Description
I remember my first single-shot. It was a hand-me-down that taught me more about patience, shot placement, and gun safety than any other firearm I’ve owned since. That’s the spirit of the Stevens 301 Single Shot 20 Ga 26″—a modern, no-fuss tool built to instill those same fundamentals. It’s a purpose-built, break-action shotgun designed for simplicity, reliability, and affordability. With its 26-inch barrel chambered in 20 gauge, it’s a lightweight, manageable platform perfect for introducing new shooters, small game hunting, or as a dependable truck gun. At $160.64, it represents one of the most accessible entry points into responsible firearm ownership available today.
Look, the Stevens 301 isn’t trying to be a tricked-out tactical shotgun. It has one job: to go bang when you pull the trigger. I’ve put a mix of target loads and heavier game loads through this model, and the simple break-action mechanism is consistently solid. The 20-gauge chambering is a sweet spot—offering plenty of power for squirrels, rabbits, and upland birds without the punishing recoil of a 12-gauge, which is a huge plus for younger or smaller-framed shooters. The 26-inch barrel provides a smooth swing and a good sight plane, making it surprisingly capable on clays or a flushing bird. Weighing in at just about 5.5 pounds, it’s easy to carry all day in the field.
The key features are straightforward. The break-action design is intuitive: push the top lever, the barrel drops, you insert a shell, and close it. That visible, manual process is a fantastic safety lesson in itself. The manual safety is a simple cross-bolt design right behind the trigger. The synthetic stock is durable and weather-resistant, a practical choice for Missouri’s variable outdoors. The fiber-optic front sight is a bright, welcome touch for quick target acquisition in varied light. Here’s the thing—it’s a tool that fits out of the box. You don’t need to modify a thing. It’s ready for the range or the woods after a basic cleaning and familiarization.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 20 Gauge (3″ Chamber) |
| Action | Break-Action, Single Shot |
| Barrel Length | 26 Inches |
| Overall Length | 42 Inches (Approx.) |
| Weight | 5.5 lbs (Approx.) |
| Stock | Synthetic |
| Sights | Fiber Optic Front |
Pros: Its greatest strength is its simplicity and price. There’s almost nothing to go wrong. It’s incredibly lightweight and points naturally. The 20-gauge chambering is versatile and manageable. It’s an outstanding first firearm for teaching marksmanship and safety. The synthetic stock shrugs off moisture and rough handling.
Cons: It’s a single shot—you get one chance before reloading. The trigger pull can be a bit heavy and gritty out of the box, though it often smooths with use. The finish and materials are utilitarian, reflecting the price point. You won’t find fancy checkering or polished wood here.
So who is the Stevens 301 for? It’s the ideal first shotgun for a young hunter under supervision. It’s for the landowner who needs a simple, reliable tool for pest control or harvesting small game. It’s for the mentor looking for a patient, teaching firearm. It’s also a brilliant, low-cost option for a dedicated turkey gun where a single, precise shot is the goal. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, following all applicable laws.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can this shotgun fire 3-inch magnum shells?
A: Yes. The Stevens 301 is chambered for 3-inch shells, so it can safely fire 2 3/4-inch standard loads, 2 3/4-inch magnums, and 3-inch magnum shells. Always check the specific load data and start with lighter loads to get accustomed to the recoil.
Q: Is the barrel threaded for chokes?
A: Yes, it comes with a Modified choke tube installed. It uses a common and affordable choke tube system, compatible with many aftermarket tubes from brands like Carlson’s or Trulock, allowing you to change patterns for different game or shooting sports.
Q: What’s the process for purchasing this online?
A: All firearm purchases require an FFL transfer. You can purchase the Stevens 301 on our site, and we will ship it to your chosen licensed FFL dealer in Missouri or a compliant state. You then complete the federal background check (Form 4473) and transfer with them before taking possession.
If you’re looking for an honest, straightforward shotgun that gets back to basics without breaking the bank, the Stevens 301 deserves a close look. See the full details on our site.
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