## Stevens 311D: The Ultimate Guide to This Classic Shotgun
The Stevens 311D is more than just a shotgun; it’s a piece of American history. For decades, this rugged and reliable double-barrel shotgun has been a favorite among hunters, trappers, and shooting enthusiasts. But what makes the Stevens 311D so special? Why does it continue to hold a place in the hearts of gun owners even today? This comprehensive guide dives deep into the Stevens 311D, exploring its history, features, variations, and its enduring appeal.
This article provides an unparalleled look at the Stevens 311D. We will cover everything you need to know, from its origins to its modern-day relevance, helping you understand why this shotgun remains a classic. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a first-time gun owner, you’ll find valuable insights into the Stevens 311D’s legacy and its place in shooting sports.
### What is the Stevens 311D?
The Stevens 311D is a double-barreled shotgun produced by the Stevens Arms Company (later Savage Arms) from the mid-20th century until the late 1980s. It’s known for its simplicity, durability, and affordability, making it a popular choice for hunters and those seeking a reliable firearm. The ‘D’ in the name signifies a specific iteration in the 311 series, with various models produced over the years.
#### A Brief History of Stevens Arms
To truly understand the Stevens 311D, it’s important to know a little bit about the company that created it. Stevens Arms was founded in 1864 by Joshua Stevens, a skilled gunsmith with a passion for innovation. The company quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality firearms at reasonable prices. Over the years, Stevens Arms went through several ownership changes, eventually becoming part of Savage Arms. However, the Stevens name continued to be associated with affordable and dependable firearms.
#### The Evolution of the 311 Series
The Stevens 311 series of shotguns was introduced in the early 20th century, and the 311D was one of the most popular variants. The design was simple: a break-action, side-by-side shotgun with a durable action and reliable firing mechanism. Over the years, various improvements and modifications were made, but the core design remained largely unchanged. This consistency contributed to the 311D’s reputation for reliability.
#### Why the Stevens 311D Matters
The Stevens 311D holds a significant place in American firearms history for several reasons:
* **Affordability:** It was a shotgun that the average working person could afford, making it accessible to a wide range of hunters and shooters.
* **Reliability:** Its simple design and robust construction made it incredibly reliable, able to withstand years of use and abuse.
* **Versatility:** It was suitable for a variety of hunting applications, from upland birds to small game.
* **American Made:** It represents a time when American manufacturing was at its peak, and firearms were built to last.
The enduring popularity of the Stevens 311D is a testament to its quality and value. Even today, used 311Ds are readily available and remain a popular choice for those seeking a dependable shotgun.
### Understanding the Stevens 311D: Key Features and Specifications
The Stevens 311D is a relatively simple shotgun, but understanding its key features is essential for appreciating its design and capabilities.
#### Action and Operation
The Stevens 311D utilizes a break-action mechanism. This means the barrels pivot downwards, allowing the user to load and unload cartridges directly into the chambers. The action is opened and closed manually, and a simple lever typically located on the top tang of the receiver unlocks the barrels.
#### Barrel Configuration
The 311D is a double-barreled shotgun, meaning it has two barrels side-by-side. This configuration offers several advantages, including:
* **Quick follow-up shots:** Two barrels provide the opportunity for a second shot without the need to manually cycle the action.
* **Choke versatility:** Each barrel can have a different choke, allowing the shooter to tailor the spread of the shot pattern to the specific hunting situation.
* **Balance and handling:** The side-by-side design contributes to a balanced feel, making the shotgun easy to swing and point.
#### Choke Options
The choke of a shotgun barrel refers to the constriction at the muzzle that affects the spread of the shot pattern. The Stevens 311D was available with various choke options, including:
* **Improved Cylinder:** Provides a wide shot pattern, ideal for close-range targets.
* **Modified:** Offers a tighter pattern than Improved Cylinder, suitable for medium-range shots.
* **Full:** Produces the tightest pattern, best for long-range shots.
Many 311Ds came with one barrel choked modified and the other full, offering versatility for different hunting scenarios. Some later models featured interchangeable choke tubes, enhancing adaptability.
#### Gauges and Barrel Lengths
The Stevens 311D was primarily manufactured in 12 gauge, 16 gauge, 20 gauge, and .410 bore. Each gauge offers different levels of power and recoil, making them suitable for various game types. Barrel lengths typically ranged from 26 to 30 inches, depending on the gauge and intended use.
#### Stock and Forend
The stock and forend of the Stevens 311D were typically made of wood, often walnut or birch. The stock design was simple and functional, providing a comfortable grip and cheek weld. The forend was typically a beavertail or splinter style, offering a secure hold for the shooter’s support hand. Over time, synthetic stocks also became available.
#### Safety Mechanisms
The Stevens 311D typically features a manual safety located on the top tang of the receiver. This safety blocks the trigger, preventing accidental firing. It’s crucial to always engage the safety when the shotgun is not in use.
### Stevens 311D: Exploring the Different Models and Variations
While the basic design of the Stevens 311D remained consistent, there were several variations and models produced over the years. Understanding these differences can help you identify the specific model you own or are considering purchasing.
#### Model 311A
An early variant of the 311 series, featuring a slightly different receiver design and stock configuration compared to later models.
#### Model 311C
This model featured a redesigned firing pin system, improving reliability and reducing the risk of misfires.
#### Model 311H
A later production model, known for its improved stock finish and overall fit and finish. Some 311H models also featured interchangeable choke tubes.
#### Variations in Gauges and Barrel Lengths
As mentioned earlier, the Stevens 311D was available in various gauges and barrel lengths. The 12-gauge model was the most popular, followed by the 20-gauge and .410 bore. Barrel lengths varied depending on the gauge and intended use, with shorter barrels typically used for upland bird hunting and longer barrels for waterfowl hunting.
#### Special Edition Models
Over the years, Stevens produced some special edition models of the 311D, often featuring unique engravings, stock finishes, or barrel configurations. These models are typically more valuable to collectors.
### The Enduring Advantages of the Stevens 311D
Despite its age, the Stevens 311D continues to offer several advantages that make it a compelling choice for many shooters.
#### Simplicity and Reliability
The Stevens 311D’s simple design is its greatest strength. With fewer moving parts than more complex shotguns, there’s less to go wrong. This makes it incredibly reliable, able to withstand years of use and abuse with minimal maintenance. Many owners report their 311Ds functioning flawlessly after decades of service.
#### Affordability
While new shotguns can be expensive, used Stevens 311Ds are typically very affordable. This makes them an excellent option for first-time gun owners or those on a budget. You can often find a used 311D in good condition for a fraction of the price of a new shotgun.
#### Versatility
The Stevens 311D is a versatile shotgun that can be used for a variety of hunting applications. It’s suitable for upland birds, small game, and even deer hunting (with the appropriate slugs). Its double-barreled design and choke options allow you to tailor the shotgun to the specific hunting situation. Expert hunters have found it capable in various environments.
#### Easy to Maintain
The Stevens 311D is easy to disassemble and clean, making it simple to maintain. Regular cleaning and lubrication will ensure that your 311D continues to function reliably for years to come. Disassembly is straightforward, requiring only basic tools and a bit of know-how.
### A Critical Review of the Stevens 311D
The Stevens 311D is a solid shotgun, but it’s not without its drawbacks. Here’s a balanced review of its pros and cons:
#### Pros:
* **Reliability:** As mentioned earlier, the 311D is incredibly reliable due to its simple design.
* **Affordability:** Used 311Ds are readily available and relatively inexpensive.
* **Versatility:** Suitable for various hunting applications.
* **Easy to Maintain:** Simple design makes it easy to clean and maintain.
* **Classic Design:** A timeless design that appeals to many shooters.
#### Cons:
* **Recoil:** Double-barreled shotguns can have more felt recoil than semi-automatic shotguns.
* **Limited Capacity:** Only two shots before reloading.
* **Fixed Chokes (on some models):** Some models have fixed chokes, limiting versatility.
* **Basic Features:** Lacks the advanced features of modern shotguns.
#### Who is the Stevens 311D Best Suited For?
The Stevens 311D is an excellent choice for:
* **First-time gun owners:** Its simplicity and affordability make it a great starter shotgun.
* **Hunters on a budget:** A reliable and versatile shotgun that won’t break the bank.
* **Those seeking a classic firearm:** A piece of American history that’s still functional and fun to shoot.
#### Alternatives to the Stevens 311D
If you’re looking for alternatives to the Stevens 311D, consider the following:
* **Remington 870:** A pump-action shotgun known for its reliability and versatility.
* **Mossberg 500:** Another popular pump-action shotgun with a wide range of aftermarket accessories.
#### Expert Verdict
The Stevens 311D is a classic shotgun that offers excellent value for the money. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of modern shotguns, its reliability, affordability, and versatility make it a compelling choice for many shooters. We highly recommend the Stevens 311D for those seeking a dependable and affordable shotgun.
### Answering Your Questions About the Stevens 311D
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Stevens 311D:
1. **What is the value of my Stevens 311D?**
* The value depends on the condition, gauge, and any special features. Consult a reputable gun appraiser or check online auction sites for comparable sales.
2. **How do I determine the year my Stevens 311D was manufactured?**
* Stevens/Savage firearms do not have readily available serial number lookup for year of manufacture. You can consult with a gunsmith or collector who specializes in these firearms to potentially find information based on features and markings.
3. **Can I use steel shot in my Stevens 311D?**
* It’s generally not recommended to use steel shot in older Stevens 311D shotguns, especially those with fixed chokes. Steel shot can damage the barrel. Consult a gunsmith for advice.
4. **Where can I find parts for my Stevens 311D?**
* Numrich Gun Parts (e-gunparts.com) is a good source for replacement parts.
5. **How do I clean my Stevens 311D?**
* Disassemble the shotgun, clean the barrel with a bore brush and solvent, and lubricate the moving parts with gun oil. Reassemble and test the action.
6. **What is the best gauge Stevens 311D for bird hunting?**
* The 20-gauge is a popular choice for bird hunting, offering a good balance of power and recoil.
7. **Can I install interchangeable choke tubes on my Stevens 311D?**
* Some gunsmiths can install choke tubes, but it’s not always feasible or cost-effective. It depends on the barrel thickness and the gunsmith’s expertise.
8. **What is the difference between a Stevens 311 and a Savage 311?**
* Savage Arms acquired Stevens, so a Savage 311 is essentially the same shotgun but manufactured under the Savage brand name.
9. **Is it safe to dry-fire my Stevens 311D?**
* Dry-firing can damage the firing pins over time. Use snap caps to protect the firing pins when dry-firing.
10. **What are the common problems with Stevens 311D shotguns?**
* Common problems include worn firing pins, loose action, and cracked stocks. Regular maintenance can help prevent these issues.
### Conclusion: The Stevens 311D – A Timeless Classic
The Stevens 311D is more than just a shotgun; it’s a symbol of American ingenuity and craftsmanship. Its simple design, reliability, and affordability have made it a favorite among hunters and shooters for generations. While it may not have all the features of modern shotguns, its enduring appeal is a testament to its quality and value. If you’re looking for a dependable and affordable shotgun, the Stevens 311D is an excellent choice.
Now that you’ve learned about the Stevens 311D, share your experiences with this classic shotgun in the comments below! Or, explore our other guides on classic firearms to expand your knowledge. If you’re considering purchasing a Stevens 311D, consult with a knowledgeable gunsmith to ensure it’s in good working condition.
