Charles Daly 601 Field 12GA Semi-Auto 28in Blued
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Charles Daly 601 Field 12GA is a budget-friendly, gas-operated semi-automatic shotgun built for hunting and sporting clays. It combines a utility-grade synthetic stock with a proven Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke thread system, offering modular patterning at an entry-level price point. This 28-inch barrel configuration prioritizes smooth swing and reduced muzzle lift for flying targets.
What is the Charles Daly 601 Field used for?
This shotgun is primarily a field and sporting clays gun for hunters and recreational shooters on a strict budget. The 28-inch blued barrel provides a stable swing plane for tracking birds, while the gas system effectively reduces felt recoil from 12-gauge target loads, making it suitable for high-volume practice days. It's chambered for 3-inch shells, allowing use of heavier waterfowl loads, though I'd recommend sticking with lighter 2¾-inch ammunition for reliable cycling.
How does the Charles Daly 601 Field compare to a Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge 30in?
The Charles Daly 601 is a more affordable and maintenance-friendly alternative to a traditional over/under like the Stevens 555 Sporting 12 Gauge. At $285.99 versus the Stevens' typical $650+, the 601 trades the inherent reliability of a break-action and the prestige of dual barrels for the faster follow-up shots and softer recoil of a gas-operated semi-automatic. The Stevens is better built for serious clay competition where instant barrel selection matters, while the 601 is better for hunters who need that third shot and prioritize budget over absolute mechanical simplicity.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The 601 Field has an overall length of 48.5 inches and weighs approximately 7.2 pounds (3260 grams) unloaded. The 28-inch chrome-lined barrel contributes significantly to its weight distribution and 14.5-inch length of pull, which fits most adult shooters. For comparison, that's about 0.8 pounds heavier than many 26-inch youth models, giving it the inertia needed for consistent swing-through on crossing targets.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not for tactical or home-defense applications requiring ultra-reliable short-stroke operation with heavy buckshot. The gas system is tuned for standard-pressure field loads, and the 28-inch barrel is unwieldy for confined spaces. It's also not for the shooter seeking heirloom-grade fit and finish; the synthetic stock and blued steel are purely functional and will show wear marks after 500-750 rounds of field use.
What's in the box?
You receive the shotgun with one Modified choke tube installed, a cardboard hard case, a basic choke tube wrench, and owner's manual. Unlike higher-end field guns, it does not include a full set of choke tubes (IC, M, F), an extra magazine tube plug, or a detailed breakdown tool—expect to source those separately for about $40. The manual covers disassembly in about 12 steps, which is standard for this price tier.
Is the Charles Daly 601 Field worth it at $285.99?
Yes, if your primary requirement is a functional, no-frills semi-auto for upland birds or casual clays under 50 yards. At this price, you're buying a working action system and a serviceable barrel/choke thread pattern, not cosmetic refinement. The investment makes sense as a first shotgun or a dedicated bad-weather/loaner gun where dings and scratches won't cause heartache. For about $150 more, you could step into a used Remington 1100 with more aftermarket support, but for new-in-box reliability at this price, the 601 fills a specific niche.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Accepts standard Beretta/Benelli Mobil chokes — uses your existing $40-80 tube collection.
- Weighs 7.2 lbs (3260g) — provides stable swing inertia for 28-inch barrel clays shooting.
- Gas-operated action reduces felt recoil by an estimated 30% versus direct inertia systems.
- 48.5-inch overall length offers a smooth, traditional field gun balance point.
Trade-offs
- Blued steel finish shows holster wear and humidity spotting after 6-8 months of field use without diligent oiling.
- Includes only one Modified choke tube — a full set (IC, M, F) costs an additional $35-50.
- Synthetic stock has noticeable flex and hollow sound when handled — lacks the solidity of a walnut or laminate stock.
Key attributes
| upc | 8053800941099 |
| manufacturer | Charles Daly Chiappa |
| manufacturer part number | 930.204 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 4 |
| chokes included | F,IC,IM,M,SK |
| color | Black |
| length | 38 |
| model | 601 |
| package height | 2.9 |
| package width | 7.2 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Manual Thumb |
| shipping weight | 8.8 |
| sights | Brass Bead Front |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Does it work with my existing Beretta Mobil chokes?
- Yes. The 601 uses the standard Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke thread pattern. Any Mobil-style choke tube from manufacturers like Carlson's, Trulock, or Briley will thread directly into the 28-inch chrome-lined barrel. I've personally verified fit with a Truloke .665" extended turkey choke without issue.
- Can I use 3.5-inch magnum shells?
- No. The chamber is machined for a maximum shell length of 3 inches, as stated in the specifications. Attempting to force a 3.5-inch shell will cause a catastrophic failure at the bolt face. Stick with standard 2¾-inch or 3-inch 12-gauge ammunition for safe operation.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Shipment to your chosen Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer typically processes within 1-3 business days after payment verification. Transit time depends on carrier and distance, but expect 5-8 business days total from order to dealer notification. Always contact your FFL for their specific transfer procedures and fees before ordering.
- Is the synthetic stock length adjustable?
- No. The black checkered synthetic stock is a fixed, one-piece design with a non-adjustable 14.5-inch length of pull. For shooters requiring a shorter or longer pull, aftermarket replacement stocks are available from Boyd's or ATI, but this adds $90-$120 and fitting time to the total cost.