Stevens 301 Compact Single-Shot Shotgun 20 Gauge 22 inch

About this product

The Stevens 301 Compact is a single-shot, break-action shotgun purpose-built for smaller-statured shooters, upland hunters, and those needing a minimalist, durable field tool. This 20-gauge model combines a compact 22-inch barrel with lightweight synthetic construction for practical mobility and straightforward operation. Its design philosophy prioritizes mechanical simplicity over capacity, positioning it as a dedicated training piece or a specialized tool for dense brush.

What is the Stevens 301 Compact used for?

This shotgun is used for primary or backup hunting in dense upland cover where quick handling is critical, as its 5.3-pound weight and 41.25-inch overall length allow for rapid target acquisition. It's equally effective as a dedicated, low-cost training platform for new or youth shooters, thanks to its simple break-action and lighter 20-gauge recoil. For regulated environments requiring a single-shot configuration or for a minimalist survival kit role, its sealed synthetic furniture and matte finish resist weather and neglect.

How does the Stevens 301 Compact compare to a Stevens 555 Sporting Compact O/U?

The Stevens 301 is mechanically simpler and lighter, operating as a single-shot break action against the 555's double-barrel over/under design. Where the Stevens 555 Sporting Compact 20ga offers a 26-inch barrel and two-shot capacity, the 301's 22-inch barrel delivers a noticeably more compact package better for cramped blinds. The 555 is better for sporting clays or situations requiring a fast follow-up shot, while the 301 is superior for pure mechanical simplicity and the lowest possible weight.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

This shotgun weighs 5.3 pounds (85 ounces) and measures 41.25 inches long from buttstock to muzzle. The 22-inch barrel contributes significantly to this compact profile, which is 8 inches shorter and 1.7 pounds lighter than a standard 12-gauge pump shotgun like a Mossberg 500. The receiver's width is a key factor in handling, measuring only 1.5 inches at its thickest point, allowing it to slip easily into a standard scabbard.

Who is this NOT for?

This is not for waterfowl hunters needing a 12-gauge with a 3.5-inch chamber or for competitive sporting clays where follow-up shots are mandatory. It is also ill-suited for tactical or defensive applications where magazine capacity and reloading speed are non-negotiable requirements. Shooters seeking adjustable comb height, interchangeable grips, or multi-choke versatility should look at the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge instead.

What's in the box?

You receive the bare shotgun with a pre-installed WinChoke Modified choke tube and the corresponding T-handle choke wrench, which is necessary for removal. No other accessories, sling swivels, or storage cases are included from the factory, which is standard for this price point and category—you must procure ammunition, ear protection, and a cleaning kit separately. Expect to spend an additional $20-$30 immediately for a basic soft case and gun oil.

Is the Stevens 301 Compact worth it at $233.99?

At this price point, it is worth it as a dedicated tool for its specific niche, not as a general-purpose shotgun. You are paying for a straightforward, legally compliant single-shot mechanism with durable finishes and a compact form; features like a ventilated rib, multiple choke tubes, or a wooden stock are absent by design. Compared to used market single-shots, this represents a reliable, new-in-box baseline for minimal investment where the primary function is mechanical certainty.