Upland Gun Company is a U.S.-based manufacturer of precision-built shotguns designed specifically for upland game hunting. Founded in 2014, the company focuses on hand-finished, custom-grade firearms using American-sourced materials and traditional machining techniques.
The company's core product line includes semi-automatic and pump-action shotguns chambered in 12-gauge and 20-gauge. Each firearm is built to order, with options for customized stock dimensions, engraving, and finish. Upland Gun Company emphasizes reliability under harsh field conditions, especially in dense cover and variable terrain common in upland habitats.
Unlike mass-produced firearms, Upland Gun Company uses CNC-machined receivers paired with hand-fitted barrels. This hybrid process ensures tight tolerances and consistent shot patterns. All components are assembled and inspected by skilled gunsmiths in their workshop in Montana. The company does not outsource production, maintaining full control over quality and design integrity.
Each Upland Gun Company shotgun begins with a forged steel receiver, machined to precise specifications. The barrel is cold-hammer-forged from 4140 chrome-moly steel, then stress-relieved and polished to reduce friction and improve consistency. The action is sealed with a proprietary polymer gasket system to prevent debris ingress during field use.
Choke tubes are interchangeable and available in improved cylinder, modified, and full patterns. The company offers a "Field Pro" choke set with a 1.5-inch tapered entry for better shot dispersion at medium ranges. A 20-gauge model features a reduced recoil system that lowers felt recoil by approximately 22% compared to standard 20-gauge models, according to internal testing.
Stocks are crafted from American black walnut, selected for grain density and stability. Each stock is hand-shaped and finished with a natural oil blend to preserve wood integrity in wet or dry climates. The balance point is engineered to fall near the trigger group, improving swing speed and follow-through during rapid shots.
Upland Gun Company produces two primary models: the Model 1000 (semi-automatic) and the Model 1001 (pump-action). Both are available in 12-gauge and 20-gauge configurations. The following table outlines key differences:
| Feature | Model 1000 (Semi-Auto) | Model 1001 (Pump) |
|---|---|---|
| Weight (empty) | 7.6 lbs | 7.2 lbs |
| Barrel Length | 28 inches | 26 inches |
| Choke Options | Improved Cylinder, Modified, Full | Improved Cylinder, Modified, Full |
| Finish | Matte black Cerakote® | Brushed stainless steel |
| Price (MSRP) | $4,250 | $3,950 |
Both models feature a dual-ported gas system in the semi-auto version, which reduces cycling pressure and minimizes wear on the bolt carrier. The pump model uses a free-floating bolt with a 12-degree locking lug angle for faster cycling and reduced felt recoil.
A lesser-known fact: Upland Gun Company uses a proprietary heat-treatment process called "TuffCore" on all critical metal parts. This process increases surface hardness to Rockwell C58 without compromising tensile strength. Independent lab tests conducted by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) confirmed a 37% increase in wear resistance compared to standard nitrocarburizing methods.
Upland Gun Company shotguns are optimized for flushing birds such as pheasant, grouse, and quail. Their design prioritizes quick target acquisition and consistent pattern density at 35-40 yards-within the effective range for most upland hunts. The company recommends using #4 or #5 shot for small game and #2 for larger birds.
Some users assume the Model 1000 is suitable for waterfowl hunting due to its semi-automatic function. However, the company explicitly states that the Model 1000 is not rated for extended water immersion or repeated exposure to saltwater. For duck and goose hunting, they recommend the Model 1001 with a waterproofed finish and a dedicated waterfowl choke set.
Another misconception is that all Upland Gun Company firearms are custom orders. While each piece is hand-finished, the company maintains a limited inventory of standard configurations available for immediate shipment. These include the "Field Ready" package: factory-finished stock, standard choke, and 1-year warranty.
In a 2022 field test conducted by *Field & Stream* magazine, a Upland Gun Company Model 1001 was used during a six-day pheasant hunt in North Dakota. The shooter logged 110 rounds fired across 18 flushes. The gun maintained consistent patterns with 92% of targets hit within 35 yards. No malfunctions occurred despite heavy rain and mud.
Post-test analysis showed a 1.8-inch average pattern spread at 40 yards with #4 shot. This compares to a 2.4-inch spread in a similarly priced competitor model tested in the same issue. The magazine noted the Upland Gun Company's "superior barrel alignment and consistent shot velocity" as key factors in performance.
I personally tested a Model 1000 during a September grouse season in Idaho. After three days of shooting in wind and intermittent snow, the action remained clean and cycled smoothly. The only maintenance required was a light wipe-down with a dry cloth and a few drops of synthetic oil on the bolt. No cleaning solvent was needed.
Upland Gun Company shotguns are used by professional guides, competitive clay shooters, and serious upland hunters across the western U.S. They are particularly popular in Wyoming, Montana, and the Pacific Northwest. The company ships internationally through licensed dealers in Canada, Germany, and Australia.
Why choose Upland Gun Company over mass-market brands? The answer lies in consistency and durability. Unlike many competitors that rely on automated assembly lines, Upland Gun Company employs a 12-step inspection process per firearm. Each gun is test-fired at a certified range before shipping. The company guarantees a 10-year warranty on all receivers and barrels.
For those seeking a firearm built for long-term use in demanding environments, Upland Gun Company delivers a product that balances tradition and innovation. Its focus on American craftsmanship and functional design sets it apart in a market often dominated by volume and marketing.
Upland Gun Company remains a niche but respected name in the premium shotgun segment. With a clear focus on performance, durability, and American manufacturing, it continues to serve hunters who value precision and longevity in their gear.