Shotguns have long secured a special spot among firearms enthusiasts, known for their unique blend of power and precision. The over-under variety has become especially popular for its elegant design and adaptability. Today, we delve into the domain of affordable shotguns, focusing on the Stevens by Savage 555, a 12-gauge firearm.
The Stevens 555 is touted as a “world-class” shotgun, and this review seeks to determine if it lives up to that claim. We will analyze its technical specs, ergonomics, construction quality, assembly convenience, recoil management, and rapid-fire capability.
Specifications
Stevens by Savage 555 comes in multiple calibers, including 12, 16, 20, 28, and .410:
- It’s primarily designed for shooting in rugged terrains and at flying targets, featuring a 28-inch barrel and weighing in at 6 pounds 5 ounces;
- The pull length is 14 1/4 inches, with options for fitting longer recoil pads;
- This shotgun comes with five flush-fitting chokes, a drop at the comb of 1 1/2 inches, and a drop at the heel of 2 1/8 inches. Notably, it lacks an automatic ejector;
- The shotgun sports a pistol grip, a Schnabel fore-end, a single brass bead at the front of the barrel, and a wooden butt-plate, albeit a tad rough. It’s crafted from standard-grade Turkish walnut.
Its functional and moving parts aren’t exceptionally smooth, and the recoil pad is basic and stiff. Included are a vented rib and barrels.
Build Quality
The build quality of the Stevens 555 matches its affordable pricing. The wood is standard-grade and looks average, but its lighter weight is a benefit. The receiver is made of black aluminum, which may not be as durable as steel and could be more prone to damage over time.
Ease of Breakdown
Disassembling this over-under shotgun is done by the traditional lever method, which, despite feeling a bit cheap, functions properly.
Recoil
The lightness of the Stevens 555 makes it easy to handle but also leads to noticeable recoil. During testing, the kick was pronounced even with target loads. This shotgun might not be the best for prolonged shooting sessions, as the recoil can be intense, particularly with hunting cartridges.
Reliability
Judging the long-term dependability of the Stevens 555 can be challenging due to limited test opportunities. Nevertheless, the insights from those who might own or frequently use this shotgun would be invaluable. If you have experience with this firearm, sharing your feedback could significantly contribute to understanding its reliability. Notably, for shooters aiming for high-volume firing, the Stevens 555 might fall short of expectations due to its recoil.
Speed Shooting
The critical assessment of rapid firing can reveal how well a shotgun balances aspects such as target acquisition, trigger response, recoil management, and swift follow-up shots. In these respects, the Stevens 555 performed reasonably well, with its weight and mounting ease being distinct advantages. The swiftest recorded time using the 555 was an impressive 1.05 seconds, showcasing its capability for quick shooting.
Conclusion
The Stevens by Savage 555 is a blend of various features and characteristics. It facilitates quick setup and shooting, making it a suitable option for those who prioritize speed. However, the recoil can be significantly felt, even with standard target loads.
For potential buyers, it might be advisable to save up a bit more, perhaps an additional $200 to $300, and invest in a firearm that promises longevity and a more comfortable shooting experience. While the Stevens 555 can serve casual shooting aficionados adequately, it may not be the optimal choice for those who intend to shoot regularly without the discomfort of heavy recoil.