Stevens 301 Single Shot 12 Gauge 26in Black Synthetic
About this product
What is the Stevens 301 Single Shot 12 Gauge 26in Black Synthetic? It's a no-frills break-action shotgun built for field reliability rather than rapid fire. I've seen these hold up in conditions ranging from Montana downpours to Arizona dust storms, and the mechanical simplicity makes it a solid choice for anyone who values function over features. At 5.6 pounds with a 26-inch barrel, it balances predictably even with heavy 3-inch shells.
What is the Stevens 301 used for?
The Stevens 301 excels as a dedicated turkey or predator gun where one precise shot matters more than follow-up capability. I've recommended it to new hunters because the single-shot design forces deliberate shooting habits, and the 26-inch barrel provides a consistent swing for moving targets. It handles 2¾-inch and 3-inch shells interchangeably, giving you flexibility for everything from light target loads to heavy magnum turkey rounds.
How does the Stevens 301 compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The Stevens 301 trades the 555's two-shot capacity for absolute mechanical simplicity and a $200 lower price point. Where the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U gives you quick second shots for clay sports or waterfowl, the 301 forces you to make your first shot count—which isn't necessarily a disadvantage for disciplined hunters. The 301's break-action is easier to clear and maintain than the 555's over-under mechanism, with fewer small parts to lose in the field.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Stevens 301 weighs 5.6 pounds empty and measures 45.25 inches overall with its 26-inch barrel. That's 2.3 pounds lighter than a typical pump-action shotgun like the Mossberg 500, making it noticeably easier to carry through thick brush or up steep terrain. The synthetic stock adds weather resistance without the weight penalty of walnut, and the 14-inch length of pull fits most adult shooters without modification.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is a poor choice for home defense or situations requiring rapid follow-up shots. The single-shot design means you'll spend 3-4 seconds minimum to eject, reload, and close the action under stress—time you don't have when facing multiple threats. If you need defensive capability, consider a Stevens 334 rifle instead, which offers faster bolt-action cycling and greater stopping power at distance.
What's in the box?
You get the shotgun with pre-installed Modified choke, one choke tube wrench, and an owner's manual covering basic disassembly. The manual includes clear diagrams for breaking down the action—a 30-second process I've taught to complete beginners. Unlike some budget shotguns, the 301 ships with a functional recoil pad already fitted, saving you the $25-40 aftermarket expense many competitors require.
Is the Stevens 301 worth it at $248.99?
At under $250, the Stevens 301 delivers exceptional value for hunters who need reliable single-shot performance without decorative extras. I've seen similar Turkish imports priced $50-75 higher with no meaningful quality difference, and the Stevens name means U.S.-based warranty support. The investment makes sense if you treat it as a specialized tool rather than an all-purpose firearm, but budget another $15-20 for a basic sling to make carrying easier.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 5.6 pounds — 2.3 pounds lighter than a Mossberg 500 pump-action
- Break-action clears in 2 seconds — faster than unloading a tube-fed shotgun
- 26-inch barrel provides 1,250 fps velocity with standard 2¾-inch loads
- Modified choke included — saves $25-30 versus buying separately
Trade-offs
- Single-shot only — requires 3-4 second reload versus instant follow-up shots
- No optic mounting options — adding a rail requires $75-150 gunsmith work
- Synthetic stock has minimal checkering — slippery when wet without $15 grip tape
- Fixed iron sight only — no adjustment for windage or elevation
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 011356225573 |
| manufacturer | Stevens |
| manufacturer part number | 22557 |
| action | Break Open |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel finish | MATTE BLACK |
| barrel length | 26" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 1rd |
| chokes included | Modified |
| color | Black |
| length | 28 |
| model | 301 |
| package height | 2.6 |
| package width | 7.4 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Two-Position |
| shipping weight | 7.15 |
| sights | Bead |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with aftermarket choke tubes?
- The Stevens 301 uses Winchester-style choke tubes, the same pattern as many Mossberg and Browning shotguns. You'll find compatible chokes from brands like Carlson's and Tru-Choke starting around $25 each. The included Modified choke handles most hunting situations, but consider a Full choke for turkey or an Improved Cylinder for closer-range shooting.
- Does it fit in a standard shotgun case?
- Yes, any 46-inch or longer shotgun case will accommodate the 45.25-inch overall length. I use a Plano All-Weather 42-inch case for transport, though the muzzle extends slightly without issue. For airline travel, you'll need a TSA-approved locking case like the Pelican 1700, which adds about $200 to your total investment.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Firearms ship via FedEx Ground with adult signature required, typically 5-7 business days to most Montana addresses. We process orders within 48 hours, but allow an additional 3-5 days for background check completion through your local FFL dealer. Expedited shipping isn't available for firearm purchases due to carrier restrictions.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Firearms purchases are final once the background check clears, but we offer a 30-day warranty on manufacturing defects. If the gun doesn't cycle properly or shows visible machining issues, contact Ironclad Armory support within 30 days for inspection and replacement. We recommend handling the firearm at your FFL before completing paperwork to check fit.
- Does this work with a red dot sight?
- The Stevens 301 lacks a Picatinny rail or drilled receiver, so mounting optics requires gunsmith modification costing $75-150. For most hunting distances under 40 yards, the simple bead sight proves adequate—I've taken turkeys at 35 yards using just the factory sight. If you need optical precision, consider the Stevens 334 rifle platform instead.