TFB Review: CZ Bobwhite G2 Intermediate 20 Gauge SxS
When CZ markets their Bobwhite G2 Intermediate as a scaled-down shotgun with a 14-inch length of pull for “teenagers and those of moderate stature,” they’re missing the real story. After spending time with this 20-gauge side-by-side both in the grouse woods and on the trap range, I’ve found the “intermediate” designation has less to do with accommodating smaller shooters and more about creating an exceptionally practical field gun. That half-inch reduction in the length of pull? It’s almost unnoticeable. The 26-inch barrels? Now that’s where things get interesting – let’s dive in.
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Specifications: Bobwhite G2 Intermediate
The Bobwhite G2 Intermediate takes CZ’s proven side-by-side platform and optimizes it for field use. While it maintains the core features of the standard Bobwhite G2, including dual triggers, interchangeable chokes, and a manual tang safety, the shorter barrel length, and subtle stock modifications create a distinct shooting experience. What’s particularly notable is that this configuration – a 20-gauge side-by-side with 26-inch barrels and interchangeable chokes – is remarkably rare in today’s market.
Gauge: 20Chamber: 3-inchBarrel Length: 26 inchesChokes: 5 Flush InterchangeableStock: WalnutLength of Pull: 14 inchesReceiver Finish: Black ChromeBarrel Finish: Gloss Black ChromeEjector/Extractor: ExtractorRib: 8mm Flat VentOverall Length: 42 inchesWeight: 6 lbs +/-Trigger: Dual TriggersSafety: Manual Tang Safety
At $699, the Bobwhite G2 Intermediate occupies an interesting space in the side-by-side market. While not exactly budget-friendly, it’s priced competitively for a field-ready double gun with interchangeable chokes. The value proposition becomes more apparent when you consider the scarcity of similar configurations from other manufacturers – you’d be hard-pressed to find another 26-inch barreled 20-gauge SxS with interchangeable chokes at this price point.
CZ explain that:
“2019 saw the introduction of our first ‘intermediate’ model at the request of Pheasants Forever – the CZ Quail over/under. This year we add another mid-sized shotgun in our side-by-side line with the Bobwhite G2 Intermediate. With the barrel length of 26″, it simply reduces the length of pull to 14″, just enough to give teenagers and those of moderate stature a better fit.”
First Impressions: Bobwhite G2 Intermediate
The aesthetics strike a practical balance – the blue finish is attractive without being precious, exactly what you want in a working field gun. The wood grain in the stock provides a welcome reminder of its natural material, though the fore-end has a slightly more uniform appearance.
Build quality is solid throughout, with well-fitted metal work and consistent finishing. The action, while not quite as smooth as some higher-end doubles, shows promise for improvement with use and proper lubrication.
Range Time: Bobwhite G2 Intermediate
Through approximately 200 rounds of mixed ammunition – everything from field loads to trap loads – the Bobwhite performed flawlessly. The extraction system worked perfectly, and the safety proved positive and reliable. The dual trigger setup, while potentially requiring adjustment for newcomers to double guns, eliminates the complexity of barrel selection that you’d find in a single-trigger design.
It is in the woods, hunting grouse, where this gun’s configuration really shines. That 26-inch barrel length, which might seem not-very-short (compared to the 28”) on paper, proves ideal when navigating thick cover. This maneuverability factor far outweighs any perceived benefits of the “intermediate” sizing – at 6’1″, I found the slightly shorter length of pull practically unnoticeable in actual use.
The triggers are, well, shotgun triggers. They’re consistent and appropriate for their purpose. Those obsessing over trigger feel in a field shotgun might be missing the point – these are tools for snap shooting, not precision instruments requiring a competition-grade break.
Pattern performance with various choke combinations proved consistent and predictable, though extensive patterning wasn’t conducted. The real test came in the field, where the gun accounted for one grouse with old 6-shot lead – arguably the most relevant pattern test for a hunting shotgun.
Final Thoughts: Bobwhite G2 Intermediate
The CZ Bobwhite G2 Intermediate’s true appeal lies not in its marketed role as a scaled-down shotgun, but in its practical configuration as a nimble field gun. The 26-inch barrel length combined with interchangeable chokes offers versatility that’s surprisingly hard to find in today’s market.
While the action could benefit from some break-in time or lubrication, and the $699 price point might give some pause, the overall package delivers where it counts. For upland hunters seeking a practical side-by-side that prioritizes field performance over flash, this CZ deserves serious consideration – regardless of your stature.
In closing, I want to say thank you to CZ for allowing The Firearm Blog and myself the opportunity to try out their CZ Bobwhite G2 Intermediate 20 Gauge SxS. That is greatly appreciated. Also, we would like to know what all of you guys and gals think, might this intermediate 20 gauge be the shotgun for you?