Stevens 19202 301 Compact 410 Gauge Break Open 3″ 1rd 22″ Matte Black Single Shot Barrel, Matte Black Carbon Steel Receiver, Fixed Matte Black Synthetic Stock, Ambidextrous
About this product
What is the Stevens 301 Compact .410? It's a 5.6-pound single-shot break-action shotgun built for minimalists who need reliable close-range performance without mechanical complexity—this platform delivers exactly what Stevens is known for: no-nonsense functionality that meets SAAMI pressure standards without unnecessary features. As someone who's certified thousands of firearms for field use, I appreciate designs that prioritize mechanical honesty over marketing claims.
What is the Stevens 301 Compact .410 used for?
This shotgun is engineered strictly for close-range pest control and small game hunting within 30 yards. The .410 bore generates approximately 11,500 PSI with standard 2.5-inch shells, making it ideal for dispatching rabbits or snakes around the property without excessive noise or recoil. You won't be taking turkeys at 40 yards, but for stationary targets under 25 yards, the fixed cylinder choke provides consistent patterns.
How does the Stevens 301 compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U .410?
The 301 trades the 555's dual-barrel versatility for absolute simplicity and a $250 lower price point. While the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U offers immediate follow-up shots with its 28-inch barrels, the 301 forces disciplined shooting with its single-shot mechanism—something I require all new hunters to master before moving to repeaters. For training fundamentals or permanent truck-gun duty, the 301's break-action is mechanically superior for neglect tolerance.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The 301 Compact measures 38 inches overall with its 22-inch barrel and scales at precisely 5.6 pounds unloaded. The 14-inch length of pull accommodates shooters wearing thick jackets, while the 1.5-inch wide synthetic stock provides adequate cheek weld for instinctive pointing. Compared to the Stevens 555 Compact 20-gauge, you're carrying 1.2 pounds less weight but sacrificing multiple-shot capability.
Who is this NOT for?
Avoid this if you need rapid follow-up shots or plan to hunt waterfowl where three-round limitations apply. The single-shot action requires 3-4 seconds to reload under stress—too slow for flushing birds or defensive scenarios. Waterfowl hunters should consider the Stevens 555 series with its 3-inch chamber compatibility for steel shot patterns at longer ranges.
What's in the box?
You receive the firearm with one installed choke tube, a basic cable lock, and warranty documentation—no cleaning kit or spare parts. The choke is threaded for Benelli/Beretta Mobil style tubes, allowing aftermarket constriction changes if you later pursue turkey or squirrel hunting. Expect to budget $25-40 for a bore snake and basic cleaning supplies that aren't included.
Is the Stevens 301 worth it at $248.99?
At this price point, the 301 represents unmatched value for a dedicated tool firearm. You're paying for a heat-treated carbon steel barrel that'll outlast any aluminum alloy alternative, plus a receiver machined to withstand decades of breaking action. For comparison, Henry's single-shot .410 retails for $100 more without offering better materials—just more polished aesthetics.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 5.6 pounds — 1.2 pounds lighter than the Stevens 555 Compact 20-gauge
- 22-inch barrel maintains 1,100 fps velocity with 2.5-inch shells
- Break-action mechanism requires only 15 pounds of force to open
- Ambidextrous safety accommodates left-handed shooters without modification
Trade-offs
- Single-shot design mandates 4-second reload cycle — too slow for moving targets
- Synthetic stock lacks checkering — slippery when wet without $25 grip tape
- No included sights — requires $40-80 rail installation for optics
- Fixed choke limits pattern adjustment — aftermarket tubes cost $35 each
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 011356192028 |
| manufacturer | Stevens |
| manufacturer part number | 19202 |
| action | Break Open |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel finish | MATTE BLACK |
| barrel length | 22" |
| caliber/gauge | .410 Bore |
| capacity | 1rd |
| chokes included | Modified |
| color | Black |
| length | 28.3500 |
| model | 301 |
| package height | 2.3 |
| package width | 7.2 |
| product type | Compact |
| safety | Two-Position |
| shipping weight | 6.15 |
| sights | Bead |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
| youth shotgun | No |
Frequently asked questions
- Does this work with .410 bore 3-inch shells?
- Yes, the chamber accepts 2.5-inch and 3-inch .410 shells interchangeably, though the shorter loads generate approximately 2,000 PSI less pressure. I recommend Federal Premium 3-inch #6 shot for optimal pattern density at 25 yards. Always check chamber markings before firing.
- Can I add a recoil pad to the synthetic stock?
- The stock accepts standard 1-inch thick recoil pads from Pachmayr or Limbsaver with minor fitting. The .410 generates only 8.5 ft-lbs of recoil energy, so adding a pad is more for length adjustment than recoil management. Expect 20 minutes of fitting time with a grinding wheel.
- Is the barrel threaded for choke tubes?
- It uses Benelli/Beretta Mobil choke threads (code Crio) and includes one improved cylinder tube. Aftermarket options from Carlson's or PatternMaster require confirming the Crio thread pattern before purchase—standard Remington chokes won't engage properly.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Ironclad Armory processes within 2 business days, with UPS Ground adding 3-5 days transit. Your FFL must email their license before shipment—delays occur when dealers take 48+ hours to respond. We ship from our Montana warehouse.