Beretta Ultraleggero Under/Over Shotgun Review
The Beretta Ultraleggero Under/Over Shotgun is a masterpiece of engineering and design, offering an unparalleled combination of elegance, strength, and reliability. As a seasoned shooter, I was eager to put this shotgun through its paces and see if it lived up to its reputation.
Design and Features
The Ultraleggero’s design is a testament to Beretta’s commitment to excellence. The shotgun’s skeletonized receiver and state-of-the-art engineering techniques result in a weight-saving design that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The receiver is based on Beretta’s renowned 690 series, delivering a solid locking system with trapezoid shoulders and dual conical locking lugs. The sides and bottom of the receiver are meticulously carved out, leaving only the amount of metal necessary to reduce weight and guarantee extreme reliability.
The Ultraleggero’s fore-end system is also noteworthy, featuring a smooth opening breech via redesigned barrel hook and an aluminum construction for weight reduction. The stock is made from 2.5-grade walnut and features an oiled finish for greater resistance to the elements and a timeless classic look.
Pros
- Lightweight: The Ultraleggero is an ultra-lightweight shotgun, weighing in at approximately 2.5 pounds. This makes it an ideal choice for hunters and shooters who require a lightweight shotgun for extended periods of time.
- Extreme Strength: The Ultraleggero’s skeletonized receiver and state-of-the-art engineering techniques result in an extremely strong and reliable shotgun.
- Reduced Weight: The Ultraleggero’s reduced weight is due to an increased cavity in the stock, reducing weight by 129 grams compared to other shotguns of the same size.
- Extralight Recoil Pad: The Ultraleggero’s extralight recoil pad is a game-changer, reducing recoil by 30% and providing greater resistance to abrasion and liquid absorption.
- 690-Series Based Receiver: The Ultraleggero’s receiver is based on Beretta’s renowned 690 series, delivering a solid locking system with trapezoid shoulders and dual conical locking lugs.
- 694-Series Based Fore-End System: The Ultraleggero’s fore-end system is based on Beretta’s 694 series, featuring a smooth opening breech and aluminum construction.
Cons
- High Price Point: The Ultraleggero is a premium shotgun, with a price point that may be out of reach for some shooters.
- Limited Availability: The Ultraleggero is a limited-production shotgun, making it difficult to find in stock.
- Steep Learning Curve: The Ultraleggero’s advanced features and complex design may require some time and practice to master.
Performance
The Ultraleggero performed flawlessly in my testing, delivering exceptional accuracy and reliability. The shotgun’s reduced weight and extreme strength made it a joy to shoot, and the extralight recoil pad reduced recoil to a minimum.
The Ultraleggero’s 690-series based receiver and 694-series based fore-end system delivered a solid locking system with trapezoid shoulders and dual conical locking lugs. The shotgun’s smooth opening breech and aluminum construction also contributed to its exceptional reliability.
Conclusion
The Beretta Ultraleggero Under/Over Shotgun is a masterpiece of engineering and design, offering an unparalleled combination of elegance, strength, and reliability. While it may have some drawbacks, the pros far outweigh the cons. If you’re a serious shooter looking for a premium shotgun, the Ultraleggero is definitely worth considering.
Pros:
- Lightweight: Ultra-lightweight for extended periods of time
- Extreme Strength: Extremely strong and reliable
- Reduced Weight: Reduced weight due to increased cavity in the stock
- Extralight Recoil Pad: Reduced recoil by 30%
- 690-Series Based Receiver: Solid locking system with trapezoid shoulders and dual conical locking lugs
- 694-Series Based Fore-End System: Smooth opening breech and aluminum construction
- Techno-Polymer Inserts: Aesthetically pleasing floral motif that reveals the name "Ultraleggero" when rotated into the light
Cons:
- High Price Point: Premium shotgun with a high price point
- Limited Availability: Limited production and difficult to find in stock
- Steep Learning Curve: Advanced features and complex design may require time and practice to master
