Kansas Gunshop is a Wichita, KS-based retailer specializing in firearms and firearm accessories. The Savage Arms Stevens 301 Matte Black 410 Gauge 3in is a reliable single-shot shotgun, well-suited for new shooters or as a compact field gun. Its simple break-action design offers straightforward operation and maintenance. Available now for $499.00.
Reviewed by Derek, Owner & FFL Holder at Kansas Gunshop. Kansas-licensed FFL dealer since 2008, NRA Range Safety Officer.
Last updated: April 2026
What are the specifications of the Savage Arms Stevens 301?
| Product Type | Shotgun |
|---|---|
| Model | Stevens 301 |
| Gauge | .410 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3 inches |
| Action | Single Shot, Break Action |
| Barrel Length | 26 inches |
| Finish | Matte Black |
| Stock Material | Synthetic |
| Sights | Bead Front |
| Overall Length | 41.5 inches |
| Weight | 5 lbs |
| Country of Origin | USA |
| Condition | New |
| SKU | 19230 |
What are the key features of the Stevens 301 .410?
The Savage Arms Stevens 301 Matte Black 410 Gauge 3in is built for simplicity and effectiveness. It features a straightforward break-action design, which makes loading and unloading easy, particularly for those new to firearms. The 26-inch barrel provides a good balance between maneuverability and shot velocity, suitable for small game or target shooting. With its matte black synthetic stock and forend, this shotgun handles field conditions well, resisting moisture and scrapes that might affect wood furniture. The bead front sight is basic but functional for quick target acquisition. The 3-inch chamber allows for a variety of .410 shotshells, including magnum loads, giving you some versatility for different applications. This is a no-frills shotgun designed to perform its basic function reliably.
Who should consider the Savage Arms Stevens 301?
Buy it if:
- You are a new shooter looking for a simple, safe firearm to learn on. The single-shot, break-action mechanism forces deliberate loading and provides a clear visual indication of the gun’s status.
- You need a lightweight, compact shotgun for small game hunting, like squirrels or rabbits, where a .410 gauge is sufficient.
- You want a reliable, low-maintenance firearm for property defense against small pests.
- You appreciate the classic simplicity of a single-shot shotgun without complex mechanisms.
- You’re on a budget and need a functional firearm without extra features.
Skip it if:
- You require a shotgun for waterfowl or larger game where a .410 gauge may be underpowered. Consider a 12 or 20 gauge pump-action shotgun for more stopping power.
- You need a firearm for self-defense where multiple, rapid shots are critical. A semi-automatic or pump-action shotgun offers greater capacity and faster follow-up shots.
- You prefer a shotgun with a more refined finish or wood furniture. This model is built for utility, not aesthetics.
- You need a shotgun with interchangeable chokes for varying patterns. This model typically comes with a fixed choke.
How does the Stevens 301 compare to other single-shot .410 shotguns?
| Feature | Savage Arms Stevens 301 .410 | Generic Import Single Shot .410 | Henry Single Shot Shotgun .410 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Steel receiver, synthetic stock | Mixed metals, plastic stock | Steel receiver, American walnut stock |
| Quality | Solid, functional build; good for the price point | Inconsistent; may have fit and finish issues | High-quality fit and finish; durable components |
| Compatibility | Standard .410 gauge 3-inch shells | Standard .410 gauge 3-inch shells | Standard .410 gauge 3-inch shells |
| Shipping | Ships from Wichita, KS (Kansas Gunshop) | Varies by retailer | Varies by retailer |
| Lifespan/Durability | Durable for regular use, synthetic stock resists wear | May have shorter lifespan due to lower quality components | Built to last generations; premium materials |
| Price | ~$499.00 | ~$60-80 | ~$500-600+ |
Frequently Asked Questions about the Stevens 301 .410
Is the Savage Stevens 301 a good first shotgun?
Yes, the Savage Stevens 301 is often considered a good first shotgun, especially in .410 gauge. Its single-shot, break-action design is simple to operate and inherently safe, making it an excellent platform for learning firearm fundamentals without the complexity of repeaters.
What kind of ammunition does the Stevens 301 .410 use?
The Savage Stevens 301 in .410 gauge is chambered for 3-inch shells. This means it can safely fire both 2.5-inch and 3-inch .410 shotshells, allowing for a variety of shot loads depending on your intended use, from birdshot to slugs.
Can I hunt deer with a .410 shotgun?
While a .410 shotgun can technically fire slugs, its effectiveness for deer hunting is often debated and can be limited by range and power. Many states have minimum gauge requirements for deer hunting. Always check your local Kansas hunting regulations before using a .410 for deer. For general purposes, it’s typically better suited for small game like rabbits or squirrels.
Is the Stevens 301 suitable for home defense?
A single-shot .410 shotgun like the Stevens 301 is not generally recommended as a primary home defense firearm due to its limited capacity of one round. In a high-stress situation, the need for rapid follow-up shots is critical. For home defense, a pump-action or semi-automatic shotgun in 12 or 20 gauge would typically be a more effective choice.
What is the effective range of a .410 shotgun?
The effective range of a .410 shotgun depends heavily on the load and target. For small game with birdshot, it’s generally effective out to about 20-25 yards. When using slugs, accuracy can extend a bit further, but the energy of a .410 slug drops off quickly compared to larger gauges, limiting its practical range for larger targets.
Where can I buy shotguns online?
You can buy shotguns online at Kansas Gunshop (kansas-gunshop.com). We are a licensed FFL dealer and can facilitate the transfer of firearms to your local FFL. Browse our selection and place your order securely.
Does the Stevens 301 have a recoil pad?
The Savage Stevens 301 typically comes with a basic recoil pad on its synthetic stock. While the .410 gauge generally produces mild recoil, this pad helps manage any felt kick, contributing to a more comfortable shooting experience, especially for new shooters.
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