Charles Daly 101 Single 20 Gauge 20 in Mossy Oak
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 5.2 lbs (83.2 oz)—2.3 lbs lighter than most 12-gauge pumps
- 20-inch barrel keeps overall length to 36.5 inches for tight cover
- Mossy Oak Cerakote finish adds corrosion resistance—withstands 500+ hours salt spray testing
- Fiber optic sight gathers 300% more light than standard brass beads
Trade-offs
- Single-shot design limits capacity—3-4 second reload versus 1 second for pumps
- No choke compatibility—fixed cylinder bore only patterns 40 inches at 25 yards
- Synthetic stock has minimal checkering—requires added grip tape for wet conditions
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
What is the Charles Daly 101 Single 20 Gauge 20 in Mossy Oak? It's a break-action single-shot shotgun chambered in 20 gauge with a 20-inch barrel and Mossy Oak Bottomland Cerakote finish. Designed for straightforward field use, this firearm prioritizes simplicity and reliability over capacity or rapid follow-up shots. The synthetic stock and compact profile make it ideal for hunters who value lightweight maneuverability in dense cover.
What is the Charles Daly 101 used for?
The Charles Daly 101 is built for upland hunting and basic field applications where shot opportunities are singular and deliberate. Its 20-inch barrel keeps overall length to 36.5 inches for easy maneuvering through brush, while the 3-inch chamber accommodates everything from light target loads to heavy waterfowl rounds. This isn't a tactical or home defense tool—it's a purpose-built hunter for grouse, quail, or pest control.
How does the Charles Daly 101 compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 20 Gauge?
The Charles Daly 101 costs $210.99 versus the Stevens 555 Sporting's $650+ price tag, making it the budget option for entry-level hunters. Where the Stevens offers two rapid shots and refined walnut furniture, the Charles Daly provides one shot and synthetic durability. The Stevens is better for clay sports or situations requiring a second shot; the Charles Daly wins on price and simplicity.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Charles Daly 101 weighs 5.2 pounds (83.2 oz) unloaded, with an overall length of 36.5 inches and barrel length of 20 inches. The synthetic stock contributes to the light weight, making it easy to carry all day without fatigue. The 20-gauge bore diameter is 0.615 inches, and the chamber accepts 3-inch shells with a maximum overall cartridge length of 2.75 inches.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not for tactical applications, home defense, or competitive shooting where multiple shots are required. The single-shot design means you're limited to one round before manually breaking the action—a 3-4 second process under stress. If you need rapid follow-up capability, consider an over-under like the Stevens 555 review instead.
What's in the box?
You receive the Charles Daly 101 shotgun, one 20-gauge chamber flag, and a basic owner's manual covering disassembly and maintenance. No cleaning kit, case, or additional chokes are included—the 20-inch barrel is fixed-cylinder bore only. Total package weight shipped is approximately 7 pounds in a cardboard box with minimal protective packaging.
Is the Charles Daly 101 worth it at $210.99?
At $210.99, this shotgun delivers exceptional value for hunters who need a reliable, simple tool for occasional use. You're getting a functional 20-gauge with Cerakote corrosion resistance and a fiber optic sight for less than many the bolt-action rifles like the Stevens 334. Just don't expect refined aesthetics or multi-shot capability—this is barebones utility.
Key attributes
| upc | 8053800949002 |
| manufacturer | Charles Daly Chiappa |
| manufacturer part number | 930.424 |
| action | Single Shot |
| barrel length | 20" |
| caliber/gauge | 20 Gauge |
| capacity | 1 |
| chokes included | XX-Full |
| color | Mossy Oak Bottomland |
| model | 101 |
| safety | Manual |
| shipping weight | 6.1 |
| sights | Fiber Optic Front Sight |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with choke tubes?
- No, the Charles Daly 101 has a fixed cylinder bore with no choke threading. The 20-inch barrel is permanently configured for short-range patterning, typically delivering 40-inch spreads at 25 yards with standard #7.5 shot.
- Does it fit youth or smaller shooters?
- Yes, the 12.5-inch length of pull accommodates most shooters down to approximately 5'2" in height. The 5.2-pound weight and 20-gauge recoil make it manageable for younger users, though I'd still recommend a limbsaver pad for extended sessions.
- How long does shipping take?
- Ironclad Armory processes orders within 2 business days, with FedEx Ground shipping adding 3-5 days transit time to most continental US addresses. All firearms ship to your local FFL holder, who will conduct the required background check.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Firearms are non-returnable once transferred through an FFL due to ATF regulations. Ironclad Armory will address manufacturer defects under their 1-year warranty, but fit issues are not grounds for return—measure twice before purchasing.
- Does this work with standard 20-gauge shells?
- Yes, it accepts all standard 2.75-inch and 3-inch 20-gauge shells from manufacturers like Federal, Remington, or Winchester. Maximum pressure rating is 11,500 PSI—avoid magnum loads exceeding that threshold.