Charles Daly 202E 12 Gauge Over/Under Shotgun 28″ Barrel
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 7.5 lb — balances maneuverability and recoil management
- 28-inch barrel length — standard field dimension for natural swing
- Mobil-style choke threads — compatible with Beretta/Benelli choke system
- Single-selective trigger — mechanical reliability without electronics
Trade-offs
- Only includes two choke tubes — additional constrictions cost $25-40 each
- Fixed fiber optic sight — no adjustment for windage or elevation
- No hard case included — add $50-100 for proper storage
- Traditional finish requires more maintenance than cerakote — monthly oiling recommended
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Charles Daly 202E 12 Gauge Over/Under Shotgun 28″ Barrel is a field-oriented over/under shotgun built for traditional sporting use and upland hunting with classic 28-inch barrel length and checkered walnut stock. This firearm delivers reliable 12-gauge performance with a 3-inch chamber and practical features like a single-selective trigger and ejector system. It represents no-nonsense mechanical design without electronic components or superfluous tactical features.
What is the Charles Daly 202E used for?
The 202E is optimized for upland bird hunting and clay sports where quick handling and reliability matter most. With its 28-inch barrel length and 7.5-pound unloaded weight, it swings naturally through cover while maintaining enough heft to absorb 12-gauge recoil effectively. The Mobil-style choke threads accept standard Beretta/Benelli chokes, allowing pattern adjustment from improved cylinder to full constriction for different game and distances.
How does the Charles Daly 202E compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The 202E delivers more traditional wood-to-metal fit and simpler mechanical operation than the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge 30in at the cost of some modern features. Where the Stevens 555 includes extended choke tubes and more detailed checkering, the 202E focuses on fundamental reliability with mechanical ejectors that don't rely on spring tension adjustments. For hunters who prioritize field stripping simplicity over target-range customization, the 202E's straightforward design proves advantageous.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This shotgun weighs 7.5 pounds unloaded with an overall length of 45.5 inches and 28-inch barrel length. The 14-inch length of pull accommodates most adult shooters without modification, while the 1.5-inch drop at comb provides natural sight alignment with the fiber optic front sight. These dimensions balance maneuverability in thick cover with sufficient mass to mitigate recoil from standard 2.75-inch and 3-inch shells.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun isn't for tactical or home defense applications due to its two-round capacity and field-oriented design. Competition shooters requiring extended choke tubes or adjustable combs should consider the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U instead. The fixed fiber optic front sight also limits precision sighting options compared to rifle-style sights or optics-ready models.
What's in the box?
The package includes the shotgun, one modified choke tube installed, one improved cylinder tube, and basic documentation. Unlike some competitors, it doesn't include a hard case or additional accessories, keeping the purchase price focused solely on the firearm itself. Buyers should budget separately for a appropriate gun case and cleaning supplies.
Is the Charles Daly 202E worth it at $645.99?
At $645.99, this shotgun delivers legitimate value for hunters seeking reliable mechanical operation without superfluous features. The checkered walnut stock and blued finish provide traditional aesthetics that outperform synthetic-stocked alternatives in the same price range. For those needing guidance on proper maintenance, see our over-under shotgun cleaning guide to preserve this firearm's functionality.
Key attributes
| upc | 8053800947787 |
| manufacturer | Charles Daly Chiappa |
| manufacturer part number | 930.394 |
| action | Over / Under |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 2 |
| chokes included | Cylinder/Full/Improved Modified |
| color | Black |
| model | 202E |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Manual |
| shipping weight | 0.0 |
| sights | Fiber Optic Front |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Beretta Mobil chokes?
- Yes, the 202E uses standard Beretta/Benelli Mobil-style choke threads. This includes all Mobil-pattern tubes from improved cylinder to full constriction. Most aftermarket choke manufacturers like Carlson's and Briley produce compatible tubes for this system.
- Does it fit standard 12-gauge shells?
- It accepts both 2.75-inch and 3-inch 12-gauge shells without modification. The chamber is specifically machined for 3-inch shells, providing flexibility for waterfowl loads where permitted. Always verify local regulations before using 3-inch magnum loads for hunting.
- How long does shipping take?
- Firearms shipping typically requires 3-7 business days after FFL verification completes. All shipments comply with ATF regulations and must be received by a licensed FFL dealer. Transit time varies by carrier and destination but averages 5 business days continental US.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Returns are accepted within 30 days for unused firearms in original packaging. All returns require coordination with our compliance team and may incur a 15% restocking fee. Firearms must be shipped back through an FFL holder to maintain legal chain of custody.
- Does this work with skeet shooting?
- Yes, with appropriate choke selection the 202E handles skeet effectively. Use improved cylinder or skeet chokes for standard skeet distances. The 28-inch barrel provides smooth swing characteristics ideal for crossing targets at 21-25 yards.