Description
The Beretta A400 Xplor Action in 20 gauge is a semi-automatic shotgun built for the American shooter who demands reliability across a range of scenarios, from a fast-moving dove hunt in Texas to a day of sporting clays in the Northeast. Its 28-inch barrel and 4+1 capacity provide a balanced platform that handles well in the field and on the range, offering a lighter recoil impulse than a 12 gauge without sacrificing the ability to put shot on target. For the hunter or sport shooter looking to step down from a heavier gauge, this model delivers consistent performance with the fit and finish expected from Beretta.
What This Product Is and Who It’s For
The Beretta A400 Xplor Action is a gas-operated semi-automatic shotgun chambered in 20 gauge, designed for upland bird hunting, waterfowl pursuits, and clay target sports. It is also suitable for home defense, given its reliable cycling and manageable size, though it is primarily marketed toward the hunter and recreational shooter. The intended user is the experienced shooter who appreciates a well-engineered firearm that reduces felt recoil and cycles a wide range of ammunition without manual adjustment. It is not a tactical or competition-specific model, but rather a versatile field gun that can serve multiple roles for the owner who values mechanical dependability and ergonomic comfort.
Key Specifications
- Caliber: 20 Gauge
- Action: Semi-Automatic, Gas-Operated
- Barrel Length: 28 Inches
- Capacity: 4+1 (4 in the magazine tube, 1 in the chamber)
- Overall Length: Approximately 48.5 Inches
- Weight: Approximately 6.2 Pounds (unloaded)
- Receiver Finish: Bronze-Toned Anodized Aluminum
- Stock: Walnut with Satin Finish, Checkered Grip Areas
- Sights: Red Bar Front Sight
- Choke System: Beretta Optima-Bore HP (Interchangeable chokes included)
- Length of Pull: 14.25 Inches
- Drop at Comb: 1.375 Inches
- Drop at Heel: 2.125 Inches
Feature Deep-Dive
The Beretta A400 Xplor Action utilizes the company’s proprietary Blink gas operating system, which is designed to cycle faster than previous Beretta semi-automatic systems. This allows the shooter to fire follow-up shots with minimal delay, a practical advantage when tracking fast-moving game or engaging multiple clay targets in quick succession. The system is self-cleaning, meaning carbon buildup is pushed out of the action during firing, reducing the frequency of maintenance sessions and keeping the gun running reliably in dusty or muddy field conditions.
The Kick-Off Plus recoil reduction system is a notable feature of this model, using a hydraulic damper in the stock to absorb up to 70% of felt recoil compared to standard shotguns. For a 20 gauge, this already manageable recoil is further softened, making the A400 Xplor Action a comfortable choice for shooters who may be sensitive to shoulder fatigue or for extended range sessions. The Micro-Core pad at the buttstock also aids in recoil absorption and provides a non-slip surface against the shoulder, even with wet clothing or in cold weather.
The walnut stock is crafted from select wood and features a satin finish that highlights the grain while providing a durable surface that resists scratches and weather. The checkering at the pistol grip and forend gives a secure hold, even with gloved hands, and the stock geometry is designed to promote a natural point of aim. The bronze-toned receiver is anodized aluminum, which keeps the overall weight low without sacrificing structural integrity, and the finish resists corrosion from moisture or sweat during long days outdoors.
The 28-inch barrel is fitted with Beretta’s Optima-Bore HP choke system, which provides consistent shot patterns and allows the shooter to switch between improved cylinder, modified, and full chokes depending on the target distance. The barrel also features a ventilated rib that reduces mirage on hot days and provides a flat sighting plane for quick target acquisition. The red bar front sight is simple and effective, offering a clear reference point without the complexity of fiber-optic or bead systems that can break in the field.
The magazine tube holds four rounds, with a fifth round possible in the chamber, giving the shooter five total shots before needing to reload. This capacity is standard for field shotguns and complies with most hunting regulations across the United States. The loading port is beveled for easier thumb loading, and the bolt release button is located conveniently at the rear of the receiver for quick operation. The gun also features a reversible safety selector, making it adaptable to left-handed shooters with a simple adjustment.
Internally, the A400 Xplor Action uses a rotating bolt head that locks securely into the barrel extension, ensuring consistent chamber pressure and reliable extraction. The gas piston is self-adjusting, meaning the gun will cycle light target loads as well as heavy magnum shells without the need to change gas settings or springs. This versatility is a key selling point for the shooter who wants one gun for dove hunting with low-recoil loads and for turkey hunting with high-velocity shells.
Ideal Use Cases
- Upland Bird Hunting: The 20 gauge and 28-inch barrel make this shotgun well-suited for walking fields in pursuit of pheasants, quail, or grouse. The light weight reduces fatigue during long hikes, and the fast cycling action handles flush shots effectively.
- Waterfowl Hunting: With the appropriate choke and steel shot loads, this gun is capable for ducks and geese over decoys or in pass-shooting scenarios. The Kick-Off Plus system helps manage the increased recoil of heavier waterfowl loads.
- Clay Target Sports: Sporting clays, trap, and skeet shooters will appreciate the smooth swing and low recoil of the A400 Xplor Action. The interchangeable chokes allow for fine-tuning patterns for different clay presentations.
- Home Defense: While not a dedicated tactical shotgun, the 20 gauge offers reduced recoil for quick follow-up shots, and the 4+1 capacity provides adequate firepower for defensive situations. The bronze receiver and walnut stock also lend a lower-profile appearance.
Compatibility Notes
- Ammunition: This shotgun cycles both 2.75-inch and 3-inch shells, including light target loads (1 oz or less) and heavy magnum loads (up to 1.25 oz). Steel shot is safe through the Optima-Bore HP barrel, but avoid using steel shot with the included full choke unless specifically marked as steel-shot compatible.
- Holsters: No holster is applicable for this long gun. For transport, a soft case or hard case is recommended, and a sling can be attached via the included sling swivel studs.
- Magazines: The A400 Xplor Action uses a fixed tubular magazine under the barrel. No aftermarket extended magazines are available from Beretta, but some third-party options may exist for increased capacity. Check local regulations before modifying.
- Accessories: The gun accepts Beretta Optima-Bore HP choke tubes, which are widely available. Additional stock spacers can be purchased to adjust length of pull. The receiver is drilled and tapped for scope mounts if a red dot or scope is desired.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does shipping to the United States work for this shotgun?
A: We ship to all 50 states, but we only ship to a licensed Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder. After you place the order, we will contact you to confirm your chosen FFL dealer’s information. We do not ship directly to residential addresses for firearms. Shipping is via a licensed carrier with adult signature required upon delivery.
Q: What is the FFL transfer process for this shotgun?
A: Once your order is placed, you will need to provide us with the name, address, and contact information of a local FFL dealer who is willing to accept the transfer. We will ship the firearm to that dealer, and you will complete the ATF Form 4473 and a background check (NICS) at the dealer’s location before taking possession. The dealer may charge a separate transfer fee, which is not included in our price.
Q: What types of ammunition can this shotgun safely fire?
A: The Beretta A400 Xplor Action is chambered for 20 gauge shells up to 3 inches in length. It can safely fire 2.75-inch and 3-inch shells, including birdshot, buckshot, and slugs. It is not rated for 3.5-inch magnum shells. Always use ammunition that meets SAAMI specifications and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for steel shot usage with specific chokes.
Q: What warranty does Beretta provide for this shotgun?
A: Beretta offers a limited lifetime warranty to the original owner for defects in materials and workmanship. This warranty is transferable to subsequent owners only if the firearm is registered with Beretta within 30 days of the original purchase. The warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or damage from improper ammunition. We recommend registering your firearm online after purchase.
Q: What is your return policy for firearms?
A: Due to federal regulations and safety concerns, we do not accept returns on firearms for reasons of buyer’s remorse or change of mind. If the firearm arrives with a manufacturer defect or is damaged in transit, we will work with you to arrange a replacement or repair through Beretta’s warranty service. All firearms are inspected before shipping to ensure they meet our standards. Please inspect the firearm at your FFL dealer before accepting the transfer.
The Beretta A400 Xplor Action in 20 gauge is available now for shipment to your local FFL dealer across the United States. Whether you are heading to the upland fields, the waterfowl blind, or the clay range, this shotgun offers the build quality and reliable function that Beretta is known for. Place your order through our website, and our team will coordinate the transfer process to get this firearm into your hands efficiently and legally.
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