Description
The Beretta 1301 Tactical Mod2 in OD Green with a pistol grip stock represents a considered evolution in semi-automatic shotgun design for the U.S. market. Whether you are a responsible firearm owner looking to upgrade your home defense setup, a competitor seeking reliable cycling in 3-gun stages, or a law enforcement professional requiring a duty-grade platform, this 12-gauge shotgun offers a measured balance of speed, control, and durability. Built around Beretta’s proven gas-operated system, the 1301 Tactical Mod2 is engineered to function under the varied conditions encountered across American shooting environments, from humid coastal ranges to dry inland deserts.
What This Product Is and Who It’s For
The Beretta 1301 Tactical Mod2 is a semi-automatic, magazine-fed shotgun chambered in 12-gauge, featuring an 18.5-inch barrel and a fixed pistol grip stock finished in OD Green (Olive Drab Green). This model is designed for individuals who require a reliable, fast-cycling shotgun for defensive purposes, competitive shooting, or general range work. It is not a hunting-specific model, though its capacity and handling characteristics may suit certain tactical or sport applications. The intended user is a shooter who values mechanical reliability over novelty—someone who expects a firearm to perform consistently under stress without requiring excessive maintenance or aftermarket modification. This includes homeowners prioritizing personal defense, 3-gun competitors looking for a lightweight platform, and collectors who appreciate Beretta’s engineering heritage in a modern tactical package.
Key Specifications
- Caliber: 12-gauge (2.75-inch and 3-inch shells)
- Action: Semi-automatic, gas-operated (Beretta BLINK gas system)
- Barrel Length: 18.5 inches
- Overall Length: Approximately 37.5 inches (with pistol grip stock)
- Capacity: 5+1 rounds (standard magazine tube; may vary by state restrictions)
- Finish: OD Green (Olive Drab Green) synthetic furniture with a matte black metal finish
- Stock: Fixed pistol grip stock with a length of pull (LOP) of approximately 13.75 inches
- Weight: Approximately 6.9 pounds (unloaded)
- Sights: Ghost ring rear sight with a fiber optic front sight
- Receiver: Anodized aluminum, drilled and tapped for optics mounting
- Choke System: Fixed cylinder bore (improved cylinder choke included in some configurations)
- Safety: Cross-bolt safety located at the rear of the trigger guard
Feature Deep-Dive
The Beretta 1301 Tactical Mod2 is distinguished by its BLINK gas operating system, which Beretta developed to reduce cyclic time and improve reliability across a wide range of ammunition types. Unlike traditional inertia-driven systems, the BLINK system uses a self-cleaning, self-regulating gas piston that cycles faster than many competing designs. This allows the shotgun to handle light target loads (such as 1-ounce 2.75-inch shells) without adjustment, while still cycling heavier defensive loads reliably. For the U.S. shooter, this means less time spent troubleshooting malfunctions at the range and more consistent performance when it matters most. The system also reduces felt recoil compared to fixed-breech designs, which can aid in faster follow-up shots.
The pistol grip stock on this Mod2 variant is a fixed unit, not a collapsible or adjustable model, which provides a consistent cheek weld and hand position for shooters who prefer a more traditional AR-style grip angle. The OD Green finish on the synthetic stock and forend offers a low-reflectivity appearance that blends well with outdoor environments, though it is not a camouflage pattern. The forend features integral M-LOK slots along the sides and bottom, allowing the end user to attach accessories such as a weapon light or foregrip without additional adapter hardware. This is a practical addition for home defense users who may want to mount a light for low-light identification, or for competitors who require a consistent gripping surface during rapid transitions.
The 18.5-inch barrel is threaded for Beretta’s Optima-Bore HP choke system, though the fixed cylinder bore configuration is typical for tactical applications. The barrel is cold-hammer-forged for consistent bore dimensions and longevity. The ghost ring rear sight is fully adjustable for windage and elevation, paired with a red fiber optic front sight that provides a fast, clear sight picture under varied lighting conditions. The receiver is drilled and tapped from the factory, which simplifies the installation of a red dot or reflex sight—a common upgrade for U.S. shooters who want to improve target acquisition speed in competition or defensive scenarios. The loading port is beveled and enlarged from the factory to facilitate faster reloading, a detail appreciated by competitive shooters who practice tactical reloads.
Durability is addressed through the use of an anodized aluminum receiver and a nickel-Teflon-coated internal bolt carrier assembly, which reduces friction and resists corrosion. The magazine tube is made of steel and holds five rounds of 2.75-inch shells, with the ability to chamber a sixth round in the barrel. The spring and follower are designed for smooth feeding, and the magazine cap is retained by a threaded nut that can be removed for cleaning or tube extension installation. The trigger group is a modular unit that can be removed as a single assembly for maintenance, simplifying cleaning without requiring specialized tools. Beretta includes a shim kit with the stock to adjust the drop and cast, allowing the shooter to fine-tune the fit for their body type—a feature often overlooked in tactical shotguns but valuable for consistent shooting.
The overall weight of approximately 6.9 pounds makes the 1301 Tactical Mod2 one of the lighter semi-automatic 12-gauge shotguns in its class, which is advantageous for shooters who may need to carry the firearm for extended periods, such as during multi-stage competitions or while patrolling a property. The balance point is near the hinge pin, which helps with swing and tracking on moving targets. However, the lightweight design does mean that recoil from heavy magnum loads will be more noticeable than with heavier shotguns, though the gas system mitigates this to a degree. The pistol grip stock also contributes to a shorter overall length of pull, which can be beneficial for shooters wearing body armor or for those with shorter arms, though it may not suit all body types without the included shim adjustments.
Ideal Use Cases
Home Defense: The 18.5-inch barrel and compact overall length allow for maneuverability in interior spaces, while the 5+1 capacity provides sufficient firepower for most defensive scenarios. The ghost ring sights and M-LOK forend for light mounting make it a practical choice for low-light conditions.
Competition (3-Gun): The lightweight design, fast BLINK cycling, and enlarged loading port are directly applicable to 3-gun stages where speed and reliability are prioritized. The ability to mount a red dot and attach a magazine tube extension (sold separately) increases its utility for competitive shooters.
Range Use: The ability to cycle light target loads without adjustment makes this shotgun suitable for regular practice sessions. The adjustable sights and shim kit allow the shooter to dial in accuracy for slug shooting at typical range distances.
Law Enforcement / Duty Use: The fixed pistol grip stock and durable construction meet the requirements of many agencies looking for a reliable entry or patrol shotgun. The gas system reduces maintenance intervals compared to some other semi-automatic designs.
Compatibility Notes
Ammunition: This shotgun cycles 2.75-inch and 3-inch 12-gauge shells reliably. It is designed to function with standard field loads (1 oz. and above) as well as defensive buckshot and slug loads. Light target loads (under 1 oz.) may require a break-in period of 100-200 rounds of heavier ammunition before reliable cycling is achieved. Steel shot is not recommended through the fixed cylinder bore without checking for choke compatibility.
Magazines: The 1301 Tactical Mod2 uses a fixed tubular magazine; detachable box magazines are not compatible. Aftermarket magazine tube extensions (e.g., +2 or +3) from reputable manufacturers like Nordic Components or Briley are available and compatible with this model, provided the correct thread pattern is used.
Holsters and Slings: The pistol grip stock is not compatible with standard shotgun saddle holsters designed for traditional stocks. A sling can be attached via the rear swivel stud on the stock and the front M-LOK slots or a barrel clamp accessory. The forend’s M-LOK slots allow for direct mounting of a light or foregrip without a separate adapter.
Accessories: The receiver is drilled and tapped for Beretta-specific optics mounts or standard Picatinny rail adapters. The choke system is Beretta Optima-Bore HP, allowing for interchangeable chokes if the user replaces the fixed cylinder tube. The stock shim kit is included and can be used to adjust drop and cast.
FAQ
Q: Can you ship this shotgun directly to my home address?
A: No. Federal law requires that all firearms shipped from a licensed FFL dealer be transferred to another FFL dealer in your state. We only ship to FFL holders. You must arrange for a receiving FFL dealer in your area to accept the transfer. We will ship to your chosen FFL after receiving a copy of their license and your payment.
Q: How does the FFL transfer process work for this shotgun?
A: After placing your order, you will need to provide the contact information for a licensed FFL dealer in your state who is willing to accept the transfer. We will verify their license and ship the firearm to them. The receiving FFL will then process the required background check (Form 4473) with you before releasing the shotgun. You are responsible for any transfer fees charged by the receiving FFL.
Q: What types of ammunition are compatible with the Beretta 1301 Tactical Mod2?
A: This shotgun is designed to cycle 2.75-inch and 3-inch 12-gauge shells. It functions best with loads producing at least 1 ounce of shot or equivalent slug weight. Light target loads (e.g., 7/8 oz. or 1 oz. low-recoil) may not cycle reliably until the firearm is broken in with heavier ammunition. Steel shot is not recommended without confirming choke compatibility. Always follow the manufacturer’s ammunition guidelines.
Q: What is the warranty on this Beretta 1301 Tactical Mod2?
A: Beretta provides a limited lifetime warranty to the original owner for defects in materials and workmanship. This warranty covers the firearm’s functional components but does not cover normal wear and tear, misuse, or modifications not approved by Beretta. You must register the warranty with Beretta within 30 days of purchase. We recommend retaining your receipt for warranty claims.
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