The Beretta A400 Upland in 20-gauge is a popular choice for upland bird hunting. Its lightweight design, fast cycling action, and comfortable ergonomics make it a favorite among hunters. This in-depth review will explore its features, performance, and overall suitability for various upland hunting scenarios. We'll examine what makes it stand out and consider its strengths and potential drawbacks.
Key Features of the Beretta A400 20ga Upland
The Beretta A400 Upland's success stems from a combination of innovative design and reliable performance. Several key features set it apart:
The Blink System: A Lightning-Fast Cycling Action
The A400's "Blink" system is its claim to fame. This innovative inertia-driven system boasts exceptionally fast cycling, crucial for quick follow-up shots on fast-flying birds. The reduced recoil and smooth operation contribute significantly to its comfortable shooting experience, even during extended hunts. This rapid cycling allows hunters to maintain their focus on the birds rather than the mechanics of the gun.
Lightweight and Maneuverable Design
Weighing less than 6.5 lbs (depending on barrel configuration), the 20-gauge A400 Upland is surprisingly lightweight. This reduced weight makes it incredibly maneuverable in dense cover, an absolute asset when hunting in brushy or wooded areas. The agility it provides allows hunters to quickly swing onto targets and maintain a steady aim.
Ergonomic Design for Enhanced Comfort
Beretta has focused on ergonomics, resulting in a comfortable grip and well-balanced shotgun. The stock's design contributes to a natural point of aim and reduces felt recoil, minimizing fatigue during long hunting sessions. The overall feel of the gun is one of refinement and practicality, making it a joy to handle.
Versatile Choke System
The A400 Upland comes with Beretta's Optima-Choke system, offering a range of chokes to adapt to varying hunting situations. From tight full chokes for long-range shots to open improved cylinder chokes for closer ranges, the adjustable choke system ensures optimum shot patterns for different targets and distances. This versatility is highly valued by upland hunters who frequently face varying shooting conditions.
Durable Construction for Long-Lasting Performance
The Beretta A400 Upland is built to withstand the rigors of upland hunting. Its robust construction ensures it can handle the elements and heavy use without sacrificing reliability or performance. This durability means hunters can rely on their A400 to perform flawlessly, hunt after hunt.
Performance in the Field: A Hunter's Perspective
Numerous field tests and user reviews consistently praise the A400 Upland's performance. The fast cycling action shines when multiple birds are flushed simultaneously, allowing for quick, efficient shooting. The lightweight design translates to reduced fatigue, especially appreciated during long days in the field.
Case Study: Several online forums and hunting blogs report users consistently harvesting high percentages of birds with the A400 Upland, citing the combination of speed, accuracy, and comfortable recoil management. The consensus points to the gun’s excellent performance exceeding expectations in various hunting conditions.
However, some users have noted that the reduced recoil, while comfortable, may make it slightly less noticeable to new shooters, requiring more focus on muzzle flip management. This is easily addressed with practice.
Comparison to Other 20-Gauge Upland Shotguns
The Beretta A400 Upland sits comfortably among top contenders in the 20-gauge upland market. Comparing it to similar shotguns like the Browning Citori 725 and the Winchester SX4 reveals both similarities and distinctions. All three offer excellent reliability and quality construction.
| Feature | Beretta A400 Upland | Browning Citori 725 | Winchester SX4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Action Type | Inertia Driven | Over/Under | Gas Operated |
| Weight (approx.) | 6.5 lbs | 6.75 lbs | 6.8 lbs |
| Recoil | Low | Moderate | Moderate |
| Cycling Speed | Very Fast | Moderate | Fast |
| Price | High | High | Mid-High |
While the Browning Citori 725 is a classic, well-regarded over/under, the Winchester SX4 offers gas-operated reliability. The Beretta A400 Upland distinguishes itself with its exceptionally fast cycling speed, making it particularly well-suited for fast-paced upland hunting situations.
Is the Beretta A400 20ga Upland Right for You?
The Beretta A400 Upland 20-gauge is a premium shotgun, and its cost reflects that. However, its combination of lightweight design, fast cycling action, comfortable ergonomics, and reliable performance makes it a worthwhile investment for serious upland hunters. Its suitability depends on individual needs and preferences:
- Pros: Fast cycling, lightweight, comfortable, versatile choke system, reliable, durable.
- Cons: Higher price point, slightly less noticeable recoil (potentially a drawback for some).
Ultimately, the Beretta A400 20ga Upland deserves its reputation as a top-tier upland hunting shotgun. Its advanced features and exceptional performance make it a strong contender for those seeking a reliable and efficient firearm for their hunts. If you value speed, comfort, and reliability, it's certainly worth serious consideration.