Charles Daly 301 12 Gauge 18.5 in FDE 5+1
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Charles Daly 301 12 Gauge 18.5 in FDE is a 5+1 round pump-action tactical shotgun built on an aluminum receiver with a 3-inch chamber. It ships configured from the factory for defensive and general utility roles with a fixed pistol-grip stock, ghost-ring sighting system, and Mobil choke threading. We are detailing it because, at its price point, it makes specific engineering trade-offs that a serious shooter needs to understand before committing.
What is the Charles Daly 301 12 Gauge 18.5 in FDE 5+1 used for?
This shotgun is used for home defense, vehicle or property security, and as a primary firearm for close-quarters training. The 18.5-inch barrel and 40.25-inch overall length make it legal for Title I sale without an NFA stamp and maneuverable in tight spaces. The included Mobil chokes and Picatinny rail offer some flexibility for light sporting use or mounting lights/lasers.
How does the Charles Daly 301 compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge 30in?
The Charles Daly 301 is better at defensive, short-range engagements, while the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U is superior for clay target shooting and field hunting. The 301’s 40.25-inch length is 19 inches shorter than the Stevens 555's stock 30-inch barrels, making it far easier to handle indoors. However, the Stevens' over-under action and longer sight plane provide faster, more reliable follow-up shots on moving targets at distance.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The shotgun weighs 6.8 pounds (108.8 ounces) with an overall length of 40.25 inches. The barrel itself measures 18.5 inches from the breech face to the muzzle, threaded for Mobil chokes. The magazine tube under the barrel holds exactly five 2.75-inch shells, or four 3-inch magnums, for that 5+1 capacity.
Who is this NOT for?
This is not for a shooter whose primary goal is competitive clay shooting or waterfowl hunting. The ghost-ring sights are slower to acquire on crossing birds than a traditional rib and bead, and the pistol-grip stock makes it difficult to mount and swing smoothly for sustained fire. For those disciplines, a model like the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U is the correct starting tool.
What's in the box?
You receive the shotgun, a set of three Beretta/Benelli Mobil chokes (Improved Cylinder, Modified, Full), and a standard locking device. Some distributors may omit the lock due to local regulations, so verify with your FFL. Notably absent are any rail-interface accessories or sling mounts; expect to spend $25-$75 on hardware to make it fully operational for your use case.
Is the Charles Daly 301 12 Gauge 18.5 in FDE worth it at $260.99?
At $260.99, it is worth it for the budget-conscious buyer seeking a reliable, no-frills defensive tool from a known OEM. You are paying for the core mechanical components—the pump action, aluminum receiver, and steel barrel—not for finish refinement or premium aftermarket support. This is a functional tool, not a heirloom, and its value lies entirely in its immediate readiness and simple manual of arms.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Ready for Mobil chokes—includes IC, Mod, and Full tubes for immediate pattern control.
- 6.8 lb weight—1.2 pounds lighter than many all-steel pump actions, reducing fatigue.
- 5+1 tube capacity—holds a full box of standard 00 buckshot for defensive use.
- Ghost-ring sighting system—provides fast target acquisition inside 25 yards.
Trade-offs
- Pistol-grip stock is fixed—cannot be swapped for a traditional stock without major gunsmithing.
- Heat shield is aesthetic—provides minimal actual barrel cooling during sustained fire.
- No sling mounts pre-installed—requires end-cap replacement or drilling for attachment, adding $30-50.
- Rail is Picatinny-only—not M-LOK compatible for light mounting without an adapter.
Key attributes
| upc | 8053800943000 |
| manufacturer | Chiappa Firearms |
| manufacturer part number | 930.279 |
| action | Pump Action |
| barrel length | 18.5" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 5 |
| chokes included | Full/Improved Cylinder/Modified |
| color | Black, Flat Dark Earth |
| model | 301 |
| safety | Thumb |
| shipping weight | 8.5 |
| sights | Fiber Optic Front/Ghost Ring Rear |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with standard 12-gauge ammo?
- Yes. The 3-inch chamber accepts all standard 2.75-inch and 3-inch 12-gauge shells, including target load, buckshot, and slugs. Check your choke selection first—only shoot slugs through an Improved Cylinder or Cylinder choke, never through a Full choke. I recommend Fiocchi or Federal for reliable cycling in this action.
- Does it fit in a standard gun safe?
- Typically. With a 40.25-inch overall length, it will fit in most safes designed for long guns. Measure your safe's interior diagonal; you need at least 42 inches of clearance for comfortable storage with the muzzle angled. The 6.8-pound weight means it won't overload most safe shelves.
- How long does shipping take to my FFL?
- Most dealers process and ship within 2-3 business days once payment clears. Transit time via common carriers like UPS or FedEx is typically 3-5 business days for continental U.S. destinations. Always confirm your chosen FFL's license is on file with the retailer before ordering to avoid delays.
- Can I return it if the fit or finish is defective?
- Yes, but directly to the manufacturer for warranty service, not typically to the retailer for a refund. Firearms retailers operate under strict federal regulations; most only accept returns if the firearm is demonstrably unfired and in original packaging. For mechanical defects, Charles Daly's warranty process requires contacting their service center first.
- Does this work with a Magpul SGA stock?
- No, not directly. The fixed pistol-grip stock on the 301 is integral to the synthetic receiver extension. Converting to an adjustable stock like the Magpul SGA would require a gunsmith to modify or replace the entire receiver extension assembly, adding approximately $150-$200 in parts and labor.