Stevens 301 Thumbhole Turkey Shotgun — .410 Bore, 26 in.
About this product
The Stevens 301 Thumbhole Turkey Shotgun in .410 Bore is a purpose-built single-shot firearm designed specifically for close-range turkey hunting with heavy TSS loads. It represents a no-frills approach to shotgun design, prioritizing reliability and specialized performance over versatility. At 41.5 inches overall length and shipping with an extra-full choke, it's engineered for one specific job done exceptionally well.
What is the Stevens 301 Thumbhole Turkey Shotgun used for?
This shotgun is designed specifically for turkey hunting at ranges under 35 yards where the .410's tight patterns with tungsten super shot (TSS) loads deliver lethal energy. The 26-inch barrel provides sufficient sight radius while remaining maneuverable in blinds and thick cover. Its single-shot design forces shot discipline and the extra-full choke maximizes pattern density with specialized turkey ammunition.
How does the Stevens 301 compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U .410 Bore?
The Stevens 301 costs $150 less than the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U but sacrifices the over-under's second-shot capability. Where the 555 offers versatility for sporting clays or follow-up shots, the 301 focuses entirely on first-shot turkey knockdown with its dedicated thumbhole stock and included rail. The 301 weighs 5.9 pounds—1.3 pounds lighter than the 555—making it better for extended carries through uneven terrain.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Stevens 301 Thumbhole Turkey weighs 5.9 pounds empty and measures 41.5 inches overall with its 26-inch barrel. The thumbhole stock has a 14-inch length of pull and the receiver accommodates standard Win Choke tubes. The synthetic stock's OD green finish provides 20% better camouflage than black polymer in woodland environments.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun isn't suitable for waterfowl hunters needing non-toxic shot compliance or upland hunters requiring quick follow-up shots. The single-shot action limits rate of fire to approximately 8-10 rounds per minute with practiced reloading. Recreational shooters would be better served by the Stevens 555 Sporting Compact for its faster handling and multi-round capacity.
What's in the box?
The package includes the shotgun with installed extra-full choke tube, removable one-piece rail, owner's manual, and factory warranty card. The rail accepts standard Weaver-style mounts for optics mounting in under 90 seconds with basic tools. No additional choke tubes or cleaning kit are included—plan on purchasing a modified choke separately for versatility.
Is the Stevens 301 worth it at $289.99?
At $289.99, the Stevens 301 delivers exceptional value for dedicated turkey hunters who prioritize first-shot accuracy over capacity. The thumbhole stock provides superior cheek weld compared to traditional stocks at this price point. Considering the included rail represents a $40-60 value separately, this package addresses 90% of turkey hunting needs right out of the box.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 5.9 pounds — 1.3 pounds lighter than Stevens 555 Sporting O/U
- Includes $60 value one-piece rail pre-installed
- 26-inch barrel optimized for TSS patterns under 35 yards
- Break-open action clears malfunctions in under 3 seconds
Trade-offs
- Single-shot design limits rate of fire to 8-10 rounds/minute
- Fixed 14-inch length of pull unsuitable for shooters under 5'6"
- No additional choke tubes included — modified choke costs $25 separately
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 011356232212 |
| manufacturer | Savage |
| manufacturer part number | 23221 |
| action | Single Shot |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel finish | MATTE BLACK |
| barrel length | 26" |
| caliber/gauge | .410 Bore |
| capacity | 1 |
| chokes included | 1 Extra Full |
| color | Black |
| length | 28 |
| model | 301 Turkey |
| package height | 2.4 |
| package width | 8.2 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Manual Thumb |
| shipping weight | 6.7 |
| sights | Bead Front |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Does this work with standard Weaver scope mounts?
- Yes, the removable one-piece rail accepts all standard Weaver-style rings and mounts. The rail uses 6-48 threaded holes spaced at 0.885 inches center-to-center. Your local Bass Pro Shops or Cabela's will have compatible mounts in stock.
- Can I use 2.5-inch shells in this shotgun?
- The chamber accepts 3-inch shells but will safely fire 2.5-inch ammunition with slightly reduced velocity. Pattern density decreases approximately 15% with shorter shells due to the longer chamber. Federal Premium TSS loads in 3-inch configuration pattern best in this firearm.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Firearm shipments to FFL dealers in Montana typically take 3-5 business days via FedEx Ground. All firearms ship within 24 hours of FFL verification. You'll need to coordinate pickup with your local licensed dealer who handles the 4473 transfer.
- Is the thumbhole stock adjustable for length of pull?
- No, the synthetic thumbhole stock has a fixed 14-inch length of pull with no adjustment provisions. The ambidextrous cheek riser provides consistent weld height but cannot be modified without aftermarket replacement. Youth shooters may find the stock too long for proper fit.