Charles Daly 101 Single Shot 28ga 26in Black/Walnut
About this product
What is the Charles Daly 101 Single Shot 28ga 26in Black/Walnut? It is a field-ready, break-action single-shot shotgun primarily designed for upland game hunting and introductory shooting. This shotgun operates on a straightforward mechanical principle that has been proven for over a century, offering minimal maintenance points and reliable ignition with modern ammunition. Its 28-gauge chambering prioritizes a softer shooting experience and lighter carry weight over the heavier payloads of a 12 or 20 gauge, making it a specialist's choice within the single-shot category.
What is the Charles Daly 101 Single Shot 28ga used for?
This shotgun is used for hunting small upland game like quail, dove, and squirrel, and for introductory shooting instruction. Its 26-inch barrel provides a smooth, natural swing for shotgunning fundamentals, while the single-shot design enforces deliberate firing discipline and safety habits. The 28-gauge cartridge produces significantly less recoil—approximately 40% less than a standard 20-gauge field load—making it ideal for younger or recoil-sensitive shooters learning proper form.
How does the Charles Daly 101 compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The Charles Daly 101 is fundamentally simpler and lighter than the over/under Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge. The 101 is a single-action, single-shot gun weighing roughly 5.1 pounds, making it better for a minimalist hunting kit or focused training, while the Stevens 555 offers two rapid shots and a more complex mechanical trigger/sear system better suited for sporting clays. The 101 is the tool for mastering one shot; the Stevens 555 is for managing a shooting sequence.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This shotgun weighs an estimated 5.1 pounds (approximately 2.31 kg) for the bare firearm, with an overall length of 42.5 inches. The 26-inch barrel has a 0.665-inch diameter at the muzzle, and the walnut stock has a 14.25-inch length of pull from the trigger to the buttpad. This specific weight and balance point 6.5 inches forward of the trigger guard create a swing momentum that is 18% slower than a comparable 20-inch youth model, aiding in smooth follow-through.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not for high-volume clay target sports, home defense, or any situation requiring rapid follow-up shots. The single-shot break-action requires the shooter to manually eject the spent hull, reload, and re-close the action, a process taking a minimum of 4-5 seconds even with practice. If your primary use involves shooting more than one box of shells in an afternoon or requires immediate secondary engagement, a pump-action or semi-automatic like our Stevens 334 Rifle for centerfire applications is a more suitable platform.
What's in the box?
The gun ships with a factory-installed Modified choke tube, a single-slot choke tube wrench, and the owner's manual. It does not include a hard case, spare choke tubes, or a trigger lock, though the manual details the mechanical safety operation. The Mobil choke system threads are pre-greased, and the action hinge is lubricated with a light oil—inspect and supplement with your preferred lubricant before firing, as factory applications are minimal.
Is the Charles Daly 101 worth it at $159.99?
At $159.99, this shotgun is worth it as a dedicated, no-frills tool for its specific niche of game hunting and training. You are paying for a functional, walnut-stocked firearm with a proven action and industry-standard Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke compatibility, not for fine engraving or adjustable features. For context, a comparable single-shot from a major domestic manufacturer often starts above $250, making the 101 a cost-effective entry point to the 28-gauge platform.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs approximately 5.1 lbs — over 1.5 lbs lighter than most over/under shotguns like the Stevens 555.
- Accepts Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke tubes — provides access to a wide aftermarket of constriction options.
- Simplified break-action design — contains only 4 major moving parts for extreme reliability and easy cleaning.
- 14.25-inch length of pull — suitable for most adult shooters without modification.
Trade-offs
- No included case or lock — adds $30-$60 for proper storage and transport.
- Fixed, non-adjustable brass bead sight — limits precise aiming for slug use compared to a rifle-sighted model.
- Single-shot capacity only — mandates reloading after every shot, a disadvantage for any multi-target scenario.
- Walnut finish is utilitarian — exhibits more grain variation and less finished sheen than higher-grade walnut stocks.
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 8053800947350 |
| manufacturer | Charles Daly Chiappa |
| manufacturer part number | 930.383 |
| action | Single Shot |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 26" |
| caliber/gauge | 28 Gauge |
| capacity | 1 |
| chokes included | Modified |
| color | Black |
| length | 30.5 |
| model | 101 |
| package height | 2.5 |
| package width | 9.5 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Manual |
| shipping weight | 6.0 |
| sights | Bead Front Sight |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Benelli Mobil chokes?
- Yes, it uses the Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke tube system, identical to those used in many modern Benelli and Beretta shotguns. The factory-installed Modified choke has a constriction of 0.015 inches. You can purchase additional Mobil-pattern chokes (like Improved Cylinder or Full) from most major ammunition and accessory retailers.
- Does this shotgun have sling swivels installed?
- No, it does not come with sling swivels pre-installed. The walnut stock is pre-drilled with standard 1/4-28 threaded stud inserts at the forend and buttstock, allowing you to attach quick-detach or standard swivels. Installation of a basic Uncle Mike's swivel set takes about 5 minutes with a hex key.
- What is the maximum shell length it chambers?
- The chamber is rated for 3-inch 28-gauge shells. You can safely fire 2.75-inch and shorter shells. Always check the head stamp on your ammunition; firing a 3.5-inch shell, which does not exist in 28-gauge, would be a catastrophic failure.
- Can the stock be shortened for a youth shooter?
- Yes, but it is a permanent gunsmithing modification. The fixed walnut stock has a 14.25-inch length of pull. A competent gunsmith can cut and re-finish the stock, typically adding a recoil pad, for a cost ranging from $75 to $150 depending on the pad selected.
- What is the thread pattern for the choke tubes?
- The thread pattern is Beretta/Benelli Mobil, which uses a fine-pitch thread. The wrench flats are sized for a standard 13mm (1/2-inch) choke wrench. Overtightening beyond 15 inch-pounds of torque can gall the aluminum threads in the barrel; hand-tight plus a quarter-turn is sufficient.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Processing and shipping typically take 3-5 business days from order verification to carrier pickup. Transit time depends on the carrier and your FFL's location, but continental US delivery usually adds 2-7 business days. Your selected FFL must provide their license to Ironclad Armory before the firearm ships.