The Stevens 320
The Stevens 320 uses a rotating bolt, much like the Winchester model 1300. Operating the action is done by pumping the foregrip, which moves the bolt carrier back and forth in the receiver. Bolt lugs engage opposing lugs in the breech of the barrel.
The action is fed from a traditional tube magazine that gives the gun a total capacity of 5 rounds. This model is the Field Grade Combo, which also includes an 18.5-inch security barrel. This gives you the option for a great 28-inch field gun for hunting upland game and waterfowl, as well as a compact choke-less barrel for investigating bumps in the night.
The Stevens 320 uses simple, inexpensive polymer furniture and includes front and rear sling studs. There is a safety at the front of the trigger guard and bolt release just behind the trigger guard. The receiver top is drilled and tapped for mounting a sight rail.
Shooting the 320
To give the Steven 320 Field Grade shotgun a good test, we took it for a round of hand-thrown clays with a couple other shotguns for comparison.
We brought a couple cases of White Flyer clay targets and an assortment of ammo – Remington Gun Club as well as Winchester Target, both with 1.125-ounce loads. The 320 came with a Modified choke from the factory, and since it uses the Win Choke system (.81-inch/32 TPI), there are plenty of options if you want to change it.
It didn’t take long to get the Stevens 320 warmed up as we took turns throwing clays for each other and rotating shooters. Loading the tube magazine is straightforward and allows two rounds with the plug installed. We did notice that at first there was a touch of a challenge to get the shells past the retaining clip, but this went away with some use.
Field Notes
The sticky grip of the rubber recoil pad keeps it in place against the shoulder. I like the angle of the grip area, as it provides great position for the trigger finger. Controls were simple and quick to operate even for the novices among us. Running the pump is smooth and easy and only improved as the gun broke in a little bit.
Looking down the rib of the barrel to lead the clays reminded me of my early years of shooting my old Remington 870. The broad rib with the bead at the end makes a familiar and clean sight picture.
The Stevens 320 points well, and I like the stock angle and grip, as mentioned. It shoots just like you would expect a classic pump gun to shoot. The grip areas have texture and grooves to hold onto, the trigger feels fine, and its light weight makes it an easy swing.
Plus, the bonus 18.5 Security barrel gives you another option. The short barrel makes the gun even more portable and quick to get on target – both great features for a defensive shotgun.
Quality & Value
Despite its low price, I found little to complain about with the 320. Perhaps the finish is a bit lower quality than I’d prefer, but there are no obvious tool marks or flaws in the finish. It was a touch sticky when it came to loading the mag at first; I’m not sure if we just figured it out or broke it in.
As an entry-level shotgun with an MSRP of $329, I was quite happy with the level of quality. This is where the Stevens 320 absolutely shines. With basically two shotguns in one, for a street price under $300, the Steven is an excellent buy.
Despite being very inexpensive, this gun appears to be built just as well as the shotgun I bought 30 years ago, which still performs perfectly today. The 320 offers a field shotgun for hunting birds and other game, as well as a home defense-type shotgun. It does this with great reliability and comfortable performance.
Pros & Cons
If the great shooting and economic price weren’t enough, the Stevens 320 enjoys support from the aftermarket, with various stock configurations, magazine extensions, and other additions. The drilled and tapped receiver allows you to mount a sight rail for installing a red dot or other optic. All this makes the 320 an easy choice for an inexpensive shotgun that you can customize to your needs.
As long as you keep in mind that this is an entry-level gun, and remember what you paid for it, I don’t think there will be many complaints. I do wish it came with a couple other chokes, but for those interested, they can be had for around $25.
The impression of an inexpensive shotgun manufactured beyond the reach of the health and safety department is fine with me. I don’t mind a little working around rough edges to save some money.
Final Thoughts
After working with the Stevens 320 12 gauge for a while now, I am quite happy with my purchase. I’d happily do it again if I needed yet another pump gun. My kids will likely continue using this gun after I’m gone for cracking clays and dispersing down feathers.
If you are looking for a good place to start your shotgun collection, the Stevens 320 Field Grade could be the one for you. Its great value and predictably easy and effective shooting performance are just what every newcomer needs.
