STEVENS 320 FIELD GRADE COMPACT
Posted May 19, 2023
The Stevens 320 Field Grade Compact is one of the most reliable and versatile pump action shotguns available in the market today. Manufactured by Savage Arms, this shotgun also has the distinction of being one of the most powerful and innovative shotguns ever produced. The 320 Field Grade Compact offers superior performance and convenience as well as enhanced features not typically seen on other shotguns.
The Stevens 320 Field Grade Compact is available in 12 gauge and 20 gauge and comes with a 28” vent rib barrel with screw-in choke tubes and a black synthetic stock. The barrel on the 320 measures 18.5 inches in length and is chambered for up to 3-inch magnum shells.
The receiver on the 320 is crafted from steel and boasts a rugged, reliable construction. It has a smooth matte black oxide finish that ensures a stylish look while being resistant to corrosion. The barrel is also constructed from steel and has a blued finish. The stock on the 320 is crafted from black synthetic material and boasts a comfortable ergonomic design making it easy to use and manipulate. It is also shock absorbent which reduces recoil and helps the shooter to maintain effective target acquisition.
The 320 also features a ghost ring peep rear sight and a front bead sight, allowing for an enhanced level of accuracy. The shotgun also boasts a brutally effective pump action which allows for fast follow up shots and easy loading and unloading of shells. The trigger pull operates smooth and is consistent throughout, allowing the shooter to always find their accuracy.
The 320 Field Grade Compact is an often overlooked and forgotten shotgun, but those of us who use one know it for what it is, a beast of a shotgun. The 320 Field Grade Compact’s combination of performance, power and reliability make it an incredibly potent shotgun for a wide variety of applications. With its short, compact design, the 320 Field Grade Compact is an ideal shotgun for home defense and law enforcement applications.
The one negative associated with the Stevens 320 Field Grade Compact is its lack of tactile grip. The synthetic stock does not have a textured surface, making it difficult to maintain a firm grip when shooting for extended periods of time. The pistol grip on the 320 does improve the overall feel and controlability of the shotgun to a certain extent, however a more textured design would be appreciated.
Other than the lack of tactile grip, the Stevens 320 Field Grade Compact is an outstanding shotgun. Out of the box, it has everything you need for reliable and versatile performance in a myriad of applications. It is an excellent choice for shooters looking for a reliable and powerful semi-automatic shotgun or a convenient carry piece. With its short, compact design, the 320 Field Grade Compact allows for ease of concealment and is an ideal shotgun for home defense and law enforcement applications.
Overall, the Stevens 320 Field Grade Compact is an incredible shotgun that offers excellent performance, reliability, and power in a compact and versatile package. It is an excellent choice for shooters of all levels and is sure to provide years of reliable service. With its superior design and construction, the Stevens 320 Field Grade Compact is an exceptional choice for those looking for a reliable and versatile shotgun for a wide variety of applications.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Lightweight construction makes it easy to maneuver and transport.
- Compact size makes it well-suited for close quarters combat.
- Smooth trigger pull and good ergonomics adds to the precision of the gun.
- Very affordable price makes it an attractive phone for casual users.
- Reliable and durable, this model is well-known as providing good performance in a wide range of environments.
Cons:
- Not as popular as other models for certain applications, meaning parts and service availability may be an issue.
- Not as accurate as some other designs and may not meet the requirements of experienced users.
- Not as aesthetically pleasing as some newer designs.
- Few aftermarket parts and accessories available to customize the gun.
- Less recoil control and muzzle control than some other designs.
Who Should Buy
Anyone looking for a reliable, affordable pump-action shotgun should consider the STEVENS 320 Field Grade Compact. This shotgun is a great choice for both recreational and home defense use, and is an ideal choice for beginner, intermediate, or veteran shooters.
This shotgun is not suitable for those who are looking for a highly-customized firearm, as the Field Grade Compact does not offer a wide variety of features and customization options. Additionally, those who desire a semi-automatic shotgun, or are looking for a firearm with features such as rails or optics, may want to consider other options.
Comparisons
| Feature | Stevens 320 Field Grade Compact | Remington 870 Express Combo | Ithaca Model 37 Compact | Benelli Nova Compact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 gauge | 12 gauge | 12 gauge | 12 gauge |
| Capacity (shells) | 7 (+1 shot) | 5 +1 or 6 + 1 | 4 + 1 | 4+1 |
| Choke | Fixed Cylinder | Fixed Cylinder | Fixed Full Choke | Fixed Cylinder |
| Barrel Length | 18.5 inches | 18 ½ inches | 19 ½ inches | 18.5 inches |
| Weight | 6.7 lbs | 6.5 lbs | 6.4 lbs | 6.3 lbs |
| Stock | Synthetic | Wood | Wood | Synthetic |
| Action | Pump | Pump | Pump | Pump |
| Price | $319.99 | $449.00 | $599.00 | $259.00 |
Features / Specs
• Gauge: 12
• Capacity: 4+1 rounds
• Barrel Length: 18.25"
• Overall Length: 37.5"
• Chokes: Fixed cylinder
• Stock: Composite stock with pistol grip
• Weight: 6.5 lbs.
Popular Accessories
Some of the most popular accessories for the STEVENS 320 Field Grade Compact include: recoil pads, extended magazine tubes, muzzle brakes, picatinny rails, folding stocks, pistol grips, slings, shell holders, and optics.
Accuracy
The STEVENS 320 FIELD GRADE COMPACT is renowned for its accuracy. It is designed with a 18.5” barrel, a single bead sight, and a synthetic stock. The single bead sight helps create a more consistent sight picture across the 18.5” barrel, creating greater accuracy when followed up with proper technique. Some users claim to get sub-2-inch groups at 50 yards with the Stevens 320 Field Grade Compact. This gun is very reliable as well, making it a great choice for shooters looking for an accurate, dependable hunting shotgun.
Video Reviews
