Description
The Charles Daly 301 Pump Field Shotgun 12GA 28in TrueTimber is a rugged, ready-to-hunt pump-action built for families and beginners who want a reliable shotgun without breaking the bank. Designed by Chiappa and finished with Flat Dark Earth Cerakote on the barrel and receiver, it pairs a durable synthetic stock and forend in TrueTimber Prairie camo with a fiber-optic front sight for quick target pickup. The 28-inch vent-rib barrel accepts Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke tubes, letting you dial in your pattern for waterfowl, upland birds, or clay targets. Per manufacturer specs, this shotgun weighs in at a manageable 7.2 pounds, making it easy to carry all day in the field.
| Manufacturer | Chiappa Firearms (licensed by Charles Daly) |
|---|---|
| Model | 301 Pump Field |
| Material | Synthetic stock and forend with TrueTimber Prairie camo finish; barrel and receiver in Flat Dark Earth Cerakote |
| Compatibility | Accepts Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke tubes (12 gauge) |
| Finish | Flat Dark Earth Cerakote (barrel and receiver); TrueTimber Prairie camo (stock and forend) |
| Weight | 7.2 pounds (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- 28-Inch Vent-Rib Barrel — Why it matters: The vented rib reduces mirage and gives you a consistent sight picture, so you can track flying birds or clay targets with confidence. Beginners will appreciate the clear line of sight.
- TrueTimber Prairie Camo Stock & Forend — Why it matters: This camo pattern blends into open fields and marsh edges, keeping you hidden from sharp-eyed waterfowl. The synthetic material shrugs off rain, mud, and bumps, making it a great choice for young shooters learning in rough conditions.
- Fiber-Optic Front Sight — Why it matters: The bright fiber-optic dot grabs your eye fast, even in low light at dawn or dusk. That means less time aiming and more time connecting with your target.
- Beretta/Benelli Mobil Choke Thread Pattern — Why it matters: You can swap in improved cylinder, modified, or full chokes to match the shot you’re taking — tight for turkeys, open for close-flushing quail. It’s a versatile system that grows with your shooting skills.
- Flat Dark Earth Cerakote Finish — Why it matters: Cerakote resists rust, scratches, and corrosion far better than bluing or paint. This keeps your shotgun looking good and functioning smoothly after years of field use.
Who It’s For
This shotgun is built for the family that wants to get into hunting or clay shooting without a huge investment. It’s light enough for younger shooters (under 8 pounds) and simple enough for first-time pump-action users. The camo finish appeals to waterfowlers and upland hunters who need concealment, while the choke versatility makes it a solid choice for beginners learning to pattern their loads. If you’re teaching a teen or spouse to shoot, the 301’s smooth pump action and fiber-optic sight reduce frustration and build confidence.
Pros & Cons
- Pro: Affordable price point under $310 — one of the most budget-friendly 12-gauge pumps on the market.
- Pro: Lightweight at 7.2 pounds, easy to handle for smaller-framed shooters.
- Pro: Durable Cerakote and synthetic stock resist weather and wear.
- Con: The action may feel a bit stiff out of the box — expect a short break-in period of 50-100 rounds for smooth cycling.
Comparison
| Feature | Charles Daly 301 Pump | Mossberg 500 Field | Remington 870 Express |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $307.54 | $420-$480 | $400-$450 |
| Weight | 7.2 lbs | 7.25 lbs | 7.5 lbs |
| Barrel Length | 28 in | 28 in | 28 in |
| Stock Material | Synthetic camo | Synthetic black | Synthetic black |
| Choke System | Mobil (Beretta/Benelli) | Accu-Choke | Rem Choke |
| Finish | Flat Dark Earth Cerakote | Matte blued | Matte blued |
| Best For | Budget hunters, beginners | Versatile field use | Heavy-duty hunting |
FAQ
What choke tubes does the Charles Daly 301 use?
It uses the Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke thread pattern. That means you can use any standard Mobil-style 12-gauge choke tube from brands like Carlson’s or Trulock. The shotgun ships with a modified choke tube installed.
Is this shotgun good for a youth or small-framed shooter?
Yes, at 7.2 pounds and with a 28-inch barrel, it’s light enough for most teens and smaller adults. The synthetic stock has a standard length of pull (about 14 inches), but you can add a recoil pad or adjustable stock if needed. The pump action is easy to cycle with a little practice.
Can I use steel shot in this shotgun?
Yes, the barrel and choke tubes are rated for steel shot. Just make sure to use a choke tube marked for steel (usually improved cylinder or modified). Avoid full chokes with steel to prevent barrel damage.
Does the Charles Daly 301 come with a case?
No, it ships in a cardboard box. We recommend picking up a soft case or hard case for storage and transport. A basic 52-inch padded case works well for this 28-inch barrel model.
What is the warranty on this shotgun?
Chiappa Firearms offers a limited lifetime warranty to the original owner. It covers defects in materials and workmanship. Keep your receipt and register the firearm on Chiappa’s website for full coverage.
Ready to Get Started?
This Charles Daly 301 Pump Field Shotgun 12GA 28in TrueTimber is a smart buy for any family looking to start hunting or shooting clays. It’s affordable, durable, and easy to use — everything you need to build skills and make memories. Order yours today and get it shipped to your door in 1-2 business days.
✓ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
✓ Ships 1-2 business days
✓ 30-day returns
✓ Secure checkout
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Last updated: April 2026
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