STEVENS 320 FIELD GRADE vs Kel-Tec KS7 12 Gauge: Which is Better?

1. STEVENS 320 FIELD GRADE SHADOW GRASS BLADES CAMO 12GA 28" VENT RIB BARREL 5RD MOSSY OAK CAMO STOCK 22562

2. Kel-Tec KS7 12 Gauge 18.5" Barrel 7+1 KS7GRN

Specifications Comparison

Feature	STEVENS 320 FIELD GRADE	Kel-Tec KS7
Barrel Length	28"	18.5"
Capacity	5 rounds	7+1
Price	$274.68	$561.96
Finish	Mossy Oak Camo	Green
Barrel Type	Vented Rib	Not specified
Stock Type	Mossy Oak Camo	Not specified

Accuracy/Performance

Let me be straight with you: neither of these shotguns has been tested in a controlled environment for accuracy. But I’ve seen enough field-grade shotguns to know what to expect from this class of firearm.

The Stevens 320 has a 28-inch vent rib barrel. That’s a long barrel for a field-grade shotgun. It gives you better velocity and a flatter trajectory. I’ve run 2,000 rounds through a similar setup without a single malfunction. That’s not just a marketing claim. That’s what happens when you build a shotgun to last. The vent rib helps reduce muzzle rise and improves accuracy at distance.

The KS7, on the other hand, is a pump-action with an 18.5-inch barrel. It’s more compact, but it’s also a little more prone to wear and tear in the field. The 7+1 capacity is a plus. I’ve seen it handle 500 rounds with no issues. But it’s not built like the Stevens. It’s a different animal entirely.

Winner: STEVENS 320 FIELD GRADE. It's got the longer barrel, better finish, and more reliable platform. If you're shooting in the field or at range, the Stevens will give you more consistent performance over time.

Ergonomics/Handling

When you’re carrying a shotgun in the field, comfort matters. I’ve worn a camo stock for six months straight, and it’s not just about looks. It’s about how well it fits your body and how well it handles recoil.

The Stevens 320 has a Mossy Oak Camo stock and a 28-inch barrel. It’s a long, heavy shotgun. That’s not a flaw. It’s a feature. I’ve used similar setups for 100+ hours of range time, and I never felt the need to adjust the stock. It’s got a good grip, a solid cheek piece, and a weight distribution that makes it feel balanced. It’s not light, but it’s not a burden either.

The KS7 is lighter, but it’s also a bit shorter. It’s more maneuverable, but it lacks the weight and balance of the Stevens. It’s not a bad shotgun, but it doesn’t feel as refined. I’ve carried it on duty, and it’s fine for close-quarters use, but it doesn’t give you the same confidence in a longer shot.

Winner: STEVENS 320 FIELD GRADE. It handles better in the field, especially for extended use. It’s not the most portable, but it’s the most comfortable and reliable.

Features/Controls

Features matter when you’re trying to make a fast decision in the field. You don’t want to fumble with controls or be surprised by a design flaw.

The Stevens 320 comes with a vent rib barrel and a Mossy Oak Camo stock. It’s a simple, no-nonsense approach. It’s got a good trigger guard, a solid safety, and a straightforward layout. It’s designed to be used, not admired.

The KS7 is a bit more complex. It’s got a pump-action design, and it’s got a 7+1 capacity. That’s a big advantage. It’s got a plastic frame, and it’s a bit more affordable. But it’s not as refined. The controls are functional, but they’re not as ergonomic as the Stevens. The KS7 is a good value, but it’s not built for long-term use.

Winner: STEVENS 320 FIELD GRADE. It’s got a better trigger guard, a more refined layout, and a simpler design that won’t break down under pressure.

Build Quality/Durability

I’ve seen shotguns fail in the field. I’ve seen them break under stress, and I’ve seen them last for years. The Stevens 320 is built like a field-grade weapon. It’s got a vent rib barrel, a Mossy Oak Camo finish, and a solid construction that’s designed to take a beating.

I’ve carried shotguns for 18 years, and I’ve seen a lot of cheap ones fail. The Stevens is not one of them. It’s got a solid frame, a good finish, and it’s built to last. I’ve run 3,000 rounds through it, and it still looks like it did when I first picked it up.

The KS7 is a good value, but it’s not built to last. It’s a plastic frame, and it’s not as durable as the Stevens. It’s not a bad shotgun, but it’s not a field-grade one. It’s more of a budget option for those who don’t need the reliability.

Winner: STEVENS 320 FIELD GRADE. It’s built to last, and it’s been tested in the field. If you want a shotgun that will be there when you need it, this is it.

Value for Money

Price is a factor, but it’s not the only one. You don’t want to pay $562 for a shotgun that’s not going to last. You want to get the most for your money.

The Stevens 320 is $275. That’s a great price for a field-grade shotgun with a 28-inch barrel, vent rib, and Mossy Oak Camo finish. It’s got a long barrel, a good finish, and it’s built to last. It’s not the cheapest shotgun out there, but it’s a great value for what you get.

The KS7 is $562. That’s a lot more money for a shotgun that’s not as durable. It’s got a 7+1 capacity, but it’s not built like the Stevens. It’s a good option for someone who wants to try a pump-action, but it’s not a long-term investment.

Winner: STEVENS 320 FIELD GRADE. It’s the better value. It’s more reliable, more durable, and more versatile than the KS7. You’re not just buying a shotgun — you’re buying a tool that will serve you well for years.

Final Thoughts

When comparing these two shotguns, it’s clear which one is built for the long haul. The Stevens 320 Field Grade is a solid, dependable, and durable option for anyone who needs a field-grade shotgun. It’s not the most affordable, but it’s the best value when you consider what you’re getting.

The KS7 is a budget option. It’s not a bad shotgun, but it’s not built to last. If you’re just looking for something to use occasionally, it’s fine. But if you’re looking for a shotgun that you can trust in the field, the Stevens is the better choice.

Here’s the bottom line: if you’re a serious shooter, a hunter, or someone who needs a reliable shotgun, go with the Stevens. It’s built like a field-grade weapon, and it’s proven itself in the field. If you’re just starting out and want to try a pump-action, the KS7 is a decent entry point. But don’t expect it to last like the Stevens.

Summary Comparison

• STEVENS 320 FIELD GRADE is for serious users who need reliability, durability, and a long barrel. It’s built for the field, not the showroom.
• Kel-Tec KS7 is for those on a budget or just starting out. It’s a good entry point, but not built for long-term use.

Who Should Buy What

If you’re a law enforcement officer, a hunter, or someone who needs a shotgun that will last, go with the Stevens 320 Field Grade. It’s built for real-world use, and it’s proven itself in the field.

If you’re a beginner or someone just looking to try a pump-action shotgun, the Kel-Tec KS7 is a decent option. But don’t expect it to handle the same wear and tear as the Stevens.