Saiga-20
Kalashnikov Concern (Izhmash) · Shotgun · In Production · 1997
Also known as: Saiga 20, Saiga-20S, IZ-104, IZ-105
Overview
The Saiga-20 is a Russian semi-automatic shotgun chambered in 20 gauge, built on the long-stroke gas-operated Kalashnikov action. Developed by Izhmash in the 1990s and now produced by the Kalashnikov Concern, it pairs the AK rifle's rotating-bolt mechanism and detachable box magazine feed with a smoothbore shotgun barrel. The 3-inch chamber accepts magnum shells, the chrome-lined barrel resists corrosion, and interchangeable chokes adapt it for hunting, sport, and self-defense use.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 3500 g (123.5 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1135 mm (44.69") |
| Barrel Length | 483 mm (19.02") |
| Action Type | Gas Operated Long Stroke |
| Firing Mechanism | Rotating Bolt |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Detachable Box |
| Effective Range | 50 m (55 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Smoothbore |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Chrome Lined Steel |
| Stock Material | Polymer |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- 20 Gauge · primary — also known as 20 ga, 20 bore
Features
- Firing modes: Semi Automatic
- Feed systems: Detachable Box Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Lever Safety
- Features: Kalashnikov Action, Chrome Lined Barrel, Detachable Box Magazine, Interchangeable Chokes, 3 Inch Chamber
Variants
- Saiga-20K - Short Barrel
Service history
Operators
- Russian private security services
Production
Production years: 1997-present
Part of the broader Saiga shotgun line; total production figures not publicly disclosed
Origin
Country of origin: Russia
Designer: Izhmash
Notes
Marketed primarily as a hunting and sporting shotgun. The 20-gauge model is the lighter-recoiling member of the Saiga shotgun family alongside the .410 and 12-gauge versions.
Background
The Saiga family was created in the early 1990s when Izhmash adapted its Kalashnikov rifle production lines to civilian smoothbore shotguns, giving the world an AK-pattern magazine-fed shotgun in 12, 20, and .410 chamberings.