Breda Astro 20 Shotgun Review: Specs, Price, Hunting Use, Pros & Cons

Breda Astro 20 Shotgun Review: Specs, Price, Hunting Use, Pros & Cons The Breda Astro 20 is a lightweight, inertia-driven semi-automatic shotgun designed for hunters and sport shooters who value reliability, simplicity, and Italian craftsmanship. Built by Breda Fucili in the renowned Val Trompia district of Italy, the Astro 20 has earned a loyal following for its balance, fast handling, and clean design. Whether you’re chasing upland birds or breaking clays, this 20-gauge workhorse deserves serious attention. --- 🔍 Quick Article Outline • Overview of the Breda Astro 20 • Modifications and Versions • Operating System and Gauge • Technical Specifications • Effective Range and Hunting Applications • Price and Market Position • User Reviews: Pros and Cons • Chokes and Accessories • Interesting Facts About the Astro Series • Final Thoughts --- 🧩 Overview: What Is the Breda Astro 20? The Astro 20 is part of Breda’s long-standing Astro series — the first semi-automatic line from the brand to use an inertia-driven system. It’s chambered in 20 gauge and built around a one-piece, high-performance aluminum alloy receiver (7075T6), machined from billet. The gun is known for its sleek lines, ergonomic walnut stock, and minimalistic yet refined aesthetics. This shotgun is designed for fast target acquisition and smooth cycling, making it ideal for upland bird hunting, small game, and clay shooting. --- 🔧 Modifications and Versions The Astro 20 is available in several barrel lengths and stock configurations: • Barrel lengths: 26” and 28” • Stock options: Right-handed and left-handed versions • Finish: Sandblasted and black anodized receiver with gold “Breda” and “Astro” logos • Wood: Walnut stock with rhomboid checkering for improved grip While not as modular as tactical shotguns, the Astro 20 offers enough variation to suit most hunting and sport shooting needs. --- ⚙️ Operating System and Gauge The Astro 20 uses Benelli-style inertia drive, a proven system known for reliability and low maintenance. Unlike gas-operated shotguns, inertia systems require fewer moving parts and less cleaning. • Gauge: 20 gauge • Chamber: 3” (76mm) magnum • Capacity: 4+1 (without plug), 2+1 (with plug installed) This setup makes it suitable for both light field loads and heavier hunting cartridges. --- 📊 Technical Specifications Here’s a breakdown of the key specs: • Weight: Approx. 3.0 kg with 28” barrel (varies by wood density) • Receiver: 7075T6 aluminum alloy • Trigger: Transverse safety button with red “ready to shoot” indicator • Barrel: Steel shot proofed, compatible with interchangeable chokes • Stock: Walnut with ergonomic fore-end • Case: Delivered in ABS hard case with 5 chokes, choke key, and sling swivels --- 🎯 Effective Range and Hunting Use The Astro 20 is optimized for short to medium-range shooting: • Effective range: 25–40 meters with standard loads • Ideal for:• Upland birds (pheasant, partridge, quail) • Doves and pigeons • Rabbits and small game • Clay targets (skeet, sporting clays) Its light weight and fast cycling make it a favorite for walk-up hunts and quick follow-up shots. --- 💰 Price and Market Position The Breda Astro 20 is priced competitively for a premium European shotgun: • New retail price: Approx. €1,300–€1,600 depending on configuration • Used market: €800–€1,200, depending on condition and accessories Compared to Beretta or Benelli, the Astro 20 offers similar performance at a slightly lower price point, making it a smart buy for hunters who want Italian quality without overspending. --- ⭐ User Reviews: Pros and Cons ✅ Pros • Lightweight and well-balanced • Reliable inertia system • Elegant walnut stock • Smooth cycling and fast follow-up shots • Delivered with full accessory kit ❌ Cons • Limited availability outside Europe • Spare parts and service may be harder to find in North America • Not ideal for heavy waterfowl loads or tactical use Hunters and shooters praise its handling and build quality, especially for upland game and recreational shooting. --- 🧰 Chokes and Accessories The Astro 20 comes with: • 5 interchangeable chokes (70mm) • Choke key • Detachable sling swivels • ABS hard case Chokes include full, improved modified, modified, improved cylinder, and cylinder — giving shooters flexibility for different game and shooting styles. --- 📌 Interesting Facts About the Astro Series • The Astro line has been in production for over 30 years, making it one of Breda’s longest-running models. • It was the first inertia-driven semi-auto in Breda’s catalog. • The receiver is machined from a single billet of aluminum — a feature usually found in high-end competition guns. • Despite its quality, the Astro 20 remains relatively unknown in the U.S., making it a hidden gem for collectors. --- 🏁 Final Thoughts The Breda Astro 20 is a refined, reliable, and versatile shotgun for hunters and sport shooters who appreciate Italian engineering and classic design. It’s not flashy, but it performs — and that’s what matters in the field. If you’re looking for a 20-gauge semi-auto that’s light, fast, and built to last, the Astro 20 deserves a spot in your gun safe.