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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
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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.
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🛠️ 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.
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🔧 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.
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🎯 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.
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🔧 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
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💰 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.
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✅ 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
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💬 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.
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🎯 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
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📜 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.
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🏁 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.
Honest Review of the 1966 Sauer & Sohn 12x70 Shotgun
I recently had the opportunity to handle a Sauer & Sohn 12x70 shotgun from 1966, and I wanted to share my thoughts on this classic firearm.
First and foremost, the craftsmanship is remarkable. Sauer & Sohn has a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality shotguns, and this model is no exception. The attention to detail in the engraving and woodwork showcases the company's dedication to their art. The walnut stock feels solid and well-balanced in the hands, giving a sense of connection to the firearm that newer models often lack.
In terms of performance, the 12x70 gauge offers a versatile range for various shooting activities, whether it’s sport shooting or hunting. The shotgun cycles smoothly, and the recoil is manageable, making it comfortable to shoot even over prolonged periods. I was impressed with its accuracy - hitting targets felt intuitive, and the pattern was consistent.
However, being a vintage piece, there are some considerations. The shotgun may require more maintenance than modern alternatives. It's essential to ensure that the mechanics are in good working order, especially given its age. Additionally, spare parts might be harder to come by, which could be a concern if repairs are needed in the future.
Overall, the 1966 Sauer & Sohn 12x70 shotgun is a beautiful blend of history and functionality. For collectors and shooting enthusiasts who appreciate classic firearms, this shotgun is a standout piece. Just be prepared for the added responsibility of caring for a vintage gun. If you value craftsmanship and a connection to the past, this shotgun is certainly worth considering.
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Benelli Montefeltro Review: Calibers, Models, Pros and Cons. A Timeless Classic for Field and Clay
The Benelli Montefeltro is a semi-automatic shotgun known for its slim profile, lightweight feel, and the signature Benelli inertia-driven system. It embodies Italian gunmaking tradition, blending aesthetic appeal with functional excellence. Unlike gas-operated shotguns, the Montefeltro utilizes recoil energy to cycle the action, resulting in a cleaner, more dependable operation, and reduced felt recoil.
Key Features & Technologies
Inertia-Driven System: The heart of the Montefeltro is Benelli's renowned inertia system. This system uses the recoil energy of the fired cartridge to cycle the bolt. The advantages include:
Reliability: Fewer parts mean less to go wrong, and the system is inherently reliable in adverse conditions.
Cleanliness: The absence of gas ports minimizes fouling, leading to cleaner operation and less frequent cleaning.
Speed: Quick cycling allows for fast follow-up shots.
Lightweight Design: The Montefeltro is noticeably lighter than many other semi-automatic shotguns, making it comfortable to carry during long days in the field.
Slim Forend and Receiver: The sleek design contributes to the gun's excellent balance and pointability.
Crio System Barrels: Benelli's Crio System barrels are cryogenically treated. This process is said to relieve stresses in the steel, resulting in more consistent patterns and increased durability. (Note: This is not available on all models).
Interchangeable Chokes: Most Montefeltro models come with a set of interchangeable choke tubes, allowing you to tailor the pattern to the specific shooting situation. (Crio chokes or Standard Mobil style choke depending on the model).
Wood or Synthetic Stocks: Offered in both classic wood stocks (usually walnut) and durable synthetic options to suit different preferences and hunting environments.
Calibers and Configurations
The Benelli Montefeltro is primarily available in the following calibers:
12 Gauge: The most common and versatile option, suitable for a wide range of hunting and clay target applications. (2 ¾ and 3" chambering depending on model.)
20 Gauge: A lighter-recoiling option that is popular for upland bird hunting and smaller-framed shooters. (2 ¾ and 3" chambering depending on model.)
28 Gauge: A very light recoiling and enjoyable gauge to shoot, great for Skeet, Quail, and Dove.
Benelli Montefeltro Common Variations/Models
Montefeltro: The standard model, typically featuring a walnut stock and blued receiver.
Montefeltro Synthetic: Features a weather-resistant synthetic stock, ideal for harsh hunting conditions.
Montefeltro Silver: Enhanced engraving and a nickel-plated receiver for a more elegant aesthetic.
Specifications (Example - 12 Gauge)
Gauge: 12 (Check specific model)
Chamber: 2 ¾" or 3" (Check specific model)
Barrel Lengths: Typically 24", 26", 28", or 30" (depending on the model and intended use).
Overall Length: Varies depending on barrel length.
Weight: Around 6.8 - 7.2 lbs (unloaded).
Magazine Capacity: Typically 4+1 (with a factory plug installed to limit capacity to 2+1 for waterfowl hunting where required).
Chokes: Interchangeable (usually comes with 3-5 chokes: Improved Cylinder, Modified, Full being common).
Range and Effective Distance
A shotgun's effective range depends heavily on the ammunition used, choke constriction, and the size of the target. With the Montefeltro, you can expect the following:
Hunting: Effective ranges for bird hunting are typically within 25-45 yards, depending on the bird and the choke. For larger game like turkey (using appropriate loads), ranges might extend to 40-50 yards.
Clay Target Shooting: The Montefeltro is well-suited for disciplines like skeet, trap, and sporting clays. Effective distances will vary based on the game.
Ideal Game and Shooting Applications
The Benelli Montefeltro is a versatile shotgun suitable for a wide range of hunting and shooting activities:
Upland Bird Hunting: Excellent for pheasant, quail, grouse, woodcock, and other upland game birds. The lightweight design is a major advantage for long walks in the field.
Waterfowl Hunting: Suitable for duck and goose hunting, especially in situations where mobility is important.
Turkey Hunting: Can be used for turkey hunting with appropriate turkey loads and a tight choke.
Clay Target Shooting: A solid choice for skeet, trap, and sporting clays. Its balance and fast cycling make it competitive in these disciplines.
Pros and Cons
Pros Benelli Montefeltro:
Exceptional Reliability: The inertia system is known for its dependability.
Lightweight and Well-Balanced: Easy to carry and swing.
Fast Cycling: Enables quick follow-up shots.
Clean Operation: The inertia system produces less fouling than gas-operated systems.
Versatile: Suitable for various hunting and shooting applications.
Elegant Design: Aesthetically pleasing.
Relatively Low Recoil (for an Inertia gun): The Benelli recoil pad is very good and helps a lot
Cons Benelli Montefeltro:
Higher Price Point: Benelli shotguns are generally more expensive than some other brands.
Recoil Can Be More Noticeable than Gas-Operated Guns: While manageable, recoil is more pronounced than in gas-operated shotguns.
Inertia System Sensitivity: The inertia system requires a firm shoulder mount to function reliably. Poor technique can lead to cycling issues.
May Not Cycle Very Light Loads Reliably: The inertia system sometimes requires a minimum recoil threshold to function consistently.
User Reviews and Common Feedback
Positive: Owners consistently praise the Montefeltro's reliability, lightweight feel, and handling characteristics. Many appreciate its elegant design and the ease of cleaning.
Negative: Some users have reported issues with cycling very light target loads, particularly when the gun is new. A few have noted that the recoil can be noticeable with heavy hunting loads.
