Description
Picture this: you’re walking a Missouri field edge at dawn, the air crisp. A covey flushes, and the swing feels instinctive—balanced, smooth, and the shot connects with a satisfying authority. That’s the experience the Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon 1 20 Ga, 28″ Barrel, Optima Choke HP is built to deliver. It’s not the flashiest over/under on the rack, but for the shooter who values proven performance over pretension, it represents a serious value proposition.
The Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon 1 20 Ga, 28″ Barrel, Optima Choke HP is a field-ready over/under shotgun chambered in versatile 20-gauge. It features a 28-inch barrel set with Beretta’s Optima HP choke system, a durable silvered receiver, and a hand-finished walnut stock. Priced at $1879.90, it’s a balanced, reliable entry into Beretta’s legendary shotgun lineage, offering classic handling for upland and clays without the premium of higher-grade models.
Let’s talk about where the value really lives. You’re getting the core 686 action—a benchmark for reliability that’s been proven for decades. The 20-gauge chambering is a sweet spot: it has noticeably less recoil than a 12-gauge, making it a joy for long days afield, yet it’s plenty capable for pheasant, dove, and quail with the right loads. The 28-inch barrel provides that smooth, steady swing plane shooters covet for crossing shots, and it comes in at a total weight of around 6.8 pounds—light enough to carry all day but with enough mass to maintain momentum.
The Optima HP choke system is a key feature. It’s Beretta’s latest standard, and this gun ships with a set of flush-mounted chokes (typically Improved Cylinder, Modified, and Full). The beauty is its compatibility; these are the same chokes used in Beretta’s high-end 690 series and many Browning shotguns, so upgrading or adding specialized tubes is straightforward and you’re buying into a widely supported system. Here’s the thing—this setup is drop-in ready. You can take it from the case, install your preferred choke, and head to the field with confidence; no gunsmithing required to get started.
Is it a plain gun? By some standards, maybe. The engraving is minimal, and the wood, while hand-finished, won’t have the extravagant figure of a $5,000 shotgun. But that’s the practical tradeoff. You’re paying for the mechanical heart and the handling, not elaborate decoration. The silvered receiver is corrosion-resistant and easy to maintain, and the walnut stock features a classic oil finish that’s durable and easy to touch up in the future. The price point of $1879.90 positions it as a conscious choice against other entry-level over/unders and high-end semi-autos—you’re investing in a timeless design that will hold its value.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 20 Gauge |
| Barrel Length | 28 Inches |
| Choke System | Beretta Optima HP (Chokes Included) |
| Overall Length | Approx. 45.5 Inches |
| Weight | Approx. 6.8 lbs |
| Receiver Finish | Silvered |
| Stock | Hand-finished Walnut |
Pros & Cons
The pros are clear: legendary Beretta reliability and a balanced, soft-shooting 20-gauge platform. The Optima HP system offers great versatility and cross-model compatibility. It’s a shotgun that will last a lifetime with basic care. The cons? At this price, you accept simpler aesthetics. Some may find the 20-gauge limiting for waterfowl or turkey compared to a 12-gauge, though with modern ammunition, it’s more capable than many think.
Who It’s For
This is for the upland hunter or recreational clays shooter who wants a heirloom-quality over/under but needs to watch the budget. It’s perfect for the shooter moving up from a pump or auto who appreciates classic handling, or for a younger shooter who would benefit from the lighter-recoiling 20-gauge platform. It’s a tool for building skill and memories, without unnecessary frills.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the 20-gauge version significantly lighter than the 12-gauge?
A: Yes, but the bigger difference is in felt recoil. The 20-gauge model typically weighs about half a pound less, but the reduction in kick is much more pronounced, making it excellent for extended practice or hunting days.
Q: What chokes are included with the shotgun?
A: It comes standard with a set of Beretta Optima HP flush chokes, usually including Improved Cylinder, Modified, and Full tubes. This covers most hunting and recreational clay target situations right out of the box.
Q: Can this shotgun handle steel shot for waterfowl?
A: Yes, the Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon I is steel-shot certified. Just be sure to use the appropriate choke tube (typically no tighter than Modified for steel) and always follow the ammunition manufacturer’s guidelines.
This Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon 1 is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. If you’re looking for a straightforward, high-value over/under that gets the fundamentals right, it’s worth a close look. FFL transfer required for firearm purchases.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.