The Stevens 301 is a single-shot break-open shotgun chambered in 12 gauge with a 3-inch chamber. At 5.85 lbs and 41 inches overall with a 26-inch barrel, it's a straightforward, lightweight shotgun that gets the job done without complexity. 
 

Key Specifications 

• SKU: 1794001800 
• UPC: 011356225573 
• Brand: Stevens 
• Model Name: 301 
• MPN: 22557 
• Chamber Length: 3" 
• Action Type: Break Open 
• Capacity: 1 RD (Single Shot) 
• Barrel Length: 26" 
• Overall Length: 41" 
• Weight: 5.85 lbs 
• Sights Type: Bead 
• Stock Type: Fixed Synthetic 
• Grip Style: Standard 
• Trigger Type: Standard 
• Safety Feature: Two-position 
• Finish Color: Matte Black 
• Condition: New in Box 
   

Detailed Features 

 
The break-open action makes loading and unloading immediate and visible. Carbon steel barrel and receiver are durable for regular field use. The fixed synthetic stock handles weather without warping. The bead sight is simple and fast for pointing at birds or clay targets. 
 
The single-shot capacity is a design choice, not a limitation to work around. It promotes careful shot selection and works perfectly well for hunting applications where one well-placed shot is the point. 
 

Usage Scenarios 

 
Small game and upland hunting: one shot is often all you need, and the light weight reduces fatigue on long walks. Clay shooting practice: the single-shot format develops discipline with each target. New shooter introduction: the simple break-open operation is easy to learn and inherently safe to handle.

Owners of the Stevens 301 Break-Open 12 Gauge value it for what it is: a dependable, affordable, lightweight single-shot shotgun that does the job. Price is the most consistent positive. It's accessible for buyers who don't want to spend much, and for those introducing someone to shotgun shooting.

Simplicity comes up a lot. The break-open design is easy to learn, easy to handle, and reliable. Lightweight construction at 5.85 lbs makes it a practical field gun for long days.

On the other side: single-shot capacity is the main limitation noted by buyers who want faster follow-up options. Recoil is mentioned by some as more noticeable than heavier shotguns, which is a direct consequence of the light weight. The matte black synthetic finish is practical but draws less interest from buyers who prefer more traditional aesthetics.

Overall it's viewed as a solid budget option that delivers on its core purpose without pretending to be more than it is.

The 301 feels solid and rugged while remaining pleasantly light and simple. With Winchester Double A loads, recoil was mild, and the recoil pad helps further. I especially like the strong ejector, which throws spent hulls clear and makes reloading quick. Mobil choke compatibility is another useful touch, though I wish more chokes had been included. The safety arrangement is the one feature that does not make much sense to me.