Kansas Gunshop is a Wichita, KS-based retailer specializing in firearms and accessories. The Savage 301 20 Gauge Single-Shot Shotgun with Mossy Oak Bottomland stock is a reliable, no-frills option for hunting or homestead defense. Its simple break-action design offers dependable performance. 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 exactly is the Savage 301 20 Gauge Single-Shot Shotgun with Mossy?
The Savage 301 in 20 gauge is a straightforward, single-shot break-action shotgun. This particular model features a Mossy Oak Bottomland synthetic stock, which is a classic camouflage pattern, making it a good choice for turkey or small game hunting. It’s a no-nonsense firearm, designed for reliability and ease of use, without a lot of moving parts to complicate things. For a new shooter or someone who just needs a reliable field gun, it’s a solid pick. We see a fair few of these come through for transfers, and folks are generally happy with the simplicity and function.
| Product Type | Shotgun |
| Material | Carbon Steel (Barrel/Receiver), Synthetic (Stock) |
| Manufacturing | Savage Arms |
| Finish | Matte Black (Metal), Mossy Oak Bottomland Camo (Stock) |
| Hardness/Quality | Standard production firearm, durable for intended use |
| Compatibility | 20 Gauge shotshells (2-3/4″ and 3″) |
| Installation/Usage | Break-action, single-shot operation |
| Weight | Approx. 5 lbs |
| Dimensions | Overall Length: Approx. 36.5″; Barrel Length: 22″ |
| Country of Origin | USA |
| Condition | New |
| SKU | 22557 |
What are the key features of this shotgun?
- 20 Gauge Chambering: This is a versatile gauge, offering less recoil than a 12 gauge but still packing enough punch for turkey, pheasant, or even some deer hunting with slugs.
- Mossy Oak Bottomland Camo Stock: The classic Bottomland pattern is effective for blending into wooded environments, especially during early spring turkey season. It’s a practical finish for a field gun.
- Single-Shot Break Action: Simplicity is key here. One round, break it open to load, close it, and you’re ready. This design is inherently reliable and easy to clean.
- Lightweight Design: At around 5 pounds, this shotgun is easy to carry through the woods all day without wearing you out.
- Manual Safety: A simple cross-bolt safety provides an additional layer of security.
- Bead Sight: A basic front bead sight is all you really need for shotgunning at typical ranges.
Who is this Savage 301 shotgun for?
This shotgun is a solid choice for a few different types of shooters:
- New Hunters: The 20 gauge offers manageable recoil, and the single-shot action forces a focus on shot placement and safety.
- Turkey Hunters: The Mossy Oak Bottomland pattern is purpose-built for turkey hunting, and the light weight makes it easy to maneuver in a blind or while stalking.
- Small Game Hunters: For squirrel, rabbit, or upland birds, a 20 gauge single-shot is an effective and economical choice.
- Homesteaders/Farm Defense: A simple, reliable shotgun for pest control or close-range defense on a property.
- Budget-Conscious Shooters: You get a functional, reliable firearm without breaking the bank.
What are the pros and cons of the Savage 301 20 Gauge?
✅ Pros:
- ✅ Reliability: With very few moving parts, break-action shotguns are notoriously reliable. Less to go wrong in the field.
- ✅ Lightweight: Easy to carry for long periods, which is a big plus for hunting.
- ✅ Simple Operation: Great for new shooters or those who prefer straightforward mechanics.
- ✅ Affordable: Provides a lot of bang for your buck, a good entry-level firearm.
- ✅ Low Recoil (for a shotgun): The 20 gauge is much more comfortable to shoot than a 12 gauge, especially for smaller-framed individuals or those sensitive to recoil.
- ✅ Mossy Oak Bottomland Camo: Practical and effective camouflage for hunting.
❌ Cons:
- ❌ Single-Shot Capacity: You get one shot before reloading. This means you need to make it count, and follow-up shots are slow. If you need more capacity, consider a pump-action like the Mossberg 500.
- ❌ No Choke Tubes: The barrel is fixed choke (usually modified or full), limiting versatility for different types of shooting.
- ❌ Basic Features: This is a no-frills gun. Don’t expect advanced ergonomics or optics-ready features.
How does it compare to other shotguns?
| Feature | Savage 301 20 Gauge | H&R Pardner Pump 20 Gauge | Benelli Nova 20 Gauge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Carbon Steel, Synthetic Stock | Steel, Synthetic Stock | Steel, Polymer Receiver/Stock |
| Quality | Good entry-level reliability | Solid workhorse, good value | Premium, highly durable |
| Compatibility | 20 Gauge (2.75″, 3″) | 20 Gauge (2.75″, 3″) | 20 Gauge (2.75″, 3.5″) |
| Shipping | Ships from Kansas Gunshop | Varies by retailer | Varies by retailer |
| Lifespan/Durability | Long, due to simple design | Very long, robust construction | Extremely long, highly resistant to elements |
| Price | ~$499 | ~$250 – $350 | ~$550 – $700 |
The Savage 301 sits firmly in the budget-friendly, highly reliable category. Compared to a pump-action like the H&R Pardner Pump (if you can find one new, they’re often good used buys), you’re sacrificing capacity for absolute simplicity. The Benelli Nova is a step up in price and features, offering a much higher capacity, typically a more refined feel, and often the ability to handle 3.5-inch shells, which the Savage 301 cannot. For pure, unadulterated function at a low price, the Savage 301 holds its own, especially if you prioritize light weight and a single, well-placed shot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Savage 301 20 gauge good for turkey hunting?
Yes, the Savage 301 20 gauge, especially with the Mossy Oak Bottomland pattern, is a very capable turkey gun. The 20 gauge with modern turkey loads delivers plenty of energy for close-range shots, and the lightweight design is a benefit when carrying it through the woods.
Can I shoot slugs through a Savage 301 20 gauge?
You can shoot slugs through a Savage 301 20 gauge. However, since most 301s have a fixed choke (usually modified or full), you’ll want to use rifled slugs, which are designed to be safely fired through smoothbore barrels with chokes. Always check your barrel’s specific choke marking.
What’s the effective range of a 20 gauge shotgun?
For most birdshot and buckshot applications, the effective range of a 20 gauge is typically up to 40-50 yards, depending on the load and choke. With slugs, it can extend to 75-100 yards with good accuracy, though a rifled barrel would be better for consistent slug performance at longer distances.
Is a single-shot shotgun good for home defense?
While a single-shot shotgun can be used for home defense, its primary limitation is its one-round capacity. You get one shot before needing to manually reload. For many, a pump-action or semi-automatic shotgun with higher capacity is preferred for defensive scenarios, but a single shot is better than nothing if it’s what you have and are proficient with.
Does the Savage 301 20 gauge have interchangeable chokes?
Typically, no. The Savage 301 series shotguns usually come with a fixed choke, meaning the constriction in the barrel cannot be changed. This model likely has a modified or full choke, making it suitable for a variety of hunting applications.
Where can I buy shotguns online?
You can buy shotguns and other firearms online through licensed FFL dealers like Kansas Gunshop (kansas-gunshop.com). We process the order, and the firearm is shipped to your local FFL dealer for pickup, where you complete the necessary background checks.
What ammunition should I use with the Savage 301 20 gauge?
The Savage 301 20 gauge is chambered for 2-3/4″ and 3″ 20 gauge shotshells. The type of ammunition depends on your intended use: birdshot for small game/birds, buckshot for larger game or defense, and slugs for deer or hogs. Always ensure the shell length matches what your shotgun is chambered for.
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