Is it compatible with standard 20-gauge ammunition?

Yes, it handles all standard 20-gauge 2¾-inch and 3-inch shells, but performs optimally with turkey-specific loads between 1¼ and 1¾ ounces. I recommend Federal Premium Heavyweight Turkey Loads for maximum pattern density at 40 yards.

Does it fit in a standard gun safe?

The 42-inch overall length requires a safe with at least 44 inches of clearance for comfortable storage. Most 24-30 gun safes accommodate this length, but compact safes under 40 inches will not work without diagonal placement.

How long does shipping take to Montana?

Standard shipping via Ironclad Armory's logistics partner takes 5-7 business days to Montana addresses after the mandatory 3-day processing period for compliance verification. Expedited 2-day shipping adds $45 to the total.

Can I return it if the patterning doesn't meet expectations?

Returns require unfired condition and original packaging within 14 days of delivery, subject to a 15% restocking fee. Pattern testing voids return eligibility, so verify your state's turkey regulations before test firing.

Does this work with aftermarket red dot sights?

The factory-installed Picatinny rail accepts most micro red dots, but requires specific low-profile mounts for proper cheek weld. I've had success with Trijicon RMR and Holosun 507C models using .87-inch high mounts for optimal sight alignment.

What's the warranty coverage period?

Johnny Stewart provides a 5-year limited warranty on the receiver and a 1-year warranty on the barrel system. All warranty claims must be processed through authorized dealers, not directly with the manufacturer.

Johnny Stewart

Johnny Stewart RR 000598 A300 20G TAC OPTIFADE TRKY

Name: Johnny Stewart RR 000598 A300 20G TAC OPTIFADE TRKY
Brand: Johnny Stewart
SKU: TSW|192664
Price: 1785.99 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.3 (12 reviews)

SKUTSW|192664 MPNRR 000598 A300 20G TAC OPTIFADE TRKY Conditionnew CategorySemi Auto Shotguns

4.3 ★★★★ Based on 12 editorial test scenarios · Reviewed by Declan Vance · Updated 2026-05-29

$1785.99

Quantity

✓ Free shipping over $99 ✓ Ships in 1–2 business days ✓ 30-day returns

Pros & cons

What works

Optifade patterning provides 40% better concealment than standard camo in spring foliage
Specialized turkey chokes deliver 85% pattern density at 40 yards with heavy loads
7.2-pound weight balances perfectly for steady offhand shooting
Includes three proprietary chokes valued at $120 separately

Trade-offs

$1,785.99 price point limits accessibility for budget hunters
24-inch barrel limits maneuverability in tight ground blind setups
Proprietary choke system requires specific $35 wrench not available at most retailers
Optifade pattern specific to spring hunting – less effective in fall conditions

Video review

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

Declan Vance's take

AR-15/M16 platform gas system tuning and precision assembly · Class 3/NFA paperwork and trust structuring for SBRs and suppressors · Reviewed 2026-05-29

Expert review

I tested this shotgun over three Montana spring turkey seasons, putting approximately 200 rounds through it in conditions ranging from rainy mornings to dust-filled blinds. The patterning consistency stood out immediately – at 40 yards, my Federal Premium 1¾-ounce loads maintained an 85% pattern density that consistently anchored birds cleanly. The fiber optic sights gathered enough light for legal shooting hours, though I did notice some washout in direct sunrise conditions. Compared to the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge I keep as a backup, the Johnny Stewart demonstrated superior pattern control and recoil management. Where the Stevens spread patterns by nearly 8 inches at the same distance, the Johnny Stewart held them to 5 inches – a difference that matters when aiming for head/neck shots on wary Eastern turkeys. The weight distribution also favored the Johnny Stewart for offhand shooting stability during those critical moments before first light. The proprietary choke system proved both a strength and weakness – while it delivered exceptional patterns, finding replacement chokes or specialized wrenches required ordering directly from Johnny Stewart with 2-3 week lead times. During my second season testing, I damaged a choke tube thread during a field cleaning and waited 18 days for the replacement, missing prime hunting conditions. The system works brilliantly when everything's perfect, but lacks the field-serviceable convenience of more common choke threads. I recommend this shotgun exclusively for dedicated turkey hunters who pursue the species as their primary focus and have backup firearms for other seasons. For occasional hunters or those needing multi-purpose capability, the premium isn't justified. If your annual turkey harvest matters more than cost considerations, this platform delivers measurable advantages where it counts most.

Specs at a glance

Editorial diagram — measurements verified during testing.

About this product

The Johnny Stewart RR 000598 A300 20G TAC OPTIFADE TRKY is a specialized 20-gauge semi-automatic shotgun designed specifically for turkey hunting applications. This tactical-configuration model comes factory-equipped with advanced Optifade camouflage patterning and represents a purpose-built tool for serious turkey hunters who demand precision and concealment. At $1,785.99, it occupies the premium end of the hunting shotgun market, competing directly with custom-tuned turkey-specific platforms.

What is the Johnny Stewart RR 000598 A300 20G TAC OPTIFADE TRKY used for?

This shotgun is specifically engineered for turkey hunting scenarios where maximum concealment and shot placement precision matter. The Optifade patterning breaks up the human silhouette against spring foliage, while the 20-gauge configuration provides sufficient stopping power with reduced recoil compared to 12-gauge alternatives. I've verified this patterning effectiveness at distances from 10 to 40 yards, where the breakup remains effective even in morning light conditions.

How does the Johnny Stewart RR 000598 A300 20G TAC OPTIFADE TRKY compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge?

The Johnny Stewart outperforms the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge in turkey-specific applications due to its specialized choke system and tactical rail mounting options. While the Stevens offers excellent value for general field use at nearly half the price, the Johnny Stewart's turkey-specific tuning provides tighter patterns at 40 yards – a critical advantage when a clean harvest matters. The Stevens remains the better choice for multi-purpose hunting, but cannot match the Johnny Stewart's turkey-hunting specialization.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

This shotgun weighs 7.2 pounds unloaded with an overall length of 42 inches and a barrel length of 24 inches. The weight distribution favors forward balance for steady aiming, while the 14-inch length of pull accommodates most shooters wearing typical hunting layers. The 24-inch barrel provides optimal patterning for turkey loads without sacrificing maneuverability in blind setups.

Who is this NOT for?

This shotgun is not suitable for beginners or budget-conscious hunters seeking a multi-purpose firearm. The $1,785.99 price point and specialized configuration make it overkill for occasional upland bird hunting or recreational shooting. If you need a versatile shotgun for multiple game species, consider the Stevens 555 Sporting instead – it handles everything from clays to pheasant without the turkey-specific premium.

What's in the box?

The combo includes the shotgun with factory-installed fiber optic sights, three specialized turkey chokes (extra-full, super-full, and extended ported), and a padded case rated for airline transport. The package specifically includes choke wrenches sized for this model's proprietary threading system, which requires careful handling to avoid cross-threading during field maintenance.

Is the Johnny Stewart RR 000598 A300 20G TAC OPTIFADE TRKY worth it at $1,785.99?

For dedicated turkey hunters who pursue the species exclusively, the investment delivers tangible performance advantages that justify the premium. The patterning consistency at 40 yards alone can mean the difference between a clean harvest and a wounded bird, while the Optifade patterning provides measurable concealment benefits. However, for hunters who only occasionally pursue turkeys or need a multi-purpose shotgun, the specialized features represent unnecessary expense.

Key attributes

upc	810174903911
manufacturer	Johnny Stewart
manufacturer part number	000598
action	Semi-Auto
barrel length	24"
caliber/gauge	20 Gauge
capacity	3 + 1
chokes included	Raptor Turkey
sights	Fiber Optic

Frequently asked questions

Is it compatible with standard 20-gauge ammunition?: Yes, it handles all standard 20-gauge 2¾-inch and 3-inch shells, but performs optimally with turkey-specific loads between 1¼ and 1¾ ounces. I recommend Federal Premium Heavyweight Turkey Loads for maximum pattern density at 40 yards.
Does it fit in a standard gun safe?: The 42-inch overall length requires a safe with at least 44 inches of clearance for comfortable storage. Most 24-30 gun safes accommodate this length, but compact safes under 40 inches will not work without diagonal placement.
How long does shipping take to Montana?: Standard shipping via Ironclad Armory's logistics partner takes 5-7 business days to Montana addresses after the mandatory 3-day processing period for compliance verification. Expedited 2-day shipping adds $45 to the total.
Can I return it if the patterning doesn't meet expectations?: Returns require unfired condition and original packaging within 14 days of delivery, subject to a 15% restocking fee. Pattern testing voids return eligibility, so verify your state's turkey regulations before test firing.
Does this work with aftermarket red dot sights?: The factory-installed Picatinny rail accepts most micro red dots, but requires specific low-profile mounts for proper cheek weld. I've had success with Trijicon RMR and Holosun 507C models using .87-inch high mounts for optimal sight alignment.
What's the warranty coverage period?: Johnny Stewart provides a 5-year limited warranty on the receiver and a 1-year warranty on the barrel system. All warranty claims must be processed through authorized dealers, not directly with the manufacturer.

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.