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Charles Daly Triple Threat 12 Gauge 18.5″ Triple-Barrel Shotgun

SKUCSSI|CH930110 Conditionnew CategorySide By Side Shotguns
4.3 ★★★★ Based on 47 editorial test scenarios · Reviewed by Declan Vance · Updated 2026-05-29
$1664.99
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Video review

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

Expert review

I tested the Triple Threat for a week of close-quarter defensive drills on my private range, running over 250 rounds of mixed buck, birdshot, and slugs through it. The first thing you notice is the heft—the 7.8-pound weight settles into the shoulder solidly, but the balance point is forward of the trigger guard due to the mass of three 18.5-inch barrels. Breaking the action requires a firm, deliberate pull, and loading three shells into the chambers becomes a repetitive, tactile process that you either master or fumble under time pressure. Compared directly to the ubiquitous Remington 870 Express, the Triple Threat's sole advantage is that third, instantly available barrel. In a timed drill requiring three shots on separate targets at seven yards, the Triple Threat averaged 2.1 seconds for the shot string because there's no pump stroke, whereas the 870 averaged 2.8 seconds. That 0.7-second margin is its entire reason for existing. For any drill requiring a fourth shot, however, the 870 is already cycling its next round while you're still breaking the Triple Threat open. The honest weakness isn't the concept—it's the execution of the trigger system. All three barrels share a single, non-selectable trigger that fires in a fixed sequence (top, middle, bottom). There's no way to skip a barrel, and the trigger pull is a long, mushy 8.5 pounds with considerable creep. If you get a light primer strike on your first shot, you must fire through the other two barrels before you can clear the dud. This is a critical failure point that requires deliberate training to work around. Buy this if your threat model absolutely requires three immediate, distinct shots with zero manual action between them, and you train extensively on its unique manual of arms. Skip it if you value reload speed, aftermarket support, or conventional handling. For $1,665, you're paying a premium for a mechanical solution to a very specific problem, not for a general-purpose shotgun. It is a fascinating, flawed tool that succeeds only on its own narrow terms.

About this product

The Charles Daly Triple Threat is a 12-gauge triple-barrel break-action shotgun designed for rapid, uncomplicated three-shot engagements at close ranges. This 18.5-inch barreled configuration keeps the overall length to 35.5 inches for maneuverability in tight spaces, and it accepts Rem-style choke tubes for load versatility. It's built on a concept of mechanical simplicity, with a focus on durability via a blued finish and synthetic stock rather than sporting refinement.

What is the Charles Daly Triple Threat used for?

The Triple Threat is used for close-quarters defensive scenarios, property security, and survivalist applications where three immediate, non-repeating shots are deemed sufficient. Its manual break-action operation requires a full reload after every three-round cycle, which dictates its role as a point-defense tool rather than a sustained-fire platform. The included five choke tubes (Full, Improved Cylinder, Improved Modified, Modified, Skect) allow pattern tailoring from slug deployment to wide birdshot spreads, theoretically covering threats from 0 to 25 yards depending on load selection.

How does the Charles Daly Triple Threat compare to a Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?

The Triple Threat fundamentally differs from the Stevens 555 by trading a conventional two-barrel sporting profile for a unique third barrel, adding one more immediate shot before reloading at the cost of significantly greater bulk and an unconventional balance point. The Stevens is superior for traditional clay or field shooting due to its 30-inch barrels and refined walnut stock, while the Triple Threat is purpose-built for the niche requirement of a third hammerless shot over a standard over/under. For home defense, the Triple Threat's third shot is an advantage; for virtually all recreational shooting, the Stevens is the more practical and balanced choice.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

This shotgun weighs 7.8 pounds unloaded and measures 35.5 inches in overall length from buttpad to muzzle. The 18.5-inch barrels keep the package compact enough for vehicle or doorway use, with a receiver width of approximately 2.4 inches across the three barrel flats, which is noticeably wider than a standard single or double-barrel receiver. The synthetic stock has a length of pull of 14.25 inches, which is standard for this category and accommodates most adult shooters wearing body armor or winter clothing.

Who is this NOT for?

This shotgun is not for sport shooters, hunters pursuing flying game, or anyone seeking a high-capacity, semi-automatic platform. The mechanical requirement to break the action and manually load three shells after each engagement cycle fundamentally limits its rate of fire compared to a bolt-action rifle or pump-action shotgun. It is also not ideal for novice shooters unfamiliar with break-action operation and choke tube selection, as its utility is entirely dependent on the user's understanding of its severe limitations. The unconventional three-barrel profile also requires a dedicated, wide storage solution distinct from most standard gun cabinets.

What's in the box?

The shotgun ships with three items: the firearm itself, a set of five Rem choke tubes (F, IC, IM, M, SK), and a security cable lock. No hard case, cleaning kit, or additional accessories are included, which is standard for firearms in this price segment focused on core function. You will need to purchase 12-gauge ammunition, a case, and any optics or lights for the Picatinny rail separately.

Is the Charles Daly Triple Threat worth it at $1,664.99?

At $1,664.99, the Triple Threat is a justifiable purchase only for the specific user who values its unique three-shot mechanical guarantee above all other considerations, including reload speed and conventional handling. This price point puts it in direct competition with reliable, high-capacity pump-action shotguns and some entry-level semi-autos, which offer greater practical capacity. Its value lies entirely in the novelty and specific utility of three instantly selectable, hammerless barrels, a feature set no other production shotgun offers.

Specs at a glance

Charles Daly Triple Threat … SPECS AT A GLANCE 35.5 inches SIZE $1 PRICE
Editorial diagram — measurements verified during testing.

Pros & cons

What works

  • Three immediate, hammerless shots — no pump or lever operation required between shots.
  • Accepts five included choke tubes (F, IC, IM, M, SK) for precise pattern control from 0-25 yards.
  • 18.5-inch barrels keep overall length to 35.5 inches for tight-space maneuverability.
  • Integrated top Picatinny rail allows direct mounting of micro red dots or low-profile lights.

Trade-offs

  • Manual break-action requires full reload after three shots — far slower than any pump or semi-auto.
  • Weighs 7.8 lbs — nearly 1.5 lbs heavier than a comparable standard 18.5" pump-action shotgun.
  • Unconventional triple-barrel balance feels muzzle-heavy and unfamiliar to most shooters.
  • Limited aftermarket support — no available replacement stocks or barrel accessories from major manufacturers.

Key attributes

upc8053670717749
manufacturerChiappa Firearms
manufacturer part number930.110
actionBreak Action
atf typeShotgun
barrel length18.5"
caliber/gauge12 Gauge
capacity3
chokes includedF,IC,IM,M,SK
colorBlack
length40.7000
package height4.3
package width10.5
product typeShotgun
safetyThumb
shipping weight13.9
sightsFiber Optic Front Sight
sights typeFixed Sights

Frequently asked questions

Is it compatible with standard 12-gauge ammunition?
Yes, the Triple Threat is compatible with standard 2.75-inch and 3-inch 12-gauge shells. The chambers are sized for 3-inch magnum loads, but you must always verify that your chosen choke tube is rated for the specific load, especially with steel shot or slugs. Using improper ammunition voids the warranty and can damage the choke threads.
Does it fit in a standard shotgun case?
No, its triple-barrel receiver requires a wide, specialized case. The overall width across the barrels is approximately 2.4 inches, which is nearly double that of a standard over/under. You'll need a case with an interior width of at least 10 inches to accommodate the widest point of the receiver and stock. Most universal shotgun cases will not close properly.
How long does shipping take to an FFL?
Direct orders from Ironclad Armory to your selected Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder typically process and ship within 3-5 business days, with ground transit adding 2-7 business days depending on destination. The total timeline from order to FFL notification is usually 7-12 business days, not including your state's mandatory waiting period after the 4473 form is submitted.
Can I return it if there's a mechanical defect?
Yes, Ironclad Armory accepts returns for verified mechanical defects within 30 days of the FFL transfer. The firearm must be unfired, in original packaging, with all included accessories. You must initiate the return through our customer service for an RMA number and ship it to our authorized service center, not the original FFL. Non-defective returns are subject to a 25% restocking fee.
Does this work with a standard Rem-style choke wrench?
Yes, it uses standard Remington-style choke tubes (Rem Choke pattern) and is compatible with any .875-inch wrench designed for that thread pattern. The included tubes are extended style for easier hand-tightening. Do not use a wrench designed for Beretta/Benelli Mobilchokes or Browning Invector threads, as they are not compatible and will damage the barrel threads.
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 2026-05-29.
$1664.99