Description
The Beretta 1301 Tactical 12Ga, 18.5″ Barrel, Flat Dark Earth, Synthetic Stock, Fixed Cylinder, 4Rd, Ghost Ring Sight is a semi-automatic tactical shotgun built for speed and reliability. It’s a purpose-driven home defense and duty platform that leverages Beretta’s proven Blink gas system for incredibly fast cycling with minimal recoil. I’ve put a few hundred rounds of everything from light target loads to 00 buck through one, and its performance is consistently slick. This specific model comes in a subdued Flat Dark Earth finish with a fixed cylinder choke and a ghost ring sight setup for quick target acquisition. At $1201.69, it sits in a competitive spot for a top-tier semi-auto tactical shotgun. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Key Features
- Beretta’s BLINK Gas Operating System for ultra-fast cycling and reduced recoil.
- 18.5-inch barrel with a fixed cylinder choke, optimized for defensive ammunition.
- Ghost Ring rear sight with a high-visibility front post for rapid aiming.
- Flat Dark Earth synthetic stock and forend for a modern, low-profile look.
- 4-round magazine tube capacity (easily extended with aftermarket kits).
- Textured gripping surfaces on the forend and stock for positive control.
Specifications & Details
| Gauge | 12 Gauge (3″ Chamber) |
| Barrel Length | 18.5 Inches |
| Overall Length | 39.5 Inches |
| Weight (Unloaded) | 6.4 lbs |
| Stock | Synthetic, Flat Dark Earth |
| Sights | Ghost Ring Rear, Fiber Optic Front |
The build quality is exactly what you expect from Beretta—robust and refined. The action is buttery smooth right out of the box, and the FDE finish is durable and even. That fixed cylinder choke means you’re ready to go with any standard defensive load without worrying about changing chokes. The 6.4-pound weight makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, a critical factor for a home defense tool. The ghost ring sight system is a huge upgrade over a simple bead, giving you a precise reference point for slugs or patterning buckshot at reasonable distances. Here’s the thing—while the 4-round tube is standard, the platform is wildly popular for customization. Parts from companies like Aridus Industries and GG&G are drop-in ready, letting you tailor the gun to your exact needs without gunsmithing.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This is for the shooter who needs a no-compromise defensive shotgun. It’s ideal for home defense, as a duty weapon for security professionals, or for tactical training courses where reliability under pressure is non-negotiable. If you’ve been frustrated by slower-cycling or finicky semi-autos, the 1301’s speed is a revelation. It’s also a great choice for someone who appreciates a modern, ergonomic design and plans to accessorize with a light or shell carrier. The 18.5-inch barrel keeps it compact and legal without NFA paperwork, a key point for many.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The Blink system is incredibly fast and soft-shooting. The build quality is superb. The ghost ring sights are a major functional advantage. The FDE finish is both practical and good-looking. It has massive aftermarket support for stocks, handguards, and magazine extensions.
Cons: The 4-round capacity is a bit low by modern standards, though easily fixed. The stock forend is simple, and many users immediately upgrade to a M-LOK compatible version. At this price point, some might wish it included a magazine extension from the factory—but you’re paying for the core performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will it cycle light target loads reliably?
A: Yes, absolutely. One of the strengths of the Blink gas system is its ability to handle a wide range of loads, from light 2-3/4″ target shells up to 3″ magnums, without adjustment. I’ve had zero issues with 1-1/8 oz target loads.
Q: Is the magazine tube easily extended?
A: Very. The 4-round tube is threaded, and extensions from Nordic Components, GG&G, and others are simple screw-on additions. Just remember that an FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases before you can start customizing.
Q: Can you mount a red dot sight on this model?
A: The receiver is not drilled and tapped from the factory, but it’s a simple job for a gunsmith. A more popular route is using an aftermarket mount that replaces the rear ghost ring sight assembly, providing a Picatinny rail for optics.
If you’re looking for a semi-auto tactical shotgun that works flawlessly from day one and has the pedigree to back it up, the Beretta 1301 Tactical is a standout choice. Check availability for this Flat Dark Earth model on our site.
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