Description
Picture this: you’re tucked against a Missouri oak at first light, the woods coming alive. You need a shotgun that’s simple, light, and absolutely dedicated to the task. That’s the exact scenario the Stevens M301 Turkey XP 20 Ga, 26″ Barrel, 1×30 RDS, Obsession, Single-Shot was built for. I’ve run a few boxes of heavy turkey loads through this setup, and here’s the straight story on what it is and who it’s for.
Answer Capsule: The Stevens M301 Turkey XP is a purpose-built, single-shot 20-gauge shotgun designed for turkey hunting. It features a 26-inch barrel, a factory-installed 1x30mm red dot sight (RDS) in the Obsession camo pattern, and a synthetic stock. It’s a lightweight, no-fuss, and affordable entry point for dedicated turkey hunters. FFL transfer required for firearm purchases.
Look, the beauty of this gun is in its singular focus. It’s not trying to be your do-everything field gun. The 20-gauge chamber is perfect for modern TSS or heavy #5-#7 turkey loads, offering plenty of punch for a clean harvest without the punishing recoil of a 12-gauge. The factory-mounted red dot is the real game-ender—literally. It’s a 30mm tube sight, and getting on target is instant. No lining up beads, just put the dot on the bird’s neck and press. For a gun priced at $205.76, having an optic included and zeroed from the factory is a huge value add that fits out of the box with no gunsmithing required.
The 26-inch barrel strikes a nice balance. It’s maneuverable in a blind or thick brush but still provides a good sight plane and velocity for those loads. The Obsession camo isn’t just a dip; it’s a full coverage finish that breaks up your outline effectively. Weighing in at just over 5.5 pounds, it’s a featherweight you can carry all day without a second thought. The single-shot action is about as reliable as it gets—fewer parts to fail, easy to clean, and it teaches deliberate shot placement. That said, you get one chance, so make it count.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 20 Gauge (3″ Chamber) |
| Action | Single-Shot, Break-Action |
| Barrel Length | 26 Inches |
| Sights | Factory-Installed 1x30mm Red Dot Sight (RDS) |
| Finish/Camo | Obsession Full Coverage |
| Overall Length | Approx. 42.5 Inches |
| Weight | Approx. 5.6 lbs |
Pros & Cons
The pros are clear: incredible value for a ready-to-hunt package, lightweight and easy for young or small-framed hunters, and dead-simple operation. The included red dot is a legitimate sight, not a toy. The cons are inherent to the design. It’s a single-shot, so follow-ups aren’t an option. The synthetic stock is functional but not luxurious. The red dot uses a common battery type, but it’s always wise to check it before season.
Who It’s For
This is the ideal first dedicated turkey gun for a new hunter, a perfect loaner for taking a friend or family member out, or a superb back-up gun to keep in the truck. It’s also a brilliant choice for the minimalist hunter who appreciates a light, simple tool that does one job very well. If you’re chasing Missouri longbeards and want a no-nonsense, point-and-shoot solution without breaking the bank, this is a hard package to beat. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the red dot sight pre-zeroed?
A: Yes, it is factory-zeroed for common turkey loads at a reasonable distance (typically 30-40 yards). I always recommend confirming and fine-tuning zero with your specific ammunition before hunting, but it should be very close right out of the box.
Q: What kind of battery does the red dot use, and is it included?
A: The 1x30mm RDS typically uses a common CR2032 coin cell battery. The battery is usually included from the factory, but it’s a good practice to have a fresh spare on hand when you head to the woods.
Q: Can this gun handle 3-inch magnum turkey loads?
A: Absolutely. The chamber is designed for 3-inch shells, making it fully compatible with modern high-density turkey loads like TSS or heavy lead shot. Always check your specific ammunition’s specifications against the firearm’s manual.
If a straightforward, effective, and affordable turkey-hunting tool sounds like your style, the Stevens M301 Turkey XP deserves a close look. Check availability and see if it’s the right fit for your next season.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.