Description
The Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon 1 12 Ga 3 Chamber 28 Barrel Field Mobile Choke Tubes Select Walnut Stock Oil Finish is a classic over-and-under shotgun designed for hunting and clay sports. It offers reliable Beretta quality, a versatile 28-inch barrel length, and a beautiful oil-finished walnut stock, all at a price point that makes it a serious contender in the field-grade shotgun market. This model is a solid, no-fuss workhorse built for the practical shooter who values proven performance over flashy extras.
Key Features
- Proven Over-and-Under Action: Built on Beretta’s renowned 686 platform, known for its durability and smooth swing.
- Mobile Choke System: Includes three choke tubes (IC, M, F) for versatility from upland birds to waterfowl.
- Select Walnut Stock with Oil Finish: Features attractive wood grain and a durable, field-ready oil finish that’s easier to touch up than glossy varnish.
- 3″ Chamber: Handles a wide range of 12-gauge loads from light target shells to heavier 3-inch magnums for waterfowl.
- Field Configuration: The 28-inch barrel provides a balanced point for most hunters, blending quick handling with a smooth swing.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3″ |
| Barrel Length | 28″ |
| Chokes | Mobile Choke System (IC, M, F Included) |
| Stock | Select Walnut, Oil Finish |
| Action | Over-and-Under |
Weighing in around 7.3 pounds, this shotgun strikes a good balance between stability and carry comfort for long days afield. The overall length is typically just over 45 inches, making it manageable in a blind or while walking through cover. The price of $2012.91 positions it as a significant but justifiable investment for a shotgun you’ll use for decades. Here’s the thing—it’s a tool that fits out of the box, requiring no gunsmithing to start hunting or shooting clays. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This Silver Pigeon I is ideal for the dedicated upland hunter, waterfowler on a budget, or a recreational clay shooter who wants a single, reliable shotgun for everything. It’s for the shooter who recognizes the Beretta name but doesn’t need the extra engraving or fancy wood of the higher-tier Silver Pigeon models. If you’re comparing it to a Browning Citori or a Franchi Instinct, you’re looking at the core value segment of premium Italian-made over-unders.
Pros & Cons
Pros: You get Beretta’s legendary reliability and a cold-hammer-forged barrel in a classic field gun. The oil-finished walnut is both handsome and practical for field repairs. The 3-inch chamber and choke system offer tremendous load versatility. It’s a shotgun that will hold its value and perform for a lifetime with basic care.
Cons: At this price, you’re not getting fancy scrollwork or a high-gloss finish. Some may find the mechanical trigger a bit heavier than more expensive models. Compared to a pump or semi-auto, the two-shot capacity is a limitation—but that’s the tradeoff for the O/U’s simplicity and balance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the difference between the Silver Pigeon I and the higher-numbered Silver Pigeons?
A: Primarily, it’s cosmetic. The Silver Pigeon I has less elaborate engraving and a simpler, oil-finished stock. The core action, barrels, and reliability are the same as more expensive models, making the “I” the best bang-for-buck in the line.
Q: Can this shotgun handle steel shot for waterfowl hunting?
A: Yes, with the appropriate choke tubes. The Beretta Mobile chokes are rated for steel shot. Just be sure to use chokes marked for steel (like the included Modified or Full) and avoid using older, non-steel rated tubes to prevent barrel damage.
Q: Is this a good first over-and-under shotgun?
A: Absolutely. It offers a no-nonsense introduction to a premium action type. The price is a serious investment, but it buys a lifetime of service without the steep cost of a “presentation grade” gun. It’s a classic design that teaches proper shooting form with its single selective trigger and manual safety.
For a field-proven over-and-under that delivers Beretta quality without unnecessary frills, the Silver Pigeon I represents a smart, value-focused choice. Consider it for your next versatile hunting companion.
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