Description
You’ve been there. The season opener, a frigid Missouri dawn, and your shoulder already aches just thinking about a box of 3.5″ magnums. You need a shotgun that can handle punishing loads and punishing weather without punishing you. That’s the exact scenario the Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus Kick-off 12 Ga, 28″ Barrel, LH, Syn was built for. It’s a left-handed, synthetic-stocked semi-auto shotgun engineered for serious waterfowlers and turkey hunters who demand reliability in harsh conditions and significant recoil reduction. This isn’t a range toy; it’s a hard-use tool designed to perform when the elements are at their worst.
So, what is the Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus Kick-off 12 Ga, 28″ Barrel, LH, Syn? It is a left-handed, gas-operated semi-automatic shotgun chambered in 12 gauge with a 28-inch barrel and synthetic stock. It features Beretta’s proprietary Kick-off hydraulic dampening system to reduce felt recoil by up to 70%, making it ideal for firing high-volume or heavy magnum loads. The platform is built with corrosion-resistant materials and a self-cleaning gas system for extreme environment durability. At $1597.06, it sits in a competitive spot for a premium, feature-rich hunting semi-auto.
Let’s break down the key features. The headline is the Kick-off system. It uses a hydraulic piston in the stock to absorb and dissipate energy before it reaches your shoulder. For a hunter putting dozens of 3.5″ shells through the gun in a morning, this isn’t a luxury—it’s a game-saver that directly impacts endurance and accuracy. The A400’s gas system is also a workhorse. It’s self-regulating and designed to cycle everything from light 2 3/4″ target loads up to heavy 3 1/2″ magnums without adjustment. That versatility is a huge value, allowing you to use one gun for geese, ducks, and even clays. The synthetic stock and corrosion-resistant Steelium barrel and internal coatings mean you can hunt from a muddy layout blind or a salty marsh without constant, obsessive maintenance. It fits out of the box and is ready for your local FFL transfer.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge (2 3/4″, 3″, 3 1/2″) |
| Barrel Length | 28 Inches |
| Chamber | 3 1/2″ |
| Overall Length | 49.6 Inches |
| Weight | 7.1 lbs |
| Stock | Synthetic, Left-Hand |
| Capacity | 3+1 (with plug) |
| Action | Gas-Operated Semi-Auto |
Here’s the thing—no gun is perfect for everyone. The pros are clear: exceptional recoil reduction, legendary Beretta reliability, and all-weather durability with minimal upkeep. It’s also compatible with a wide range of Beretta Optima-Choke tubes (including the popular Pattern Control and Extended models) and aftermarket accessories from brands like Carlson’s. The cons? That 7.1 lb weight helps with recoil but can feel a bit front-heavy for some during long carries. And while the price is competitive for its class, it’s a significant investment compared to basic pumps or older autoloaders. You’re paying for advanced engineering and comfort.
Who is this gun really for? It’s for the dedicated waterfowler who spends every possible weekend in the blind, often in wet, cold conditions. It’s for the turkey hunter who wants to shoot heavy TSS loads without flinching. It’s for the left-handed shooter tired of adapting to right-handed guns or dealing with spent shells flying across their sight picture. If you prioritize shootability over ultra-light weight and want a semi-auto that will last for seasons with basic care, this is a top-tier contender. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Kick-off system worth the extra cost compared to a standard A400?
A: If you regularly shoot 3″ or 3.5″ magnum loads, absolutely. The reduction in perceived recoil is dramatic, allowing for faster follow-up shots and less fatigue. For occasional use or lighter loads, the standard model may offer better value.
Q: Can I use this for sporting clays or upland hunting?
A: Yes, it will cycle light target loads reliably. However, the 28″ barrel and 7.1 lb weight make it less nimble for fast upland swings compared to dedicated field models like the A400 Xcel or lighter guns. It’s a specialist built for power and punishment.
Q: What chokes does it come with?
A: It typically includes a set of Beretta Optima-Choke tubes (often Improved Cylinder, Modified, and Full). Always verify the specific inclusions, as they can vary. The system is compatible with the entire Beretta Optima-Choke lineup.
For the serious hunter who values their shoulder and demands reliability where it counts, the Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus represents a calculated investment in performance. See if it’s the right fit for your next season.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.