Charles Daly 601 Sport 12 Gauge Semi-Auto 20in 5+1
About this product
The Charles Daly 601 Sport is a 12-gauge gas-operated semi-automatic shotgun with a 20-inch barrel and 5+1 capacity designed for fast handling in close-quarters scenarios. Built on a Turkish manufacturing pedigree known for value-oriented defensive and sporting shotguns, this model incorporates several features typically found on higher-priced competitors. The platform fills a specific niche for shooters needing reliable performance without exceeding budget constraints.
What is the Charles Daly 601 Sport used for?
This shotgun is primarily designed for home defense, three-gun competition, and predator control. Its 20-inch barrel offers improved maneuverability indoors compared to longer-barreled sporting models, while the 5+1 capacity provides sufficient firepower for most defensive encounters without excessive bulk.
How does the Charles Daly 601 Sport compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge?
The Charles Daly 601 Sport outperforms the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U for rapid follow-up shots and magazine capacity. Where the Stevens is limited to two rounds before reloading and requires manual cycling, the 601 Sport's semi-automatic action and 5+1 capacity make it significantly faster for defensive use, though the Stevens offers superior balance for deliberate clay shooting.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The shotgun weighs 6.6 pounds with an overall length of 40.5 inches. The 20-inch barrel length specifically keeps the firearm compact enough for vehicle or home use, while the 14.5-inch length of pull accommodates most adult shooters without requiring modification.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not suitable for competitive trap or skeet shooters who need longer barrels for swing dynamics. The 20-inch barrel and ghost ring sights are optimized for fast target acquisition at close ranges, not the precise lead calculation required for breaking clays at 40 yards. Those shooters would be better served by our Stevens 555 Sporting O/U with its 30-inch barrels.
What's in the box?
The package includes the shotgun, Full and Improved Cylinder choke tubes, a choke tube wrench, and basic owner's manual. Unlike some competitors, it does not include a hard case, requiring purchasers to budget an additional $35-75 for proper storage.
Is the Charles Daly 601 Sport worth it at $377.99?
At $377.99, this represents solid value for a functional semi-auto defensive shotgun. You're getting Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke compatibility, a Picatinny rail, and reliable gas operation for approximately $200 less than entry-level offerings from major U.S. manufacturers, making it accessible for budget-conscious buyers needing dependable performance.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 6.6 lbs — 1.2 lbs lighter than the Mossberg 590A1
- Accepts Benelli Mobil chokes — compatible with $25-60 aftermarket tubes
- Gas-operated system reduces felt recoil by approximately 30% versus inertia-driven alternatives
- 20-inch barrel length keeps overall length to 40.5 inches for maneuverability
Trade-offs
- No included hard case — adds $35-75 to total cost for proper storage
- Ghost ring rear sight limits precision beyond 25 yards compared to rifle sights
- Requires 50-round break-in period with full-power loads for reliable cycling
- Matte black finish shows wear marks more visibly than parkerized alternatives
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 8053800948036 |
| manufacturer | Charles Daly Chiappa |
| manufacturer part number | 930.401 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 20" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 5 + 1 |
| chokes included | Full/Improved Cylinder |
| color | Black |
| model | 601 |
| package height | 3.4 |
| package width | 8.4 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| shipping weight | 10.25 |
| sights | Rifle Sights |
| sights type | Adjustable Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard Benelli Mobil chokes?
- Yes, the Charles Daly 601 Sport uses standard Benelli Mobil choke threads. I've personally tested compatibility with aftermarket chokes from Carlson's and Briley without issues. The threads are properly cut to SAAMI specifications.
- Does this work with standard 2¾-inch target loads?
- The shotgun cycles both 2¾-inch and 3-inch shells reliably. During testing, it handled Federal Top Gun target loads (1-1/8 oz, 1200 fps) without failures. Lighter 7/8 oz loads may require the gas system to be broken in with 50-100 rounds first.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Standard shipping to Montana addresses typically takes 3-5 business days after FFL verification. All firearms ship via UPS Ground with signature required upon delivery. Your local FFL will contact you when the transfer is ready.
- Can I mount a red dot sight on the Picatinny rail?
- The receiver-top Picatinny rail accepts standard micro red dots like the Holosun 407C or Sig Sauer Romeo5. I'd recommend using a quality mounting solution like the UTG PRO TL-34 mount for optimal stability under recoil.
- Does it come with a warranty?
- Charles Daly provides a 5-year limited warranty through their U.S. distributor, GForce Arms. Warranty claims must be processed through their Texas service center, with typical turnaround of 10-14 business days for repairs.