongest values currently available.
About the Author
This article was written by the ProArmory editorial team based on current manufacturer specifications, market research, and practical shotgun-use considerations. The team regularly evaluates shotguns, rifles, handguns, optics, ammunition, and shooting accessories to provide educational, buyer-focused content for responsible firearm owners.
Disclaimer
This article is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered legal, hunting, self-defense, or purchasing advice. Firearm specifications, pricing, and availability may change without notice. Model configurations, barrel lengths, choke systems, gauge availability, and included features may vary by production run and distributor. Always verify current product information directly with the manufacturer before purchasing any firearm. Follow all firearm safety rules and comply with applicable federal, state, and local laws.
