The Charles Daly 601 DPS is a 12-gauge semi-automatic shotgun built around a 30" barrel and a fixed walnut stock with adjustable comb. At 7.9 lbs and 49.5" overall, it sits in a familiar weight class for field guns while the longer barrel adds pointability during swings on birds or clay targets. 
 

Key Specifications 

• UPC: 8053800943956 
• Action: Semi-Automatic 
• Barrel Length: 30 inches 
• Capacity: 4 rounds (4+1) 
• Gauge: 12 GA 
• Weight: 7.9 lbs. 
• Chamber Size: 3 inches 
• Overall Length (OAL): 49.5 inches 
• Stock Description: Fixed with Adjustable Comb in Checkered Walnut 
• Sights: Fiber Optic Front Sight 
• Safety Mechanism: Manual Thumb Safety 
   

Features 

The semi-auto action cycles without manual intervention between shots, which helps on fast follow-up targets. Beretta/Benelli choke compatibility means a wide selection of aftermarket tubes is available for tailoring shot patterns to the game or discipline. The adjustable comb lets you dial in cheek weld to match your eye level to the rib, which matters more than most shooters expect. Checkered walnut on the grip and forearm gives a solid hold without needing tape or a sticky finish. 
 

Use Cases 

• Sport shooters running sporting clays or skeet will appreciate the 30" barrel's swing dynamics and the fiber optic bead in variable light. 
• Upland hunters get a functional walnut gun that handles 3-inch shells for heavier loads. 
• The 4+1 capacity and semi-auto cycling also make it workable for home defense, though the length requires room to maneuver.

Owners of the 601 DPS generally come away satisfied, though a few recurring points show up in forum discussions and reviews.

Reliability with standard loads is widely reported as solid. The semi-auto action cycles cleanly across most ammunition types, and most users don't encounter feeding or cycling issues under normal conditions.

The walnut stock draws consistent praise for appearance, though a minority flag durability concerns with heavy sustained use over seasons.

Balance is the main dividing line. The 30" barrel makes the gun noticeably front-heavy for some shooters, which works well for sustained swings but tires out others on long days. Shorter-stocked or lighter-preference shooters tend to notice this most.

Recoil is considered manageable by most owners. The gas-operated action absorbs a reasonable share of impulse, though shooters sensitive to recoil occasionally mention wanting more dampening.

For price, the 601 DPS is generally seen as fair value in the semi-auto shotgun category. Walnut-stocked semi-autos at this price point are uncommon, which is a selling point for buyers who care about traditional aesthetics.

Charles Daly customer service reviews are split. Some owners report responsive warranty handling; others describe friction when trying to get support. Worth knowing before purchasing.