Pointer PUP .410 Single Shot Thumbhole Shotgun
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Pointer PUP .410 Single Shot Thumbhole Shotgun is a break-action, single-shot shotgun chambered in .410 bore, designed for straightforward field use and training scenarios. Its entire design philosophy centers on mechanical simplicity and regulatory accessibility, making it a tool rather than a toy. For context, this platform exists in a category dominated by youth models and specialized turkey guns, but it carves its own niche by pairing an adult-length stock with a minimal-action .410.
What is the Pointer PUP .410 Single Shot Thumbhole Shotgun used for?
You use this shotgun for three specific applications: introductory firearms training, close-range small-game harvesting, and as a low-recoil option for shooters sensitive to 12 or 20-gauge kick. The .410 bore generates approximately 10.5 ft-lbs of recoil energy with a standard ½-oz target load, which is less than half that of a 12-gauge target load. This makes it suitable for teaching fundamentals without developing a flinch, and its 5.05 lb weight ensures it's manageable over extended range sessions or while carrying afield for squirrels and rabbits within 25 yards.
How does the Pointer PUP compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U Shotgun .410 Bore?
The Pointer PUP is mechanically simpler and more affordable than the Stevens 555 Sporting .410, but it sacrifices versatility and capacity. The Stevens 555 is an over-under with two 3-inch chambers, allowing for a follow-up shot or the use of two different chokes—features absent on this single-shot. Where the PUP excels is in its pure simplicity; there is no selector, no ejector timing to worry about, and its crossbolt safety is a binary, single-lever design. For a pure training tool or a dedicated, occasional-use gun, the PUP is sufficient; for any clay sports or scenarios demanding a second shot, the Stevens 555 Sporting .410 is the objectively better performer.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The shotgun weighs 5.05 lbs (2290 grams) unloaded and measures 36.5 inches in overall length. The synthetic thumbhole stock has a length of pull measuring 13.75 inches, which is standard for adult firearms, not the shortened 12-inch pulls common on youth-specific .410s. This adult sizing is a critical distinction; it forces proper mounting and stance for a new shooter, unlike a too-short stock that can encourage poor form. The barrel is 18.5 inches long with a modified choke tube permanently affixed, giving it a fixed pattern spread of about 60% at 25 yards.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not for anyone seeking a primary hunting firearm for waterfowl, turkey, or deer where larger gauges and shot capacities are non-negotiable. It's also a poor choice for competitive clay shooting, even at the introductory level, due to its single-shot nature and the limited payload of the .410 shell. Finally, it's not for the hobbyist or tinkerer—the action is simple to the point of being non-serviceable by the end user, and the nickel finish, while corrosion-resistant, will show handling marks and scuffs more readily than a matte phosphate or Cerakote finish.
What's in the box?
You receive the shotgun, one 10mm synthetic choke tube key (for the fixed modified choke), and a factory-supplied 6-foot paracord sling. The manual is a single double-sided sheet covering basic operation and a warranty registration card. There are no additional choke tubes, a cleaning rod, or a case included. The paracord sling has a tensile strength rated for 550 lbs, but it's a basic woven design without quick-adjust hardware; you'll likely replace it with a dedicated shotgun sling if you plan on carrying it extensively.
Is the Pointer PUP worth it at $128.99?
At $128.99, the Pointer PUP represents the absolute entry point for a new, functioning centerfire-capable shotgun, and its value is tied entirely to that low barrier to entry. You are paying for a functional action, a chamber that handles standard 2.5-inch and 3-inch shells, and a safety that works—nothing more. Compared to spending $400+ on a used pump-action or the $650+ for a new Stevens 555 .410, this is a disposable-cost training tool. If your goal is to determine if a new shooter enjoys the hobby without a major financial commitment, it's worth the price. If you need a reliable, primary firearm for repeated use, the investment in a more robust platform is mandatory.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 5.05 lbs (2290g) — lightweight for all-day carry and easy handling for new shooters.
- 13.75-inch length of pull — adult-sized stock promotes proper form, unlike shortened youth models.
- Includes a 550-lb tensile strength paracord sling — functional for immediate field use.
- Crossbolt safety — simple, binary operation with a distinct audible click when engaged.
Trade-offs
- Fixed modified choke — limits pattern versatility; cannot be swapped for improved cylinder or full choke tubes.
- No included case or cleaning kit — adds $25-50 to total cost for proper storage and maintenance.
- Nickel finish shows scuffs and handling marks readily — less durable than modern Cerakote or matte finishes for field use.
- Single-shot only — no capacity for a follow-up shot, a significant limitation for any dynamic training or hunting scenario.
Key attributes
| upc | 682146860092 |
| manufacturer | Pointer |
| manufacturer part number | PUP410S |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
| shipping weight | 6.0 |
| sights | Bead Front Sight |
| product type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 18.5" |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| caliber/gauge | .410 Bore |
| capacity | 1 |
| package height | 2.8 |
| package width | 8.3 |
| action | Single Shot |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with .410 bore 2.5-inch shells?
- Yes, the 3-inch chamber safely accommodates standard 2.5-inch .410 bore shells. You will experience slightly less velocity and a different point of impact compared to 3-inch shells, so re-zeroing is recommended if you switch between shell lengths regularly. Always refer to the chamber marking stamped on the barrel.
- Does it fit in a standard 36-inch rifle case?
- No, with an overall length of 36.5 inches, it will not fit in most 36-inch hard cases. You require a case with an internal length of at least 38 inches to accommodate it safely. I recommend Plano's All-Weather 42-inch case for a secure fit with room for accessories.
- How long does shipping take to an FFL?
- Standard processing and shipping to your selected Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder typically takes 5-7 business days from order verification. Delivery times vary by carrier and location, but you should plan for a total lead time of 7-10 business days before you can complete the 4473 form at your dealer.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- No, all firearm sales are final once the transfer is completed at your FFL, in compliance with federal law and our policy. You must verify the fit and dimensions prior to initiating the transfer. If there is a verifiable manufacturer defect, Ironclad Armory will facilitate a warranty repair or replacement directly.
- Does this work with a .45 LC adapter?
- No, the chamber and barrel are specifically sized for .410 bore shotshells and will not safely or accurately fire .45 Long Colt cartridges, even with an adapter. Attempting to use such an adapter can cause dangerous pressure spikes and is not recommended or supported by the manufacturer.