The Beretta A400 Xplor Unico in 20 gauge has quickly become a favorite among hunters and sport shooters alike. Its lightweight design, coupled with Beretta's renowned reliability and innovative features, makes it a compelling choice. This review delves into the details, examining its strengths and weaknesses to help you decide if it's the right shotgun for you.
Performance and Handling: A Featherweight Champion
The A400 Xplor Unico's 20 gauge shines in its handling. The reduced recoil, a significant advantage of the 20 gauge over its 12 gauge counterpart, is further mitigated by Beretta's innovative Kick-Off system. This system significantly reduces felt recoil, making extended shooting sessions far more comfortable and allowing for quicker target acquisition. This is particularly beneficial for smaller-statured shooters or those new to shotguns.
The lightweight design isn't just about comfort; it enhances maneuverability in the field. Quick target transitions are effortless, making it ideal for fast-paced hunting scenarios like upland bird hunting or sporting clays. The balance is excellent, contributing to intuitive swing and consistent shot placement.
Reliability and Durability: Beretta's Legacy
Beretta has built a reputation for building incredibly reliable firearms, and the A400 Xplor Unico lives up to that legacy. The self-regulating, inertia-driven action is remarkably smooth and consistent, cycling reliably with a wide variety of ammunition. This consistent performance, even under challenging conditions, is a testament to Beretta's engineering prowess. The robust construction ensures durability, capable of withstanding the rigors of frequent use in various environments.
Features and Specifications: A Closer Look
- Inertia-Driven System: Provides smooth, reliable cycling with reduced felt recoil.
- Kick-Off System: Minimizes recoil for increased shooter comfort and faster follow-up shots.
- Steelium Plus Barrels: Known for their exceptional accuracy and durability.
- Adjustable Comb: Allows for customized fit, improving cheek weld and overall shooting comfort. (Note: this feature may vary depending on the specific model and configuration.)
- Wide Variety of Chokes: Offers versatility for different hunting and shooting situations.
- Lightweight Design: Contributes to improved handling and reduced fatigue.
Versatility: From the Field to the Range
The A400 Xplor Unico 20 gauge is impressively versatile. Its performance excels in various disciplines. It's equally adept at hunting upland birds, waterfowl, or even small game. On the sporting clays range, its lightweight handling and fast cycling contribute to high scores. This adaptability makes it a valuable addition to any shooter's collection.
Potential Drawbacks: Considerations for Buyers
While the A400 Xplor Unico 20 gauge boasts many advantages, potential buyers should consider a few points. The price point is relatively high compared to some other 20 gauge shotguns. The adjustable comb, while beneficial, adds to the overall cost. Some users have reported minor issues with occasional malfunctions, though these are relatively infrequent based on user reviews.
Conclusion: A Top Contender in the 20 Gauge Market
The Beretta A400 Xplor Unico 20 gauge is a high-performing shotgun that delivers on its promises. Its lightweight design, combined with Beretta's renowned reliability and innovative recoil-reduction technology, results in a truly enjoyable shooting experience. While the price point is a consideration, the performance, versatility, and overall quality make it a strong contender for anyone seeking a top-tier 20 gauge shotgun. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or a novice shooter, the A400 Xplor Unico deserves serious consideration.
