Beretta SO6 EELL - All
Beretta SO5 Shotgun Review: Modifications, Caliber options, Price, pros and cons.
🔹 Article Summary
• Introduction to the Beretta SO5
• Model variants and modifications
• Mechanical systems and craftsmanship
• Caliber options and barrel lengths
• Technical specifications
• Price range and market value
• Effective shooting range
• Hunting and sport suitability
• User reviews: pros and cons
• Choke systems and compatibility
• Final verdict
---
⛓️💥 Introduction: What Is the Beretta SO5?
The Beretta SO5 is a premium over-and-under sidelock shotgun, handcrafted by Beretta’s master gunsmiths in Italy. Designed for elite competition and refined hunting, the SO5 has earned its reputation through Olympic victories and international acclaim. It’s not just a firearm—it’s a work of art built for performance.
---
🛠️ Modifications and Model Variants
The Beretta SO5 is available in three primary configurations:
• SO5 Trap: Features a single, non-selective trigger, Montecarlo stock, and heavier beavertail forearm for stability.
• SO5 Skeet: Shorter barrels and lighter weight for fast swing and pointability; available with fixed Skeet chokes or interchangeable Optimachoke® HP tubes.
• SO5 Sporting: Single selective trigger, Schnabel forearm, and medium-weight barrels with interchangeable Optimachoke® HP tubes.
Each model can be custom-fitted to the shooter’s dimensions, including palm swell, stock length, and comb height.
---
⚙️ Mechanical Systems and Craftsmanship
The SO5 is a true sidelock shotgun, meaning the firing mechanism is mounted on sideplates rather than the trigger plate. This design offers:
• Ultra-crisp trigger pull
• Fast lock times
• Simplified maintenance and reliability
The action is forged from steel and hand-fitted using traditional red ochre techniques. Sideplates are engraved with scrollwork and finished to Beretta’s highest standards. Stocks are crafted from Grade 4 or higher walnut, hand-checkered and oil-finished.
---
📏 Caliber Options and Barrel Lengths
The Beretta SO5 is primarily available in:
• 12 gauge (12/76 mm chamber)
• 20 gauge (limited editions)
Barrel lengths include:
• 28” (710 mm)
• 30” (760 mm)
• 32” (813 mm)
Longer barrels offer smoother swing and better balance for sporting clays, while shorter barrels are preferred for skeet and dynamic hunting.
---
📊 Technical Specifications Beretta SO5
• Weight: ~3.6–3.9 kg depending on model
• Chamber: 76 mm (3”) magnum
• Stock: Custom walnut, pistol grip or Montecarlo
• Trigger: Single selective or non-selective
• Safety: Manual top-tang
• Forearm: Schnabel or beavertail
• Finish: Coin silver with hand engraving
---
💵 Price Range and Market Value
The Beretta SO5 is a luxury firearm with prices reflecting its craftsmanship:
• New models: $18,000–$37,500 USD depending on configuration and engraving
• Used models: $7,000–$18,000 USD depending on condition and provenance
Limited editions and custom builds may exceed $40,000.
---
🎯 Effective Range and Performance Beretta SO5
With proper choke selection and ammunition, the SO5 offers:
• Clay shooting: Effective up to 50 meters
• Hunting: Suitable for upland game and waterfowl within 30–45 meters
Its balance and barrel technology ensure consistent shot patterns and reduced recoil.
---
🦆 Hunting and Sporting Suitability
While the SO5 is optimized for competition, it’s also suitable for:
• Pheasant and partridge
• Duck and waterfowl (with steel-proofed barrels)
• Trap, skeet, and sporting clays
Its weight and finish make it less ideal for rugged field use, but perfect for refined hunting scenarios.
---
🗣️ User Reviews: Pros and Cons
✅ Pros
• Olympic-level performance
• Exceptional balance and swing
• Handcrafted aesthetics and fit
• Reliable sidelock mechanism
• Customizable stock and trigger
❌ Cons
• High price point
• Heavier than field guns
• Sidelock design less suited for wet conditions
• Limited availability in smaller gauges
Shooters praise the SO5 for its precision and beauty, though some note it’s best reserved for fair-weather use or competition.
---
🔩 Choke System Compatibility Beretta SO5
The SO5 uses Optimachoke® HP tubes:
• Flush-fit or extended
• Interchangeable constrictions: Full, Improved Modified, Modified, Improved Cylinder, Skeet
These chokes offer superior taper design for consistent patterns and easy replacement.
---
🏁 Final Verdict
The Beretta SO5 is a pinnacle of shotgun craftsmanship. Whether you’re a competitive clay shooter or a hunter seeking elegance and performance, the SO5 delivers unmatched quality. Its sidelock design, custom fit, and Olympic pedigree make it a standout choice for those who demand the best.
Beretta SO Sparviere Shotgun Review: Luxury Sidelock Over-and-Under for Collectors and Upland Hunters
• Introduction Beretta SO Sparviere
• Features and Specifications
• Modifications and Custom Options
• Performance and Shooting Range
• Chokes and Accessories
• Price and Value Beretta SO Sparviere
• Pros and Cons
• User Reviews
• Why Shooters Choose It
• Historical Background and Interesting Facts
• Final Thoughts
---
Introduction
The Beretta SO Sparviere is a masterpiece of Italian gunmaking — a luxury sidelock over-and-under shotgun designed for upland hunting and refined clay shooting. Its defining feature is the hand-detachable sidelock action, allowing both sideplates to open in unison for inspection and maintenance. This mechanism is not only practical but also reveals intricate internal engravings, making the gun as beautiful inside as it is outside.
---
🛠️ Features and Specifications Beretta SO Sparviere
The SO Sparviere is available exclusively in 12-gauge, with barrel lengths of 28”, 30”, or 32”. It features cold-hammer-forged Boehler Antinit steel barrels, a cross-bolt locking system on monobloc lugs, and replaceable locking shoulders. The stock is made from Grade 5 walnut briarwood, shaped to custom dimensions and finished with hand-cut diamond checkering and oil polishing. The ventilated rib is file-cut, and the trigger system is mechanical with a single selective trigger.
The sidelock action is engineered to open only by deliberate action, ensuring safety during hunting. Once activated, both sideplates swing open simultaneously, offering access to the firing mechanism and internal engravings.
---
🔧 Modifications and Custom Options
Each SO Sparviere is built to order. Buyers can choose:
• Barrel length and rib style
• Stock dimensions and grip type (pistol or English straight)
• Engraving themes, including bespoke designs
• Gold or silver inlays
• Internal and external finishes
Special editions include the Marco Polo and Rocky tribute models, which feature over 1,500 hours of engraving and historical motifs.
---
🎯 Performance and Shooting Range
The SO Sparviere is designed for upland game hunting and clay disciplines. Its balance and recoil control make it ideal for:
• Pheasant, partridge, and grouse hunting
• Trap and sporting clays
• Precision shooting up to 60–70 meters with appropriate chokes
Despite its artistic appeal, it delivers exceptional ballistic performance thanks to its Steelium OptimaBore HP barrels, which are mirror-polished by hand.
---
🔧 Chokes and Accessories Beretta SO Sparviere
The shotgun is compatible with Beretta’s OptimaChoke HP system, offering a full range of constrictions from Cylinder to Full. Accessories include:
• Custom leather case with silk lining
• Choke tube key and storage
• Engraved sideplate viewing tool
• Optional Tru-Oil finishing kits
---
💰 Price and Value
The Beretta SO Sparviere starts at approximately $100,000 and can exceed $125,000 depending on customization. It’s considered an heirloom firearm — a blend of performance, artistry, and legacy. While not practical for everyday use, it’s a prized possession for collectors and elite shooters.
---
✅ Pros and ❌ Cons
Pros:
• Unmatched craftsmanship and engraving
• Innovative sidelock mechanism
• Custom fit and finish
• Exceptional shooting performance
• Collectible and investment-grade
Cons:
• Extremely high cost
• Limited availability
• Not suited for rugged field use or beginners
---
💬 User Reviews
Owners describe the SO Sparviere as “functional art.” It’s praised for:
• Smooth handling and balance
• Ease of maintenance via sideplate access
• Stunning aesthetics and attention to detail
Critics note that its price and exclusivity make it impractical for everyday use, but ideal for ceremonial or high-end sporting occasions.
---
🎯 Why Shooters Choose It
• Legacy: Beretta’s centuries-old craftsmanship
• Beauty: No visible screws, uninterrupted engraving canvas
• Engineering: Precision lockup and barrel alignment
• Exclusivity: Each gun is a unique creation
---
📜 Historical Background and Interesting Facts
• “Sparviere” means “hawk” in Italian, symbolizing elegance and precision.
• The Marco Polo edition commemorates the 700th anniversary of the explorer’s death, with sideplates engraved using the burin technique to depict his travels from Venice to Asia.
• The Marco Polo receiver features copper-enamelled compass roses, a portolan map, and symbolic motifs like dragons and lions.
• The Rocky edition was created for Sylvester Stallone, celebrating his iconic role and Italian heritage.
• Beretta discovered a historical invoice in Venice dating back to 1526, confirming its legacy and allowing it to celebrate its 500th anniversary in 2026.
• The stock is finished with up to 80 layers of Tru-Oil, and the barrels are hand-polished for ballistic consistency and visual perfection.
---
🏁 Final Thoughts
The Beretta SO Sparviere is not just a shotgun — it’s a legacy in steel and walnut. For collectors, connoisseurs, and elite shooters, it represents the pinnacle of firearm artistry and performance. Whether displayed in a gallery or used in the field, it’s a timeless tribute to craftsmanship, history, and innovation.
Beretta 694 Black DLC Review, price: A Precision Shotgun for Sporting and Trap Excellence
When Beretta unveiled the 694 series, it was already a game-changer in the world of competitive shotguns. But with the Beretta 694 Black DLC, the Italian gunmaker has taken performance, durability, and aesthetics to a whole new level. This model is not just a visual upgrade - it’s a precision-engineered tool for serious clay shooters who demand the best.
⚙️ Engineered for Performance: Steelium® Pro Barrels
At the heart of the 694 Black DLC lies Beretta’s legendary Steelium® Pro barrels, the same technology found in the elite DT11. These barrels are cold-hammer forged from tri-alloy steel and feature a triple forcing cone that extends up to 450mm in the 76cm (30”) configuration. This design significantly reduces recoil, improves shot string uniformity, and increases terminal energy - giving shooters a smoother, more consistent experience with every pull of the trigger.
Available in 28” (71cm), 30” (76cm), and 32” (81cm) barrel lengths, the 694 Black DLC caters to both Sporting and Trap disciplines, offering tailored balance and swing dynamics for each shooter’s preference.
🖤 DLC Finish: Built to Withstand the Elements
The most striking visual and functional upgrade is the Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) coating applied to the receiver, trigger group, top lever, and safety switch. This ultra-hard finish offers:
• Superior corrosion resistance
• Reduced friction and wear
• A sleek, matte-black aesthetic with acid green accents for a modern, racing-inspired look
This isn’t just about style - it’s about longevity and reliability in the harshest shooting environments.
🎯 Precision Targeting: Modified Tapered Rib
The 10x7 tapered top rib has been redesigned with a channel-style groove that enhances target alignment and gives the shotgun a dynamic, competition-ready appearance. Whether you’re tracking fast crossers or rising trap targets, the rib design helps keep your eye.
🔧 Adjustability and Balance: B-Fast® System
Beretta understands that no two shooters are alike. That’s why the 694 Black DLC includes the B-Fast® balancing system, allowing users to fine-tune the shotgun’s weight distribution by adding or removing weights in the stock and under the forend. This level of customization ensures:
• Improved swing control
• Reduced fatigue during long sessions
• A perfectly tailored fit for your shooting style
Additionally, the adjustable forend catch has been redesigned for smoother opening and increased resistance, enhancing both ergonomics and durability.
🪵 Premium Materials and Ergonomics
The stock is crafted from Grade 2.5+ walnut with a high-gloss oil finish, offering both beauty and resilience. The pistol grip features a comfortable palm swell, and the Microcore® recoil pad ensures a soft, controlled shoulder feel. Stock drop options include 35/50, 35/55, and Vittoria 35/45/55, with adjustable combs available for a truly personalized fit.
📦 What’s in the Box?
Each Beretta 694 Black DLC comes in a hard ABS case and includes:
• 5 black extended Optimachoke® HP chokes
• B-Fast® stock weights
• Stock wrench and tools
• User manual and warranty documentation
💵 Price and Availability
The Beretta 694 Black DLC is a premium competition shotgun, and its price reflects its elite status. As of July 2025, you can find it listed at $5,949 USD for the Sporting B-Fast model with 32” barrels at reputable dealers like EuroOptic and Beretta Gallery USA A B.
🧪 Pros and Cons
Pros:
• ✅ DLC finish offers unmatched durability and sleek aesthetics
• ✅ Steelium® Pro barrels deliver elite-level ballistic performance
• ✅ B-Fast® system allows personalized balance
• ✅ Excellent ergonomics and adjustability
• ✅ Trusted Beretta reliability and resale value
Cons:
• ❌ Premium price point may deter casual shooters
• ❌ Slightly heavier than some competitors (though this aids stability)
• ❌ Limited to 12-gauge only
🦆 Who Is It For?
This shotgun is ideal for:
• Sporting and trap competitors seeking a high-performance, durable platform
• Hunters who value precision and balance in the field
• Enthusiasts upgrading from mid-tier models like the 692 or Browning 725
🧩 Variants and Customization
The 694 Black DLC is available in several configurations:
• Sporting: Ideal for dynamic clay disciplines; available with adjustable comb options.
• Trap: Features tighter chokes and higher rib for rising targets.
• Vittoria: A version tailored for female shooters, with modified stock dimensions.
Customization options include:
• Adjustable combs
• Interchangeable recoil pads
• Optional barrel and stock weights
• Left-handed models
🏁 Final Verdict
The Beretta 694 Black DLC is more than just a refined version of the original 694 - it’s a purpose-built machine for shooters who demand precision, durability, and style. With its DLC-coated components, Steelium® Pro barrels, and B-Fast® adjustability, it’s a shotgun that doesn’t just keep up with the competition - it leads it.
Whether you’re stepping onto the trap field or the sporting clays course, the 694 Black DLC is ready to elevate your game.
