Description
I remember the first time I shouldered a Beretta Silver Pigeon. It wasn’t this exact model, but the feeling—that perfect, instinctive point—is what the 686 line is built for. So, what is the Beretta 686 Vittoria Silver Pigeon I 20 Ga 30″ 2 3″ Silver/Blued Wood Right Youth/Compact Hand? It’s a scaled-down, 20-gauge over-and-under shotgun designed for younger or smaller-framed shooters, built with the same legendary Beretta quality and balance that makes it a premier choice for upland game and clay sports. It’s a lifetime gun that fits a lifetime of shooting, starting now.
Look, the ‘Youth/Compact’ designation is key here. This isn’t a toy or a compromised gun. Beretta took their proven 686 Silver Pigeon I action and scaled the stock dimensions to fit a shooter with a shorter length of pull. The result is a shotgun that feels like an extension of your body, not something you’re fighting to mount. I’ve put hundreds of rounds through various Silver Pigeons, and the magic is in how they swing. This 20-gauge version, with its 30-inch barrels, offers a smooth, stable swing plane that’s ideal for crossing shots on doves or breaking long-range clays. The weight, coming in at a manageable 6.3 pounds, means you can carry it all day in the field without fatigue, yet it’s heavy enough to absorb recoil and maintain momentum.
The ‘Vittoria’ trim gives it a distinct, classic look. You get a silvered receiver with fine engraving, contrasted by blued barrels and a satin-finished walnut stock. It’s elegant without being flashy—a working gun with pedigree. The 20-gauge chambered for 2 3/4″ shells is a sweet spot for many. It has noticeably less recoil than a 12-gauge, making it more enjoyable for extended practice, yet it’s plenty capable for pheasant, quail, and chukar with the right loads. Here’s the thing—this is a gun that fits out of the box for its intended user. No gunsmithing required to get started; the dimensions are purpose-built from the factory.
Specifications
| Gauge | 20 Gauge (2 3/4″ Chamber) |
| Barrel Length | 30 Inches |
| Overall Length | 46.5 Inches (Approx.) |
| Weight | 6.3 lbs |
| Stock | Walnut, Right-Hand Youth/Compact |
| Chokes | Includes 3 Beretta Mobilchoke Tubes (IC, M, F) |
Pros: The scaled stock dimensions are the star, offering a true custom fit for a younger shooter. Beretta’s build quality is second to none—the single selective trigger is crisp, the ejectors are positive, and the action locks up like a vault. The 30-inch barrels provide superb balance for swing-through shots. It’s a gun that can be used for everything from 4-H shooting sports to a serious hunter’s first season.
Cons: At a price of $1973.06, it’s a significant investment. As the shooter grows, a full-size stock may eventually be needed, but Beretta’s system makes that a straightforward swap. The 20-gauge, while versatile, does have limits on waterfowl or turkey where heavier 12-gauge payloads are often preferred.
So who is this for? It’s for the parent looking to invest in a quality first over/under for a dedicated young shooter, skipping the box-store pump actions. It’s for a smaller-statured adult who has always found standard shotguns too long and unwieldy. It’s for anyone who values handling and fit above all else and wants a Beretta that will last for decades. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What makes this a “Youth/Compact” model?
A: The stock has a shorter length of pull (the distance from the trigger to the end of the stock) and a reduced drop at comb and heel. This allows a shooter with shorter arms to mount the gun correctly and comfortably, promoting proper technique and safety.
Q: Can an adult use this shotgun effectively?
A: Absolutely. Many adults, particularly those of smaller stature or who prefer a very fast-handling gun, find compact stocks ideal. The 20-gauge is also a favorite among experienced shooters for its low recoil and shootability on game like dove and quail.
Q: Is it compatible with standard Beretta choke tubes?
A: Yes, it uses the Beretta Mobilchoke system, the same as most of their field guns. The set includes three tubes, and you can easily find others like Improved Cylinder or Skeet for specific disciplines.
If you’re looking for a first over/under that teaches proper form through perfect fit, the Beretta 686 Vittoria Silver Pigeon I in 20-gauge is a choice you won’t regret.
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