Beretta 687 Silver Pigeon III 410 26 Bbl Mobil Choke Shotgun
As a seasoned shooter, I’ve had the pleasure of testing various shotguns over the years, but none have left as lasting an impression as the Beretta 687 Silver Pigeon III. This iconic shotgun has been a staple in the world of hunting and competitive shooting for decades, and for good reason. In this review, I’ll delve into the features, performance, and pros and cons of this exceptional shotgun.
Design and Build
The Beretta 687 Silver Pigeon III is a masterclass in design and build. Its sleek, aerodynamic shape is both functional and visually stunning, making it a head-turner on the range or at the range. The shotgun’s weight is substantial, but its balance and ergonomics make it feel comfortable in the hand. The stock is made from high-quality, durable materials that will withstand the rigors of repeated use.
Action and Feeding System
The 687 Silver Pigeon III features Beretta’s proprietary Mobil Choke system, which is designed to provide a smooth, consistent feeding experience. The Mobil Choke is a unique design that allows for a wide range of shotshell gauges, from 2 3/4 to 3 1/2 inches. This flexibility makes it an ideal choice for hunting and competitive shooting, where the ability to adapt to different shotshell gauges is crucial.
The shotgun’s action is smooth and reliable, with a crisp, clean break at the end of the cycle. The Mobil Choke system is also designed to be easy to load and unload, with a simple, intuitive design that makes it accessible to shooters of all skill levels.
Performance
The Beretta 687 Silver Pigeon III is a powerhouse of a shotgun, with impressive performance in a variety of shooting disciplines. Here are some of its key features:
- Accuracy: The 687 Silver Pigeon III is known for its exceptional accuracy, with a typical group size of 1-2 inches at 25 yards.
- Range: The shotgun’s range is impressive, with a typical effective range of 50-70 yards.
- Power: The 687 Silver Pigeon III is capable of delivering a wide range of shotshell gauges, from 2 3/4 to 3 1/2 inches.
- Weight: The shotgun is relatively lightweight, making it easy to handle and maneuver.
Pros
Here are some of the key pros of the Beretta 687 Silver Pigeon III:
- Exceptional Accuracy: The 687 Silver Pigeon III is known for its exceptional accuracy, making it an ideal choice for hunting and competitive shooting.
- Wide Range of Shotshell Gauges: The Mobil Choke system allows for a wide range of shotshell gauges, making it an ideal choice for hunting and competitive shooting.
- Reliable Action: The 687 Silver Pigeon III has a smooth, reliable action that is easy to load and unload.
- Durable Construction: The shotgun is built to last, with high-quality materials and construction that will withstand the rigors of repeated use.
- Affordable: The 687 Silver Pigeon III is an affordable option for shooters, with prices starting at around $2,000.
Cons
While the Beretta 687 Silver Pigeon III is an exceptional shotgun, there are some potential drawbacks to consider:
- Limited Availability: The 687 Silver Pigeon III is a relatively rare shotgun, which can make it difficult to find in stock.
- High Maintenance: The Mobil Choke system requires regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance, which can be time-consuming and costly.
- Sensitive to Shotshell Gauge: The 687 Silver Pigeon III is sensitive to shotshell gauge, which can affect its accuracy and range.
- Not Suitable for Heavy Use: The shotgun is not designed for heavy use, and its weight and balance may make it uncomfortable to shoot for extended periods.
Conclusion
The Beretta 687 Silver Pigeon III is an exceptional shotgun that offers a unique combination of accuracy, range, and power. While it may have some drawbacks, its exceptional performance and durable construction make it an ideal choice for hunters and competitive shooters. If you’re looking for a reliable, accurate shotgun that will deliver exceptional results, the 687 Silver Pigeon III is definitely worth considering.
Recommendation
Based on my experience with the 687 Silver Pigeon III, I would recommend it to:
- Hunters: The 687 Silver Pigeon III is an ideal choice for hunters, particularly those who are looking for a reliable, accurate shotgun that can deliver exceptional results in a variety of hunting situations.
- Competitive Shooters: The 687 Silver Pigeon III is also an excellent choice for competitive shooters, particularly those who are looking for a shotgun that can deliver exceptional accuracy and range.
- Those on a Budget: While the 687 Silver Pigeon III is an expensive shotgun, its exceptional performance and durable construction make it an affordable option for shooters who are looking for a reliable, accurate shotgun.
Final Thoughts
The Beretta 687 Silver Pigeon III is an exceptional shotgun that offers a unique combination of accuracy, range, and power. While it may have some drawbacks, its exceptional performance and durable construction make it an ideal choice for hunters and competitive shooters. If you’re looking for a reliable, accurate shotgun that will deliver exceptional results, the 687 Silver Pigeon III is definitely worth considering.
