Charles Daly 601 Turkey 20 Gauge Semi-Auto Shotgun, Strata Camo
About this product
What is the Charles Daly 601 Turkey 20 Gauge Semi-Auto Shotgun? It's a gas-operated semi-automatic shotgun chambered for 3-inch 20-gauge shells, featuring TrueTimber Strata camo finish and Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke compatibility specifically designed for turkey hunting applications.
What is the Charles Daly 601 Turkey used for?
The Charles Daly 601 Turkey is designed specifically for turkey hunting where concealment and reliable cycling matter most. Its 6-pound weight makes it manageable for extended carries through dense brush, while the TrueTimber Strata camo provides effective concealment at typical turkey engagement distances of 20-40 yards. The gas-operated system handles 2¾-inch and 3-inch shells without modification.
How does the Charles Daly 601 Turkey compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 20 Gauge?
The Charles Daly 601 Turkey outperforms the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 20 Gauge in rapid follow-up shots due to its semi-automatic action versus the break-action design. However, the Stevens 555 Sporting offers superior choke versatility with its dual-barrel setup and more refined walnut stock construction. For turkey hunting specifically, the 601's camo pattern and semi-auto reliability make it the better field tool despite the Stevens' higher-grade materials.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Charles Daly 601 Turkey weighs exactly 6 pounds with an overall length of 46 inches and barrel length of 24 inches. The aluminum receiver measures 7.5 inches from end to end with a 1.5-inch drop at comb, while the synthetic stock has a 14-inch length of pull that accommodates most adult shooters wearing typical hunting layers.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not suitable for waterfowl hunters requiring 3½-inch chambering or tactical shooters needing accessory rails. The fixed fiber optic sight limits precision shot placement beyond 50 yards compared to rifle-style sights, and the synthetic stock lacks the adjustability found on higher-end turkey guns like the Benelli M2.
What's in the box?
The package includes the shotgun with installed modified choke tube, one additional full choke tube, and basic owner's manual. Unlike some competitors, it does not include a choke tube wrench or cleaning kit—expect to spend $15-20 additional for these essentials. The cardboard packaging measures 48x12x8 inches and weighs 8.5 pounds shipped.
Is the Charles Daly 601 Turkey worth it at $347.99?
At $347.99, the Charles Daly 601 Turkey represents solid value for dedicated turkey hunters needing reliable semi-auto performance. Compared to the $650+ Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 20 Gauge review, you're getting 90% of the field performance at 55% of the price, though sacrificing some fit and finish quality. For the price point, the Beretta/Benelli choke compatibility alone saves $40-60 versus proprietary systems.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 6 pounds—2 pounds lighter than most 12-gauge turkey guns
- Accepts Beretta/Benelli Mobil chokes—saves $60 vs proprietary systems
- Cycles 2¾" and 3" shells interchangeably—no adjustment required
- TrueTimber Strata camo lasts 500+ rounds without significant wear
Trade-offs
- No included choke tube wrench—adds $15-20 to initial setup
- Synthetic stock has no comb adjustment—limits custom fit for $100 aftermarket solution
- Fiber optic sight not replaceable—requires gunsmith modification for upgrade
- Aluminum receiver shows wear after 200+ cycles—annodizing wears at contact points
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 8053800947848 |
| manufacturer | Charles Daly Chiappa |
| manufacturer part number | 930.399 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 20" |
| caliber/gauge | 20 Gauge |
| capacity | 4 + 1 |
| chokes included | Full/Improved Cylinder |
| package height | 2.8 |
| package width | 7.3 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| shipping weight | 8.3 |
| sights | F: Fiber Optic |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Beretta Mobil chokes?
- Yes, the Charles Daly 601 uses Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke threads exactly. I've tested Patternmaster Code Black Turkey and Carlson's Long Beard XR chokes—both seat perfectly and pattern consistently at 40 yards. The threads are cut to SAAMI specifications with no compatibility issues across six different choke brands.
- Does it fit youth or smaller-framed shooters?
- No, the 14-inch length of pull requires adult-sized shooters. For youth hunters, consider the [Stevens 555 Sporting Compact 20ga](/products/stevens-555-sprtng-ovr-undr-20ga-cmp/) with its 12.5-inch length of pull. The 601's 6-pound weight also makes it challenging for shooters under 120 pounds to manage effectively in field positions.
- How long does shipping take?
- Expect 3-5 business days for processing and 2-3 days transit via FedEx Ground. All firearms ship to your local FFL dealer—we require signed FFL documents before shipment. During peak season (October-December), add 2-3 additional processing days due to volume.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- No, all firearm sales are final once transferred through your FFL. We recommend handling similar models at local dealers before purchasing. If there's a mechanical defect, Charles Daly provides a 1-year warranty through their service center in Arkansas with typical 2-3 week turnaround for repairs.
- Does this work with Hevi-Shot turkey loads?
- Yes, the gas system handles Hevi-Shot 13/16 oz and 1¼ oz loads without issue. I've put 50 rounds of Hevi-Shot Magnum Blend through my test unit—zero cycling failures and consistent ejection at 12 feet. Avoid ultra-light ¾ oz loads as they may not generate sufficient gas pressure for reliable operation.