Franchi Spas 12

New Franchi Spas 12 – Franchi Spas 12 in stock – Franchi Spas 12 near me

Here’s a visual of the iconic Franchi SPAS‑12 shotgun. Now, let me break down what makes this firearm so distinctive:

Overview & History

• Origin & Production: The Franchi SPAS‑12 is an Italian combat shotgun produced by Franchi from 1979 to 2000, with about 37,000 units built.

• Name Meaning: Originally named Special Purpose Automatic Shotgun, it was later rebranded as Sporting Purpose Automatic Shotgun in 1990 to meet U.S. import regulations

Design & Features

• Dual-Mode Action: One of SPAS‑12’s most notable features is its ability to alternate between semi‑automatic (gas-operated) and pump-action modes. Switching modes involves pressing a button beneath the fore-grip and sliding it back or forth, which opens or closes gas ports.

  • Semi‑auto mode for rapid firing.

  • Pump-action mode ideal for low‑pressure rounds like tear gas or bean bags which may not reliably cycle the semi-auto mechanism.

• Magazine-Cutoff Feature: Allows the shooter to unload or switch the chambered round without cycling from the magazine—useful for switching between lethal and non-lethal ammo. Stock with Hook: The collapsible metal stock includes a rotating hook. When deployed, it can secure under the shooter’s forearm for one-handed use, though its practicality is debated.Weight & Dimensions:

  • Weight: ~4.4 kg (9.7 lb)

  • Length: 1041 mm (41 in) with stock extended; 820 mm (32.5 in) folded

• Barrel Options: Available in lengths of 18″, 19.875″, 21.5″, and 24″.Ammunition & Magazine: Uses 12-gauge, 2¾-inch shells, with internal tubular magazines accommodating 5 to 8 rounds depending on extension.

Operational Use & Impact

• Primary Users: Marketed for military and law enforcement, especially special forces units. Later adapted for civilian markets with modifications to comply with import laws

• U.S. Import & Restrictions:

  • Import began in 1982 via F.I.E. Corp., halted in 1989 due to regulations.

  • American Arms resumed import in 1990 with “sporting purpose” modifications (fixed synthetic stock, 6-round capacity) until the 1994 Assault Weapons Ban ended it.

• Media & Pop Culture: The SPAS‑12 earned legendary status in films like Terminator, Jurassic Park, The Matrix, RoboCop 3, and TV shows like Miami Vice. It frequently appears in video games—Battlefield, Call of Duty, GTA, Half-Life, and more.

• Collector Value Today: Once priced around $1,500 from the factory, the SPAS‑12 now commands a much higher price on the collector market—ranging from €500 to several thousand Euros, depending on variant and condition.

Summary Table

Final Thoughts

The Franchi SPAS‑12 remains one of the most visually striking and mechanically unique shotguns ever produced. Its hybrid operation, rugged styling with heat shield, and creative features like the hook stock have cemented its place in both firearms lore and pop culture. While impractical in many modern tactical applications due to its weight and complexity, it endures as a beloved piece among collectors and media creators alike.

If you’d like to explore its variants (like SAS‑12 or LAW‑12), technical manuals, or its real-world use by specific agencies, I’m ready to dive deeper!