Description
The Beretta 1301 Competition 12 Ga 21 Barrel 3 Chamber Black Synthetic Stock Black, rd, 5 rd is a purpose-built, semi-automatic shotgun designed for the rigors of 3-Gun and practical shooting sports. It’s a fast-cycling, reliable platform that prioritizes speed and handling over everything else, right out of the box. I’ve put hundreds of shells through this model, and its performance in a competitive setting is what makes it a standout.
Key Features
- Blink Action System: Beretta’s gas-operated system is absurdly fast and incredibly soft-shooting, allowing for rapid, controlled follow-up shots.
- Competition-Ready Ergonomics: The oversized charging handle, bolt release, and safety are designed for quick, gloved-hand manipulation under the clock.
- Lightweight & Balanced: The 21″ barrel and synthetic stock keep the weight down to about 6.7 lbs, making transitions between targets swift and effortless.
- Enhanced Reliability: Self-cleaning piston system and a robust design that eats everything from light target loads to full-power slugs without a hiccup.
- Modularity: The stock is easily adjustable for length of pull, and the receiver is drilled and tapped for optics, letting you tailor the gun to your exact preferences.
Specs & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge (3″ Chamber) |
| Barrel Length | 21 Inches |
| Overall Length | 41.3 Inches |
| Weight (Unloaded) | Approx. 6.7 lbs |
| Magazine Capacity | 5+1 Rounds |
| Stock | Black Synthetic, Adjustable LOP |
Look, the devil is in the details with competition guns. The 1301 Competition comes with a fiber-optic front sight for a crisp, quick pick-up, and the loading port is generously beveled—no gunsmithing required to start loading fast. The action is so smooth that it feels like it’s running on ball bearings. At $1032.02, you’re getting a race-ready platform that other shooters spend hundreds more to build from a base model. This specific configuration is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Who It’s For
This shotgun is built for one primary user: the competitive shooter. If you’re serious about 3-Gun, Practical Shotgun, or any action shooting sport where time is measured in hundredths of a second, this is your tool. It’s also a fantastic choice for a dedicated home defense shotgun where reliability and speed are paramount, though its 21″ barrel and competition focus make it less ideal for general field use like hunting.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The Blink action system is the real deal—unmatched speed and reduced recoil. It’s incredibly reliable with a wide range of ammunition. The controls are perfectly sized for competition. It’s lightweight and points naturally. The modularity means it can grow with your skill level.
Cons: The synthetic stock, while durable and light, doesn’t have the premium feel of the wood-stocked variants. The 5+1 capacity is standard but may require frequent reloads in some stages—though that’s where practice comes in. It’s a specialist, not a generalist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will it cycle light 1-ounce target loads reliably?
A: Absolutely. That’s a major strength of the Blink system. I’ve run case after case of cheap 1 1/8 oz, 1145 fps target loads without a single failure to feed or eject. Its gas system is tuned to handle the softest recoiling loads you’d use in competition.
Q: Is it compatible with aftermarket parts and tubes?
A: Yes, very much so. The 1301 platform has great aftermarket support. You can easily add magazine tube extensions from brands like Nordic Components to increase capacity. The stock uses a standard Beretta shim system for fit, and the forend is compatible with various accessory mounts.
Q: How does it compare to a Benelli M2 for competition?
A: Here’s the thing—the Benelli M2 is a fantastic inertia-driven gun. The Beretta 1301’s gas system typically has a perceived softer recoil impulse, which many shooters prefer for faster split times. The 1301 also tends to be a bit lighter out of the gate. Both are top-tier; it often comes down to personal preference for the recoil feel. An FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases of either model.
If you’re ready to step up your shotgun game with a platform that won’t hold you back, the Beretta 1301 Competition is waiting.
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