Best Inertia Shotgun Under $1000? CZ 1012 12 Gauge Semi-Auto Shotgun Review

[@OfficerQuaalude]

I've owned my 1012 for just over a year, and all I can say is that it is simply a work horse. Paid just over $600 out the door and it's been worth every penny and much more. I maybe clean it once every 500-600 rounds and there have been instances where the gun has been stored dirty for a couple months at a time. Even still, I have never had a single malfunction with my 1012, even with a variety of different target and game loads. I cannot recommend this shotgun enough. I have considered upgrading to a shotgun such as a Browning Maxus or Beretta A400 to get a more premium semi auto, but I always stop myself short of the actual purchase. This is because I honestly realize that these more premium guns do not do anything that much better or in a more efficient way than my 1012, and yet they're easily twice the price or more. If I were a more serious shooter I'm sure I would add more semi's to my collection, but since I like to just go and shoot trap or sporting clays for fun this is the perfect shotgun for me. Again, highly recommended.

[@takuroshinji2445]

Is it all metal ?

[@tuhai223]

How’s the recoil, recoil impulse? Deciding between this and the ultima or Sx4

[@OfficerQuaalude]

@@takuroshinji2445 besides the wood furniture, yes it is all metal.

[@OfficerQuaalude]

@@tuhai223 since it's inertia, the recoil is smooth and I've had no issues shooting 100+ rounds in one session. I haven't shot an A300 in a while but I'd say they're comparable, with the 1012 having slightly less recoil due to its inertia system vs the 300's gas system. I have no experience with the Sx4 but have heard good things. In all honestly I would choose the 1012. I own an A400 now and it blows all three of those shotguns out of the water, but it wasn't nearly as cheap!

[@logantoney4525]

@@OfficerQuaaludeI don’t think you understand what your saying. You said it has less recoil because it’s inertia that is backwards a gas gun will always have less recoil.

[@xxltuna4606]

I got my 1012 last year 1500 rounds through it with zero malfunctions of any kind. The wood on my for-end is also perfect

[@DL-yc4pm]

The walnut on my fore-end and butt stock are absolutely gorgeous! Got lucky to look through three different ones to pick from and got one with tons of burling. Nicer than most factory images I've seen.

[@jss8494]

One thing I wish you would have covered/stressed is what comes with the 1012 for the price. 5 different extended choke tubes, choke tube case, a plastic gun case, and plenty of shims to adjust the gun to customize fit.

[@justinforsythe2187]

I've had mine for 3 years now, and it has been good to me so far. As far as a reliability of them I know I saw on KZbin, CZ set of world record with five people shooting the 1012 for 12 hours breaking over 14,000 clays with one of the shooter shooting the same gun the entire time and the others only switching out once.

[@jss8494]

I watched the videos. Good for CZ going out to find young shooters to break that record.

[@jss8494]

@@thereloadingcraft There are a total of 6 episodes. Here is the link for the first- kzbin.info/www/bejne/jqOceKmbo9SVf8k

[@TheStig92]

Purchased one in January and have put about 1500 rounds through it so far operates flawlessly only complaint is the choke tubes get loose sometimes after maybe 50 shots.

[@DL-yc4pm]

Your experience shows and I respect your opinion on the trigger. Great review. I do own the cz 1012 and haven't had any issues with shooting fast. Actually most shotguns I rarely feel any difference when shooting at waterfowl. This is a great shotgun. For the price and chokes, great deal.

[@whfugate]

I just purchased one and here are my Initial Impressions... Overall I am pleased with my purchase so far. The Gun is nice quality, Especially for the Price. the Gun is very lite, which is good for the field but couple that with inertia system and it does kick a little harder than expected. I am a Short 5'7 guy and I do have to try to get my face lower on the gun but not as bad as the Presenter makes it out to be, in my experience I have been able to hit Targets just fine.. Over all I think this thing is a great deal. I got mine, the Walnut and Black Variety for $700 out the door at my local gun store, that includes steep 9.25% local sales tax. That is a great Value. Comes with Chokes, Shims to adjust the stock and a nice plastic hard case all for $700. I am more of a Double Barrel guy but was in the Market for a Semi Auto that would take 3 inch Shells and decided to Purchase the 1012. I have several CZ products and this does the Brand justice even though it is technically a re-stamped Turkish Huglu. Very Cool Gun for Hundreds of Dollars less than others in the Segment.

[@devinlindberg253]

If anyone is curious which Falcon Strike pad it is. It’s the 9202. Mike was absolutely amazing and walked me right on to target on exactly what I needed! I have not tested it yet but they stand behind their products 110% and were so helpful I’m sure it will be amazing!

[@ResurrectDecoys]

Saw a factory blem 1012 sell for $500 the other day. That's a price hard to beat for an autoloader

[@JRod-XD-mod]

I have the BRONZE CZ 1012 one of the first ones to come out 2 years ago. Love it. Shoots well. and the value of what you get for the price is AMAZING. We're talking ALL 5 CHOKES INCLUDED. Full, Improved Mod, Mod, Improved Cyl and Cyl. that's a whopping value deai. very light. 6.5 lbs.

[@drewmohl4221]

Great informative channel, would like to see some over/under and side by side CZ products. I have heard a lot of good reviews about CZ, but have a hard time finding quality videos reviewing their shotguns, keep the videos coming.

[@isaachawkins804]

Yes please do the CZ 1012 vs. the Weatherby Element. I've been looking for my first simi-auto and those two are top contenders on my list.

[@ericrock7209]

Thanks, Steve for the review. I see waiting patiently for this review. I was looking at the SX4. It wasn’t until I looked at this gun at my local shop. The weight really surprised me. I found it pointable and quick on the mount. The biggest deal, for me, was the price. I started watching reviews, but was waiting for my main guy, but… anyway… Here’s my main pluses. I bought this as an all around hunting gun. Took it Turkey hunting in the spring, and I’m looking forward to pheasant and deer. It’s great I’m the field, as it’s so light. I got the camouflage version and it great, so far, I almost lost it when I leaned it against a tree to tie my boots! The biggest downside, the recoil! Shooting a 3” Turkey load out of it, not a big fan. Also, finding a choke isn’t really easy, either. Please, do the Falcon Strike install on this. Shooting any 2 3/4” out of it is not a problem. 3” is a whole different ballgame, brother. Really want to thank you for all the great content. I’m a long haul trucker, and your channel helps keep me entertained on the road. Staying Focused out here! TFL

[@eduffy4937]

The chokes are simple to find. Fleet farm even has them.

[@neilrobinson1991]

I run the 1012. It’s a wonderful gun at a fraction of the price of many of the inertia guns on the market. Great deal overall and a great gun!

[@Iepyro24]

Looking to buy one here soon!

[@raducirstoiu2253]

Can you ghost load it?

[@thejuror2009]

You “run” it. Cringe.

[@pookiemonkey1474]

You should score the shotgun with pattern testing with factory chokes for steel/lead as well.

[@Midnightrider1177]

As a self proclaimed CZ aficionado, I’ve had to talk myself out of buying this gun for about a year now. I’m super skeptical of Turkish made semi-autos. But I’ve never owned a CZ that’s didn’t run like a damn sewing machine. Still waffling over it 😂

[@jss8494]

Great review as always! I would love to see a head to head with the Element. When I bought my 1012 I was also considering the Affinity 3. The gun salesman told me he works on commission and would love to sell my the Affinity for more money but the 1012 is underrated and he would recommend the 1012 over the Affinity.

[@xxltuna4606]

I was told the same thing at my gun shop!

[@9breakerboarding147]

Yay finally. Thanks for getting one. Definitely curious about the showdown.

[@bradrehnstrom1068]

Very fair review. I've had the black 10-12 for about a year now. The chokes do come loose often, after a round of trap or skeet is not uncommon. Just became part of my routine to check now. I have found it to have cycling issues on cheap/light target loads. Both failure to extract and getting caught in the ejection. Not sure if it is the light load or poor shell construction. All brand name "good stuff" works great. I have run the most Fetter Competition 7.5oz. through it. I feel like for the price, I got a step up in quality (I preferred inertia over gas) with the understanding that I didn't buy uber-premiuim shotgun. I highly recommend, as long as you feed it good ammo.

[@mattjohnston8072]

I appreciate this video (well to be honest all your videos). But this one in particular because I’ve been looking for a Inertia 12ga to replace my ol’ reliable Remington 11-87 that wouldn’t break the bank. I’ve also had my eyes on the weatherby element so if you did a comparison video that would be awesome! God bless you, your family, and everything you guys do.

[@caseygretlein9493]

I have a CZ 1012 in the silver receiver and for shooting dove and quail it works great…..trigger pull is not a problem in the hunting setting but I fully understand your concern in speed shooting. As a side note, my son has the All Terrain 1012 (the same gun you reviewed) and his forestock did not seat properly and CZ sent him a new one with no questions asked, great customer service. Thanks for the review!

[@caseygretlein9493]

Sending my reply for gift

[@coltonmullins2274]

I was asking about this!! Glad to see you did it. Shame about the slower trigger, but still faster than a pump!

[@jeffreyjohnson5092]

I have no complaints with my 1012. It's been a great shotgun. I have had it for 2 years. Just a good workhorse for the money. Not one failure yet.

[@TheFishingPilot]

I got mine when they first came out for a pheasant hunting trip in Kansas. I've had zero issues since then and have become a big CZ fan. As far as Carlson choke tubes, they still are not making them for this gun - at least nothing on their site for the 1012. My understanding is that this uses a proprietary choke pattern per an email from Carlson choke tubes a few years back.

[@petercutmore1262]

Here in the UK we use 28g shells which is almost 1 oz or 24g which is about 0.85 of an oz would like to see you try these lighter loads in you reviews

[@pjnightingale4423]

Flat ribs are going feel high because the step or arch in most ribs makes it look “flat” when the bead is still in the same spot. I have a 1012 and seeing a bit of rib is normal for that gun

[@travisaustin1069]

Awesome video! I bought my Affinity 3 elite because of your reviews and shouldering the gun in store. It was between that and the SX4 for me. Would love to see a show down between the 1012 and Element. I also think throwing a Affinity 3 against one of those guns would be cool due to the fact it’s inertia and can be purchased in a similar price range.

[@jss8494]

A 3 Gun showdown!!! I like it!

[@hydro1581]

Sx4 all day

[@Zach-td5mb]

@@hydro1581affinity elite is the same price and better

[@LIONTAMER3D]

It's absurd how good cz firearms are, I mean, they're truly great.

[@DL-yc4pm]

Cz provides spacers and comb adjustments with the shotgun. I adjusted my comb down and may help you with the flat receiver to barrel sight line.

[@davidcudlip6587]

Just bought one with the 26" barrel for pheasant and maybe occasional waterfowl hunting. I'm usually an over/under shooter but I wanted a lightweight option for hunting in Kansas or South Dakota where bag limit are larger. This gun should work out fine

[@redsteam1]

Great review, now we need a 712 versus 1012 comparison video.

[@tomalsop8538]

Great video, spot on how I thought you would review. The intertia system in mine just seems slow to cycle compared to my Franchi or benellli, trigger LES than desirable but suitable for hunting situations. A great gun for the money.

[@Not.Your.Ordinary.Garage]

Your review on this gun made me pick one up and i cant say enough good things about this gun i have shot it once with my wife who i picked up a mossberg 500 super bantum in muddy girl camo 20g for her and when we shot i was shootin 1oz pay loads for target and the cz 1012 right out of the box shot every single round no malfunction and just simply is a easy shooter just point and shoot that simple love this gun all i can say

[@KnifeCrazzzzy]

Man we need this show down! I’m looking to see if you’ve done it but haven’t seen it yet.

[@trollzone1]

Cool video man didn’t even know this gun existed. I personally bought the 1301 beretta but this is an interesting alternative at a fantastic price point. Definitely nicer than a mossberg semi auto.

[@dougi1967]

We need more CZ shotties reviews. Thank u!

[@markchekhanovskiy3270]

It would be awesome to review inertia guns under 1k in particular cz 1012 vs weatherby element

[@drewessick]

I ha e had mine for about two years now and the only problems I have had are one the charging handle fell out but cz sent me a new one for free. The second problem I have had is finding chokes I hate to say it but Carlson's doesn't make a choke for this gun so I run a kicks choke. Also the stock is adjustable so you can drop the stock to achieve a better sight path along the rib which took care of the smoothing of the cheek causing the slap to the face for me any way. But I love the 1012 it's my go to duck gun.

[@rbgfishboy]

Yes, please this one vs. the Element. That should be a great comparison.

[@ebhsports6251]

You should review the gas operated CZ 712 target . It would probably be a better fit for you. Longer length of pull, stepped up rib. Around 7 bills about the same price as that 1012 depending on where you get it. .

[@GAguns]

I checked one out in a gunstore today. I don't know about you but what I handled was crisp af barely touch it and it goes. Everybody has diferent bodyes with different preferences I had no problem with the trigger.

[@graysonhammonds5853]

No malfunctions yet... had it for 2 years shotover 1000 times... just make sure the bolt handle comes before you buy... seems to be a common issue... ive had people complain about the recoil... Im 5'10 135 and to me its fine... just leaves a lil bruise on my face... a shim or pad is a solution

[@NeilsprojectFD1994]

Great video!! Thank you for all of the good information on the CZ 1012.

[@pierreclifton1865]

Every shotgun you review I want to buy. I'm not joking. I'm holding a viper I saw you reviewed last week. Now I want this one. I think its beautiful, you had me at "half the price"/similar quality. Yeah I don't see me speed shooting clays anytime soon. So this maybe a good one and CZ has a $75 rebate until 12/31/2023. About to watch the weatherby element video and order my choice. Appreciate your honesty and candid reviews...guess that's what makes everything so compelling.

[@fundayclips4951]

I won a bid and was able to snag a brand new one for $450. Thanks for the review. Was lacking some information on this bad lad

[@chrisgullett9735]

Definitely want to see the head to head showdown between the Element vs the 1012.

[@TargetFocusedLife]

I'll put it on the list! 👊 Stay Target 🎯Focused (Hebrews 12:1-3)

[@ttgk8506]

Picked one up for $429 after mail in rebate. Got a case, 5 chokes in separate case, two sleeves included

[@clintchapman4319]

I like my 1012, and although I don't shoot fast like you, It seems like the action takes a little longer to cycle than other semi automatic shotguns I've used.

[@oswalddesign]

You said it. Stoeger M3000 V2 inertia with and without the recoil pad comparison.

[@joshuamaurer4466]

Absolutely do the showdown!! I am also curious to see how they compare.

[@ianprice2441]

Cz1012 with Falcon Strike.👍Weatherby Element vs Cz1012 showdown.👍

[@EndoftheBlock7224]

I bought one of these 9 months ago and still have not shot it. Thanks for the review, I'll have to pop the cherry here soon

[@mehmet.demirtas]

Hello my friend, the rifle you introduced is Turkish made, 100% Huğlu Renova.

[@jameskilburn4456]

Love to see a review on the Remington V3 👍

[@truss2005]

You are a legend. Love the content.

[@adrianlouviere7650]

Always enjoy viewpoint, opinion, and skill. Thanks

[@ProductBasement]

I've had nothing g but trouble with my CZ 1012. I've had it go off unexpectedly at least 5 times in both my hands and the hands of more experienced shooters including with the safety on, had multiple jams, and had it fire multiple shots with one trigger pull several times. I don't want it but I'm afraid to give it to someone else

[@jeffbaker5038]

Thanks for your informative and entertaining videos. I like the fact that you call it like you see it!

[@TMS5100]

CZ 1012 is a rebranded Huglu Renova made in Turkey. Proving that Turkish made guns aren't as bad as many claim.

[@BlueRay602]

Agreed, a show down with the Element would be great.

[@johnathanstorm6939]

I would like to see a 1012 vs Weatherby element video. They’re not to far apart on price

[@johnathanstorm6939]

Lmao, I mentioned the vs video before I seen you mention it near the end🤣

[@dichotomousblue]

DEFINITELY want an element vs cz1012 showdown, looking to buy one of these likely soon

[@FraserFir-sb4lk]

Have you considered the Franchi Affinity 3?

[@mapple35]

I have a feeling the falcon strike is why your not monetized. To a non-gun person a "recoil reducing accessory" sounds scary, like their example for rapid fire.

[@mikest.pierre8603]

Yes! Do a comparison with the Weatherby element. (Ifya haven't already)....

[@ben10mama]

I'd bet the CZ1012 with a trigger job and falcon pad would be better than a benelli

[@cademarlatt5101]

Steve!! You’ve reviewed almost every single gun out there EXCEPT the Remington VERSAMAX. It’s a must for Remington fanboys

[@donmatlock6761]

I love the element in 20 gauge

[@tylerheroux1047]

Would love to see a review of the CZ Drake

[@colewintholzoutdoors7530]

I just bought one mine is really clean and I love it works great

[@edwardbryant3686]

YES!!! Let's see the showdown vs. the Weatherby Element!

[@krisoliver4240]

I think we need the showdown with the weatherby

[@dalerobbins4737]

Another great review but not a CZ fan. I’ve had to many friends purchase one and they end sending back to get fixed, in fact some they even upgraded to a better shotgun. So I like how they stand behind there guns and they are fast on repairs but a pain to deal with. I’d rather just save up my money and get a better shotgun. That trigger looks like a major issue. Don’t think I’ve seen you have issues like this one. JMO

[@michaelavalos-wn5lv]

The only advantage I see in a 3.5 in is more shot pellets. Like in a turkey load, or magnum whether it's a 3" or 3.5" you get a industry Max load which is 4 drams of powder. With the right choke those extra pellets can make a difference. As far as recoil goes I'm not sure but thinking about it pushing the weight of extra pellets might increase the recoil slightly or would it dampen it? Probably not discernable and inconsequential and/or insignificant? Still for me it would be interesting to know 👍🏼

[@dominicbenecasa7893]

I own a Benelli montefeltro for less than $1000 love the gun.

[@ryanrumsey1545]

Let’s see that comparison, I’ve duck hunted with my cz for two seasons and no fails yet. Have had the bolt not close all the way twice in the teens for temp. But otherwise it’s a runner! Out performed a franchi and stoeger multiple hunts last year in freezing rain. Love your videos, keep up the reviews. Looking for a reliable 20g. For the wifey.

[@RighteousEdits]

Are you using the choke tubes that came with the gun? I’m assuming you’re using steel?

[@user-dc8jh4yz5s]

love these videos! but when are we going to get a review on the CZ All American?!

[@Groundpilot88]

What’s a good budget over under that you would recommend?

[@Macdaddy22713]

Could we get a video on the girsan Mc312??? Seems like a great gun for the money

[@iamastig]

Agreed. The Girsan is the CZs competition not the Element…at least in terms of price.

[@carsonsmith1395]

please do impala plus shotguns i’ve been looking for a good review and haven’t gotten one

[@josephmoravec8146]

Looks like CZ purchased the Browning B-80 receiver from the 80s and retro fitted it to inertia. I believe that I shot this at the Reeds gun fair this spring and really liked it but I have been shooting a B-80 for a long time so that makes some sense.

[@JuanGonzales-or6pu]

I Bought this solely based on this review, which is the only serious one in youtube. I must say that Im Hugely Disappointed, Because what everyone seems to fail to mention is that this gun is very un-polished, which means that It Kicks like a Mule. It Kicks more than Mossberg 520 & 590 and that is Something nobody mentions. hope this helps the next buyer

[@itzilugo1]

Can u do a review on the Weatherby 18i

[@goodstuff8156]

Those numbers are just great together. 1012

[@merhunts]

I'd like to see a sosa test between all the cheaper inertia guns.

[@eabdic1]

All I can say is…..FINALLY!! 😂

[@andrewprioli5244]

Would definitely like to see that showdown with the weatherby

[@davechrenek8220]

Been considering the element so would like to see them battle it out

[@chrisnedbalek2866]

Good review, thank you!

[@Chaph26]

Weatherby Element Showdown please. Great review as always! Thank you!

[@nataliatorrez9779]

Between the CZ 1012 and or the franchi affinity which one will be better for first time shooter

[@jss8494]

Those are the 2 guns my choice came down to. I liked them equally the same. I ended up going with the 1012 due to very similar guns but the 1012 is a couple hundred dollars less. On top of that you get more accessories(5 extended choke tubes, full set of shims, hard plastic case) so it was a no brainer.

[@connorladd4970]

I would love to see that showdown I'm currently in the market and I've watched a bunch of your reviews and I think I got it down to the 1012 and the weatherby element so a showdown would be awesome. Thanks.

[@xxltuna4606]

It’s my favorite shotgun I’ve ever owned or shot especially for the money. I just bought my second and neither of mine have the minor issues that his do

[@oregonuplands8687]

Love to see that showdown!

[@lazygamer9725]

Have a 712 g2 I setup for 3gun. I love it. Thought bout the 1012 for hunting

[@diannecarter1754]

I have this gun and it’s a crazy deal for the money. I love this gun❤

[@pierreclifton1865]

Very little recoil, feels like you're shooting a 20ga. Never noticed the trigger at all. And depending on the finish you get, it's very very nice for the price. Easily my favorite.

[@rudyelizondo1935]

Hell yeah, do the comparison to the weatherby element!!!

[@bigal25938]

I want a new shotgun. A 12 semi that will shoot 3 1/2” shells. Watched a bunch of your reviews on different guns and now I got to buy at least 6 new guns. My wife is going to hate me and you both.

[@chadcowman6293]

Need that showdown. I'm on the fence

[@merhunts]

Do a sosa test with the Element, 1012, Affinity, Stoeger, Retay. Etc.

[@flintrichards945]

I have a CZ 1012 and I absolutely love it it is a great shotgun.

[@johnmcintosh4546]

love to see a video of your top 10 shot guns and what you think is #1 over all

[@TargetFocusedLife]

I will have best of video coming out later this year! 👊 Stay Target 🎯Focused (Hebrews 12:1-3)