Beretta A400 Xplor Action 28 Gauge Shotgun

Description

You’re in the market for a lightweight, fast-handling upland gun, but you’ve seen the price tags on high-end gas-operated shotguns. The idea of a soft-shooting, reliable 28-gauge that won’t beat you up after a long day in the field is appealing, but you need real value—not just a brand name. Where do you find the balance between premium performance and a practical budget?

The Beretta A400 Xplor Action 28 Ga 28″ Barrel, 2.75″, Bronze Toned Receiver Walnut Stock is a gas-operated semi-automatic shotgun designed for the upland hunter. It blends a lightweight 28-gauge frame with Beretta’s reliable action and a distinctive bronze receiver, offering reduced recoil and quick handling in a package that justifies its cost through durability and performance. This model ships to Missouri and compliant US states.

Let’s talk about the action. Beretta’s proven gas system is the heart of this shotgun, and it’s engineered to cycle target loads and hunting shells reliably. That means less felt recoil compared to many inertia-driven systems—a real benefit when you’re shooting a lighter gun. The system is self-cleaning, too, which is a practical perk for hunters who spend more time in the field than at the cleaning bench. At a weight of around 6.3 pounds, this 28-gauge moves fast and carries easy, all day long.

The look is part of the appeal here. The bronze-toned anodized aluminum receiver isn’t just for show; it provides a corrosion-resistant finish that stands up to the elements. Paired with a genuine walnut stock that features Beretta’s classic checkering, you get a shotgun that looks more expensive than its $1409.90 price tag suggests. It’s a step above basic field guns without venturing into pure collector territory. The 28-inch barrel, with its 2.75-inch chamber, is the sweet spot for the 28-gauge, providing a smooth swing and a balanced feel.

Here’s the thing—this isn’t a do-everything 12-gauge. It’s a specialist. The 28-gauge is perfect for dove, quail, and woodcock, offering a dense, effective pattern with less shot and noticeably less kick. You’ll save on ammunition costs over time compared to running heavier gauges, which adds to the long-term value. The gun is drop-in ready for most shooters, with a well-designed stock that typically fits right out of the box, though shims are included for minor adjustments.

Specifications

Gauge	28 Gauge
Chamber	2.75″
Barrel Length	28″
Action	Semi-Automatic, Gas-Operated
Receiver Finish	Bronze Anodized
Stock	Walnut

Pros: The reduced recoil from the gas system makes for a pleasant shooting experience. The lightweight build is ideal for long days afield. The fit and finish offer a premium feel at a mid-range price point. It’s a reliable, brand-name shotgun that doesn’t require a custom shop budget.

Cons: The 28-gauge niche means shell availability and cost per box can be higher than 12 or 20-gauge. It’s not the most budget-friendly entry into semi-autos—there are cheaper pumps out there. The walnut stock, while beautiful, requires more care than synthetic in harsh conditions.

So who is this for? It’s for the upland hunter who has used a 20-gauge and wants to step up to the finesse of a 28-gauge without sacrificing reliability. It’s for the shooter who values a soft recoil impulse and appreciates a gun that looks as good as it performs. It’s also a solid choice for a smaller-framed shooter or someone sensitive to recoil looking for a quality, long-lasting firearm. It pairs well with standard Beretta Optima-Choke tubes (like those used in many A400 models) for pattern versatility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the 28-gauge powerful enough for hunting?

A: Absolutely. With modern ammunition, the 28-gauge is highly effective on game like dove, quail, squirrel, and even turkey at reasonable ranges. It delivers a dense pattern with less recoil and less shot, promoting better shooting form.

Q: How does the price compare to similar shotguns?

A: You’re getting Beretta’s flagship gas system technology at a price point often occupied by less refined inertia guns or basic gas guns from other makers. When you compare features and build quality, it sits as a value-oriented choice within the premium semi-auto category.

Q: Can it handle 3-inch shells?

A: No. This model is chambered specifically for 2.75-inch shells. This is standard for most 28-gauge semi-autos and contributes to the lighter, more streamlined action. Always use ammunition matching the chamber length specified on the barrel.

If the balance of lightweight handling, reduced recoil, and Beretta’s reliability in a distinctive package fits your hunting style, this A400 Xplor Action is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.