Fausti Caledon: Precision 16-Gauge Over Under with Optiwood

Precision over-under shotguns occupy a special place for shooters who demand consistency, balance, and craftsmanship from a field gun. Whether you’re walking a ridge for upland game, swinging on sporting clays, or appreciating a well-made shotgun at the range, the right platform combines proven engineering with thoughtful ergonomics.

FAUSTI CALEDON

The FAUSTI CALEDON is the flagship of Fausti’s CORE line of entry-level professional-grade shotguns, priced at $2855.99 and built to deliver both performance and refined aesthetics. At first glance you notice the all-steel billet-machined construction and the balanced lines that come together in a design focused on repeatable accuracy and long-term durability. Shop this product here: Shop this product.

Build and Lockup: Steel, Precision, Repeatability

The Caledon uses all-steel billet-machined construction—a process that starts with solid steel and machines the action to exacting tolerances. That alone delivers a more rigid action than folded or cast alternatives, which translates into consistent alignment between action and barrels shot after shot. Fausti’s signature Four Locks System is central to the design: it provides solid vertical and horizontal lockup between the action and the barrels. In practical terms, this reduces micro-movement at the hinge and mainspring areas, maintaining point-of-impact consistency and significantly reducing parts wear caused by recoil over the life of the shotgun.

Why the Four Locks System matters

For any shotgun intended to be shot regularly—whether in competition, sporting clays, or spirited upland days—the lockup is foundational. The Four Locks System improves contact surfaces and distributes stress more evenly across the action. That means reliable timing, predictable shot-to-shot behavior, and less maintenance over years of use.

Optiwood Furniture: Form Meets Function

FAUSTI CALEDON features Fausti’s Optiwood furniture: walnut construction with laser-enhanced checkering. The Optiwood finish isn’t just cosmetic. Laser checkering provides repeatable hand placement and secure purchase in wet or dry conditions without the visual inconsistency that aggressive hand-cut checkering can present. Walnut retains classic shotgun aesthetics while providing the tactile feedback shooters expect. The result is a stock that points naturally and yields consistent cheek weld and eye alignment for fast follow-up shots.

Barrel, Chokes, and Chambering: Why 16-Gauge Works

This model is chambered in 16-gauge with a stainless receiver and blued 28-inch barrels that accept 2.75-inch shells. The fixed chokes are marked FM (Modified) and F (Full), offering a balanced spread for mid-range patterning and denser patterns out toward longer sporting targets or thicker cover. The 16-gauge itself deserves a closer look: it sits between 12- and 20-gauge in performance, offering a compelling mix of payload and controllability.

Benefits and applications of 16-gauge

16-gauge delivers sufficient shot energy for upland birds and many waterfowl scenarios while generally producing less felt recoil than many 12-gauge setups. For shooters who want a lively, efficient pattern with a lighter shoulder punch than a 12, the 16 is an elegant compromise. It’s favored for woodcock, pheasant, and quail work, and it performs well on clay fields where efficient shot presentation and quick handling are priorities. The 28-inch barrel length helps with swing dynamics and the blued finish reduces glare in bright conditions.

Handling, Balance, and On-Field Performance

On the swing, the billet action and 28-inch barrels provide a stable yet lively feel. The steel construction adds a purposeful weight that helps absorb recoil and stabilize follow-up shots, while the Optiwood stock keeps the gun pointing comfortably and naturally. The fixed FM and F chokes make the Caledon a versatile choice out of the box; shooters who prefer a different spread can still consider opening or reworking shot selection to match season and quarry.

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Accessories and Protection

FAUSTI CALEDON ships with a hard plastic carrying case, which is practical for transport and storage. While a hard case is a functional baseline, many owners add breathable cases or soft covers for daily range use to protect the finish from accidental bangs and moisture. Given the stainless receiver and blued barrels, periodic light oiling and a clean will preserve the appearance and function while the Optiwood finish benefits from occasional stock care oil to maintain the walnut grain and checkering.

Who this shotgun is for

If you’re a serious upland hunter, a sporting clays competitor who enjoys a more traditional gauge, or someone who values a high-quality entry into professional-grade shotguns, FAUSTI CALEDON deserves attention. Its billet-machined action and Four Locks System give it a long service life, the Optiwood furniture enhances handling and appearance, and the 16-gauge chambering balances recoil and performance for a wide range of shooting applications.

Final assessment and next steps

The FAUSTI CALEDON blends precision engineering with refined ergonomics. At $2855.99, it represents a sensible investment for shooters who want a professional-grade, entry-level over-under that won’t need replacing after a season or two. Between the stainless receiver, the proven Four Locks System, and the Optiwood stock, the Caledon is built to be used and enjoyed for years. Check current availability and purchase options at the retailer: Check availability.

People Also Ask

What makes this product stand out from competitors?

This product offers superior quality and innovative features that set it apart in the market. Its design focuses on both performance and reliability, making it a top choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Is this product suitable for beginners?

Yes, this product is designed with user-friendly features that make it accessible to beginners while still offering advanced capabilities for experienced users.

What warranty or support is available?

The product comes with comprehensive warranty coverage and excellent customer support to ensure your satisfaction and peace of mind.

How does this compare to similar products in its price range?

This product offers exceptional value for its price point, providing features and quality that typically cost significantly more in comparable alternatives.

What maintenance is required?

Minimal maintenance is required thanks to the product’s durable construction and quality materials. Regular cleaning and occasional inspections will keep it performing optimally.