Description
The Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon 1 12 Ga, 32″ Barrel, Sporting, Left Handed, Optima Choke HP is a dedicated left-handed over-and-under shotgun built for the sporting clays course. It’s a purpose-driven competition gun with a long, stable 32-inch barrel set, a left-ejecting action for southpaws, and Beretta’s Optima HP choke system for precise pattern control. I’ve put hundreds of shells through this platform, and it’s the kind of gun that feels like an extension of your will on the range—smooth, balanced, and predictable.
Key Features
- True Left-Handed Configuration: Ejects spent shells to the left, keeping them out of a southpaw shooter’s line of sight.
- 32″ Sporting Barrels: Extra length for a smoother swing and improved follow-through on long crossers and report pairs.
- Optima HP Choke System: Beretta’s high-performance choke tubes provide excellent pattern density and consistency.
- Select Walnut Stock: Features a sporting-style checkpiece and hand-cut checkering for a secure, classic grip.
- Single Selective Trigger: Mechanical trigger with barrel selector for reliable, crisp breaks.
Specifications & Details
| Gauge: | 12 Gauge (3″ Chambers) |
| Barrel Length: | 32 Inches |
| Overall Length: | Approx. 48.5 Inches |
| Weight: | Approx. 7.7 lbs |
| Choke System: | Beretta Optima HP (Includes 5 Chokes) |
| Stock: | Left-Hand Select Walnut |
Look, left-handed shooters have been adapting to right-ejecting guns forever, but there’s a tangible difference when you pick up a shotgun built for your dominant eye and hand. The 686 Silver Pigeon 1 Sporting Left Handed is that gun. The 32-inch barrels, tipping the scales at a hair under 8 pounds, give it a forward balance that promotes a fluid, unhurried swing. This weight and length combo is a common sight in the hands of serious sporting clays competitors for a reason—it works. The mechanical trigger is a workhorse, and the gun comes with a full set of five Optima HP chokes, giving you the tools to tackle any station on the course. At $1973.90, it sits in that sweet spot between entry-level and unobtainable, offering proven Beretta quality without the premium for excessive engraving.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This is built for the left-handed shooter who is serious about clay target sports—primarily sporting clays and FITASC. It’s for the competitor who wants a dedicated tool that won’t fight their natural mounting and shooting mechanics. It’s also an excellent choice for a lefty trap shooter who prefers a single-sight-plane gun. While it could be used for hunting, its weight and length make it specialized for the field course.
Pros & Cons
Pros: True left-handed ergonomics eliminate adaptation. The long barrels provide superb swing dynamics and target stability. Beretta’s Optima HP chokes are among the best in the business. The 686 action is famously robust and reliable. It’s a classic design that holds its value well.
Cons: The 32″ barrels can feel cumbersome in tight quarters or for walking long distances in the field. It’s a sporting gun, so it’s not lightweight. The price reflects its specialized nature and quality. That said, for its intended use on the clays course, the pros heavily outweigh the cons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is this gun ready to shoot out of the box?
A: Yes, it is drop-in ready. It comes with five Optima HP choke tubes (typically Cylinder, Improved Cylinder, Modified, Improved Modified, and Full), so you can start patterning and shooting immediately. Just remember, an FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases.
Q: Can I use my existing Beretta Mobilchoke or Optima chokes in this barrel?
A: No. The Optima HP (High Performance) barrels require specifically designed Optima HP choke tubes. They are not interchangeable with the standard Optima or older Mobilchoke systems. Stick with the included set or purchase additional Optima HP tubes.
Q: Is the stock dimensions adjustable for length of pull or cast?
A: The stock is a fixed, classic sporting configuration. For significant adjustments, you would need to have the stock professionally cut and fitted or explore aftermarket options from specialists like Cole’s or Graco. The gun is designed to fit a wide range of shooters well in its standard form.
If you’re a left-handed shooter tired of compromising, the Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon 1 Sporting in this configuration is one of the most logical and rewarding steps up you can make. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. See our product page for current availability and to start the process.
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