Description
The Charles Daly 301 Tactical Pump Shotgun 12 Gauge 18.5in is a no-nonsense, straight-shooting defensive scattergun built for folks who need a reliable pump action without the fancy price tag. With an 18.5-inch vent-rib barrel and MobilChoke threading, this 12-gauge pump handles everything from birdshot to buckshot with equal authority. It’s the kind of shotgun that just works—day in and day out—whether you’re keeping the homestead safe or running drills at the range.
| Manufacturer | Charles Daly (per manufacturer specs) |
|---|---|
| Model | 301 Tactical |
| Material | Synthetic stock and forend |
| Compatibility | 12 Gauge, 3-inch chamber, interchangeable MobilChoke tubes |
| Finish | Matte black |
| Weight | Approximately 6.5 lbs (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- 18.5-inch Vent-Rib Barrel — Why it matters: The shorter barrel keeps the shotgun nimble in tight quarters, while the vent-rib helps you get on target fast for quick follow-up shots.
- MobilChoke Threading — Why it matters: You’re not locked into one pattern; swap chokes to dial in your spread for home defense, hog hunting, or clay buster practice.
- Synthetic Stock with Pistol-Grip Forend — Why it matters: The synthetic stock shrugs off weather and bumps, and the pistol-grip forend gives you a positive hold for rapid cycling, even with sweaty hands.
- 3-Inch Chamber — Why it matters: Run standard 2¾-inch shells for light recoil or step up to 3-inch magnums for heavy-hitting loads—versatility you can count on.
- Pump Action Reliability — Why it matters: Manual cycling means no springs to wear out or gas systems to foul; you control the speed, and the gun feeds when you say so.
Who It’s For
This shotgun is built for the working man who wants a dependable tool for home defense, truck gun duty, or just plinking on the farm. It’s also a solid choice for the budget-minded bird hunter who needs a pump that’ll take a beating and keep on swinging. If you value simplicity and ruggedness over flashy extras, the Charles Daly 301 Tactical is your kind of scattergun.
Pros & Cons
- Pros: Affordable price point, lightweight at 6.5 lbs, accepts standard MobilChoke tubes, reliable pump action, synthetic stock stands up to rough use.
- Cons: The finish is basic matte black—won’t win any beauty contests, and the synthetic forend can feel a bit slick when wet (a little grip tape sorts that right out).
Comparison
| Feature | Charles Daly 301 Tactical | Mossberg 590 Shockwave | Remington 870 Express Tactical |
|---|---|---|---|
| Barrel Length | 18.5 inches | 14.375 inches | 18.5 inches |
| Chamber | 3-inch | 3-inch | 3-inch |
| Stock Type | Full synthetic stock | Bird’s head grip | Full synthetic stock |
| Choke System | MobilChoke | Cylinder bore (fixed) | Rem Choke |
| Price | $244.32 | ~$400 | ~$450 |
| Weight | ~6.5 lbs | ~5.2 lbs | ~7.0 lbs |
Frequently Asked Questions
What chokes does the Charles Daly 301 Tactical accept?
It uses MobilChoke pattern tubes, so any aftermarket or factory MobilChoke choke will fit. This gives you flexibility to tune your pattern for different loads.
Can I shoot 2¾-inch shells in this shotgun?
Yes, the 3-inch chamber handles both 2¾-inch and 3-inch shells without issue. It cycles standard field loads and defensive buckshot reliably.
Is the Charles Daly 301 Tactical good for home defense?
Absolutely. The 18.5-inch barrel keeps it maneuverable in hallways, the pump action is dead-nuts reliable, and the synthetic stock won’t snag on clothing. It’s a perfect budget-friendly bedside companion.
Does it come with a pistol grip?
The forend is a pistol-grip style design, which gives you a more secure hold than a traditional slide. The stock is a full-length synthetic with a standard buttpad—no separate pistol grip on the stock.
What is the weight of the Charles Daly 301 Tactical?
Per manufacturer specs, it weighs approximately 6.5 pounds empty. That’s light enough to carry all day but heavy enough to soak up recoil from magnum loads.
Why Buy from Us
- ✓ Nationwide delivery to all 50 states
- ✓ Ships within 1–2 business days
- ✓ 30-day return policy
- ✓ Secure checkout with encrypted payment
Looking for more options? Check out our Pump Action Shotguns or browse Tactical Shotguns for similar models. For all your 12-gauge needs, see our 12 Gauge Ammunition.
Last updated: April 2026
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