Description
For the American sportsman or clay target enthusiast, the Stevens 555 20 Gauge Over Under shotgun represents a balanced, accessible entry into the world of double-barrel shotguns. Whether you are working a field for upland birds, stepping onto a sporting clays course, or simply maintaining a reliable firearm for property management, this model offers the classic O/U configuration without the premium price tag. At CSFIREARMS.com, we see this shotgun as a practical tool for shooters who value lightweight carry and straightforward operation.
What This Product Is and Who It Is For
The Stevens 555 is a break-action, over-under shotgun chambered in 20 gauge. It is designed for shooters who want the balance and pointing characteristics of a twin-barrel platform but do not require the high cost of custom or semi-custom European guns. This firearm is well-suited for upland bird hunters who walk miles in a day and need a gun that does not weigh them down. It also serves the recreational target shooter who frequents trap, skeet, or sporting clays ranges. While not a primary home defense shotgun due to its two-shot capacity and longer barrel profile, it can fill that role in a pinch for those in rural settings who prefer a dedicated field gun that also sits in a corner safe. Collectors may appreciate it as a modern, budget-friendly addition to a shotgun collection, though it is not a limited-edition or investment-grade piece.
Key Specifications Breakdown
- Caliber/Gauge: 20 Gauge (2.75-inch and 3-inch shells compatible)
- Capacity: 2 rounds (one in each barrel)
- Barrel Length: 28 inches (standard field configuration)
- Overall Length: Approximately 45 inches
- Weight: Approximately 6.2 pounds (unloaded, depending on barrel length)
- Stock: Turkish walnut with a satin finish, pistol grip, and ventilated rubber recoil pad
- Receiver: Lightweight aluminum alloy with a nickel or matte silver finish
- Barrel Finish: Blued steel
- Sights: Front brass bead sight
- Chokes: Includes 3 interchangeable choke tubes (Improved Cylinder, Modified, Full) with a choke wrench
- Action: Boxlock-style with a single selective trigger and manual tang safety
- Extractor/Ejector: Manual extractors (lift shells partially out of chambers)
Feature Deep-Dive
The Stevens 555 distinguishes itself in the entry-level over-under market through its lightweight construction. The aluminum alloy receiver significantly reduces overall heft, making the shotgun easy to carry for extended periods. This is a notable advantage for hunters who traverse uneven terrain or for shooters who prefer a gun that mounts quickly without fatigue. The weight reduction does not compromise the structural integrity for standard 20-gauge loads, as the barrel set remains steel and the action is properly heat-treated.
The barrel set is chambered for both 2.75-inch and 3-inch shells, giving the shooter flexibility to use light target loads or heavier field loads for waterfowl or turkey. The 28-inch barrels provide a good balance between swing speed and sight radius for most shooting disciplines. The ventilated rib helps dissipate heat during extended shooting sessions and provides a clear sighting plane for the front brass bead. The choke tube system allows the shooter to adapt to different target presentations or game birds by simply swapping tubes.
The stock and forend are cut from Turkish walnut, a material known for its density and attractive grain. The satin finish reduces glare in bright conditions and offers a durable surface that resists minor scratches from field use. The pistol grip is designed with a moderate angle, promoting a natural wrist position for consistent mounting. The ventilated rubber recoil pad helps manage the recoil from 3-inch magnum loads, making the gun more comfortable for shooters of smaller stature or those sensitive to recoil.
The single selective trigger is a standard feature on modern over-unders, allowing the shooter to choose which barrel fires first via a selector on the tang safety. This is useful for hunting where you may want a tighter choke for the first shot and a more open pattern for the second. The tang safety is manual and ambidextrous, providing a clear visual and tactile indication of the firearm’s status. The extractors lift spent shells partially out of the chambers for manual removal, which is a reliable and simple system that avoids the complexity of automatic ejectors.
Fit and finish on the Stevens 555 is consistent with its price point. The metal-to-wood fit is generally clean, with minimal gaps. The bluing on the barrels is even, and the receiver finish is durable. The action breaks open with moderate effort and locks up securely. We have found that these guns benefit from a brief break-in period of 50 to 100 rounds to smooth the trigger and action. The overall build quality makes it a solid choice for the shooter who wants a dedicated 20-gauge over-under without stepping into the $1,000-plus market.
Ideal Use Cases
Upland Bird Hunting: This is the primary application for the Stevens 555. The lightweight design and 20-gauge chambering are ideal for pheasant, quail, grouse, and woodcock. The 28-inch barrels and interchangeable chokes allow you to pattern for tight cover or open fields. The two-shot capacity is standard for this type of hunting, and the single trigger enables quick follow-up shots.
Sporting Clays and Skeet: The 20-gauge is a popular choice for recreational clay shooting, especially for smaller-framed shooters or those who prefer less recoil. The Stevens 555 handles well on a course, and the choke tubes let you adjust for different stations. While it may not have the advanced features of dedicated competition guns, it is more than capable for regular practice or club-level shoots.
Waterfowl Hunting (with limitations): The 3-inch chamber allows for magnum steel or bismuth loads, making this shotgun legal for ducks and geese in most states. However, the 28-inch barrel and lightweight receiver may not be ideal for sustained heavy loads in cold weather. It is a viable option for the occasional waterfowl hunt or for hunters who prioritize weight savings over maximum performance.
General Recreation and Property Management: For those who need a firearm for dispatching pests or snakes on rural property, the Stevens 555 is a reliable tool. Its open choke and 20-gauge payload are suitable for such tasks. The break-action design also makes it easy to store and transport safely.
Compatibility Notes
Ammunition: This shotgun is compatible with all standard 20-gauge ammunition in 2.75-inch and 3-inch lengths. It will cycle light target loads (7/8 oz or 1 oz) reliably, though some very light loads (e.g., 3/4 oz) may not generate enough gas pressure to fully extract due to the manual extractor system—this is not a cycling issue, but a manual extraction matter. Steel shot, lead shot, and bismuth are all acceptable, provided they are within the manufacturer’s pressure limits. Do not use 3.5-inch shells, as these are not chambered.
Choke Tubes: The Stevens 555 uses a standard Beretta/Benelli Mobil choke thread pattern. This means you can purchase aftermarket choke tubes from brands like Carlson’s, Briley, or Trulock to expand your options for turkey, waterfowl, or competition. The included set (IC, M, F) covers most field needs.
Holsters and Slings: This is a long gun, so holsters are not applicable. For slings, any standard 1-inch quick-detach sling swivel set will work, as the gun comes pre-drilled for sling swivels on the forend cap and stock. We recommend a padded sling for extended carry.
Accessories: The shotgun accepts standard 20-gauge snap caps for dry-fire practice and safe storage. A quality gun case with a 48-inch interior length is recommended for transport. For cleaning, a 20-gauge bore brush and rod are required. The stock and forend can be custom fitted by a gunsmith, but the dimensions are standard for most adult shooters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can you ship this shotgun directly to my home address?
A: No. Federal law requires that all firearms shipped from a licensed retailer (FFL) be transferred to a Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder in your state of residence. We ship to your chosen FFL dealer. You must coordinate with that dealer to complete the required background check and paperwork before taking possession. We do not ship to P.O. boxes or international addresses.
Q: How does the FFL transfer process work for this Stevens 555?
A: After you place your order, we will need the name and contact information of your local FFL dealer. You should contact that dealer first to confirm they accept transfers from online retailers and to ask about any fees they charge. We will then ship the shotgun to them via a licensed carrier. You will visit the dealer, complete ATF Form 4473, and pass a NICS background check. The dealer will then release the firearm to you. This process typically takes 3-7 business days from shipment.
Q: Is this shotgun compatible with all 20-gauge ammunition?
A: It is compatible with 20-gauge shells in 2.75-inch and 3-inch lengths. It will handle light target loads, standard field loads, and magnum loads. However, very light subsonic or reduced-recoil loads (often used for training or indoor ranges) may not extract as smoothly due to the manual extractor system. We recommend using standard velocity loads for best reliability. Always verify that your ammunition meets SAAMI specifications for 20-gauge shotguns.
Q: What warranty does the Stevens 555 come with?
A: The Stevens 555 is covered by a limited lifetime warranty from Savage Arms (the parent company of Stevens). This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship for the original purchaser. It does not cover damage from misuse, neglect, improper cleaning, or the use of non-standard ammunition. For warranty claims, you must contact Savage Arms directly with proof of purchase. CSFIREARMS.com does not administer warranty service but can assist with initial contact if needed.
Q: What is your return policy for this firearm?
A: Due to federal regulations and safety concerns, all firearm sales are final. We do not accept returns on firearms for change of mind or fitment issues. If the firearm arrives damaged or with a manufacturer defect, you must contact us within 48 hours of delivery. We will work with you and Savage Arms to resolve the issue, which may involve a repair, replacement, or refund at the manufacturer’s discretion. We strongly recommend inspecting the firearm at your FFL dealer before accepting the transfer.
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