Stevens 301 Turkey XP 20ga 26 in Mossy Oak — Red Dot
Pros & cons
What works
- Ship-ready with a zeroed 1x30 red dot — saves $160+ and 2 hours of gunsmith setup time.
- Weighs 5.8 lbs — 1.2 lbs lighter than a typical pump-action turkey gun for easier carry.
- 26" barrel is specifically tuned and choked for TSS #9 shot — delivers dense 40-yard patterns.
- Synthetic stock and nitride barrel finish — requires zero maintenance after exposure to rain or mud.
Trade-offs
- Single-shot capacity only — no follow-up shot without a full reload, a liability for missed birds.
- Stock lacks sling swivel studs — forces a $20-40 add-on for standard carrying methods.
- Extra-full choke severely limits versatility — patterns standard field loads poorly beyond 25 yards.
- Basic, non-sealed red dot — not suitable for extreme wet environments without an upgrade.
Video review
Expert review
Specs at a glance
About this product
The Stevens 301 Turkey XP is a purpose-built, 20-gauge single-shot shotgun configured from the factory for Turkey hunting with heavyweight TSS payloads. It breaks from Stevens' traditional designs with a factory-mounted red dot, synthetic camouflage stock, and a barrel specifically tuned for modern dense shot patterns. This configuration represents a focused answer to demand for affordable, optic-ready hunting shotguns that require minimal setup and maintenance.
What is the Stevens 301 Turkey XP used for?
This shotgun is designed for one primary task: harvesting turkeys in varied field conditions. Its 26-inch barrel is engineered and choked for the tight patterns necessary to deliver the full benefit of expensive TSS loads at typical engagement distances of 40 yards or less. The synthetic stock and nitride-treated barrel finish resist moisture and brush, while the single-shot action promotes shot discipline in what is often a one-opportunity situation.
How does the Stevens 301 Turkey XP compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The 301 is a dedicated hunting tool, while the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge is fundamentally a sporting clay and field gun designed for versatility. The 301's pre-mounted red dot and turkey-specific choke make it immediately field-ready; the over-under 555 offers two shots but requires the purchase and zeroing of a separate optic mount and sight, adding $150-$300 and significant gunsmithing time before it can serve the same role.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The shotgun weighs 5.8 pounds unloaded, making it one of the lightest dedicated turkey guns on the market—a benefit for hunters hiking long distances or setting up in a blind. Its 41.5-inch overall length provides a 14.75-inch length of pull, suitable for most adult shooters wearing light hunting jackets, and the 26-inch barrel balances well for offhand shooting.
Who is this NOT for?
This is not a beginner's general-purpose shotgun nor a defensive firearm. The single-shot capacity is a liability for waterfowl hunting or home defense. A hunter who primarily chases squirrels, deer (with slugs), or dove would be better served by a pump-action or the versatile Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge, which offers choke flexibility and multiple shots. The dedicated extra-full choke tube severely limits its patterning with lighter loads.
What's in the box?
You receive the complete, assembled firearm with the red dot zeroed at the factory at 25 yards. Stevens includes the installed extra-full choke tube and an internal storage compartment in the buttstock containing a standard modified choke tube, a single-piece Picatinny rail (the optic is pre-mounted), and a basic choke tube wrench. The package contains no shell carriers, sling swivels, or case—expect to add $50-$100 in basic accessories.
Is the Stevens 301 Turkey XP worth it at $286.99?
Yes, for the dedicated turkey hunter seeking a zero-fuss, optics-ready entry. The cost of a comparable pump-action shotgun ($250), a reliable red dot ($120), a mounting solution ($40), and gunsmith installation ($75) easily exceeds $485. At $286.99, the 301 provides a turn-key system that saves over $200 and several hours of gunsmithing, accepting that you trade versatility and capacity for that specific, cost-effective focus.
Key attributes
| upc | 011356232182 |
| manufacturer | Stevens |
| manufacturer part number | 23218 |
| action | Break Open |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel finish | MATTE BLACK |
| barrel length | 26" |
| caliber/gauge | 20 Gauge |
| capacity | 1rd |
| chokes included | Extra Full |
| color | Black |
| length | 28.3500 |
| package height | 2.5 |
| package width | 7.3 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Thumb |
| shipping weight | 8.05 |
| sights | Bead |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Does this work with standard 2.75-inch 20-gauge shells?
- Yes. The chamber accepts 3-inch shells, which also allows it to safely fire shorter 2.75-inch standard target or field loads. However, the extra-full choke tube is optimized for heavy turkey payloads; patterning standard target loads through it may produce erratic patterns at 30 yards.
- Is the red dot sight waterproof?
- It is water-resistant but not submersible or nitrogen-purged. The 1x30 red dot uses a basic 3 MOA dot powered by a CR2032 battery (included) and is rated for typical field exposure like fog and light rain. For consistent use in heavy rain or swamp environments, plan to upgrade to a sealed optic like a Vortex Venom, which will add approximately $200.
- Can I mount a sling on the synthetic stock?
- No, not without modification. The Mossy Oak Bottomland synthetic stock does not come with integrated sling swivel studs. Adding them requires drilling and installing aftermarket studs (a $20 kit and 15-minute job) or using a universal clamp-on sling mount, which may mar the camouflage finish.
- How long does shipping to an FFL take?
- Ironclad Armory processes in-stock firearms for shipping within 2 business days. Transit time depends on your selected FFL's location but typically adds 3-7 business days via FedEx or UPS ground. You must coordinate directly with your chosen FFL for transfer and background check procedures before shipment is initiated.