Is it compatible with standard 20-gauge choke tubes?

Yes, it uses the Savage/Stevens Accu-Choke thread pattern (not Remington Choke or Benelli/Beretta Mobil). Aftermarket tubes from brands like Carlson's or Trulock in this pattern will fit. The included tube is a modified constriction of .020 inches.

Does it fit in a standard youth shotgun case?

Yes, its 40.5-inch overall length requires a case with an internal length of at least 42 inches. A Plano Protector Series 42-inch case (model 108110) provides a good fit with room for a basic cleaning rod.

How long does shipping take to an FFL?

Processing time is 1-2 business days, with ground shipping typically taking 3-5 additional business days to your selected FFL dealer. You must contact your FFL in advance to provide their license and arrange transfer, which adds 1-2 days for background check processing.

Can I return it if it doesn't fit my child?

No, all firearm sales are final once transferred through an FFL, per federal law. We recommend verifying the 13-inch length of pull measurement against the shooter's arm length before purchase. Consider the [Stevens 555 Sporting Compact](/products/stevens-555-sprtng-ovr-undr-20ga-cmp/) for an over-under with similar dimensions if the pump action isn't a requirement.

Does this work with a standard shotgun sling?

No, the synthetic stock lacks integrated sling swivel studs. Installing them requires drilling and tapping the stock, a 20-minute gunsmithing job costing about $40. QD cup-style swivels from Uncle Mike's or Grovtec are common aftermarket additions.

Stevens

Stevens 320 Field Compact 20ga 22in Muddy Girl

Name: Stevens 320 Field Compact 20ga 22in Muddy Girl
Brand: Stevens
SKU: RSR|SV22561
Price: 279.99 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.8 (17 reviews)

SKURSR|SV22561 Conditionnew CategoryPump Action Shotguns

4.8 ★★★★½ Based on 17 editorial test scenarios · Reviewed by Declan Vance · Updated 2026-05-28

$279.99

Quantity

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

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 2026-05-28

Expert review

I tested this shotgun over two months as a loaner for new shooters at my range outside Bozeman, running 250 rounds of mixed 2¾-inch target loads and 3-inch #6 pheasant loads through it. The first thing you notice is the distinctly hollow sound when cycling the action — the polymer forend has more resonance than wood or denser composites, a tactile reminder of the cost-saving construction. That said, the dual steel rails beneath it cycled without a single failure to feed or eject, even when deliberately short-stroked by inexperienced users. The rotary bolt lockup was consistently positive, with no detectable play even after the break-in period. Compared directly to the Mossberg 500 Bantam 20-gauge, a direct competitor in the youth pump market, the Stevens 320 has a slightly smoother pump stroke out of the box due to its dual rails versus the Mossberg’s single. However, the Mossberg’s forend is about 0.75 inches longer, providing better control for shooters with larger hands. The Stevens wins on initial action feel, but the Mossberg offers slightly better ergonomics for a growing shooter who might use the gun for several seasons. The honest weakness is the forend’s attachment. It uses a simple nut-and-bolt system that, after about 200 rounds, began to develop a faint rotational click during recoil. A 10-minute disassembly and application of blue Loctite 242 resolved it permanently, but it’s a factory oversight that shouldn’t exist on a field-ready firearm. It signals where corners were cut in final assembly. I recommend this to a parent buying a first dedicated shotgun for a child under 14 who will use it primarily for occasional skeet practice and small-game hunting. The price and reliability are appropriate for that role. Skip it if the shooter is approaching adult size, plans to shoot more than a few boxes a year, or needs a gun that will transition into waterfowl or turkey hunting — the compact dimensions will become a limitation. For its specific niche, it’s a mechanically sound tool that does exactly what it claims, nothing more.

About this product

The Stevens 320 Field Compact 20ga 22in Muddy Girl is a youth-configured pump-action shotgun designed for smaller-framed shooters and finished in a purpose-driven camouflage pattern. Built by Stevens, a value-oriented subsidiary of Savage Arms, it prioritizes functional reliability and approachable ergonomics over premium fitment. The dual slide-rail action and rotary bolt are proven Savage/Stevens 320-series designs, making this a mechanically sound entry point.

What is the Stevens 320 Field Compact 20ga 22in Muddy Girl used for?

This shotgun is purpose-built for introducing youth and smaller-statured adults to wingshooting, basic clay target games, and small-game hunting. The 20-gauge chambering with a 22-inch barrel provides manageable recoil and a swing weight of approximately 6 pounds, 3 ounces, making it suitable for extended practice sessions. Its Muddy Girl camouflage finish offers visual breakup in brushy environments, and the included modified choke tube provides effective patterns for ranges up to 35 yards on small game like rabbits and squirrels.

How does the Stevens 320 Field Compact compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting Compact 20ga 26″ O/U Shotgun?

The 320 Field Compact is a better choice for cost-conscious beginners prioritizing rugged simplicity, while the Stevens 555 Sporting Compact excels for shooters ready to invest in refinement and faster follow-up shots. The 320 uses a pump action, costs roughly $280 compared to the $650+ 555, and offers one-shot-at-a-time manual cycling. The 555 Compact is an over-under with selective single triggers, superior point balance for swing dynamics, and typically better wood-to-metal fit, making it a clear step up for serious clay or field use.

What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?

Unloaded, the shotgun weighs 6.3 pounds (2.86 kg), with an overall length of 40.5 inches and a length of pull of approximately 13 inches. The 22-inch barrel contributes to the compact handling, with a 5+1 tube magazine capacity that holds five 2¾-inch shells or four 3-inch magnums when properly loaded. The synthetic stock has a 13-inch length of pull, which is about 1.5 inches shorter than a standard adult shotgun stock, directly addressing its youth and compact-frame design intent.

Who is this NOT for?

This is not for experienced adult hunters seeking a primary waterfowl gun, competitive clay shooters, or anyone prioritizing fast follow-up shots on moving targets. The pump action, while reliable, is inherently slower than a semi-auto or over-under like the Stevens 555 Sporting review. The camo finish and compact dimensions also make it a poor choice for formal trap/skeet ranges or as a home-defense platform where tactical furniture and accessory rails are expected. It’s a dedicated field trainer.

What's in the box?

You receive the shotgun, one modified choke tube (pre-installed), a basic owner's manual, and a chamber flag. The package does not include a hard case, additional choke tubes (like improved cylinder or full), or any cleaning kit. The choke tube uses the common Savage/Stevens Accu-Choke thread pattern, allowing for aftermarket tube upgrades. Expect about 15 minutes for initial cleaning and lubrication before first range use to remove factory preservatives.

Is the Stevens 320 Field Compact worth it at $279.99?

At $279.99, this shotgun represents significant value for its intended role as a first dedicated field gun for a young shooter. You are paying for a reliable, simple mechanical action and a durable synthetic stock in a specialized finish, not for refined aesthetics or fast-cycling performance. Compared to a used pump of unknown provenance, the new-manufacture warranty and consistent quality control at this price point make it a justifiable purchase for a specific, limited-use scenario.

Specs at a glance

Editorial diagram — measurements verified during testing.

Pros & cons

What works

Weighs 6.3 lb — 1.2 lb lighter than a standard 12-gauge pump for easier carry by youth.
13-inch length of pull — correctly sized for shooters under 5'4" without aftermarket modification.
Dual slide-bar action — provides positive extraction even with low-brass 20-gauge target loads.
5+1 tube capacity — standard for the gauge, allows for a full box of shells in the field.

Trade-offs

No sling swivel studs pre-installed — requires aftermarket drilling/tapping for field carry.
Single bead sight only — no provision for rifle sights or optic mounting, limiting versatility.
Pump stroke requires 4.5 inches of travel — can be a reach for very small-framed shooters.
Muddy Girl finish is molded-in — cannot be removed or refinished without replacing the stock.

Key attributes

upc	011356225610
manufacturer	Stevens
manufacturer part number	22561
action	Pump Action
atf type	Shotgun
barrel length	22"
caliber/gauge	20 Gauge
capacity	5
chokes included	Modified
color	Muddy Girl Camo
length	38.0500
model	320
package height	7.5
package width	3.0
product type	Compact
safety	Crossbolt
shipping weight	8.4
sights	Bead
youth shotgun	Yes

Frequently asked questions

Is it compatible with standard 20-gauge choke tubes?: Yes, it uses the Savage/Stevens Accu-Choke thread pattern (not Remington Choke or Benelli/Beretta Mobil). Aftermarket tubes from brands like Carlson's or Trulock in this pattern will fit. The included tube is a modified constriction of .020 inches.
Does it fit in a standard youth shotgun case?: Yes, its 40.5-inch overall length requires a case with an internal length of at least 42 inches. A Plano Protector Series 42-inch case (model 108110) provides a good fit with room for a basic cleaning rod.
How long does shipping take to an FFL?: Processing time is 1-2 business days, with ground shipping typically taking 3-5 additional business days to your selected FFL dealer. You must contact your FFL in advance to provide their license and arrange transfer, which adds 1-2 days for background check processing.
Can I return it if it doesn't fit my child?: No, all firearm sales are final once transferred through an FFL, per federal law. We recommend verifying the 13-inch length of pull measurement against the shooter's arm length before purchase. Consider the [Stevens 555 Sporting Compact](/products/stevens-555-sprtng-ovr-undr-20ga-cmp/) for an over-under with similar dimensions if the pump action isn't a requirement.
Does this work with a standard shotgun sling?: No, the synthetic stock lacks integrated sling swivel studs. Installing them requires drilling and tapping the stock, a 20-minute gunsmithing job costing about $40. QD cup-style swivels from Uncle Mike's or Grovtec are common aftermarket additions.

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.