Charles Daly Field Grade III: Italian Over/Under Shotgun Value and Features

The Charles Daly Field Grade III is a well-regarded Italian-made over/under shotgun offering quality construction at an accessible price point. Manufactured by Antonio Zoli or Fausti (depending on production era), these shotguns represent solid mid-range options for hunters and clay shooters.

Current Market Value

• Typical retail range: $1,200 - $1,800 (20 gauge)
• 12 gauge models: $1,100 - $1,600
• Used/Excellent condition: $900 - $1,400
• New old stock/Unfired: $1,500 - $2,000+

Prices vary by gauge, barrel length, choke configuration, and wood grade.

Standard Specifications

• Action: Boxlock over/under with selective single trigger
• Barrels: 26" or 28" (most common), chrome-lined bores
• Chokes: Fixed (typically IC/Mod) or interchangeable choke tubes (later models)
• Finish: Blued barrels/receiver; color-case hardened receiver on some models
• Stock: Grade A/B walnut, checkered grip and forend, rubber recoil pad
• Ejectors: Automatic selective ejectors
• Weight: ~6.5-7 lbs (20 ga), ~7-7.5 lbs (12 ga)
• Length of pull: ~14.25"

Quality Assessment

Strengths

• Reliable mechanical function; durable boxlock action
• Good balance and handling characteristics
• Italian craftsmanship at competitive price
• Serviceable by most competent gunsmiths
• Attractive aesthetics for price range

Limitations

• Not a high-end bespoke gun (compare to Beretta 686/687, Browning Citori)
• Wood-to-metal fit may show minor gaps
• Trigger pull often heavier than premium models (5-7 lbs)
• Resale value moderate; not an investment piece

Buying Guidance

1. Verify gauge, barrel length, choke type match your needs
2. Check for receiver wear, hinge pin looseness, ejector function
3. Confirm choke tubes (if applicable) are included and correct
4. Inspect stock for cracks, repairs, or excessive recoil pad wear
5. Test fit: mount, sight plane, balance

Market Position

The Field Grade III occupies a sweet spot: above Turkish imports (Khan, CZ-USA, Stevens 555) in fit/finish, below Japanese (Browning Citori, Miroku) and premium Italian (Beretta, Perazzi, Caesar Guerini) guns. It's a practical, shootable shotgun for the enthusiast who wants Italian heritage without premium pricing.

For hunting upland game, waterfowl, or recreational clays, the Charles Daly Field Grade III delivers credible performance at a fraction of high-end O/U cost.