Savage Stevens Model 560 Shotgun Review: History, Specs, Ballistics, Hunting Use & Accessories

Savage Stevens Model 560 Shotgun Review: History, Specs, Ballistics, Hunting Use & Accessories If you’re a hunter or sport shooter looking for a reliable, affordable, and well-engineered semi-automatic shotgun, the Savage Stevens Model 560 Field deserves your full attention. This comprehensive guide covers everything from its origin and design to performance, ballistics, hunting applications, and user feedback. --- 🔹 Table of Contents 1. Introduction to the Savage Stevens Model 560 2. History and Development 3. Design and Mechanism 4. Caliber and Ammunition Compatibility 5. Technical Specifications 6. Ballistics and Shooting Performance 7. Hunting Applications 8. Modifications and Accessories 9. Price and Market Position 10. Pros and Cons Based on Reviews 11. Why Hunters and Shooters Choose the 560 12. Interesting Facts and Final Thoughts --- 1. Introduction to the Savage Stevens Model 560 The Savage Stevens Model 560 Field is a 12-gauge semi-automatic shotgun introduced by Savage Arms under the Stevens brand in early 2023. Designed for both field hunting and clay shooting, it offers a balance of affordability, reliability, and performance. --- 2. History and Development Unveiled at the SHOT Show 2023, the Model 560 was developed to meet the growing demand for budget-friendly semi-autos that don’t compromise on quality. Savage Arms, known for rugged and accessible firearms, positioned the 560 as a successor to earlier Stevens models, integrating modern gas-operated systems and ergonomic improvements. --- 3. Design and Mechanism The 560 Field uses a gas-operated semi-automatic action, which reduces recoil and improves cycling reliability. Key design features include: • Chrome-lined barrel for durability and corrosion resistance • Ventilated rib for improved sight alignment • Turkish walnut stock with checkering for grip and aesthetics • Crossbolt safety behind the trigger for intuitive operation The trigger is notably crisp, with minimal creep, making it ideal for both hunting and sport shooting. The Savage Stevens Model 560 Field operates on a gas-driven semi-automatic system, which is engineered to cycle reliably across a wide range of loads. When a shell is fired, expanding gases are diverted through a port in the barrel into a piston system located beneath the forearm. This gas pressure drives the bolt rearward, ejecting the spent shell and chambering the next round. Compared to inertia-driven systems, gas operation significantly reduces felt recoil, making the 560 more comfortable for extended shooting sessions—especially useful in waterfowl blinds or on the sporting clays course. Internally, the shotgun features a rotating bolt head that locks securely into the barrel extension, ensuring consistent lockup and safe operation. The bolt assembly is robust yet easy to disassemble for cleaning, a critical factor for hunters operating in muddy or wet environments. The trigger group is housed in a polymer lower receiver, offering durability and weight savings. The crossbolt safety, located behind the trigger, is intuitive and ambidextrous. Combined with a chrome-lined barrel and ventilated rib, the 560’s mechanism is built for longevity, smooth cycling, and dependable field performance. --- 4. Caliber and Ammunition Compatibility • Gauge: 12-gauge • Chamber: 3-inch magnum • Compatible with 2¾” and 3” shells, including birdshot, buckshot, and slugs • Accepts a wide range of loads for upland game, waterfowl, and turkey hunting --- 5. Technical Specifications Savage Stevens Model 560 • Barrel Length: 28 inches • Overall Length: Approx. 48 inches • Weight: ~7.5 lbs • Magazine Capacity: 4+1 rounds • Finish: Matte black or walnut/blued steel • Chokes: Comes with three interchangeable chokes (IC, M, F) --- 6. Ballistics and Shooting Performance • Effective Range: Up to 50 yards for birdshot; 100+ yards for slugs • Pattern Consistency: Tight and uniform with factory chokes • Recoil Management: Gas system and weight help reduce felt recoil • Trigger Pull: ~5 lbs, praised for smooth break --- 7. Hunting Applications The Stevens 560 is suitable for: • Upland game (pheasant, quail, grouse) • Waterfowl (duck, goose) • Turkey • Small game (rabbit, squirrel) • Deer (with slugs) Its versatility makes it a favorite among multi-season hunters. --- 8. Modifications and Accessories Savage Stevens Model 560 • Choke tubes: Compatible with Beretta/Benelli-style threads • Sling swivels: Pre-installed • Optics: No rail, but aftermarket mounts available • Recoil pads: Replaceable for comfort • Extended magazine tubes: Available for competition use --- 9. Price and Market Position • MSRP: $499 USD • Often available for $450–$475 at retailers • Competes with Mossberg 930, Stoeger M3000, and Weatherby SA-08 --- 10. Pros and Cons Based on Reviews Pros: • Affordable price • Reliable cycling with various loads • Excellent trigger quality • Attractive walnut stock • Lightweight for a semi-auto Cons: • Limited aftermarket support • No factory rail for optics • Slightly stiff loading gate for some users --- 11. Why Hunters and Shooters Choose the 560 • Value for money: High performance at a budget price • Versatility: Suitable for both hunting and clay shooting • Build quality: Turkish manufacturing with Savage oversight • Ease of use: Simple controls and maintenance --- 12. Interesting Facts and Final Thoughts • The 560 is manufactured in Turkey, a hub for quality shotgun production • It’s one of the few sub-$500 semi-autos with a chrome-lined barrel • Popular among first-time shotgun buyers and seasoned hunters alike --- Conclusion: The Savage Stevens Model 560 Field is a standout in the semi-auto shotgun category. Whether you’re chasing upland birds or breaking clays, it delivers performance, reliability, and value that few competitors match.