Description
You’re in the blind before dawn, the woods just starting to wake up. A distant gobble cuts through the stillness. You shoulder your shotgun, the red dot settles on the tom’s head as he steps into range. That moment—the culmination of preparation, patience, and the right tool—is what the Stevens M301 Turkey XP 20 Ga, 26″ Barrel, 1×30 RDS, Bottomland, Single-Shot is built for. It’s a purpose-driven, no-fuss hunting instrument designed to put a tom on the ground without putting a dent in your wallet.
Here’s the thing—this isn’t a gun for the safe queen. It’s a working man’s turkey gun. The single-shot design forces discipline, making that first shot count. The integrated 1x30mm red dot sight is a game-changer for fast, precise head shots at typical turkey ranges, eliminating the guesswork of bead alignment. The Bottomland camo finish breaks up your outline against the spring foliage, and the 20-gauge chambering delivers potent TSS or heavy lead loads without the punishing recoil of a 12-gauge. At a price point of $227.47, it represents serious value for a dedicated setup.
Key Features
The heart of this system is the factory-mounted 1x30mm red dot sight. It’s parallax-free, giving you a clear, single-plane point of aim. This means faster target acquisition when a bird appears unexpectedly. You’re not fiddling with a bead; you’re putting a dot where you want the pattern to go. The sight is powered by a common CR2032 battery, a standard you can find anywhere, and it’s ready to mount and zero—no gunsmithing required.
Weighing in at approximately 5.5 lbs, the M301 Turkey XP is light enough for long stalks and all-day sits. The 26-inch barrel provides a good balance for maneuverability in thick cover while still offering a smooth swing. The single-shot action is simple, reliable, and easy to maintain. The Bottomland camo isn’t just for show; it’s a proven pattern for the varied environments of the Midwest and beyond, helping you stay concealed from a turkey’s keen eyesight.
Specifications
| Gauge | 20 Gauge (3″ Chamber) |
| Barrel Length | 26 Inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 42.5 Inches |
| Weight | Approx. 5.5 lbs |
| Sights | Integrated 1x30mm Red Dot |
| Finish | Bottomland Camo |
Pros & Cons
Pros: Exceptional value for a complete, optics-ready turkey gun. The red dot sight is a significant tactical advantage for precision. Lightweight and easy to carry. The Bottomland camo is highly effective. Simple, reliable single-shot operation.
Cons: Single-shot capacity requires a sure first shot. The red dot’s battery life must be monitored before season. It’s a specialized tool—less versatile for other types of hunting compared to a standard shotgun.
Who It’s For
This gun is for the dedicated turkey hunter who wants a dedicated tool. It’s perfect for the newcomer looking for an affordable, ready-to-hunt package that works right out of the box. It’s also a great choice for the seasoned hunter wanting a lightweight, simple backup gun or a specialized rig for tight timber. It’s a focused solution, not a generalist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the red dot sight already sighted in?
A: No. The sight is mounted at the factory, but you will need to zero it at the range with your chosen turkey load. The process is straightforward and ensures your point of aim matches your point of impact.
Q: What choke does it come with?
A: The Stevens M301 Turkey XP typically comes with a turkey-specific extra-full choke tube installed, designed to tighten your pattern for ethical head shots at distance. Always confirm tube compatibility with your chosen ammunition.
Q: Can this shotgun handle 3-inch magnum shells?
A: Yes. The chamber is designed for 3-inch shells, allowing you to use the full range of modern 20-gauge turkey loads, including high-velocity lead and dense TSS payloads. The single-shot action handles them reliably.
Ready to add this focused, value-packed turkey hunter to your arsenal? The Stevens M301 Turkey XP is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. FFL transfer required for firearm purchases.
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