Description
The Beretta 686 Vittoria Silver Pigeon I 12 Ga, 30″ Barrel, 3″, Silver/Blued Wood, Youth/Compact is a scaled-down, high-quality over-and-under shotgun designed for smaller-statured shooters. It offers the legendary Silver Pigeon reliability and handling in a package with a shorter length of pull and a lighter, more compact frame, making it an ideal entry point for youth or those preferring a trimmer fit. I’ve put a few hundred target loads through one, and the balance with that 30-inch barrel is just about perfect—it swings smoothly and comes up to the shoulder without any fuss.
Key Features
- Youth/Compact Frame: Specifically designed with a shorter length of pull for better control and comfort for younger shooters or adults with smaller builds.
- 30-inch Barrels: Provides a long, smooth sight plane for improved accuracy on crossing targets in clays or field shooting.
- 3-inch Chambers: Handles a versatile range of 12-gauge ammunition, from light target loads to heavier hunting shells.
- Silver/Blued Finish: Features a polished silver receiver with elegant scroll engraving contrasted by deep blued barrels and a satin-finished wood stock.
- Beretta Reliability: Built on the proven 686 action known for its durability and crisp, mechanical trigger system.
Specifications & Details
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3″ |
| Barrel Length | 30″ |
| Overall Length | Approx. 46.5″ |
| Weight | Approx. 6.8 lbs |
| Action | Over/Under |
Look, the specs tell part of the story, but the feel in your hands completes it. That approximate 6.8-pound weight, distributed along those 30-inch barrels, gives it a planted, stable feel that helps manage recoil and follow-through. It’s a gun that feels solid without being a burden to carry. The compact dimensions mean it typically fits out of the box for its intended shooters, though checking the length of pull is always wise. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, and it’s priced at $1879.06.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This isn’t just a kid’s gun—though it’s fantastic for that. It’s for any shooter who finds standard shotguns a bit too long or heavy. That includes younger hunters getting started, smaller-framed adults, or anyone who prefers a quicker-handling over/under for sporting clays or upland birds. If a full-size Silver Pigeon I feels like a stretch, this Vittoria Compact model is your answer. The 3-inch chamber versatility means it can start on light loads and grow into a capable field gun.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The scaled dimensions are its biggest advantage, offering premium Beretta quality in a more accessible package. The 30-inch barrels provide excellent swing dynamics for target sports. The finish and wood are classic Beretta—understated and well-executed. It’s built on a platform with tons of aftermarket support for things like recoil pads or custom chokes from brands like Briley or Trulock.
Cons: The shorter stock may require a spacer kit for an adult to use long-term, which is an added cost. That said, at just under $1900, it’s an investment. You’re paying for the Beretta name and craftsmanship, so it’s not a budget option. The silver receiver, while beautiful, can show fingerprints and require a bit more upkeep than a matte finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the length of pull on this Youth/Compact model?
A: While exact specs can vary slightly, Beretta’s Vittoria/Compact models typically feature a length of pull around 13.5 inches, compared to the standard 14.5-14.75 inches on a full-size Silver Pigeon. This 1-inch+ difference is significant for fit and control.
Q: Can an adult shooter use this gun effectively?
A: Absolutely. Many adults, particularly those of smaller stature or who prefer a more compact mount, use these models very effectively. The performance is identical to the full-size version; it’s all about the fit. An adult can always add a recoil pad spacer to slightly lengthen the stock if needed.
Q: Is it suitable for hunting as well as clays?
A: Yes, the 3-inch chamber and 30-inch barrel configuration make it quite versatile. The longer barrel is great for clays, and the compact frame makes it fast-handling in the field for upland game. Just remember that FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases when ordering online.
If the idea of a heritage-grade shotgun that actually fits sounds right, this Beretta 686 Vittoria Compact deserves a close look.
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