Description
The Charles Daly 601 20 Gauge 26″ Mossy Oak Bottomland is a field-ready semi-auto shotgun that brings reliable gas operation and all-weather camo to the southern bird hunter. Chambered for 3″ shells and built with a Cerakoted receiver, this 20-gauge handles everything from early-season doves to late-season quail without weighing you down.
| Manufacturer | Charles Daly |
|---|---|
| Model | 601 Field |
| Material | Steel barrel, aluminum receiver, synthetic stock |
| Compatibility | 20-gauge 2¾” and 3″ shells |
| Finish | Mossy Oak Bottomland camo stock; Cerakote receiver |
| Weight | 6.2 lbs (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Gas-Operated Action – Why it matters: It soaks up recoil and cycles consistently with 3″ magnum loads, so you stay on target for quick follow-up shots on flushing birds.
- 26″ Vent-Rib Barrel with Fiber-Optic Front Sight – Why it matters: The ventilated rib cuts mirage on hot days, and the bright fiber-optic bead gives you a clear, fast sight picture in low-light timber or over decoys.
- Mossy Oak Bottomland Camouflage – Why it matters: This classic pattern blends into dry leaves, cut corn, and early-season fields, keeping you hidden from sharp-eyed doves and wood ducks.
- Cerakote Receiver Finish – Why it matters: Corrosion-resistant Cerakote protects the action from sweat, rain, and morning dew, extending the life of your shotgun in humid southern climates.
- Fixed Synthetic Stock – Why it matters: No-nonsense, weatherproof construction that won’t warp or swell, with a non-slip texture that stays put in wet hands or against a muddy vest.
Who It’s For
This shotgun is built for the southern wingshooter who wants a reliable, affordable semi-auto for dove fields, quail plantations, and walking up woodcock in creek bottoms. It’s also a solid pick for the new shooter graduating from a single-shot or pump, thanks to its light weight and low recoil.
Pros & Cons
- Pro: Lightweight 6.2-lb build makes it easy to carry all day on a hot September dove hunt.
- Pro: Mossy Oak Bottomland camo matches the dry, dusty cover of southern fields better than green-heavy patterns.
- Pro: Gas system runs clean with minimal maintenance—just a wipe-down after a heavy box of shells.
- Con: The fixed stock doesn’t offer length-of-pull adjustment, so it may not fit very tall or very short shooters perfectly out of the box.
Comparison: Charles Daly 601 vs. Competitors
| Feature | Charles Daly 601 20 Gauge | Mossberg 930 20 Gauge | Stoeger M3000 20 Gauge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Action | Gas-operated semi-auto | Gas-operated semi-auto | Inertia-driven semi-auto |
| Barrel Length | 26″ | 28″ | 26″ |
| Weight | 6.2 lbs | 7.0 lbs | 6.0 lbs |
| Camo Finish | Mossy Oak Bottomland | Mossy Oak Break-Up Country | Realtree Max-5 |
| MSRP | $341 | $650 | $499 |
| Best For | Budget-minded dove & quail hunter | All-day field & waterfowl hunter | Low-maintenance, fast cycling |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Charles Daly 601 20 gauge come with choke tubes?
Yes, the 601 Field includes three Beretta/Benelli-pattern choke tubes (IC, Mod, Full) so you can dial in your pattern for doves, quail, or even early-season ducks.
Is the Charles Daly 601 reliable with light target loads?
It cycles best with 1-ounce or heavier loads. Some light 7/8-ounce target shells may not reliably cycle the action until the gun is broken in with 100 or so heavier shells.
Can I mount a red dot or scope on this shotgun?
The vent-rib barrel is drilled and tapped for a Weaver-style base, but the receiver is not pre-drilled. You can add a saddle mount or a rib-mounted rail for a red dot if you prefer.
What is the warranty on the Charles Daly 601?
Charles Daly offers a limited lifetime warranty to the original owner covering defects in materials and workmanship. Keep your receipt handy.
Why Buy From Us
- ✓ Nationwide delivery to all 50 states
- ✓ Ships within 1–2 business days
- ✓ 30-day return policy
- ✓ Secure checkout
Looking for more? Browse our full selection of Semi Auto Shotguns, 20 Gauge Shotguns, and Hunting Shotguns.
Last updated: April 2026
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