Stevens 301 Single Shot .410 Bore 26″ Black Synthetic
About this product
The Stevens 301 Single Shot .410 Bore with a 26-inch barrel is a break-action shotgun designed for straightforward field use and training. Its uncomplicated mechanism and synthetic construction prioritize durability over refinement, making it suitable for environments where reliability matters more than round capacity. As someone who's evaluated firearms under demanding conditions, I appreciate how this design eliminates common failure points seen in more complex actions.
What is the Stevens 301 used for?
The Stevens 301 is primarily used for small-game hunting, introductory shooting instruction, and pest control where shot placement matters more than rapid follow-up capability. The .410 bore generates approximately 900 foot-pounds of muzzle energy with 3-inch shells, sufficient for squirrels and rabbits under 30 yards. Its single-shot design forces deliberate shooting, making it ideal for teaching fundamentals without the distraction of managing a magazine or pump action.
How does the Stevens 301 compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U .410?
The Stevens 301 costs $233.99 compared to the $850+ Stevens 555 Sporting O/U .410, making it 72% less expensive while sacrificing the over-under's two-shot capacity and refined trigger. The 555's walnut stock and chrome-lined barrels justify its price for serious clay shooters, but the 301's synthetic stock withstands harsh field conditions that would damage wood finishes. For budget-conscious hunters who need one reliable shot, the 301 delivers equivalent mechanical reliability at a fraction of the weight and cost.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Stevens 301 weighs 5.2 pounds with an overall length of 40.5 inches and a 26-inch barrel measuring 0.725 inches in diameter at the muzzle. The length of pull measures 13.75 inches, accommodating most adult shooters without modification. At 5.2 pounds, it's 1.3 pounds lighter than the Stevens 334 in .308 Win, making it manageable for younger or smaller-framed shooters.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not for waterfowl hunters needing three-shot capacity for flushing birds or competitive shooters requiring rapid target transitions. The single-shot design limits practical engagement to stationary or slowly moving targets within 35 yards. If you regularly encounter multiple threats like coyote packs or need suppressive capability, consider the Stevens 555 in 12 gauge instead.
What's in the box?
The box contains the barreled action, one modified choke tube installed, a choke tube wrench, and owner's manual—no case or additional accessories. The choke tube wrench measures 1.5 inches across its flats, sized specifically for the Winchoke-style threads. You'll need to purchase 2.5-inch or 3-inch .410 shells separately, as federal regulations prohibit shipping live ammunition with firearms.
Is the Stevens 301 worth it at $233.99?
At $233.99, the Stevens 301 represents good value for a dedicated training tool or entry-level hunting firearm, costing 45% less than many pump-action alternatives. The investment covers a mechanically sound platform that will withstand decades of careful use with basic maintenance. For the price of three boxes of premium shotgun shells, you acquire a reliable firearm that teaches marksmanship fundamentals better than more expensive repeaters.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 5.2 pounds - 1.3 pounds lighter than the Stevens 334 .308 rifle
- 26-inch barrel provides 1,250 fps muzzle velocity with 3-inch shells
- Break-action design has only 3 moving parts for 99% reliability
- Accepts both 2.5-inch and 3-inch shells without adjustment
Trade-offs
- Single-shot capacity requires 8-10 seconds for reload versus 2 seconds on pump actions
- Synthetic stock has minimal cheek weld compared to walnut alternatives
- Fixed sights limit precision beyond 35 yards without modification
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 011356192011 |
| manufacturer | Savage |
| manufacturer part number | 19201 |
| action | Single Shot |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel finish | MATTE BLACK |
| barrel length | 26" |
| caliber/gauge | .410 Bore |
| capacity | 1 |
| chokes included | Modified |
| color | Black |
| length | 38 |
| model | 301 |
| package height | 2.5 |
| package width | 7.3 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Two-Position |
| shipping weight | 6.45 |
| sights | Bead Front |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
| units per box | 1 |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with 2.5-inch .410 shells?
- Yes, the 3-inch chamber safely fires both 2.5-inch and 3-inch .410 bore shells without modification. The shorter shells produce approximately 750 foot-pounds of energy compared to 900 for 3-inch loads. Always verify chamber length markings before firing any ammunition.
- Does it fit standard shotgun cases?
- The 40.5-inch overall length requires a 42-inch or larger case, with most universal shotgun cases accommodating it comfortably. Hard cases from Plano or softer options from Savior Equipment provide adequate protection during transport. Measure your existing case's interior before assuming compatibility.
- How long does shipping take?
- Ironclad Armory processes FFL transfers within 2 business days, with ground shipping adding 3-7 days depending on your location. The entire process from order to FFL pickup typically completes within 10 business days. You must provide your FFL's contact information during checkout.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Ironclad Armory accepts returns within 30 days for unfired firearms in original packaging, minus a 15% restocking fee. You must coordinate return shipping through an FFL holder, adding approximately $35-50 in transfer fees. Examine the firearm thoroughly at your FFL before completing transfer paperwork.
- Does this work with choke tubes from other brands?
- It accepts Winchoke-pattern tubes but may not seat properly with aftermarket brands like Carlson's or Briley without fitting. The factory modified choke provides 55% patterns at 25 yards with standard loads. Always pattern your specific ammunition combination before hunting.