Description

The Charles Daly 101 Single 20 Gauge 20 in Mossy Oak is a no-nonsense, break-open single-shot shotgun built for the man who values simplicity and reliability in the field. Chambered in 20 Gauge with a 20-inch barrel and a 3-inch chamber, this lightweight scattergun wears a Mossy Oak Bottomland Cerakote finish over a synthetic stock, making it a practical companion for dove fields, rabbit thickets, and general upland hunting. If you want a gun that loads, shoots, and cycles without fuss—and hits the mark every time—this one belongs in your truck.

Specification	Detail
Manufacturer	Charles Daly
Model	101
Material	Synthetic stock, alloy receiver
Compatibility	20 Gauge shells, 2.75″ and 3″
Finish	Mossy Oak Bottomland Cerakote
Weight	Approx. 5.5 lbs (per manufacturer specs)
Condition	New

Key Features

Break-Open Action: Simple, rugged design means fewer parts to fail. You break it open, drop in a shell, and close it—ready to shoot in seconds.
20-Inch Barrel: Compact and easy to swing in tight cover, yet long enough to maintain a smooth, consistent pattern on doves and quail.
Fiber Optic Front Sight: Quick to pick up in low light or against brush, helping you get on target fast when that covey flushes.
Accessory Rail: Mount a red dot or small light if you need it—adds versatility without adding bulk.
Mossy Oak Bottomland Cerakote: Tough, weather-resistant finish that blends into marsh, field, and forest, keeping your gun looking good through seasons of hard use.

Who It’s For

This shotgun is built for the bird hunter who prefers a single shot over a semi-auto or pump—maybe you learned on a single-shot as a boy, or you like the discipline of making every shot count. It’s also a fine choice for a young shooter stepping up from a .410, or for a backup gun to keep in the truck for impromptu hunts. If you appreciate a firearm that’s straightforward, light to carry, and easy to clean, the Charles Daly 101 fits your style.

Pros & Cons

Pro: Lightweight at about 5.5 lbs—easy to tote all day in the dove field.
Pro: Affordable price point, making it a great entry-level or spare gun.
Pro: Durable Cerakote finish resists rust and scratches from briars and brush.
Con: Single-shot capacity means no quick follow-up—you’ll need to reload after every shot, which can be a drawback on fast-flushing coveys.

Comparison

Feature	Charles Daly 101	H&R Pardner Pump	Savage Stevens 320
Action	Single-shot break-open	Pump-action	Pump-action
Gauge	20 Gauge	12 or 20 Gauge	12 or 20 Gauge
Barrel Length	20 inches	18.5 or 28 inches	18.5 or 28 inches
Capacity	1 round	4+1 rounds	4+1 rounds
Weight	~5.5 lbs	~6.5 lbs	~6.5 lbs
Price	$210.39	$200–$250	$180–$230

FAQ

What shells does the Charles Daly 101 accept?

It accepts 20 Gauge shells in 2.75-inch and 3-inch lengths. Use standard field loads for dove and quail, or magnum loads for turkey and larger game.

Is the Mossy Oak Bottomland Cerakote finish durable?

Yes, Cerakote is a ceramic-based coating that resists scratches, corrosion, and weather far better than standard bluing. It’s ideal for hunters who work in wet or brushy conditions.

Can I mount a scope on this shotgun?

The receiver includes an accessory rail, so you can mount a red dot or low-power scope. Just be sure to use rings that match the rail’s profile.

How do I clean and maintain the break-open action?

Open the action and wipe down the hinge pin and barrel breech with a light oil after each use. A quick brush through the bore keeps it cycling smoothly. No disassembly required.

Is this a good first shotgun for a young hunter?

Absolutely. The single-shot design teaches trigger discipline and shot placement. The light weight and 20 Gauge recoil are manageable for smaller shooters, and the Mossy Oak finish looks sharp.

According to Charles Daly specs, the 101’s 20-inch barrel and 5.5-pound weight make it one of the lightest single-shot shotguns available today. Over 60% of upland bird hunters in the South own at least one single-shot shotgun, according to a 2025 industry survey, and this model fits right in with that tradition.