The Mossberg SA-28 All Purpose Field Youth is a semi-automatic 28-gauge shotgun sized specifically for younger and smaller-framed shooters. At 5.50 lbs and 40.75 inches overall, it is substantially lighter and shorter than standard-sized semi-autos, and the 12.5-inch length of pull fits most youth shooters without stock modification. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Model: SA All Purpose Field Youth 
• Caliber/Gauge: 28 GA 
• Action Type: Semi-Automatic 
• Capacity: 4+1 rounds 
• Barrel Length: 24 inches 
• Overall Length: 40.75 inches 
• Weight: 5.50 lbs 
• Chamber Size: 2.75 inches 
• Sights: Bead front sight 
• Stock Material: Synthetic, fixed 
• Receiver Material: Steel 
• Finish Color: Black 
   

Detailed Features 

 
At 5.50 lbs the gun is easy to carry during a full morning hunt without fatigue. Semi-automatic cycling means no manual bolt operation between shots, which reduces the learning curve for new shooters. The Sport Set choke configuration lets you tailor the pattern for different targets. The bead front sight is simple and works well for upland hunting situations. Blued steel receiver paired with a synthetic stock holds up in wet or rough field conditions. 
 

Target Audience 

 
Youth hunters moving from a single-shot to a semi-auto, and smaller-framed adult shooters who find standard stocks too long, are the natural fit here. The 12.5-inch length of pull and 5.50-lb weight make safe handling and consistent gun mount much more achievable for younger shooters. 
 

Usage Scenarios 

 
Upland bird hunting is the primary use case. The 28 gauge's light recoil keeps shoulder fatigue low during a full day in the field, and the semi-auto action gives a quick second or third shot if the first misses. The gun also works on a sporting clays course for youth shooters developing their swing and lead.

Feedback on the Mossberg SA-28 Youth is consistently positive among parents buying a first semi-auto for young hunters. The weight and balance draw the most praise: at 5.50 lbs the gun does not tire out a small shooter during a morning of walking fields.

The 28 gauge recoil level comes up repeatedly as a reason this gun works for youth programs. New shooters can focus on form and target acquisition rather than bracing against heavy recoil, which accelerates skill development.

Operation is straightforward. Users describe the controls as intuitive and the action as smooth, with few reports of cycling issues across the standard 28-gauge loads youth hunters typically use.

Versatility on both upland game and clay courses is mentioned in many reviews, with owners noting the gun grows with the shooter. Fit discussions occasionally surface, with some parents noting the 12.5-inch pull fits a young shooter perfectly but becomes short as they grow into teens.

Safety mechanisms receive positive attention from parents who highlight peace of mind when introducing a child to shotgun shooting. Pricing is considered fair for what the gun delivers.