Description
The Beretta A400 Xcel Sporting KO 12 Ga, 28″ Barrel, 3″, Blue Receiver Walnut Blued is a gas-operated semi-automatic shotgun purpose-built for the clay target sports. It’s designed to handle a wide range of loads with minimal recoil and features a distinctive blue receiver and a handsome walnut stock. I’ve put hundreds of rounds through this model, and its reliability and soft-shooting nature are exactly what competitive and recreational shooters need. At $1616.70, it’s a serious investment in your shooting future, and it’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Key Features
- Kick-Off Plus Technology: Beretta’s hydraulic damper system reduces felt recoil by up to 60%, making long practice sessions far more comfortable.
- Steelium Plus Chokes: Includes a set of five extended, high-performance chokes (C, IC, M, IM, F) for precise pattern control.
- Gas System with Self-Cleaning Piston: The A400’s gas system is famously reliable with light target loads up to 3″ magnums and requires less frequent cleaning.
- Aqua Technology Coating: Internal components are treated for corrosion resistance and smoother operation, which I’ve found really helps in damp Missouri weather.
- Walnut Stock with Gel-Core Recoil Pad: Combines classic aesthetics with modern ergonomics and shock absorption.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3″ |
| Barrel Length | 28″ |
| Overall Length | 48.5″ |
| Weight | 7.1 lbs |
| Capacity | 3+1 (with plug) |
| Receiver Finish | Blued |
| Stock | Walnut |
Look, the devil is in the details with a competition gun. The 28″ barrel provides a smooth, consistent swing that’s ideal for Sporting Clays and Skeet, offering a great balance between speed and stability. The weight, right at 7.1 pounds, is heavy enough to soak up movement but light enough to carry all day. The blue receiver isn’t just for show—it’s a durable, deep finish that pairs perfectly with the oil-finished walnut. Here’s the thing—this gun fits out of the box for a wide range of shooters, but the shim kit included lets you dial in the drop and cast for a perfect, custom fit. That’s a huge advantage.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This is the workhorse for the serious recreational clay shooter or the competitor who wants reliability without custom shop prices. If you shoot multiple rounds of Sporting Clays every weekend, or if you’re moving up from a basic autoloader and want a tool that will help you break more targets, this is your benchmark. It’s also fantastic for coaches or instructors who need a soft-shooting gun for demonstrating techniques over and over. It’s not a waterfowl gun, though it could pinch-hit. Its home is on the clays course.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The reduced recoil is transformative—you can shoot 200 shells and still feel fine the next day. The reliability is legendary; I’ve run everything from 7/8 oz light target loads to 3″ goose loads without a hiccup. The balance is neutral and fast, and the included choke set is genuinely high-quality. Maintenance is simpler than many gas guns thanks to that self-cleaning piston.
Cons: The price point puts it in a competitive field. The walnut, while beautiful, requires more care than a synthetic stock if you’re rough on gear. Some shooters accustomed to inertia systems might find the gas system a touch different to disassemble initially, but it’s a quick learn.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Kick-Off system worth it for a casual shooter?
A: Absolutely. Recoil management isn’t just about comfort—it’s about accuracy. Less flinch means better follow-through and more broken targets. Even shooting a few boxes a month, you’ll appreciate the difference.
Q: What shells does it cycle reliably?
A: This is where the A400 shines. Its gas system is designed to cycle a massive range. I’ve had zero issues with standard 1 1/8 oz target loads at 1200 fps, all the way up to heavy 3″ magnums. It’s one of the most versatile semi-autos on the market.
Q: Can I use my existing Beretta Mobilchokes with this model?
A: Yes. The A400 Xcel Sporting KO uses Beretta’s standard Mobilchoke threading, so your current choke tubes from other Beretta models (like the A300 or older 390/391) will work perfectly, giving you incredible flexibility.
After running this Beretta A400 Xcel through its paces, I can confidently say it delivers on its promises. It’s a refined, competition-ready platform that makes shooting more enjoyable and, ultimately, makes you a better shooter. If you’re ready to step up your clay game with a proven performer, this is a compelling choice. See the full details and availability on our site.
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