Description
The Beretta 687 EELL Diamond Pigeon Sporting is an over-under shotgun built for the serious clay shooter who demands precision and reliability on the range. Whether you’re breaking clays at a registered tournament or honing your skills on a weekend course, this 12-gauge model with a 28-inch barrel offers the balance and swing that competitive shooters in the U.S. rely on. It’s a tool for those who value craftsmanship and consistent performance, not flash.
What This Shotgun Is and Who It’s For
The Beretta 687 EELL Diamond Pigeon Sporting is a premium over-under shotgun designed for target shooting, specifically sporting clays, trap, and skeet. This model is intended for the dedicated clay shooter who competes regularly or practices intensively, rather than for home defense or general hunting. While it can be used for upland bird hunting due to its field-friendly weight, its primary engineering focus is on the demands of competitive clay sports. Collectors also appreciate the hand-engraved receiver and select European walnut stock, but this shotgun is built to be shot, not just displayed.
Key Specifications
- Caliber: 12 Gauge (2 3/4-inch and 3-inch shells)
- Action: Over/under break-action with selective automatic ejectors
- Barrel Length: 28 inches, with ventilated rib and fiber optic front sight
- Chokes: Includes set of interchangeable Beretta Optima-Choke HP tubes (C, IC, M, IM, F)
- Stock: Select European walnut with oil finish, pistol grip, and Schnabel forend
- Receiver: Steel receiver with hand-engraved scroll and game scene motifs
- Weight: Approximately 7.5 pounds
- Length of Pull: 14.5 inches (standard)
- Trigger: Single selective trigger with barrel selector
- Finish: Blued barrels and receiver with silver accent engraving
Feature Deep-Dive
The 28-inch barrel length is a deliberate choice for clay shooters who need a balance between swing speed and sight radius. This length provides enough forward momentum to track crossing targets smoothly, while remaining nimble enough for close-in presentations on a sporting clays course. The ventilated rib reduces mirage and helps maintain a consistent sight picture under bright range lights or sun.
The Beretta 687 EELL Diamond Pigeon Sporting uses the proven Beretta 687 action, which features a low-profile receiver that aligns the barrels closer to the shooter’s line of sight. This reduces perceived recoil and muzzle rise, allowing for faster follow-up shots. The single selective trigger lets you choose which barrel fires first, a standard feature for competitive shooters who want to manage choke and load selection on the fly.
The European walnut stock is hand-selected for grain density and color, then oil-finished to enhance the wood’s natural character. The pistol grip provides a comfortable, secure hold during long shooting sessions, while the Schnabel forend offers a traditional grip that many shooters find intuitive. The stock dimensions are designed for a neutral fit, though the shotgun can be custom-fitted by a gunsmith if needed.
The hand-engraved receiver is a hallmark of the EELL grade, with fine scrollwork and game scene panels that reflect Beretta’s Italian craftsmanship. This engraving is not purely decorative; it also protects the steel surface from corrosion and wear. The silver accents on the receiver contrast with the blued barrels, giving the shotgun a classic, understated look that appeals to shooters who appreciate traditional firearm artistry.
Beretta’s Optima-Choke HP system provides consistent pattern performance with steel and lead shot. The five included choke tubes cover most sporting clays scenarios, from tight 20-yard targets to longer 50-yard presentations. The chokes are color-coded for quick identification and feature a knurled collar for easy hand-tightening without tools.
The automatic ejectors are selective, meaning you can choose to eject spent shells or simply extract them depending on your preference. This is controlled by a simple mechanical switch inside the action. The ejectors are robust and reliable, even after thousands of rounds, which is a common requirement for shooters who go through multiple cases of ammunition per month.
Ideal Use Cases
- Sporting Clays: The 28-inch barrel and balanced weight make this shotgun ideal for navigating a sporting clays course with varied target presentations.
- Trap and Skeet: The low-profile action and single trigger suit both disciplines, especially when paired with the appropriate choke tubes from the included set.
- Upland Bird Hunting: While primarily a competition gun, its weight and handling can work for walking up pheasants or quail in open terrain.
- Collector Display: The hand-engraved receiver and select walnut stock make this a desirable piece for Beretta enthusiasts and shotgun collectors.
Compatibility Notes
This Beretta 687 EELL Diamond Pigeon Sporting is chambered for 12-gauge shells up to 3 inches. It functions reliably with standard target loads (1-ounce to 1 1/8-ounce at 1200 fps) as well as heavier field loads. Steel shot is safe through the Optima-Choke HP tubes, but always verify choke constriction before using bismuth or tungsten loads. The shotgun does not accept detachable magazines or aftermarket holsters; it is a break-action design that loads two shells manually. Accessories such as fitted gun cases, snap caps, and cleaning kits are recommended. The standard 14.5-inch length of pull can be adjusted with aftermarket recoil pads or stock spacers, but most shooters find the factory dimensions suitable.
FAQ
1. Can this shotgun be shipped directly to my home in the U.S.?
No. Federal law requires that all firearms purchased from a licensed FFL retailer be shipped to a Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder in your state. We will ship the Beretta 687 EELL Diamond Pigeon Sporting to your chosen FFL dealer for you to complete the transfer and background check. We do not ship to residential addresses.
2. How does the FFL transfer process work?
After you place your order, we will contact you to confirm your preferred FFL dealer. You must provide their name, address, and license number. We verify the FFL before shipping. Once the shotgun arrives at the dealer, you will complete a Form 4473 and pass a NICS background check. Transfer fees vary by dealer and are not included in the purchase price.
3. What types of ammunition are compatible with this shotgun?
This model is chambered for 2 3/4-inch and 3-inch 12-gauge shells. It cycles reliably with standard target loads, including low-recoil and mid-velocity shells. Steel shot is safe when used with the appropriate Optima-Choke HP tubes. Avoid using magnum loads or shells longer than 3 inches, as they can damage the action.
4. What warranty does Beretta offer on this shotgun?
Beretta provides a limited lifetime warranty to the original owner for defects in materials and workmanship. This warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or modifications. You can register the warranty through Beretta’s website after purchase. We recommend retaining your sales receipt for warranty claims.
5. What is your return policy for firearms?
Because this is a firearm, all sales are final once the item has been shipped from our facility. If the shotgun arrives with a manufacturing defect or damage from shipping, please contact us within 48 hours of delivery. We will work with Beretta to arrange a repair or replacement. We cannot accept returns for fit or cosmetic preferences.
Closing Call to Action
This Beretta 687 EELL Diamond Pigeon Sporting is in stock and ready to ship to your licensed FFL dealer across the United States. If you’re ready to add a reliable, hand-crafted over-under to your clay shooting setup, place your order now. For questions about FFL transfer or availability, contact our team directly.
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