Description
You’re on the line, the timer’s beep still ringing in your ears. The first target flies, and your mount is pure muscle memory. The shot breaks, the clay vaporizes, and the 1301’s action cycles with a slick, authoritative thunk—already ready for the next pair. That feeling, the seamless fusion of man and machine built for speed, is what the Beretta 1301 Competition Pro is all about. It’s not just a shotgun; it’s a dedicated competition tool engineered to shave tenths and build confidence.
So, what is the Beretta 1301 Competition Pro, Semi-Automatic, 12 Gauge, 24″ Barrel With Step Rib, Blue Finish, Synthetic Stock, 3 Rounds, Kick-Off Plus System, OptimaChoke HP Black Edition? It’s Beretta’s purpose-built, gas-operated semi-auto for practical shotgun sports. Designed from the ground up for fast handling and reliable cycling with target loads, it features a 24-inch barrel with an elevated step rib for natural point of impact, a Kick-Off Plus recoil reduction system in the stock, and comes with three Optima-Choke HP tubes. This model ships with a 3-round magazine for competition compliance and is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Let’s talk about what makes this gun run. The heart is Beretta’s BLINK gas system—I’ve put cases of light 1-ounce target loads through this platform without a single hiccup. It’s absurdly fast and soft-shooting. The 24-inch barrel is the sweet spot for 3-Gun or Sporting Clays; it’s quick on transitions but still gives you a smooth swing. That step rib isn’t just for looks. It raises your eye line perfectly, so your head sits naturally on the stock for a consistent mount every time. No more fighting to get your cheek down—it just fits.
The Kick-Off Plus system in the synthetic stock is a genuine asset on long match days. It turns the already mild 12-gauge push into more of a nudge. Here’s the thing—recoil management isn’t just about comfort; it’s about seeing your second and third shots break. This system helps you stay on target. The controls are classic, intuitive Beretta, and the whole package is drop-in ready for your next match. You’ll want to add an optic plate, which is a simple bolt-on affair, and it’s compatible with popular mounts from brands like Briley and CROM (from Aridus Industries) for red dots.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge (3″ Chamber) |
| Action | Semi-Automatic (Gas-Operated) |
| Barrel Length | 24 Inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 44.5 Inches |
| Weight | Approx. 6.8 lbs |
| Stock | Synthetic with Kick-Off Plus |
| Chokes | Includes 3 Optima-Choke HP (C, IC, M) |
| Magazine Capacity | 3 Rounds (Plugged for Compliance) |
Pros & Cons
The pros are significant. Reliability is top-tier—this system eats everything. The handling is lightning-fast and the recoil reduction is tangible. The included choke system (Improved Cylinder, Modified, and Cylinder) covers most competition scenarios. The cons? Well, at $1475.79, it’s an investment. The 3-round capacity is a competition feature, but you’ll need to source a separate magazine tube extension if you want to use it in non-compliant events or for home defense. Some might prefer a wood stock for aesthetics, but the synthetic is durable and houses the recoil tech.
Who is this for?
This shotgun is for the serious competitor. It’s for the 3-Gunner looking for an edge on the clock, or the Sporting Clays shooter who wants a dedicated, fast-follow-up gun for true pairs. It’s also a fantastic option for the action shooter who’s tired of fiddling with a finicky semi-auto. If you demand reliability and speed straight from the box, this is your tool. That said, it’s overkill for a casual once-a-year hunter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will it cycle light 7/8 oz or 1 oz target loads reliably?
A: Absolutely. The BLINK gas system is specifically tuned for light target loads. I’ve run countless 1 oz, 1200 fps loads without a single failure to feed or eject. It’s built for them.
Q: Can the magazine capacity be increased?
A: Yes. The magazine tube is threaded, and extensions from several manufacturers like Nordic Components or Briley can be added. Remember, FFL transfer required for firearm purchases, and always ensure your configuration is legal for your intended use and location.
Q: Is the blue finish durable?
A: It’s a Beretta anodized finish, not paint. It holds up very well to the bumps and scrapes of a match or being pulled in and out of a safe. It’s a working finish, not a safe queen coating.
If you’re ready to step up your competition game with a shotgun that works as hard as you do, this Beretta 1301 Competition Pro is the benchmark. See more details on our product page.
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