Description
Picture this: you’re walking the edge of a Missouri woodlot, the frost crunching underfoot. A squirrel darts up a hickory, and you need a tool that’s light, simple, and utterly reliable. You don’t need a high-dollar over-under; you need a purpose-built, no-fuss implement that gets the job done without emptying your wallet. That’s the exact scenario where the Stevens 301, 410 Ga, 26″ Barrel, Single-Shot, XF Choke, Bottomland shines.
The Stevens 301, 410 Ga, 26″ Barrel, Single-Shot, XF Choke, Bottomland is a budget-friendly, single-shot shotgun chambered in .410 bore. It features a 26-inch barrel with a factory-installed XF (Extra Full) choke tube, a durable Bottomland camo finish, and a simple break-action design ideal for new shooters, small game hunters, and those seeking an ultra-reliable backup gun.
Let’s talk about what you’re really getting for your money. The core of the 301’s value is its sheer simplicity. The single-shot, break-action design is about as foolproof as it gets. There are no magazines to load, no complex controls to master—just open, load, close, and shoot. This makes it a fantastic first firearm, often requiring no gunsmithing required to get it field-ready. The manual safety is crisp and easy to operate, even with gloves on. That simplicity translates directly to reliability; with fewer moving parts, there’s simply less that can go wrong in the field or at the range.
The included 26-inch barrel is a sweet spot for the .410, providing a smooth swing for wing shooting and a bit more sight radius for precise aiming on stationary targets. The factory-threaded muzzle and included XF (Extra Full) choke tube are huge value-adds at this price point. This choke is tight, making it excellent for turkey hunting or patterning heavier shot at longer ranges for small game. Want to switch it up? The threads are compatible with Stevens/Savage AccuChoke tubes, so you can easily swap in a Modified or Improved Cylinder tube for closer-range work. The entire package is wrapped in a functional Bottomland camo pattern that breaks up your outline in marshy or wooded environments.
Here’s the thing—you’re making tradeoffs for that low $192.69 price tag. The single-shot design means you have one chance before reloading, which teaches discipline but isn’t for every situation. The synthetic stock and forend are durable and weather-resistant, but they won’t have the refined feel of walnut. The trigger is serviceable, not match-grade. But for a tool that weighs in at a scant 5.1 pounds, carries effortlessly all day, and goes bang every time you pull the trigger, those are practical compromises many are willing to make.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge/Caliber | .410 Bore (3″) |
| Action Type | Single-Shot, Break-Action |
| Barrel Length | 26 Inches |
| Choke System | Threaded for AccuChoke (XF Tube Included) |
| Overall Length | 42.5 Inches |
| Weight | 5.1 lbs |
| Finish | Bottomland Camo |
Pros: Exceptional value for money; ultra-reliable and simple operation; lightweight and easy to carry; includes a versatile XF choke tube; great camo finish straight from the factory; ideal for teaching new shooters.
Cons: Single-shot capacity is a limitation; synthetic furniture is basic; not suited for high-volume shooting or home defense; .410 ammo can be more expensive than 12 or 20 gauge.
Who is this for? This shotgun is a perfect fit for several groups. First, it’s an outstanding first gun for a young or new shooter, thanks to its minimal recoil and safe, simple operation. Second, it’s a dedicated small game and turkey hunter’s specialist, especially with that tight XF choke. Finally, it’s a brilliant truck gun or backup for seasoned hunters—a lightweight, corrosion-resistant tool you can stash and forget until you need it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the .410 powerful enough for turkey hunting?
A: Absolutely, especially with this model. The included XF (Extra Full) choke tube is designed to tighten patterns at longer ranges. When paired with modern TSS (Tungsten Super Shot) loads in .410, the Stevens 301 becomes a highly effective and incredibly lightweight turkey gun, so long as the shooter practices shot placement and knows their effective range.
Q: Can I use 3-inch and 2.5-inch shells in this shotgun?
A: Yes. The Stevens 301 .410 is chambered for 3-inch shells, which means it can safely fire both 3-inch and the shorter 2.5-inch (also called 2 1/2″) .410 bore shells. Always refer to your owner’s manual for confirmation. The gun’s overall length of 42.5 inches provides a balanced feel with either shell length.
Q: What’s the process for buying this online?
A: When you purchase from a licensed retailer like ours, the firearm is shipped to a local Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder of your choice in your state. You complete the required background check and paperwork with them before taking possession. FFL transfer required for firearm purchases is a standard, secure process for all online firearm sales. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide to compliant states.
If you’re looking for a straightforward, dependable shotgun that delivers serious capability without a serious price tag, the Stevens 301 in .410 with Bottomland camo is a standout option. See the full details on our product page.
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