Precision Perfected: Beretta 694 Shotgun
Precision Perfected: Beretta 694 Shotgun Review
As a seasoned enthusiast of shooting sports and anadmirer of fine craftsmanship in firearms, I've had the pleasure of putting the Beretta 694 through its paces while our demo model has been on the shelf at our Oakedge store. Designed explicitly for clay shooting, this shotgun embodies a culmination of Italian artistry and cutting-edge engineering, delivering an unparalleled shooting experience that redefines excellence.
Design and Craftsmanship:
The Beretta 694 is a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship that comes with the Beretta name. Its sleek, low-profile receiver boasts stylish modern engraving, showcasing the brand's heritage and attention to detail. The woodwork, whether opt for the Sporting or Trap version, exemplifies Beretta's expertise in selecting premium-grade walnut that not only complements the gun's aesthetics but also ensures superb handling and balance.
Performance at its Pinnacle:
One of the standout features of the 694 is its Steelium Plus barrels. Utilizing Beretta's proprietary tri-alloy steel, these barrels are engineered to deliver unmatched ballistic performance, providing a perfect balance between durability and optimal shot patterning. The increased length of the forcing cone reduces recoil and muzzle jump, offering a swift follow-through for quick target acquisition, an absolute necessity in the world of clay shooting.
The B-Fast adjustable comb and rib allow for personalized fit and sight picture customization, accommodating various shooting styles and preferences. This adaptability enhances comfort and facilitates consistency in aiming, essential for achieving peak performance on the clay range.
Innovative Technology:
Equipped with the Beretta's patented Steelium Plus barrels, the 694 redefines precision and consistency in shotguns. The extended Optima HP chokes ensure uniform shot distribution, allowing shooters to fine-tune their patterns according to specific targets and distances. The innovative Electronic B-FAST System integrates an inertial sensor to record movement, enabling shooters to analyze their swing dynamics and make informed adjustments for enhanced performance.
Ergonomics and Handling:
The 694's meticulous design extends to its ergonomics, featuring an improved palm swell and a wider and more comfortable forend. These enhancements translate into a natural and responsive feel, promoting better control and maneuverability. The redesigned opening lever facilitates smoother and more effortless opening and closing of the gun, adding to the overall shooting experience.
Closing Thoughts:
The Beretta 694 epitomizes the pinnacle of shotgun innovation and performance. Its fusion of Italian craftsmanship, technological advancements, and attention to shooter comfort makes it a standout choice for discerning clay shooting enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned competitor or an avid clay shooter, the 694's unparalleled precision, reliability, and adaptability make it a formidable companion on the range.
Model: Beretta 694 Sporting Shotgun
- Barrel Length: 71 cm (approximately 28 inches)
- Barrel Type: Optima Bore HP, a specialized barrel design by Beretta known for its performance and precision.
- Chamber: Accommodates shell sizes of 2 3/4 inches and 3 inches, providing flexibility in ammunition selection.
- Fore End: Rounded fore end, designed for comfortable handling and ease of control.
- Stock: Pistol grip stock, offering a firm and ergonomic grip for improved handling and stability.
- Technologies: Features Beretta's renowned Steelium Plus technology in the barrel construction, ensuring durability, superior ballistic performance, and reduced recoil.
- Trigger: Single-selective trigger system for precise and customizable shooting.
- Stock Finishing/Color: Finished with a glossy oil treatment, enhancing the natural beauty of the walnut wood while offering protection.
- Accessories: Comes with standard accessories including a 23mm Recoil Pad and a set of choke tubes (sizes 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 Extended).
- Gauge: 12-gauge, a versatile and widely used gauge suitable for various shooting disciplines.
- Activity: Primarily designed for Clay Shooting, emphasizing accuracy and consistency.
- Case: Includes an ABS Case for secure storage and transportation.
- Choke: Equipped with Optima-Choke High-Performance (OCHP) chokes for improved shot pattern control.
- Recoil Pad: MicroCore® Recoil Pad (18 mm), designed to absorb and diminish felt recoil for a more comfortable shooting experience.
- Stock Drop: 35/50, indicating the drop in stock dimensions to cater to different shooting preferences and body types.
- Top Rib: 10x8, referring to the dimensions of the rib on the barrel, which influences sight alignment and aiming.
- Product Segment: Falls under the Competition category, designed for serious shooters seeking high performance and precision.
- Barrel Finishing/Color: Finished with a glossy appearance, adding to the overall aesthetics of the shotgun.
In summary, the Beretta 694 Sporting Shotgun is a meticulously crafted firearm tailored for competitive clay shooting. Its blend of advanced technologies, ergonomic design, precision engineering, and included accessories makes it a top choice for enthusiasts and professionals seeking superior performance and reliability on the range.