About this product
The SKB Model 585 in 20 gauge with 26-inch barrels is a Japanese-built over/under field shotgun from SKB's 585 line. It's a boxlock design with chrome-lined barrels, a single selective trigger, and automatic ejectors — the standard recipe for an all-day upland gun. Shooters searching this model are usually comparing it against other Japanese-made O/Us in the same bracket, like Browning's Citori or Beretta's entry-level Silver Pigeon.
What is it used for?
It's built for upland bird hunting — quail, pheasant, dove, grouse — and clays. A 20 gauge with 26-inch barrels is a lighter, quicker-swinging combination than a 12 gauge with longer tubes, which is why it's a common upland choice.
How does it compare to a Browning Citori?
Both are boxlock O/Us with a Japanese manufacturing heritage and chrome-lined barrels, so the mechanical feel is similar. SKB is generally positioned as the lower-cost alternative in that comparison, with slightly plainer fit and finish and a lower price than a comparable Citori grade.
What chokes and ammo fit it?
It takes standard 20 gauge shells, typically 2¾-inch and 3-inch depending on the exact chamber spec on this gun. SKB shotguns of this era generally use SKB-pattern screw-in choke tubes, which are not interchangeable with another brand's tubes — confirm what's included before assuming a Browning or Beretta tube will fit.
Who is this not for?
Skip it if you want the low weight and single-barrel simplicity of a pump gun, if you need a shotgun rated for heavy steel waterfowl loads without first confirming steel-shot approval on the barrels, or if you're a collector chasing a specific sub-grade — verify the exact configuration before buying.
Is it worth the money?
For an upland hunter who wants a lighter-swinging 20 gauge O/U with genuine chrome-lined barrels and auto ejectors, yes — this is the price bracket where SKB has traditionally competed well against Browning and Beretta. Just weigh the tradeoff of proprietary chokes and thinner aftermarket parts support against the lower price.
Does it work in California?
Shotguns aren't subject to California's handgun roster or magazine-capacity rules, since a break-action O/U only ever holds two shells. You'll still go through a licensed FFL with the standard 10-day wait. See our California gun laws page for the full picture, and if you're also looking at rifles, check the compliance notes on the Valmet M76 in .223.
FFL transfer required
This item is a firearm and ships only to a licensed FFL dealer, never to a home address. At checkout, enter your preferred dealer as the shipping address, or leave it blank and we will assign a licensed dealer near you at no extra cost. You complete the background check and paperwork with the dealer when you pick up.
California buyers: handguns must be on the California roster for delivery to a California FFL, a Firearm Safety Certificate (FSC) and DROS are handled at the dealer, and the 10-day waiting period applies. Out-of-state buyers receive the firearm through their own local FFL under their state's rules.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Chrome-lined barrels resist corrosion
- Boxlock O/U handling favored for upland hunting
- Automatic ejectors speed up reloads in the field
- 20 gauge swings lighter and faster than a 12 gauge O/U
Trade-offs
- SKB uses proprietary choke threading, not interchangeable with other brands
- Parts and warranty support can be harder to find than Browning or Beretta
- Exact sub-grade and included chokes should be confirmed before buying
Key attributes
| Transfer | Ships to your FFL dealer |
| Gauge | 20 gauge |
| Barrel Length | 26 in. |
| Action | Boxlock over/under |
| Country of Origin | Japan |
| Trigger | Single selective |
| Ejectors | Automatic |
Frequently asked questions
- Does it come with choke tubes?
- SKB 585 shotguns typically ship with a set of screw-in chokes, but confirm the exact set included with this specific listing before buying.
- Is 20 gauge good for a beginner or smaller-framed shooter?
- Yes, 20 gauge produces noticeably less recoil than 12 gauge, which makes it a common recommendation for new upland hunters.
- What's the difference between 26-inch and 28-inch barrels?
- 26-inch barrels swing a little faster for close upland flushes, while 28-inch barrels swing a bit smoother on longer shots. Both are common upland lengths.
- Can I shoot waterfowl loads through it?
- Only if the barrels are marked as approved for steel shot. Check the barrel markings before running non-lead loads through any older O/U.
- Is SKB still supporting this model?
- SKB's ownership and production have changed over the years, so parts and warranty support can be harder to source than for Browning or Beretta — confirm current support with the dealer.