The Beretta A400 Xplor is a highly regarded semi-automatic shotgun, and its 20-gauge version is no exception. This review dives deep into the performance, features, and overall experience of using the Beretta A400 Xplor in 20 gauge, helping you decide if it's the right shotgun for you.
Performance: Speed, Reliability, and Soft Recoil
The A400 Xplor's signature feature is its Blink-like speed. The 20-gauge model retains this incredibly fast cycling action, making follow-up shots remarkably quick and efficient. This translates to superior performance in fast-paced shooting scenarios, whether you're hunting upland birds, clays, or engaging in sporting clays competitions. The reliability is equally impressive; Beretta's reputation for building robust and dependable firearms is well-earned, and the A400 Xplor 20 gauge consistently delivers flawless operation.
One of the biggest advantages of the 20 gauge over its 12-gauge counterpart is the noticeably reduced recoil. This makes the A400 Xplor 20 gauge a more comfortable gun to shoot for extended periods, especially for beginners or those sensitive to recoil. This reduced recoil doesn't compromise performance; the gun still delivers plenty of power for most hunting and sporting applications.
Target Acquisition and Handling
The balanced design of the A400 Xplor 20 gauge contributes to excellent handling and pointability. The gun swings smoothly and naturally, aiding in quick target acquisition. Whether you're mounting the gun from a low-ready position or transitioning between targets, the agility and maneuverability are exceptional.
Features: A Closer Look at the Details
The Beretta A400 Xplor 20 gauge boasts a range of features designed to enhance both performance and user experience.
Kick-Off Plus System:
This innovative recoil reduction system significantly minimizes felt recoil, making the gun exceptionally comfortable to shoot. The system efficiently manages recoil energy, contributing to a smoother shooting experience and faster follow-up shots.
Steelium Plus Barrels:
These high-performance barrels are known for their exceptional accuracy and durability. The Steelium Plus technology ensures consistent patterns and long-lasting performance.
Micro-Core Recoil Pad:
This advanced recoil pad further reduces felt recoil, enhancing shooter comfort and contributing to better accuracy and faster follow-up shots.
Adjustable Stock and Comb:
While not standard on all models, many A400 Xplor 20 gauge shotguns offer adjustable stocks and combs. This allows shooters to customize the fit for optimal comfort and performance. This feature is particularly beneficial for maximizing accuracy and consistency.
Versatility: A Gun for Multiple Disciplines
The Beretta A400 Xplor 20 gauge is a versatile shotgun suitable for a wide range of applications. It excels in upland bird hunting, where its lightweight design and reduced recoil are significant advantages. It's also a popular choice for waterfowl hunting, sporting clays, and even trap shooting. The adaptability of this shotgun makes it a worthwhile investment for various shooting disciplines.
Who Should Buy the Beretta A400 Xplor 20 Gauge?
This shotgun is an excellent choice for:
- Beginner shooters: The reduced recoil makes it much more comfortable to learn on.
- Upland bird hunters: Its light weight and fast cycling action are ideal for quick shots at moving targets.
- Sporting clays enthusiasts: Its accuracy, handling, and speed are highly beneficial in competition.
- Waterfowl hunters: While a 12 gauge might be preferred by some, the 20 gauge offers excellent performance with reduced recoil.
Potential Drawbacks
While the A400 Xplor 20 gauge is a high-quality shotgun, it's worth noting some potential drawbacks:
- Price: Beretta shotguns are premium firearms, and the A400 Xplor 20 gauge is no exception. It's a significant investment.
- Weight (relative to some other 20-gauge shotguns): While lighter than a 12-gauge, it might still be considered heavier than some other 20-gauge options on the market.
Conclusion: A Top-Tier 20-Gauge Semi-Automatic
The Beretta A400 Xplor 20 gauge is a superb semi-automatic shotgun that delivers exceptional performance, reliability, and comfort. Its innovative features, versatile design, and superb handling make it a top contender in its class. While the price is a consideration, the quality and performance justify the investment for many shooters. If you're looking for a high-quality 20-gauge shotgun, the A400 Xplor is certainly worth serious consideration.
