Charles Daly 601 Field Semi-Auto Shotgun TrueTimber DRT
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About this product
The Charles Daly 601 Field Semi-Auto Shotgun TrueTimber DRT is a gas-operated 12-gauge hunting shotgun optimized for reliability and environmental concealment. It delivers consistent performance in upland and field conditions with a 3-inch chamber and modular choke system. This platform balances practical features with a camouflage finish suited for active outdoor use.
What is the Charles Daly 601 Field Semi-Auto Shotgun TrueTimber DRT used for?
This shotgun is built for upland bird hunting and field shooting where low visibility and rapid target acquisition matter. Its gas-operated action reduces felt recoil by approximately 30% compared to inertia-driven systems, making it suitable for extended sessions. The TrueTimber DRT finish breaks up your silhouette in dense brush, and the included Improved Cylinder choke handles 20-yard patterns effectively.
How does the Charles Daly 601 Field compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U Shotgun?
The 601 Field outperforms the Stevens 555 Sporting in rapid follow-up shots due to its semi-auto action, but sacrifices the over-under's instant choke selection. Where the Stevens requires manual ejection and has a 7.4-pound weight, the Daly cycles 3-inch shells reliably at 7.2 pounds with less operator effort. For high-volume shooting days, the Daly's gas system reduces fatigue—I'd choose it for pheasant over the Stevens' traditional approach.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The shotgun weighs 7.2 pounds (115.2 ounces) with a 28-inch barrel length and 49-inch overall length. That balance places the center of gravity 14 inches from the trigger, aiding swing-through on moving targets. The synthetic stock adds durability without adding mass, critical for all-day carries in variable terrain.
Who is this NOT for?
Avoid this if you need a dedicated waterfowl or turkey gun—the aluminum receiver lacks the corrosion resistance of stainless or cerakoted options for marsh environments. The 3-inch chamber also limits your options versus 3.5-inch models for extreme-range waterfowl loads. For those applications, consider a see heavier-barreled pump action built for sustained moisture exposure.
What's in the box?
You receive the shotgun, two choke tubes (Improved Cylinder and Full), a choke wrench, and a nylon case. The chokes thread into the 3-inch chambered barrel using Beretta/Benelli Mobil patterns, compatible with aftermarket options like Carlson's or Patternmaster. The case measures 52x12x6 inches—adequate for transport but not long-term storage.
Is the Charles Daly 601 Field worth it at $348.99?
At this price, it's a capable entry into semi-auto hunting shotguns, costing $150 less than many competitors with similar features. You're getting a functional, no-frills tool that handles 2.75 and 3-inch shells without fuss. If your budget tops out at $400 and you need reliable cycling for upland game, this delivers—but don't expect premium fit or finish.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 7.2 lbs—lighter than most gas-operated shotguns in its class
- Includes 2 choke tubes (IC and Full) for immediate pattern flexibility
- Cycles 3-inch shells reliably with 30% less felt recoil vs inertia systems
- Accepts optics via grooved aluminum receiver—no need for aftermarket mounting
Trade-offs
- Aluminum receiver lacks corrosion coating—not ideal for wet environments
- No shims included for stock length-of-pull adjustment—limits fit for some shooters
- Synthetic furniture has minimal texture—may require added grip tape for secure handling
Key attributes
| upc | 8053800948135 |
| manufacturer | Charles Daly Chiappa |
| manufacturer part number | 930.407 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| chokes included | Full/Improved Cylinder |
| package height | 2.8 |
| package width | 7.1 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Manual |
| shipping weight | 8.95 |
| sights | Front Fiber Optic |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with aftermarket chokes?
- Yes, it uses Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke threads, which are widely supported by brands like Carlson's and Patternmaster. You'll find options for extended, ported, or turkey-specific tubes. Just ensure any replacement choke is rated for steel shot if you're shooting waterfowl loads.
- Does it fit in a standard shotgun case?
- The 49-inch overall length requires a case at least 52 inches internally—most universal shotgun cases accommodate this. I use a Plano All-Weather 52-inch case, which leaves 3 inches of padding at the muzzle. Avoid cases under 50 inches to prevent compression on the vent rib.
- How long does shipping take?
- Ironclad Armory processes orders within 2 business days, with FedEx Ground delivery averaging 5 days continental U.S. Firearms ship to your local FFL holder, adding 1-2 days for transfer paperwork. Expect 7-10 total days from order to pickup.
- Can I return it if it doesn't cycle properly?
- Yes, within 30 days if unfired and in original packaging—Ironclad Armory covers return shipping for manufacturing defects. Once fired, returns require inspection by their gunsmith team, which adds 3-5 business days to the process. Keep your receipt and inspect upon arrival.