Charles Daly 301 Pump-Action Shotgun 12 Gauge 28″
About this product
The Charles Daly 301 Pump-Action Shotgun 12 Gauge 28″ offers a classic hardwood stock, 3″ chamber, and interchangeable choke tubes for hunting and clays. It is an affordable, reliable choice for families and beginners who want straightforward operation.
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The Charles Daly 301 Pump-Action Shotgun 12 Gauge 28″ is a reliable field gun built for families who enjoy hunting and clay sports together. This charles daly 301 pump-action shotgun 12 gauge 28″ features a 28″ vent-rib barrel, a grooved black anodized receiver, and a fixed gloss hardwood stock. It uses a 3″ chamber and comes with a set of internal choke tubes for patterning flexibility. With a manual safety and single-stage trigger, it keeps operation straightforward for shooters of all skill levels.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Charles Daly |
| Model | 301 Field |
| Material | Steel barrel, aluminum receiver, hardwood stock (per manufacturer specs) |
| Compatibility | 12 Gauge shells, 2¾” and 3″ |
| Finish | Blued barrel, black anodized receiver, gloss stock |
| Weight | Approximately 7.2 lbs (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- 28″ Vent-Rib Barrel – WHY IT MATTERS: The ventilated rib reduces mirage on hot days and provides a clear sight plane for tracking clay birds or game.
- 3″ Chamber – WHY IT MATTERS: This lets you shoot both 2¾” target loads and 3″ magnum shells, so one gun handles dove season and waterfowl hunting.
- Fixed Gloss Hardwood Stock – WHY IT MATTERS: A traditional stock shape fits most shooters comfortably, and the gloss finish protects against weather during long days in the field.
- Internal Choke Tube Set – WHY IT MATTERS: Swap chokes to adjust your pattern density for close quail or distant geese without needing a gunsmith.
- Manual Safety and Single-Stage Trigger – WHY IT MATTERS: Simple controls make it easy to teach new shooters safe handling and consistent trigger press.
Who It’s For
This shotgun is built for families who want an affordable, no-nonsense pump for casual hunting, sporting clays, and introducing young or new shooters to the sport. It works well for target practice and upland game, with enough chamber capacity for waterfowl loads. If you prefer a classic look and straightforward mechanics over tactical features, this fits.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Affordable price point, versatile choke system, traditional ergonomics, reliable pump action, easy to clean.
- Cons: Fixed stock may not adjust for smaller or larger shooters; gloss finish shows handling marks faster than matte alternatives.
Comparison
| Feature | Charles Daly 301 Field | Mossberg 500 Field | Remington 870 Express |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barrel Length | 28″ | 28″ | 28″ |
| Chamber | 3″ | 3″ | 3″ |
| Stock Material | Hardwood gloss | Synthetic | Synthetic |
| Choke System | Internal tubes (included) | Accu-Choke (included) | Rem Choke (included) |
| Weight | ~7.2 lbs | ~7.5 lbs | ~7.0 lbs |
| Price Range | Under $350 | $400–$500 | $450–$550 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Charles Daly 301 come with choke tubes?
Yes, it ships with a set of internal choke tubes (typically Improved Cylinder, Modified, and Full) so you can adjust your pattern for different game or targets.
Is this shotgun good for youth shooters?
It can work for older teens and smaller adults, but the fixed stock may be long for younger shooters. We recommend trying the length of pull before purchase or considering a youth model for smaller frames.
What shells can I use in the 301?
It accepts both 2¾” and 3″ 12-gauge shells. Stick with 2¾” target loads for practice and clays, and use 3″ magnums for waterfowl or turkey hunting.
Is the receiver drilled and tapped for a scope mount?
No, the receiver is not pre-drilled. If you want to add a red dot or scope, you will need a gunsmith to drill and tap it.
How do I clean the vent-rib barrel?
Use a standard shotgun cleaning rod and solvent. Run a bore brush through the barrel, then patch until clean. Wipe the vent rib with a cloth and light oil to prevent rust.
Why Buy From Us
- ✅ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
- ✅ Ships 1-2 business days
- ✅ 30-day returns
- ✅ Secure checkout
Last updated: April 2026
More options: Pump Action Shotguns | 12 Gauge Shotguns | All Firearms