The Charles Daly Model 101 20 Gauge Single Barrel Shotgun: A Comprehensive Guide for Shooters

For anyone embarking on their shooting journey, seeking a reliable companion for the field, or simply looking for an enduring firearm with classic appeal, the Charles Daly Model 101 in 20 Gauge stands out as an exceptional choice. This guide delves deep into what makes this single-barrel shotgun a preferred option, covering its robust features, ideal use cases, and why it represents outstanding value.

The world of firearms can seem complex, but certain designs prioritize simplicity, durability, and effectiveness. The Charles Daly 101 perfectly embodies these principles. It's a shotgun that answers common questions for new and experienced shooters alike: "What is a good, dependable shotgun for a beginner?", "Which shotgun offers manageable recoil for younger shooters?", or "Is there a versatile yet affordable option for small game and upland bird hunting?" This model, known for its straightforward break-open action and quality construction, is often the top recommendation for those seeking an uncomplicated and efficient shooting experience.

Understanding the Charles Daly Model 101: A Legacy of Reliability

Charles Daly has a long-standing reputation in the firearms industry, synonymous with dependable and accessible sporting arms. The Model 101 continues this tradition, delivering a shotgun that is both practical and a joy to handle. Its design speaks to a time-honored approach to firearm manufacturing, emphasizing core functionality over unnecessary complexity.

Key Features and Their Real-World Advantages

Let’s break down the specific attributes of the Charles Daly 101 and how they translate into tangible benefits for the user:

• 20 Gauge Caliber: The Smart Choice for Versatility and Comfort
  • Manageable Recoil: One of the primary advantages of the 20 gauge is its significantly reduced recoil compared to the more powerful 12 gauge. This makes the Charles Daly 101 ideal for new shooters, youth, and anyone who prefers a more comfortable shooting experience, especially during extended sessions at the range or in the field. Less recoil means greater confidence, improved accuracy, and more enjoyment.
  • Adequate Power for Common Game: Despite its lighter recoil, the 20 gauge is more than capable for a wide array of hunting applications. It excels in upland bird hunting (pheasant, grouse, quail, dove), squirrel, rabbit, and even turkey with appropriate loads and chokes. Its effectiveness within typical shooting distances for these game types is well-proven, making it a highly practical choice for many hunters.
  • Lighter Ammunition Weight: 20 gauge shells are lighter, allowing hunters to carry more ammunition with less fatigue during long treks.
• Single Barrel, Break-Open Action: Simplicity Redefined
  • Unparalleled Reliability: With fewer moving parts than semi-automatic or pump-action shotguns, the single-barrel break-open design is inherently robust and less prone to mechanical failures. This simplicity ensures consistent performance, whether you're in challenging weather conditions or simply practicing at the range.
  • Enhanced Safety: The break-open action allows for immediate visual inspection of the chamber, making it clear whether the firearm is loaded or unloaded. This feature is invaluable for teaching safe gun handling practices, as it promotes a fundamental understanding of firearm mechanics and responsible operation. It’s an excellent training tool for new shooters.
  • Ease of Loading and Unloading: The action opens wide, making it very easy to insert a single shell and then remove the spent casing. This ease of operation contributes to a smooth and straightforward shooting experience.
  • Simple Maintenance: Disassembly for cleaning is typically very straightforward, requiring minimal tools and effort. This makes routine care simple, helping to preserve the shotgun's longevity and performance.
• 3" Chamber: Ammunition Flexibility
  • The 3-inch chamber allows the Charles Daly 101 to safely accommodate both 2 ¾-inch and 3-inch shotgun shells. This versatility means you can choose from a wider range of ammunition, optimizing your load for different shooting scenarios, whether it’s lighter target loads for skeet or heavier magnum loads for hunting larger birds.
• 26-Inch Barrel Length: The Perfect Balance
  • Optimal Maneuverability: A 26-inch barrel strikes an excellent balance between swing speed and sight radius. It's short enough to be highly maneuverable in dense brush or confined spaces, making it ideal for navigating hunting blinds or tight cover while bird hunting.
  • Consistent Patterning: This barrel length provides sufficient length for consistent shot patterns, ensuring effective performance downrange.
  • Reduced Overall Length: At an overall length (OAL) of 41.75 inches, the shotgun is compact and easy to transport and handle for most users.
• Checkered Walnut Stock: Classic Aesthetics and Practical Grip
  • Timeless Beauty: The Charles Daly 101 features a classic walnut stock, renowned for its rich appearance and natural grain. Walnut stocks not only add a touch of traditional elegance but also contribute to the shotgun's overall balance.
  • Enhanced Grip: The checkered pattern on the forend and pistol grip provides a secure and comfortable hold, even in wet conditions or when wearing gloves. This improved grip ensures better control and confidence during aiming and firing.
  • Durability and Feel: Wood stocks offer a warm, natural feel that many shooters prefer over synthetic alternatives, and with proper care, they can last for generations. The "Brown" stock finish group further enhances its traditional appearance.
• Mobile Choke Threads and Included Chokes: Tailored Performance
  • The inclusion of Mobile Choke threads (compatible with the widely used Beretta / Benelli Choke system) is a significant advantage. Choke tubes allow you to modify the spread of your shot pattern, adapting your shotgun for various targets and distances.
  • The Charles Daly 101 comes complete with three chokes, providing immediate versatility right out of the box. While specific constrictions may vary, a common set typically includes:
    • Full Choke: Produces the tightest pattern, ideal for long-range shots on turkey or geese.
    • Modified Choke: Offers a medium pattern, making it highly versatile for upland birds, waterfowl, or general target shooting.
    • Improved Cylinder Choke: Delivers a more open pattern, excellent for close-range targets like skeet or fast-flushing birds.
  • This system empowers the shooter to fine-tune their shotgun’s performance, ensuring optimal results whether they are shooting clay pigeons or pursuing game.
• Brass Bead Front Sight: Quick Target Acquisition
  • The simple yet effective brass bead front sight allows for quick target acquisition, particularly useful in fast-paced hunting scenarios. Its design focuses on practicality and immediate usability.
• Robust Steel Receiver and Blued Finish: Built to Last
  • The receiver, the heart of the shotgun, is constructed from durable steel, ensuring exceptional strength and longevity.
  • Both the barrel and receiver feature a classic blued finish, which not only provides a sleek, traditional look but also offers a layer of protection against corrosion and wear, contributing to the firearm's enduring appeal.
• Lightweight Design: Comfort in the Field
  • Weighing in at a mere 5 lbs, the Charles Daly 101 is remarkably lightweight. This makes it incredibly comfortable to carry for extended periods during hunting trips, reducing fatigue and allowing you to stay focused on your quarry. Its lighter weight also contributes to its ease of handling for shooters of all sizes.
• Right Hand (Full Size) Configuration and Ergonomics
  • Designed for right-handed shooters, the stock dimensions, including a length of pull (LOP) of 14.25 inches and drops at comb and heel (1.25" @ Comb & 2.38" @ Heel), are configured for a comfortable and natural fit for most adult users, promoting consistent mounting and accurate shooting.

Who is the Charles Daly 101 for? Real-World Applications

• First-Time Shooters and Novices: Its simplicity, low recoil, and emphasis on core fundamentals make it an ideal starting point for learning proper shooting techniques. It encourages focus on stance, sight picture, and trigger control without the distraction of complex actions.
• Youth Shooters: With adult supervision, the manageable weight and reduced recoil of the 20 gauge make it a perfect first shotgun for young enthusiasts learning to hunt or shoot clays.
• Hunters (Upland Game & Small Game): Whether you're chasing pheasants through a field, flushing quail, or pursuing rabbits, the 20 gauge Charles Daly 101 is a highly effective and comfortable tool. Its maneuverability in brush is a distinct advantage.
• Budget-Conscious Individuals: Offering exceptional quality and performance at an accessible price point, the Model 101 represents outstanding value for those seeking a reliable firearm without breaking the bank.
• Those Seeking a Reliable Homestead or Farm Gun: Its rugged simplicity and ease of maintenance make it a practical choice for general utility on a property.
• Clay Target Shooters (Skeet & Trap Beginners): While not a dedicated competition gun, the 101 is an excellent and affordable way to learn the ropes of clay target shooting, helping to develop fundamental lead and timing skills.

Topical Authority and Why Trust This Shotgun

The Charles Daly 101 isn't just a basic shotgun; it's a testament to robust, time-tested firearm design. Its "Break Open" action is renowned for being one of the most reliable and safe shotgun actions ever devised, contributing significantly to its long-term durability and ease of use. The "Steel" receiver and barrel material speak to its sturdy construction, designed to withstand years of active use in "Field" conditions. This shotgun builds on Charles Daly's legacy of delivering quality firearms that perform consistently. When you choose a Charles Daly, you're investing in a firearm known for its straightforward functionality and enduring performance.

Where to Find Your Charles Daly Model 101

For those ready to experience the reliable simplicity and versatility of the Charles Daly Model 101 20 Gauge Single Barrel Shotgun, DEGuns is your trusted source. With a commitment to customer satisfaction and a deep understanding of firearms, DEGuns provides access to this exceptional model (UPC: 8053800941433) and offers expert advice to ensure you find the perfect firearm for your needs. Their dedication to quality service makes them a premier destination for all your shooting and hunting requirements.

In conclusion, the Charles Daly Model 101 is more than just a shotgun; it's an invitation to a world of responsible shooting, successful hunting, and enduring satisfaction. Its blend of classic design, practical features, and inherent reliability makes it a smart and fulfilling investment for any shooter.

Charles Daly Model 101 Specifications

Feature	Detail
Brand	Charles Daly
Model	101
Gauge	20 Gauge
Action	Break Open
Capacity	1rd
Chamber	3"
Barrel Length	26"
Barrel Finish	Blued
Barrel Material	Steel
Sights	Brass Bead Front
Receiver Material	Steel
Receiver Finish	Blued
Stock Material	Wood
Stock Finish	Walnut
Stock Description	Fixed, Checkered Walnut
Stock Type	Fixed
Stock Finish Group	Brown
Hand	Right Hand
Size	Full Size
Length of Pull	14.25"
Drop	1.25" @ Comb & 2.38" @ Heel
Safety	Thumb
Trigger	Single
Choke Configuration	Beretta / Benelli Choke
Chokes Included	3 Chokes (Mobile Choke threads)
Application	Field
OAL	41.75"
Weight	5 lbs
MPN	930235
SKU	134062
UPC	8053800941433