Description
The Stevens 301 Compact, 410 Ga, 22″ Barrel, Break Open, Black is a single-shot, break-action shotgun designed for simplicity and reliability. It’s a purpose-built tool for close-range pest control, small game hunting, and as a compact, manageable firearm for introducing new shooters to the fundamentals. With a price point of $153.87, it offers a no-frills, dependable entry into firearm ownership. This model ships to Missouri and compliant US states.
Key Features
- Compact & Manageable: The 22-inch barrel and lightweight polymer stock create a firearm that’s easy to carry through thick brush and simple to handle for shooters of all sizes.
- Break-Action Simplicity: The single-shot design is inherently safe and straightforward. Open the action, load a shell, close it, and you’re ready. There’s no complex manual of arms to learn.
- .410 Bore Versatility: Firing .410 bore shells, this shotgun delivers manageable recoil, making it an ideal choice for youth, smaller-statured adults, or anyone sensitive to heavy kick. It’s effective on squirrels, rabbits, and snakes at close range.
- Built for the Field: The matte black finish resists the elements, and the synthetic stock won’t warp or crack with changes in humidity. It’s a tool meant to be used.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | .410 Bore |
| Barrel Length | 22 Inches |
| Action | Break-Action, Single Shot |
| Overall Length | Approx. 36.5 Inches |
| Weight | Approx. 5 lbs |
| Choke | Fixed Modified (typical) |
| Stock | Synthetic, Black |
Weighing in at roughly five pounds, this shotgun is a featherweight companion for long walks in the woods. The fixed modified choke provides a balanced pattern for the versatile .410, effective from 15 to 25 yards. Here’s the thing—when it comes to teaching firearm safety and marksmanship, the single-shot design forces deliberate action. Each shot counts, reinforcing fundamentals that translate to any platform. The manual safety is positive and easy to operate, a critical feature for any scenario, especially when used as a training tool. This firearm is drop-in ready from its case, requiring no gunsmithing or assembly to begin use.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This is the first gun. It’s for the parent looking to safely introduce a young hunter to the tradition. It’s for the landowner who needs a reliable tool for dispatching pests around the barn or garden. It’s for the seasoned hunter who wants an ultra-lightweight option for squirrel woods where stealth and carry comfort trump firepower. Given its light recoil and simple operation, it can also serve as a viable home defense option for individuals who cannot manage the recoil of a 12-gauge, though its single-shot capacity is a significant tactical limitation that must be understood. That said, its simplicity is its greatest strength for its intended roles.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Extremely affordable at $153.87. Exceptionally simple and safe to operate. Very lightweight and easy to carry. Produces minimal recoil, perfect for new or recoil-sensitive shooters. Durable synthetic construction stands up to field use. The break-action allows visual confirmation of an empty chamber—a top-tier safety feature.
Cons: Single-shot capacity requires a reload after every fire. The .410 bore is less powerful than 20 or 12-gauge, limiting effective range and stopping power. Not suited for waterfowl or turkey hunting where stricter gauge restrictions or higher pellet counts are required. Accessories and aftermarket support are minimal compared to popular pump-action or semi-automatic models like the Mossberg 500 or Remington 870.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What types of .410 shells can this shotgun fire?
A: The Stevens 301 Compact can fire standard 2.5″ and 3″ .410 bore shells, including birdshot, buckshot, and slugs. Always check your specific state’s regulations regarding ammunition types for hunting. For pest control, #4 or #6 shot is common, while for home defense, .410 buckshot loads are available.
Q: Is this a good gun for a child’s first firearm?
A: Yes, its combination of light weight, minimal recoil, and the fundamental safety enforced by the single-shot design makes it an excellent choice for supervised youth training. Proper instruction and adult supervision are, of course, non-negotiable prerequisites.
Q: Can a scope or red dot be mounted on this shotgun?
A: The Stevens 301 Compact typically does not come drilled and tapped for optic mounts. It is designed for use with its simple bead front sight. For those needing precision with slugs, aftermarket gunsmithing would be required to add a rail, which may not be cost-effective for this platform.
Available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. An FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases.
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