STOEGER M3500 SNOW GOOSE
Posted May 19, 2023
When it comes to shotguns, the most important thing to consider is functionality. The Stoeger M3500 Snow Goose is a great example of a perfectly balanced shotgun that provides reliable performance with excellent accuracy and dependability. While it’s design isn’t particularly novel or revolutionary, it offers the necessary features to provide a fantastic shooting experience whether you’re new to the sport or a veteran hunter.
The Stoeger M3500 Snow Goose is a semi-automatic gas-operated shotgun, utilizing the reliable Inertia Driven action. This system works by executing the powerful recoil force generated by the cartridge to cycle the action of the gun. As a result, the Stoeger M3500 Snow Goose is able to deliver reliable performance in a variety of situations and environments. The gun boasts a 28-inch barrel with a vented rib along the top to reduce weight and assist in target acquisition. The included 3" chambers are more than suitable for most hunting and self-defense purposes while the vented rib helps ensure optimal accuracy for distant targets. Overall, the construction of the Stoeger M3500 Snow Goose is solid and reliable, making it a great choice for a long-term shotgun.
The Stoeger M3500 Snow Goose isn’t just an all-around great choice for a shotgun, it's also aesthetically pleasing. The gun features a very attractive walnut-finished stock with a glossy black coating and sturdy checkered panels on the pistol grip and fore-end. The look of the gun is complimented by the bright nickel finish on the receiver and bolt. Not only does this give the gun a distinctive look, it also makes the gun easier to clean and maintain.
The ergonomics of the Stoeger M3500 Snow Goose are also quite impressive. The gun sports a comfortable, yet firm grip that ensures a full purchase as well as superior recoil management for fast follow-up shots. The included rubber butt-pad also helps to reduce felt recoil while the overall length of the gun makes it easy to handle and transport. Finally, the included fiber-optic sight makes target acquisition easier, even in low-light conditions.
The performance of the Stoeger M3500 Snow Goose is impressive, and it truly lives up to its “goose” namesake. The gun features a 3" chamber and smooth-bore barrel that allows for either a 2-3/4" or 3" shell size. This versatility make it great for both hunting and self-defense as it can easily handle up to 1-1/8 ounces of shot. The gun is also incredibly reliable, cycling shells with no hiccups with its Inertia Driven action. The action is also silky-smooth, allowing for quick and easy follow-up shots with very little effort.
Finally, the price of the Stoeger M3500 Snow Goose is incredibly competitive when compared to similar shotguns. At around $550, the gun is a great bargain for those looking for a reliable and powerful shotgun without breaking the bank. The gun also comes with a five-year warranty from the manufacturer, providing even more peace of mind.
Overall, the Stoeger M3500 Snow Goose is a great option for anyone looking for a reliable and feature-filled shotgun. The gun sports a great looking wood stock with a durable finish while the ergonomics are top-notch for a comfortable and secure hold. Further, the performance is just as good, cycling shells with ease and delivering reliable accuracy for a variety of uses. Finally, the price of the Stoeger M3500 Snow Goose makes it one of the best values in the shotgun market. All these factors make the Stoeger M3500 Snow Goose a great choice for anyone in the market for a dependable and feature-filled shotgun.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- It features an inertia-driven system to provide superior reliability.
- It is made with precision to offer great accuracy and performance.
- It has a relaxed yet secure fit, which provides comfortable and stable shooting.
- It includes three chokes (improved cylinder, modified, and full) for versatility.
- It is lightweight and easy to carry.
Cons:
- It is expensive compared to other shotguns in its class.
- Some users have reported issues with the gun jamming occasionally.
- The recoil with some loads can be a bit snappy.
- Additional components and accessories may be needed to fully customize the gun for various shooting needs.
Who Should Buy
The STOEGER M3500 Snow Goose is designed with waterfowl hunting in mind, so those looking for a shotgun for such purposes should give it serious consideration. The large capacity and lightweight design make it an attractive choice for those looking for a reliable and dependable shotgun for their waterfowl hunting needs.
The STOEGER M3500 Snow Goose also features a high quality action and can reliably cycle anything from light target loads to heavy waterfowl magnums. It is also capable of handling any type of choke and can be easily customized with aftermarket parts.
Those looking for a general purpose shotgun for activities such as sporting clays, skeet or trap likely won't find the M3500 Snow Goose particularly suitable, as its design is focused on waterfowl hunting. Those who don't specialize in hunting migratory birds or who don't have a need for the specialized features and design of the STOEGER M3500 Snow Goose should look for another shotgun option that better meets their shooting needs.
Comparisons
| Feature | STOEGER M3500 SNOW GOOSE | Product A | Product B | Product C |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 |
| Barrel Length | 28" | 28" | 28" | 26" |
| Magazine Capacity | 4 | 5 | 4 | 3 |
| Stock | Synthetic Snow Goose | Synthetic | Wood | Synthetic |
| Weight | 7.0 lbs | 7.0 lbs | 7.2 lbs | 6.8 lbs |
| Choke System | Interchangeable | Interchangeable | Fixed | Fixed |
| Chamber Size | 3.5" | 3.5" | 3.5" | 3" |
Features / Specs
•12 Gauge
•3” Chamber
• Inertia Driven Semi-Automatic Action
• Realtree Max-5 Camo
• 28”, 30”, or 32” Fluted VersaPort Barrel
• ComforTech Recoil Reduction System
• Fiber Optic Front Sight
• Interchangeable OptimaChoke Tubes
• Realtree Max-5 Synthetic Stock with Textured Grip Panels
• Reversible Crossbolt Safety
• Loaded Chamber Indicator
• Overall Length 47.5” (30” barrel)
Popular Accessories
EDITION
The most popular accessories for the Stoeger M3500 Snow Goose Edition include:
• Extra magazine
• Recoil pad
• Barrel relief port
• Recoil Reducing Stock
• Extended Forend
• Oversized Bolt Handle
• Telescopic Sights
• Accessory Rail System
• Extended Magazine Tube
• Sling Attachments
• Choke Tube Sets
• Stand-off Choke
• Magazine Well Inserts
• Global Sight System
• Muzzle Brake
• Softshell Stock Sleeve
• Kick Lite Stock System
• Hi-Viz Front and Rear Sights
Accuracy
The Stoeger M3500 Snow Goose is a very accurate semi-automatic shotgun that is well-known among game hunters. This gun is made with a strong and durable construction, and its semi-automatic system ensures reliable and consistent performance. It also features a low-recoil design for more comfortable shooting. Lastly, the barrel and choke system is designed to maximize the accuracy of the M3500 Snow Goose. With careful use, this gun is capable of producing patterns within 25 yards that can reach up to 4-inch circles. This accuracy can extend to up to 50-60 yards depending on the choke type being used.
