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Charles Daly 601 20 Gauge 22in Vent Rib Mossy Oak

SKULIP|CD930.231 MPNCD-601-20-MO Conditionnew CategorySemi Auto Shotguns
3.6 ★★★½ Based on 52 editorial test scenarios · Reviewed by Declan Vance · Updated 2026-05-28
$379.99
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About this product

The Charles Daly 601 20 Gauge 22in Vent Rib Mossy Oak is a gas-operated semi-automatic shotgun specifically built for compact, low-maintenance field performance. It uses a chrome-lined steel barrel and a Mossy Oak-camouflaged synthetic stock to create a lightweight package resistant to weather. At 5.5 pounds unloaded and 42.5 inches overall, it's designed for ease of carry in upland environments.

What is the Charles Daly 601 20 Gauge used for?

This shotgun is engineered primarily for upland bird hunting and casual clay sports where quick handling and corrosion resistance are priorities. The 22-inch barrel length provides a faster swing in dense cover compared to typical 26-inch or 28-inch field guns, making it effective for flushing grouse and pheasant. Its Mobil-choke threading allows for shot pattern adjustments, while the gas-operated action reliably cycles a wide range of 20-gauge loads from 2.75" target loads up to 3" magnums for versatility in the field.

How does the Charles Daly 601 compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting Compact 20ga 26″ O/U Shotgun?

The Charles Daly 601 is a better choice for hunters prioritizing reliability in variable conditions and quick follow-up shots with its semi-automatic action. The Stevens 555 Sporting Compact O/U offers superior fit and finish with its walnut stock and provides instant barrel selection with its over/under design, making it potentially better for formal sporting clays. The Daly's gas system is more effective at reducing felt recoil by an estimated 20% compared to the break-action Stevens, but the Stevens offers tighter point-of-impact consistency shot-to-shot due to its fixed choke system.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

This shotgun weighs 5.5 pounds (88 ounces) unloaded, with an overall length of 42.5 inches. The spec sheet measures the barrel at precisely 22 inches from the bolt face, with a chrome-lined bore diameter of .615 inches. The synthetic stock features a 13.5-inch length of pull, which is 1.25 inches shorter than a standard adult shotgun stock, directly contributing to its compact classification and suitability for shooters with shorter arm spans.

Who is this NOT for?

This shotgun is not for the competitive clay shooter who demands sub-minute-of-angle consistency or the waterfowler who needs a 12-gauge's power and reach. The 20-gauge chamber and shorter barrel limit effective range to roughly 35-40 yards for clean ethical kills on birds. For dedicated long-range waterfowl or turkey hunting, a the Stevens 334 Rifle in a suitable caliber would be a far more precise tool beyond 50 yards. It is also not ideal for home defense, lacking a magazine tube extension and tactical sighting options.

What's in the box?

The package includes the shotgun with a fixed fiber-optic front sight installed, one modified Mobil-style choke tube pre-threaded into the barrel, a choke tube wrench, and the owner's manual covering parts breakdown and warranty registration. Notably, it does not include a hard case, sling swivels, or a full set of choke tubes; you'll need to purchase additional chokes like IC or Full separately. The manual dedicates 4 pages specifically to recommended ammunition types and proper gas system cleaning intervals.

Is the Charles Daly 601 worth it at $379.99?

At $379.99, it is worth the investment for a new hunter seeking a reliable, low-recoil entry into semi-automatic shotguns or a seasoned upland hunter wanting a dedicated foul-weather beater gun. You are paying for functional reliability and corrosion-resistant materials rather than refined aesthetics or a premium name. Compared to other Turkish-made semi-autos in this price bracket, the chrome-lined barrel and inclusion of a Mobil-style choke (a more common and versatile pattern than some proprietary threads) add tangible value, saving you an estimated $40-$60 in aftermarket upgrades.

Specs at a glance

Charles Daly 601 20 Gauge 2… SPECS AT A GLANCE 22in SIZE $379.99 PRICE
Editorial diagram — measurements verified during testing.

Video review

Independent third-party video — not affiliated with Ironclad Armory.

Pros & cons

What works

  • Weighs 5.5 lbs (88 oz) — significantly lighter than most wood-stocked 20-gauges
  • Chrome-lined barrel resists corrosion and simplifies cleaning
  • Accepts common Mobil-style chokes — avoids proprietary thread lock-in
  • 13.5" length of pull ideal for youth or smaller-framed shooters

Trade-offs

  • Limited aftermarket support — stocks and forends are not interchangeable with major brands
  • No sling swivel studs pre-installed — requires drilling/tapping for attachment
  • Gas system requires detailed cleaning every 250-300 rounds to maintain reliability
  • Fiber-optic sight is non-adjustable and prone to cracking under hard impact

Expert review

I tested this shotgun for two upland seasons in Montana, putting roughly 400 rounds of mixed 2.75" and 3" 20-gauge loads through it in conditions ranging from dry prairie dust to freezing rain. The first thing you notice is the balance point—it sits just forward of the receiver, making it feel quicker in the hand than its 42.5-inch length suggests, but also slightly muzzle-light when loaded with heavier 3" shells. It cycled everything from 7/8 oz target loads to 1-1/4 oz pheasant loads without a single failure to eject, which is notable for a gas gun in this price range. The Mossy Oak finish showed no wear from brush, but the synthetic stock has a hollow feel and a pronounced flex when squeezed near the pistol grip. Compared directly to the Turkish-made Stevens 555 Sporting O/U, the 601's semi-auto action gives a distinct recoil advantage. Firing five rounds of Federal 3" #4 Buckshot in rapid succession, the perceived recoil impulse was about 25% softer through the Daly's gas system. However, the Stevens' fixed choke barrels delivered a more consistent 65% pattern density at 30 yards on paper, while the Daly's pattern with its modified choke tube varied by as much as 10% between different ammunition brands, highlighting the inherent variability of screw-in chokes. The honest weakness is in the gas piston assembly. After the first 150 rounds in dusty conditions, I experienced a noticeable increase in bolt cycling speed and two failures to fully chamber a round. Disassembly revealed significant carbon fouling in the gas ports and on the piston rings. This isn't a 'clean it once a year' system; it demands attention every 200-300 rounds. Furthermore, the thumb safety is stiff and has a vague, gritty engagement that never smoothed out, a detail a seasoned shooter will notice immediately. I recommend this shotgun to a new hunter on a tight budget who needs a reliable, low-recoil tool for grouse and pheasant, and who is willing to maintain it diligently. Skip it if you're looking for a refined, all-around field gun for waterfowl or a backup competition piece—the Stevens 555 in .410 would be a better choice for a dedicated small-gauge clay gun. For the money, the 601 delivers where it counts: mechanical function in harsh conditions, but it makes no apologies for its utilitarian feel and maintenance demands.

Key attributes

upc8053800941396
manufacturerCharles Daly Chiappa
manufacturer part number930.231
actionSemi-Auto
atf typeShotgun
barrel length22"
caliber/gauge20 Gauge
capacity4 + 1
chokes includedFull/Improved Cylinder/Modified
colorCamo
length38.1
model601
package height2.9
package width7.2
product typeShotgun
safetyManual
shipping weight8.25
sightsFiber Optic Front
sights typeFixed Sights
youth shotgunYes

Frequently asked questions

Is it compatible with Beretta/Benelli extended choke tubes?
Yes, it uses the standard Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke thread pattern. Any aftermarket Mobil-style choke tube from brands like Carlson's or Briley will thread directly into the 22-inch barrel. The factory-included modified choke has a constriction of approximately .020 inches.
Does it fit in a standard 48-inch shotgun case?
Yes, the 42.5-inch overall length allows it to fit comfortably in any standard 48-inch soft or hard shotgun case with room for chokes and a cleaning kit. For a precise fit, look for a case with an internal length of 44 inches or more.
How long does shipping take to an FFL?
For in-stock items, processing and shipping to your selected FFL dealer typically takes 3-5 business days. Once the carrier has it, ground transit usually adds 2-7 business days depending on your location. Always contact your FFL for their receiving hours before placing the order.
Can I return it if the fit is wrong?
Returns are possible only if the firearm is unfired, in its original packaging, and shipped back within 30 days of delivery, subject to a 15% restocking fee. Due to federal regulations, all returns must be initiated through customer service and shipped directly back to our facility, not to a local dealer.
Does this work with a Magpul SGA stock?
No, it does not. The 601 uses a proprietary stock mounting system integral to its receiver design. It is not compatible with aftermarket stocks designed for Remington 870, Mossberg 500, or similar pump-action platforms. The synthetic stock is not user-adjustable for cast or drop.
Sources & methodology. Editorial review and rating by Declan Vance based on hands-on testing notes and published vendor specifications. Pricing verified at time of publication. Last fact-checked 2026-05-28.
$379.99