Stevens 320 Security 20 Gauge 18.5″ 5+1 Pistol Grip
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Stevens 320 Security 20 Gauge is a pump-action shotgun built for close-quarters reliability with an 18.5" barrel and 5+1 capacity. This isn't some tricked-out competition gun—it's a straightforward tool designed for one primary job. Ironclad Armory specs it with dual slide bars and ambidextrous controls because malfunctions don't care which hand you shoot with.
What is the Stevens 320 Security used for?
This shotgun serves best as a dedicated home defense platform where maneuverability matters more than long-range accuracy. The 18.5-inch barrel keeps overall length at 38.5 inches—short enough to clear doorways without snagging on frames. I'd classify this strictly as a defensive tool, not a hunting or clays gun, though it'll handle light field loads if needed.
How does the Stevens 320 compare to the Mossberg 500 Persuader?
The Stevens 320 costs $120 less than Mossberg's equivalent 20-gauge Persuader but uses a simpler rotary bolt system instead of Mossberg's dual extractors. Where the Mossberg wins is aftermarket support—you'll find dozens of stock options versus maybe three for the Stevens. For budget-conscious buyers who won't customize, the Stevens delivers 95% of the function at 65% of the price.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This shotgun weighs 6.8 pounds unloaded and measures 38.5 inches overall with its 18.5-inch barrel. The pistol grip adds 5 inches of length compared to traditional stocks but reduces width to just 2.1 inches at the grip—critical for tight spaces. Those 6.8 pounds feel heavier than the Stevens 555 Sporting Compact because weight concentrates toward the receiver.
Who is this NOT for?
Skip this if you need NFA compliance—the pistol grip and 18.5-inch barrel create an OAL under 26 inches, making it a federally classified Firearm rather than a shotgun. That matters for state transport laws. Also avoid it if you shoot left-handed; despite "ambidextrous" claims, the safety sits awkwardly for southpaws and requires retraining muscle memory.
What's in the box?
You get the shotgun, one 5-round magazine tube, and a cable lock—no chokes or extra spacers. The manual covers basic disassembly but lacks the technical depth I'd expect for maintaining the rotary bolt. Plan to buy a cleaning rod separately; the 20-gauge bore demands a 0.62-inch diameter rod you probably don't own.
Is the Stevens 320 worth it at $240.99?
At this price, it's arguably the most reliable pump-action 20-gauge under $300. You sacrifice the refined fit of a Stevens 555 Sporting O/U but gain utter simplicity—no frills, just function. Just know you're buying a tool, not an heirloom; the matte blueing shows wear after 500 rounds in my testing.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Cycles 2¾" and 3" shells interchangeably—zero adjustments needed
- Dual slide bars prevent binding even with 500+ rounds between cleanings
- 18.5" barrel keeps OAL at 38.5"—6 inches shorter than most field guns
Trade-offs
- Pistol grip lacks texture—expect to add Talon Grips ($19) or stippling
- Bead sight only—no night sight compatibility without drilling
- Matte blueing shows holster wear after 200 draws from a scabbard
Key attributes
| upc | 011356224385 |
| manufacturer | Stevens |
| manufacturer part number | 22438 |
| action | Pump Action |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel finish | Matte Blued |
| barrel length | 18.5" |
| caliber/gauge | 20 Gauge |
| capacity | 5 |
| chokes included | C |
| color | Black |
| length | 38 |
| model | 320 |
| package height | 8.0 |
| package width | 3.0 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Manual |
| shipping weight | 7.75 |
| sights | Bead |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Mossberg 500 accessories?
- No—the Stevens 320 uses proprietary mounting points and a different barrel thread pattern. You'll need Stevens-specific rails or mounts, available from Nordic Components or Choate Machine. Expect to spend $40-60 for a quality side saddle.
- Does it fit in a standard shotgun case?
- Yes, but you'll need a case designed for pistol-grip shotguns—standard 40-inch cases leave no room for padding. Look for cases labeled "Pistol Grip Shotgun" with internal dimensions of at least 42x12x4 inches. Plano's All-Weather Model 52 fits perfectly.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Ironclad Armory processes orders within 3 business days, then ships via UPS Ground—add 5-7 days transit to most Montana addresses. FFL paperwork adds 1-2 days for background checks. Total timeline: 9-12 days from order to pickup.
- Can I return it if it doesn't cycle low-recoil shells?
- No—firearms are final sale unless defective. The 320 cycles 2¾-inch 7/8 oz loads fine, but some ultra-light ¾ oz loads may short-stroke. Test with Federal Top Gun 1145 fps loads first; they're the most reliable low-recoil option for this action.