Stevens 555 E Over/Under 20 Gauge 26″ Walnut

About this product

The Stevens 555 E Over/Under 20 Gauge 26″ Walnut is a lightweight field shotgun built on an aluminum receiver with a steel breech insert for reliable upland performance. It represents a cost-conscious entry into the break-action world, trading some heft for faster handling in the brush. For shooters moving up from pump actions or seeking a dedicated companion for grouse and pheasant, this Stevens model offers a specific blend of features and a manageable price point.

What is the Stevens 555 E used for?

This shotgun is designed primarily for upland bird hunting over pointing dogs, where quick acquisition on flushing game is critical. The 20-gauge chambered for 3" shells provides ample power for birds at typical ranges without the punishing recoil of a 12-gauge. The package—with its 26-inch barrels and an overall weight of under 7.2 pounds—is optimized for carrying all day through thick cover and swinging smoothly on a fast, crossing shot. It's also a competent tool for introductory sporting clays and five-stand, though the bead sight and field stock dimensions won't match the performance of a dedicated target gun like the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge 30in 3in Chamber.

How does the Stevens 555 E compare to the Mossberg Silver Reserve II?

The Stevens 555 E is mechanically simpler and approximately 11 ounces lighter than the comparable 20-gauge Mossberg Silver Reserve II. This difference stems from the Stevens' extensive use of aluminum in the receiver, a material choice that prioritizes weight reduction over the solid, vibration-dampening feel of an all-steel action. The Mossberg has a more refined finish and often comes with a factory-installed recoil pad, making it slightly better for high-volume range sessions. The Stevens is the better choice for the hunter whose primary goal is reducing carried weight, accepting a trade-off in perceived build solidity.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

The Stevens 555 E weighs 6 pounds, 13.3 ounces (3.1 kg) with an empty chamber, making it one of the lightest production over/unders in its class. Its overall length is 43.25 inches, with a 26-inch barrel section contributing to a 14.5-inch length of pull and a 1.5-inch drop at the comb. The barrel diameter directly in front of the fore-end is 0.765 inches, tapering to 0.610 inches at the muzzles. A compact fore-end keeps the hand close to the balance point, aiding in fast swing dynamics.

Who is this NOT for?

This shotgun is not for the shooter seeking a high-volume competition gun or a dedicated waterfowl hunter. The aluminum receiver, while durable, will heat up more noticeably during extended firing strings than a steel action, potentially affecting the shooter's perception of consistency. Furthermore, the 20-gauge chambering simply lacks the payload density of a 12-gauge for consistent long-range patterning on ducks and geese. If your primary use involves firing more than 100 shells in a day at the range or hunting over decoys in a blind, look at a the Stevens 334 Rifle | .308 Win, 20in Matte Black Synthetic for big game or a dedicated 12-gauge for waterfowl.

What's in the box?

You receive the complete shotgun, a set of five Beretta/Benelli Mobil-style choke tubes (Cylinder, Improved Cylinder, Modified, Improved Modified, and Full), a simple plastic choke tube wrench, and a factory manual. The factory ships the firearm with the choke tubes uninstalled; you must hand-tighten your chosen tubes before first use to a torque of approximately 15 foot-pounds. Conspicuously absent is any form of a hard case; the shotgun comes in a cardboard box with minimal foam padding, so factor in an immediate $50-$120 for a suitable field case.

Is the Stevens 555 E worth it at $897.99?

At this price point, it’s worth it for the hunter who values a specific feature set—light weight, fast handling, and mechanical simplicity—above all else. You are paying for a functional, no-frills tool that reliably puts two shots on target. You are not paying for fine wood checkering, elaborate engraving, or a buttery-smooth, hand-fitted action. If your budget is rigid and your mission is defined as 'upland bird gun,' this is arguably the most efficient entry point into a break-action platform. If you have another $300-$500 to spend, you enter a market segment with demonstrably better fit, finish, and resale value.