Picture this: you’re on your first hunt of the season, armed with your trusty Stevens 555 shotgun. You spot a flock of ducks overhead and take aim, but when you pull the trigger, nothing happens. You frantically try again, only to be met with the same failure. Frustrated and disappointed, you head back to your truck, wondering why your once-reliable shotgun is suddenly giving you so many problems. If this scenario sounds all too familiar, then keep reading, as we explore the most common issues with the Stevens 555 shotgun and how to fix them.
The Stevens 555: An Overview
What is a Stevens 555?
The Stevens 555 is an affordable over-and-under shotgun designed and produced by Savage Arms, a company renowned for making firearms of exceptional quality. The 555 stands out thanks to its sleek design, lightweight construction, and affordability. It is the perfect choice for anyone looking to experience the thrill of owning an over-and-under shotgun without having to break the bank.
What are the specifications of a Stevens 555?
The Stevens 555 has a 26 – 28 inch barrel that is made of chrome-lined carbon steel. The shotgun weighs between 5.5 and 6 pounds, making it one of the lightest over-and-under shotguns in the market. It comes in three different gauges; 12, 20, and 28, each with a chambered barrel that can accommodate 2-3/4″ and 3″ shells. The shotgun has a single selective trigger, as well as manual extractors. The stock is made of Turkish walnut and has a gloss finish.
What are the features of a Stevens 555?
1. Lightweight construction: The Stevens 555 weighs only 5.5 – 6 pounds, making it ideal for hunters and shooters who need to carry their firearms long distances.
2. Affordable: The Stevens 555 is one of the most affordable over-and-under shotguns in the market. It is perfect for those who want to experience owning an over-and-under shotgun without breaking the bank.
3. Chrome-lined carbon steel barrel: The shotgun has a chrome-lined barrel that is made of carbon steel. This makes the barrel highly resistant to rust and corrosion, ensuring that it serves you for years.
4. Turkish walnut stock: The shotgun has a Turkish walnut stock that is highly durable and attractive. It has a gloss finish that gives it a sleek and sophisticated look.
5. Single selective trigger: The shotgun has a single selective trigger that allows you to choose which barrel fires first. This feature can come in handy when you are shooting at moving targets.
In conclusion, the Stevens 555 is a highly reliable, lightweight, and affordable over-and-under shotgun that is perfect for hunters and shooters of all skill levels. Whether you are a professional or a novice, the Stevens 555 will not disappoint.
Problems with the Stevens 555
The Stevens 555 is a popular shotgun known for its affordability and lightweight design. However, it has been known to have some issues that buyers should be aware of. Here are five common problems with the Stevens 555:
Problem 1: The Trigger
The trigger on the Stevens 555 has been known to be heavier than expected. Some shooters may have trouble with the trigger pull, causing accuracy issues. Fortunately, there are several ways to fix this issue:
- Adjust the trigger: The trigger can be adjusted by a gunsmith to make it lighter and more comfortable to use.
- Upgrade the trigger: There are aftermarket triggers available that can replace the factory trigger and improve shot accuracy.
- Practice with the trigger: Shooter can practice to get use to the trigger and learn how to pull it correctly.
Problem 2: The Stock Fit
The stock on the Stevens 555 may not fit all shooters comfortably. Some shooters may find the stock to be too long, causing discomfort and difficulty with aiming. To fix this issue, the stock can be shortened by a gunsmith or replaced with an aftermarket stock that fits the shooter better.
Problem 3: The Ejector
The ejector on the Stevens 555 has been known to malfunction, causing spent cartridges to get stuck in the chamber. This issue can be fixed by doing the following:
- Clean the ejector: The ejector can become clogged with debris causing it to malfunction. Cleaning it can solve the issue.
- Adjust the ejector: The ejector can be adjusted by a gunsmith to ensure proper function when ejecting spent cartridges.
- Replace the ejector spring: The ejector spring can wear out over time, causing the ejector to malfunction. Replacing it can fix the issue.
Problem 4: The Choke Tubes
The choke tubes on the Stevens 555 may not be tight enough, causing them to loosen or fall out during use. This can be a safety hazard and can affect shot accuracy. The choke tubes can be tightened by hand or with a choke wrench. To prevent this from happening, it is important to check the choke tubes before each use to ensure they are tightened properly.
Problem 5: The Quality Control
Sometimes, the Stevens 555 may have quality control issues such as misaligned sights or loose parts. It is important to inspect the shotgun thoroughly before purchase or use. If issues are found, return the firearm to the manufacturer for repair.
How to Address the Problems with the Stevens 555
The Stevens 555 is a popular firearm among hunters and sportsmen. However, like any other gun, it can encounter certain issues that can hinder its performance. In this article, we will discuss some of the common problems with the Stevens 555 and ways to address them.
Fixing the Trigger Issue
One of the common issues with the Stevens 555 is the trigger pull weight. The trigger on this firearm can be heavy and can negatively impact accuracy. To address this issue, follow these steps:
- Unload the firearm and ensure safety is on.
- Remove the trigger guard assembly.
- Locate the trigger weight adjustment screw underneath the trigger.
- Use an appropriate screwdriver to adjust the screw clockwise or counter-clockwise to adjust the trigger pull weight to your preference.
- Reassemble the trigger guard assembly and test the trigger pull weight.
Dealing with the Stock Fit
The stock fit of the Stevens 555 may not be ideal for all shooters. It may need adjustments to increase comfort and accuracy. Here’s how you can do it:
- Remove the butt pad from the stock.
- Use a sandpaper or a Dremel tool to modify the stock according to your desired fit.
- Keep testing while making adjustments to ensure that the stock is fitting you comfortably.
- Reinstall the butt pad and test the firearm’s accuracy.
Resolving Ejector Malfunctions
Stevens 555 ejectors can malfunction due to a variety of reasons, such as dirt and debris build-up or spring failure. Here’s how you can fix this problem:
- Remove the forend and barrels from the receiver.
- Clean the ejector mechanism to remove any dirt and debris.
- If the spring of the ejector is worn or broken, replace it with a new one as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Reassemble the gun and test the ejector.
Upgrading the Choke Tubes
The choke tubes on the Stevens 555 may not be suitable for all types of hunting and shooting situations. Upgrading to a better choke tube can improve accuracy and performance. To upgrade the choke tubes, follow these steps:
- Remove the old choke tubes using a choke tube wrench.
- Select the desired choke tube based on your shooting needs.
- Install the new choke tube by twisting it clockwise until it is securely in place.
- Test the firearm’s accuracy by firing a few rounds at a target.
Tackling Quality Control Problems
Sometimes Stevens 555 may come with quality control issues from the manufacturer. Typical quality control issues include improperly spaced barrels, loose bead sights, and finish defects. Here’s how you can address these issues:
- Inspect the firearm thoroughly to identify any quality control issues.
- Contact the manufacturer to get replacement parts or to fix the issue.
- If the firearm is not under warranty, take it to an authorized gunsmith or repair technician.
- Test the firearm after the quality control issue is resolved.
Conclusion
The Stevens 555 is a versatile and reliable firearm. Despite encountering issues with the gun’s trigger, stock fit, ejectors, choke tubes, and quality control, the user can quickly fix them. It is essential to conduct regular maintenance on your Stevens 555 to keep it in good working condition.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the warranty on a Stevens 555?
The manufacturer warranty on Stevens 555 shotgun is for 1 year.
What is the price of a Stevens 555?
The price of Stevens 555 shotgun may vary based on factors such as location and accessories. However, on average, it costs around $700 to $900.
Is the Stevens 555 a good shotgun for beginners?
Yes, Stevens 555 is a good shotgun for beginners because of its lightweight, easy handling and affordability. It is also a great shotgun for experienced shooters who want a reliable and durable shotgun at an affordable price.
What accessories can be used with the Stevens 555?
There are many accessories available that can be used with the Stevens 555 shotgun, including chokes, sights, slings, ammo carriers, and rails. Some popular brands of accessories that are compatible with the Stevens 555 include Carlson’s, Truglo, and Mesa Tactical.
Can the problems with the Stevens 555 be resolved easily?
Some common problems with the Stevens 555 can be resolved easily. For example, if the shotgun is not ejecting or feeding rounds properly, cleaning the shotgun and replacing the magazine spring can often solve the issue. If the shotgun is experiencing accuracy issues, adjusting the sights can solve the problem. However, some problems such as malfunctioning triggers may require professional help.
I've learned a lot along the way and I'm always eager to share my experiences with others. I firmly believe in the importance of ethical hunting practices and and sustainable use of our natural resources, and I do my best to promote these principles in all of my adventures. Hunting is more than just a hobby for me, it's a way of life.
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