Charles Daly SXS 500 12 Gauge 3 Inch Side by Side Shotgun

Description

The Charles Daly SXS 500 12 Gauge 3 Inch shotgun represents a timeless choice for hunters and sport shooters who appreciate the reliability and elegance of traditional side-by-side shotgun design. This American-made firearm combines classic aesthetics with modern manufacturing standards, delivering dependable performance in the field or at the range. The Charles Daly SXS 500 features premium walnut furniture paired with a matte black receiver, creating an attractive contrast that appeals to traditionalists and contemporary shooters alike. With its proven track record and affordable price point, this shotgun has become a favorite among upland hunters, clay shooters, and those seeking a versatile workhorse.

Charles Daly SXS 500 12 Gauge 3 Inch — Key Specifications

• Gauge: 12 Gauge
• Chamber: 3 Inch Magnum
• Barrel Length: 20 Inches
• Choke Tubes: Fixed Chokes (typically Improved Cylinder and Modified)
• Action: Side-by-Side (SXS) Double Barrel
• Stock Material: Premium Walnut
• Receiver Finish: Matte Black
• Weight: Approximately 7 to 7.5 Pounds
• Safety: Automatic Safety (engages when barrels are opened)
• Sights: Bead Front Sight
• Overall Length: Approximately 37 to 38 Inches
• Capacity: Two Rounds (one per barrel)

Performance and Reliability

The Charles Daly SXS 500 12 Gauge 3 Inch delivers consistent, reliable performance across diverse hunting and sport-shooting applications. The side-by-side configuration provides a natural pointing platform and fast target acquisition, making it particularly effective for upland game birds and clay targets. The 3-inch magnum chambers accommodate both standard 2.75-inch shells and full-power 3-inch loads, offering flexibility for different hunting scenarios and shooter preferences. Users consistently report that this shotgun produces manageable recoil despite its 12-gauge caliber, thanks to the distributed weight and ergonomic stock design.

The Charles Daly SXS 500’s dual triggers (or single selective trigger options on certain variants) allow shooters to select between barrels quickly, enabling tactical load choices such as pairing a tighter choke with buckshot in one barrel and birdshot in the other. The mechanical reliability of the side-by-side action has proven itself over more than a century of shotgun design evolution. Many owners report taking hundreds of rounds through their Charles Daly SXS 500 without mechanical issues, provided basic maintenance is performed. The straightforward design means fewer parts to wear out compared to semi-automatic or pump-action shotguns.

Pattern testing reveals that the Charles Daly SXS 500 with its factory chokes produces tight, consistent patterns at typical hunting ranges of 25 to 40 yards. The matte black receiver resists glare and reflection, a practical feature for hunting situations. Shooters appreciate the simplicity of operation—there are no gas tubes, piston systems, or complex safety mechanisms to malfunction in adverse field conditions. The Charles Daly SXS 500 remains one of the most straightforward shotguns to maintain and troubleshoot in the field.

Intended Use and Applications

The Charles Daly SXS 500 12 Gauge 3 Inch shotgun appeals primarily to upland game hunters pursuing pheasants, quail, grouse, and similar birds across North America. Hunters appreciate the balance and pointing characteristics that make follow-up shots quick and natural, especially in dense brush or agricultural settings. The 20-inch barrel length provides excellent maneuverability in brush while maintaining sufficient sight radius for accurate shooting. Many rural property owners and small-scale hunters prefer the side-by-side format for its aesthetic appeal and nostalgic connection to hunting traditions spanning generations.

Clay target shooters and sport shooting enthusiasts represent another significant user base for the Charles Daly SXS 500. The side-by-side action’s balance and quick trigger access make it well-suited for trap, skeet, and sporting clays competitions where traditional shotgun designs are still popular. Competitive shooters value the predictable handling characteristics and the advantage of selecting different chokes for different target presentations. The Charles Daly SXS 500 also attracts shooters interested in historical firearms, as side-by-side shotguns represent an important chapter in American sporting and hunting heritage.

Home defense represents an additional application, though many prefer longer barrels and different configurations for this role. Survivalists and homesteaders often keep a Charles Daly SXS 500 as a multi-purpose tool for harvesting small to medium game, protecting livestock from predators, and home security. The simple, reliable action ensures function even when stored for extended periods or exposed to harsh field conditions. Check your shotguns category for additional models and gauge options to compare with the Charles Daly SXS 500.

Why Buy From CaliperDepot?

CaliperDepot maintains a carefully curated inventory of premium firearms including the Charles Daly SXS 500 12 Gauge 3 Inch, ensuring rapid order fulfillment and reliable in-stock availability. Our competitive pricing reflects our direct relationships with manufacturers and distributors, allowing us to pass savings directly to customers. We understand that firearm purchases represent significant investments, which is why we maintain strict quality control and ship only fully inspected items. Every Charles Daly SXS 500 sold through CaliperDepot undergoes verification to ensure proper function and factory specifications before leaving our facility.

Our customer service team includes experienced shooters and hunters who understand the nuances of different firearm types and can answer technical questions about the Charles Daly SXS 500. We offer detailed product photography and specifications to help you make informed decisions. FFL transfer is handled smoothly with clear communication throughout the process. CaliperDepot’s commitment to customer satisfaction means responsive support before, during, and after your purchase, plus our easy return policy gives you confidence when ordering.

The Charles Daly SXS 500 12 Gauge 3 Inch shotgun awaits in our inventory, ready to ship to your FFL dealer for this year’s hunting season or your next clay shooting tournament. This classic side-by-side combines proven reliability with affordable quality, making it an excellent addition to any shooter’s collection. Order with confidence knowing that CaliperDepot stands behind every product with competitive pricing and dedicated customer support. Shop the Charles Daly SXS 500 and explore our complete shotgun parts selection for maintenance and upgrades today.