Charles Daly 101 Single Shot 20 Gauge 26″ Woodland Camo
About this product
The Charles Daly 101 is a 20 gauge, single-shot break-action shotgun with a 26-inch barrel and synthetic woodland camouflage finish, designed as a simple and rugged entry-level field gun. It is built around Mobil/Benelli-style choke threads and a basic extractor-based action. The platform prioritizes straightforward, low-maintenance operation over capacity or rapid function.
What is the Charles Daly 101 used for?
The Charles Daly 101 is primarily used for basic field hunting applications where a single, dependable shot is sufficient, such as for turkey, squirrel, or pest control. Its 26-inch barrel provides a good balance of swing for wingshooting, while the Mobil choke system lets you pattern effectively for different ranges. The corrosion-resistant synthetic stock and camo finish make it a true foul-weather tool that can be leaned against a tree without worry, though the single-bead front sight limits precise shot placement past 40 yards.
How does the Charles Daly 101 compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting Compact 20ga 26″ O/U?
The Charles Daly 101 is a simpler, more affordable single-shot platform, while the Stevens 555 Sporting Compact is a more versatile over-under with two barrels and selective triggers for quick follow-up shots. The Steven 555 is significantly better for clay sports and hunting scenarios where a second shot is critical, but it also weighs nearly 2.4 lbs more. The Charles Daly, at $168.99, is nearly half the price and serves purely as a foundational tool for a new shooter or a dedicated tool for a specific, slow-paced hunt.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Charles Daly 101 weighs 5.6 pounds and has a 41.75-inch overall length from buttstock to muzzle. The 26-inch barrel contributes directly to its 13-inch length of pull, which is suitable for adult shooters of average to large stature. This puts it about 16 ounces lighter than a comparable youth-model single-shot, but its dimensions still make it a full-sized firearm.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not for anyone who anticipates needing a rapid follow-up shot, such as in upland bird hunting or competitive clay shooting. Its break-action, single-shot design mandates a full manual reload cycle of approximately 6-8 seconds, which is non-negotiable. It is also not for the shooter who values aesthetic refinement or modularity; the stock is fixed, the trigger is non-adjustable, and the camo pattern is purely functional, lacking the depth of finish you'd find on a dedicated hunting gun like the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge.
What's in the box?
Inside the box, you will find the shotgun itself, one unspecified Modified flush-mount choke tube installed (though not explicitly listed, this is the standard industry practice for this product tier), and the required owner's manual and lock. You will not find spare choke tubes, a choke tube wrench, or any cleaning equipment, which is standard for this price point but a consideration for the first-time buyer who will need to purchase an $8-12 wrench and a set of $20-30 tubes separately to use the gun's primary feature effectively.
Is the Charles Daly 101 worth it at $168.99?
Yes, at $168.99, the Charles Daly 101 is worth it if your requirement is a no-frills, durable single-shot shotgun that will reliably go boom every time you pull the trigger. The cost covers the essential function of a break-action and the durability of a synthetic stock, with the bonus of a versatile choke system. It is a financial stepping stone, not a destination gun; you are paying for utility and reliability, not refinement or speed.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Accepts 3-inch magnum shells — provides full 20 gauge power spectrum.
- Weighs 5.6 lbs — nearly a pound lighter than many break-action competitors, reducing carry fatigue.
- Mobil/Benelli choke threads — compatible with a vast, readily available aftermarket of tubes for precise patterning.
- 41.75-inch overall length — compact enough for maneuvering in tight blinds or thick brush.
Trade-offs
- No included choke tube wrench or spare tubes — adds a $30+ immediate ancillary purchase to use the primary feature.
- Fixed, minimalist brass bead sight — limits precise aiming for slugs or long-range patterning compared to a rifle-style sight.
- No pre-installed sling swivel studs — requires aftermarket purchase and installation for comfortable carry.
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 8053800945127 |
| manufacturer | Charles Daly Chiappa |
| manufacturer part number | 930.335 |
| action | Single Shot |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 26" |
| caliber/gauge | 20 Gauge |
| capacity | 1 |
| chokes included | Modified |
| color | Camo |
| length | 30.2000 |
| model | 101 |
| package height | 2.5 |
| package width | 9.4 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Manual |
| shipping weight | 6.0 |
| sights | Brass Bead Front Sight |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with 2¾-inch shells?
- Yes, the Charles Daly 101's 3-inch chamber is fully compatible with standard 2¾-inch 20 gauge shells, as well as the longer 3-inch magnum loads. The chamber length measurement (3 inches) denotes the maximum shell length the gun is designed to fire safely. Always consult the manual for specific ammunition recommendations.
- Does it include spare choke tubes?
- No, it does not include spare choke tubes. The shotgun ships with one flush-mount choke tube (typically a Modified constriction) pre-installed. To make full use of the Mobil/Benelli-style choke system, you will need to purchase additional tubes separately from brands like Carlson's or Briley.
- How long does shipping take?
- Shipping typically takes 7-10 business days for standard ground service from our authorized distributor's warehouse to your selected Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder. Expedited options may be available at checkout for an additional fee, which can reduce transit time to 3-5 business days.
- Can I install a recoil pad on this stock?
- Yes, you can install an aftermarket recoil pad, but it will require modification. The synthetic stock has a solid, molded butt with no pre-installed pad. Installation requires grinding the stock to fit a universal pad like the Pachmayr Decelerator or a slip-on model, adding an extra $25-50 and a gunsmith's time to the total cost of ownership.
- Does this work with a standard shotgun sling?
- Yes, but not without swivel studs. The stock and barrel do not have integrated sling swivel studs installed. You will need to purchase and install a set of detachable swivel studs, or use a universal no-drill sling that attaches via the stock and barrel. Plan for an additional $15-30 and potentially a gunsmithing fee for stud installation.