Pointer FT3 Field Tek 3 12 Gauge 28″ Semi-Auto Shotgun

Description

The Pointer FT3 Field Tek 3 12 Gauge 28″ Semi-Auto Shotgun is a gas-operated field gun built for upland hunting and sporting clays. It pairs a 28-inch ventilated rib barrel with a Turkish walnut stock and a bronze Cerakote receiver, giving you traditional looks and practical handling right out of the box. Key specs include a 3+1 capacity, a 3-inch chamber, and a five-choke set for versatility across different game and target loads. According to Pointer specs, the FT3 cycles reliably with 2¾- and 3-inch shells, and the single-round magazine cut-off lets you swap loads without emptying the tube. At $367.05, this is a solid entry-level semi-auto that puts function first.

Manufacturer	Pointer
Model	FT3 Field Tek 3
Material	Turkish walnut stock, bronze Cerakote receiver (per manufacturer specs)
Compatibility	12 Gauge, 2¾” and 3″ shells
Finish	Bronze Cerakote receiver, blued barrel
Weight	Approx. 7.2 lbs (per manufacturer specs)
Condition	New

Key Features

• Gas-Operated Action – Why it matters: Reduces felt recoil and cycles a wide range of loads, from light target shells to heavy field loads, without constant cleaning or tuning.
• 28-Inch Ventilated Rib Barrel – Why it matters: Gives you a long sight plane for smooth swing on crossing birds and clay targets, while the rib helps dissipate heat during extended strings.
• Turkish Walnut Stock – Why it matters: Provides a classic, warm grip that absorbs shock and offers a comfortable cheek weld for consistent point of aim.
• Bronze Cerakote Receiver – Why it matters: Adds corrosion resistance and a low-glare finish that won’t spook game, while holding up better than blued steel in wet conditions.
• Five-Choke Set and Magazine Cut-Off – Why it matters: You can switch from tight patterns for long shots to open spreads for close flushes, and the cut-off lets you safely unload or swap loads without cycling rounds through the action.

Who It’s For

This shotgun fits hunters who want a reliable semi-auto without spending over a grand. It works for pheasant, quail, dove, and rabbit hunting, plus casual trap or skeet shooting. If you’re a new shooter looking for your first field gun, or an experienced hunter who needs a backup that won’t break your budget, the FT3 delivers.

Pros & Cons

• Pros: Affordable price point, gas system reduces felt recoil, bronze Cerakote adds durability, includes five chokes, magazine cut-off is a useful feature for field use.
• Cons: Stock finish may show wear faster than higher-end walnut; some shooters report the gas system needs a break-in period of 50-100 rounds for flawless cycling with light target loads.

Comparison: Pointer FT3 vs. Competitors

Feature	Pointer FT3 Field Tek 3	Stoeger M3000	Mossberg 930
Price	$367.05	~$500	~$550
Action	Gas-operated	Inertia-driven	Gas-operated
Weight	~7.2 lbs	~6.8 lbs	~7.5 lbs
Chokes Included	5 (C, IC, M, IM, F)	3 (IC, M, F)	3 (IC, M, F)
Magazine Cut-Off	Yes	No	No
Stock Material	Turkish walnut	Synthetic	Synthetic
Receiver Finish	Bronze Cerakote	Blued	Blued

FAQ

Does the Pointer FT3 cycle light target loads reliably?

Yes, but some shooters report a break-in period of 50-100 rounds with heavier loads before it cycles 1-ounce target loads consistently. Once broken in, it handles most 2¾-inch shells fine. Use 1200+ FPS loads during break-in.

Can I use 3-inch magnum shells in this shotgun?

Yes. The FT3 is chambered for 3-inch shells, so you can run 2¾-inch or 3-inch loads. Stick to 3-inch for waterfowl or heavy game, and 2¾-inch for upland birds or clays.

Does the magazine cut-off let me safely unload the gun?

Yes. Engage the cut-off button on the side of the receiver, then cycle the bolt to eject the chambered round. The shell in the magazine stays put, so you can swap loads or clear the gun without dumping ammo.

What chokes come with the FT3?

It includes five Beretta/Benelli-style chokes: Cylinder, Improved Cylinder, Modified, Improved Modified, and Full. That covers everything from close-cover quail to long-range geese.

Is the stock adjustable for drop or cast?

No, the Turkish walnut stock is fixed. You can add a shim or have a gunsmith fit it, but out of the box it’s set for a standard field shooter. The comb is slightly raised for a good cheek weld.

Buy with Confidence

• ✓ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
• ✓ Ships 1-2 business days
• ✓ 30-day returns
• ✓ Secure checkout

Explore more options: Semi Auto Shotguns | Upland Hunting Shotguns | 12 Gauge Shotguns

Last updated: April 2026. According to industry data, semi-auto shotguns account for roughly 35% of all shotgun sales in the U.S. upland and clay markets.