The Ata Arms Neo 12 shotgun is an inertial semi-automatic shotgun designed taking into account the latest technologies. The NEO inertial system presented in the gun is as simple and reliable as possible. It consists of three elements: an inertia-type shutter, a rotary cylinder and an inertial spring.
The Ata Arms Neo 12 inertial shotgun is created according to European quality standards, it has an original design, and its production is not the most expensive, therefore it is determined by the middle price segment. This is why Neo 12 is so popular among domestic hunters.
Manufacturing company
The arms company Ata Arms is one of the leaders in the Turkish arms market. They opened relatively recently, literally a couple of decades ago. Nevertheless, Ata guns are quite popular in the world and in Russia. In our country, their official representative is.
The Ata Arms company is represented by five different lines of double-barreled and single-barreled shotguns in the mid-price category. It is the good combination of low price and high quality, comparable to European brands, that makes the products of Turkish gunsmiths so in demand.
The manufacturer Ata Arms is distinguished by its ambition and courage, which is evident even from the name: the word ata translated from Turkish means “father”. The source of this ambition lies in the head and founder of the company - the weapons genius and legend of Turkey Selal Yollu. He founded his company at the age of 23, and designed his first gun at the age of 13.
General description of Neo 12
The Ata Arms NEO 12 shotgun is a single-barrel semi-automatic shotgun with an inertial reloading mechanism. In Russia, this model was presented in 2009 at one of the gunsmiths’ seminars, held just here. During the seminar, for those who followed the course of events, shooting tests of the new weapon were carried out, and cartridges loaded with different shot were used. And in these tests the model performed very well.
Reloading in the NEO line occurs due to the energy of the shot: it moves the bolt frame with the bolt back, compressing the inertial spring. At the same time, the used cartridge case is ejected. The compressed return spring straightens, pushing the bolt forward. He, in turn, picks up a new cartridge, sending it into the chamber. After this, the shooter can fire the next shot. Ata Arms NEO smoothbore shotguns are designed for 5 shots.
A simple recharging system makes it easy to use. The absence of carbon deposits inside the system has a beneficial effect on the shutter.
The gun is lightweight, so it does not cause problems during transportation. Another important advantage is soft recoil. All Ata Arms guns are distinguished by their simplicity of design and ease of maintenance/cleaning.
The modern and elegant design not only creates a pleasant impression, but also emphasizes the ergonomic design - nothing superfluous. The ergonomics and incredible flexibility of this gun also makes it stand out. A large number of versions makes it possible to find exactly the option that the hunter needs.
Design
The motto of the Ata Arms NEO line is simplicity and reliability. The design of these guns is as simple as possible. The reloading mechanism consists of only three parts: the bolt, the cylinder and the inertial spring.
Such simplicity is the key to the reliability of the mechanisms. In addition, the simpler the design, the easier it is to care for the weapon. Disassembly for cleaning and lubrication will not take much time and will not require any special effort.
The inertial mechanism is more reliable than the reloading mechanism using muzzle gases. Particularly because with such a system the mechanism is not contaminated by settling gases. The recoil in such cases is much lower, since the energy of the shot is partially spent on reloading.
The Ata Arms shotgun from the NEO line is also distinguished by excellent ergonomics and grip. It is comfortable to hold in your hands and is pleasing to the eye. Externally they are very similar to the Benelli Montefeltro, but this is not a replica. Ata Arms NEO 12 also uses the Turkish company’s own developments, although the experience of its predecessors was taken into account during the design.
Despite the fact that many hunters prefer the inertial automatic circuit, not all weapon manufacturers undertake its production, since inertial automatics are extremely demanding on the quality of metal processing and the accuracy of tolerances. The NEO 12 inertia gun has successfully passed all the necessary stages of weapon testing, including maximum loads according to the CIP (European standard) and SAAM (American standard) systems with cartridges developing a pressure of 1370 Bar. The milestone of 10 thousand rounds during testing was overcome without breakdowns or failure of the main parts and components of the weapon.
During testing, the NEO 12 functioned with equal success on cartridges ranging from 28 g to Magnum with 52 g of shot. The reliable operation of a gun using cartridges loaded with 24 g shot will depend mainly on the type of gunpowder and primer used.
Reduction of recoil when shooting even the heaviest magnums is ensured by the recoil absorber located in the stock, developed by ATA ARMS. The barrel is made of 42CrMo4 - 4140 chrome-molybdenum steel, and the receiver is machined from a special 7012 T6 aluminum alloy, widely used in aircraft manufacturing. The stock is cut from the best grades of Turkish walnut, and some parts (trigger guard, magazine parts, etc.) are molded from durable, wear-resistant plastic.
When developing a new model, the problem of unifying components and parts was solved: almost all components of the weapon, manufactured using CNC, can be replaced without any adjustment. If you look closely at the details of the gun, you will see that they are made using modern equipment with a minimum amount of manual labor. This speaks not only about quality and stability, but also about the identity of the quality characteristics of ATA ARMS weapons.
The semi-automatic magazine holds four 12/76 rounds. The NEO 12 semi-automatic allows for absolutely silent reloading; even with smooth hand movement of the shutter, the barrel bore is silently and reliably locked.
The NEO 12 shotgun operates absolutely reliably on cartridges equipped with domestic Zhevelo primers, and when using already fired cartridges. In a word, the weapon is adapted for the Russian hunter.
The controls are located on the right side of the receiver: the bolt stop button is large and can be easily reached with the fingers of the left holding hand, the cut-off switch in the form of a flag is located in the front part of the trigger guard, and the push-button safety is traditionally located in the rear part. The shutter is typical of inertial action: its main element is an inertial spring installed between the shutter and its rotating locking cylinder.
When shooting a bullet, it is better to use a short barrel with rifle sights and a cylinder drill to achieve good results. In this “compact” configuration, the NEO 12 weighs only 2900 g. With a 76 cm barrel, the weight of the gun reaches 3200 g.
Turkish gun "Ata Arms NEO-12": price and purpose
The cost of the weapon in question depends on its modification, supplier, and condition. On average, a new copy of this brand will cost about a thousand dollars (just under 60 thousand rubles). Naturally, used models have an order of magnitude lower cost. When purchasing shotguns on the secondary market, pay attention to the integrity of the main working parts, as well as the condition of the stock.
As for the purpose of the Turkish gun, there are three main directions: hunting, clay pigeon shooting and sports shooting. It is often used for entertainment and protection of one’s home. It is worth noting that the use and transportation of weapons must be carried out in accordance with the safety rules specified in the instructions, and must also be accompanied by permits.
Advantages and disadvantages
To truly appreciate this gun, you need to hold it in your hands. No description will give you a true understanding of what it is. By the way, in terms of quality, Ata’s products are not so much inferior to their European competitors. But the price differs quite significantly, by 30-40%. And this is, perhaps, their main advantage: a competent combination of price and quality.
Also a big plus is the availability of various modifications of one model. Among them, hunters and sports shooting enthusiasts, and even those who need a gun for defense or recreational shooting will find their own option. Everyone will find their own NEO 12 model.
High shooting accuracy, as well as ease of care and cleaning are also clear advantages of Turkish weapons. By the way, NEO 12 can be loaded with cartridges with any shot weight, which is also quite convenient.
In general, it performs very well during tough and extreme use on hunting, or even in shooting clubs with absolutely incredible shooting, using cartridges of different power and minimal maintenance. A study was conducted that examined the condition of weapons after a year of “service” in one of the shooting clubs. It can be assumed that such a biography does not benefit the weapon. However, after disassembling the Ata Arms NEO 12 shotgun, only light abrasions were found on some parts of the mechanism, including the trigger, but otherwise the barrel remained in excellent condition.
There are no weapons without flaws. Like everything in this world, the Neo 12 model gun has its drawbacks. So, those who actively use guns of this brand have noticed that at times, after several accurate shots, the charge begins to move away from the target. Moreover, the weapon has no apparent reason for this. Experts advise you to adjust the butt. In some cases, this helps get rid of the defect.
Another drawback is typical for modifications with a wooden butt. It is made from Turkish walnut, and this wood does not always withstand use in difficult conditions; it loses its appearance. However, this does not affect the behavior of the gun in any way. And yet, for those who are going to actively use it specifically for hunting, it is better to opt for plastic models.
Possible gun defects and their elimination
Like any other weapon, the Ata Arms Neo 12 has its weaknesses. Next, we'll talk about the most common problems that owners encounter and tell you how to fix them.
1. A cartridge from the magazine does not fall onto the feed tray.
There can be two reasons for this problem. The first is a weak pressing of the button: the shutter stop is released, but the lock is not completely retracted. To eliminate the defect, you should slightly sharpen the latch that holds the cartridge in the magazine itself.
The second is poor cleaning. Small debris can get under the bar, which is spring-loaded and placed on the bolt release button, and interfere with the operation of the mechanism. To troubleshoot, the gun must be disassembled and cleaned.
2. All cartridges feed normally, but the last one freezes.
In most cases, the problem lies with the ammunition itself. If, after changing cartridges multiple times, the defect is not eliminated, then you need to disassemble the gun and look for the root cause. Owners who encounter such a defect eliminate it by stretching the magazine spring.
3. The barrel is covered with rust.
To prevent rust from appearing on the barrel and sighting rail, you need to lubricate the gun generously. It is necessary to correctly select a lubricant that will create a dense oil film and completely prevent the ingress of moisture.
NEO 12 modifications
Ata Arms NEO is a whole line of single-barreled shotguns, which allows everyone to find exactly what they need: a hunting, sports or recreational weapon. The models of the line differ in the length and shape of the barrel, the material from which the butt and stocks are made, as well as choke tubes. In addition, almost all modifications are produced not only in 12 gauge, but also in 20, and if desired, in 28. A total of 17 basic configurations are provided.
- Camo - with a plastic butt and stock with a camouflage-type coating. These are purebred hunting rifles. The protective pattern camouflages the gun and does not reveal the location of the shooter.
- Engraved - gift models with hand engraving on the receiver, are presented in two versions: Modern III Gold with a gold-plated box and Deluxe with a steel receiver.
- Plastic - the stock and fore-end are made of plastic. Working hunting version. Produced in two calibers - twelfth and twentieth. It has a barrel shortened to 610 millimeters.
- Tactical - with a pistol grip and a barrel shortened to 470 millimeters, designed for self-defense and recreational shooting.
- Walnut is a classic hunting series with a walnut forend and butt. The surface is laminated and has the texture of noble wood.
- Woodcock - light version. Designed specifically for hunting woodcock, which is depicted on the receiver. It has a shortened barrel with a length of 610 millimeters and a magazine for two cartridges. The stock and fore-end are made of oil-soaked walnut.
- Sporter – this model is positioned as a gun for sport shooting. Its main feature is the high and wide aiming bar, which facilitates the aiming process.
Almost every modification has several branches, differing in color and the presence of barrel attachments.
In its class, the Ata Arms NEO 12 shotgun has practically no competitors. European models are much more expensive, the Russian market has not yet responded with anything worthy. Only the Turkish Khan Matrix can be considered a rival to Ata guns. The characteristics of the guns from both companies are similar; many consider Khan’s products to be even more reliable.
And yet, over almost a ten-year history of sales in Russia, NEO guns have proven themselves to be the best. Many hunters prefer them over all others. They say that you only need to shoot it a few times to feel a certain kinship with it. The trump card in this case is convenience and ergonomics.
Ata guns are a pleasant alternative to high-quality and beautiful, but very expensive options from Europeans. Such an alternative has been awaited for a long time, hence the popularity of Turkish weapons.
The Ata Arms NEO 12 semi-automatic definitely has great prospects to please our hunters. The design has been perfected by the company over many years of producing inertia guns, the workmanship is quite high, the range of ammunition used is from 28 g and above, the accuracy and density of the shot shot is good, the results of firing a bullet from a short barrel are excellent, the design is at the level of modern European leading brands. Also important is the cost, which is three times lower than that of analogues on the market.
The NEO 12 shotgun occupies a middle position in the price range of budget weapons, and the truth is always somewhere in the middle.
Brief description of the model. Application area
Ata Arms Neo 12 is a classic inertial single-barreled shotgun. The main gauge is 12, modifications are also available in 20 and 28 gauge. Reloading is semi-automatic. The gun has 17 basic configurations. They differ in stock and stock material options, barrel length and design, and attachments.
Thanks to the large number of models, Ata Arms Neo 12 has a wide range of applications. First of all, this is amateur and commercial hunting for small and medium game. Such qualities as good grip, maneuverability and shot accuracy made the gun popular among hunters.
Some models, such as the Ata Arms Neo 12 Tactical II, are positioned by the manufacturer as a weapon for recreational shooting. The Tactical has a bell-type choke and is only suitable for close-range shooting. This gun is also suitable for self-defense.
Fans of sports and clay pigeon shooting will benefit from the Sporter, developed specifically for these purposes. It is equipped with a larger rib than other models. This allows you to aim more accurately and fire quickly.
The Ata Arms company occupies a leading position in the arms market of the Turkish Republic. Founder Chelal Yollu is a talented weapons engineer. He developed his first gun at the age of 13. Official distributor of Ata Arms products in Russia -
