The Beretta A400 Xcel in 20 gauge has rapidly become a favorite among sporting clays enthusiasts and serious hunters alike. Its lightweight design, coupled with Beretta's renowned reliability and innovative technology, makes it a compelling choice for those seeking superior performance. This in-depth review will explore the features, benefits, and considerations surrounding this exceptional shotgun.
Unrivaled Speed and Reliability: The Beretta A400 System
At the heart of the A400 Xcel's success lies its groundbreaking Blink inertia-driven system. This system drastically reduces recoil, accelerating the shooter's ability to acquire their next target. Unlike gas-operated shotguns, the Blink system utilizes the recoil energy itself to cycle the action, resulting in a remarkably smooth shooting experience. This translates to faster target acquisition, reduced fatigue during extended shooting sessions, and improved overall accuracy. The system's reliability is legendary, a hallmark of Beretta's commitment to quality engineering.
Key Features of the A400 Xcel 20 Gauge:
- Lightweight Construction: The 20 gauge model is particularly appealing for its reduced weight, making it ideal for long days in the field or on the sporting clays course. This lighter weight minimizes fatigue without sacrificing performance.
- Adjustable Stock and Comb: Customization options are key for optimal fit and performance. The A400 Xcel offers adjustable features to ensure a comfortable and precise shooting experience tailored to the individual shooter. This allows for fine-tuning to suit various body types and shooting styles.
- Steelium Plus Barrel: Beretta's Steelium Plus barrels are known for their exceptional strength, precision, and longevity. These barrels provide consistent performance and accuracy, shot after shot.
- Kick-Off Plus System: Further minimizing recoil, the Kick-Off Plus system offers a significant reduction in felt recoil, making the gun more comfortable to shoot, particularly for smaller-statured individuals or those sensitive to recoil.
- Sporting Clays Optimized Chokes: Often equipped with interchangeable chokes, the A400 Xcel allows shooters to fine-tune their shot patterns for optimal performance in various sporting clays disciplines. This versatility is a significant advantage for competitive shooters.
Performance and Handling: A Shooter's Perspective
The A400 Xcel 20 gauge excels in both handling and performance. The lightweight design contributes significantly to its maneuverability, allowing for quick target acquisition and smooth transitions between targets. The reduced recoil, facilitated by the Blink system and Kick-Off Plus, enhances the shooter's ability to maintain proper form and follow-through, leading to improved accuracy. Many shooters report a significant decrease in fatigue compared to other shotguns in its class.
Beretta A400 Xcel 20 Gauge vs. Competitors:
While several other manufacturers produce high-quality 20-gauge shotguns, the Beretta A400 Xcel distinguishes itself through its combination of speed, reliability, and innovative features. Competitors often lack the same level of refinement in their recoil reduction systems, leading to a less comfortable and potentially less accurate shooting experience. The A400 Xcel's adjustability and overall ergonomics also contribute to its superiority.
Conclusion: The Beretta A400 Xcel 20 Gauge - A Worthy Investment?
The Beretta A400 Xcel 20 gauge is a premium shotgun that delivers exceptional performance and reliability. While the price point reflects its high-quality construction and innovative technology, the investment is justified for serious sporting clays competitors and discerning hunters who demand the best. Its lightweight design, reduced recoil, and customizable features combine to create a shotgun that elevates the shooting experience to a new level. If you're seeking a high-performance 20-gauge shotgun that will serve you well for years to come, the Beretta A400 Xcel is certainly worth considering.
