BERETTA 1301 Competition 21″

Description

For the shooter who demands rapid follow-up shots and reliable cycling in a semi-automatic shotgun, the Beretta 1301 Competition 12 GA with a 21-inch barrel offers a platform built for speed and durability. Whether you are running courses at your local range, defending your home, or competing in 3-Gun matches, this shotgun brings proven European engineering to American shooting sports. Designed to handle a wide range of 12-gauge loads, the 1301 Competition is a serious tool for the shooter who expects consistent performance from the first round to the last.

What the Beretta 1301 Competition Is and Who It’s For

The Beretta 1301 Competition is a gas-operated, semi-automatic shotgun chambered in 12 gauge, featuring a 21-inch barrel and a 3-inch chamber. It is built for the shooter who needs a fast-handling, low-recoil platform for target shooting, home defense, and competitive shooting disciplines like 3-Gun or IPSC. This model is not a collector’s safe queen; it is a working firearm intended for high-volume use. The 5-round magazine capacity (with a 2 3/4-inch shell) makes it compliant in many states while still offering enough firepower for stage work or defensive scenarios. The black synthetic stock and black receiver finish provide a low-maintenance, weather-resistant package that holds up to harsh range conditions and humid storage environments.

Key Specifications Breakdown

• Caliber: 12 Gauge (2 3/4-inch and 3-inch shells)
• Action: Gas-operated semi-automatic
• Barrel Length: 21 inches
• Overall Length: Approximately 41.5 inches
• Chamber: 3 inches
• Magazine Capacity: 5 rounds (2 3/4-inch shells) / 4 rounds (3-inch shells)
• Stock: Black synthetic with soft rubber buttpad
• Receiver Finish: Black anodized aluminum
• Barrel Finish: Black steel with ventilated rib
• Sights: Red fiber optic front sight on a ventilated rib
• Chokes: Beretta Mobilchoke system (IC, M, F included)
• Weight: Approximately 6.8 pounds (unloaded)
• Length of Pull: 14.25 inches
• Safety: Cross-bolt trigger safety

Feature Deep-Dive

The Beretta 1301 Competition uses Beretta’s proven BLINK gas operating system, which cycles significantly faster than many competing semi-automatic shotguns. This system reduces felt recoil while ensuring that the action cycles reliably with a broad range of ammunition, from light target loads to heavy 3-inch magnums. The gas piston is self-cleaning, meaning carbon buildup is less likely to cause malfunctions during extended shooting sessions. This is a direct benefit for shooters who run hundreds of rounds in a single outing without stopping to scrub the action.

The 21-inch barrel is a deliberate choice for speed and maneuverability. It is long enough to provide a good sight radius and stable swing for clay targets or steel plates, yet short enough to transition quickly between ports in a 3-Gun stage or to move through tight spaces in a home defense scenario. The ventilated rib with a red fiber optic front sight offers a clear, fast-acquisition aiming reference. The sight is protected by sturdy metal ears, reducing the chance of damage if the shotgun is bumped or dropped during competition.

The synthetic stock is designed for ergonomics and recoil management. It features a soft rubber buttpad that grips the shoulder and reduces felt recoil, allowing for faster follow-up shots. The forend has a textured surface that provides a secure grip even with wet or gloved hands. The stock also includes a raised cheek comb, which helps align the shooter’s eye with the rib for consistent patterning. The overall weight of roughly 6.8 pounds keeps the shotgun light enough to carry through a long match or to hold ready during a defensive situation without excessive fatigue.

Beretta includes three Mobilchoke tubes (Improved Cylinder, Modified, and Full) with the 1301 Competition. This gives the shooter the flexibility to adjust pattern density for different distances and target types. Swapping chokes is quick and requires no tools, allowing you to adapt from close-range steel to longer-range clays in seconds. The receiver is drilled and tapped for mounting optics or ghost ring sights if you choose to upgrade the sighting system for specific competition classes or personal preference.

The 1301 Competition’s reliability is further supported by a robust loading port and a bolt release button that is easy to reach without shifting your grip. The magazine tube is standard capacity from the factory, but the shotgun is compatible with extended magazine tubes from reputable aftermarket manufacturers if you need additional capacity for competition use. The cross-bolt safety is positioned at the rear of the trigger guard, accessible to both right- and left-handed shooters, though the gun is configured for right-hand ejection.

Ideal Use Cases

• Competition (3-Gun, IPSC, Multigun): The fast cycling action, 21-inch barrel, and fiber optic sight make this shotgun a strong choice for stage work that requires quick target transitions and reliable feeding. The 5-round capacity is suitable for many division rules, and the light weight reduces fatigue during long matches.
• Home Defense: The short barrel and synthetic stock offer maneuverability in a residential setting. The gas system reduces recoil, making follow-up shots more controllable. The 5-round capacity is sufficient for most defensive scenarios, and the ability to use 2 3/4-inch buckshot or slugs gives you flexibility in ammunition selection.
• Range Shooting and Training: This shotgun cycles light target loads reliably, making it a good choice for high-volume practice. The durable finish and self-cleaning gas system reduce maintenance time, letting you focus on shooting rather than cleaning.
• Hunting (Upland and Waterfowl): With the included choke set and 3-inch chamber, the 1301 Competition can be used for upland bird hunting or waterfowl hunting with appropriate non-toxic shot. The 21-inch barrel handles well in thick cover, though it is shorter than traditional hunting shotguns, so it may require some adjustment for sustained lead on crossing targets.

Compatibility Notes

• Ammunition: The 1301 Competition cycles reliably with 12-gauge shells from 2 3/4-inch target loads (1 1/8 oz at 1200 fps) up to 3-inch magnum loads. Steel shot and other non-toxic shot types are safe through the Mobilchoke system, but always verify choke compatibility with the shot material. Avoid using shells shorter than 2 3/4 inches, as they may not cycle the action properly.
• Holsters and Slings: This is a shotgun, not a handgun, so holsters are not applicable. For slings, the 1301 Competition has a sling swivel stud on the stock and a magazine cap that accepts a sling swivel. Standard 1-inch sling swivels fit without modification.
• Magazines and Extensions: The factory 5-round magazine tube uses a standard Beretta thread pattern. Aftermarket extended magazine tubes from manufacturers like Nordic Components or Briley are compatible, but be aware that adding capacity may change the overall length and require compliance with local laws regarding magazine capacity for shotguns.
• Accessories: The receiver is drilled and tapped for mounting optics or rail systems. Beretta and third-party manufacturers offer Picatinny rail mounts, ghost ring sight kits, and side saddles for shell storage. The Mobilchoke system accepts any Beretta Mobilchoke tube, giving you access to a wide range of choke constrictions and materials.
• Parts and Service: Beretta has a strong U.S. service center in Maryland, and parts for the 1301 series are widely available through Beretta’s website and authorized dealers. Many gunsmiths familiar with Beretta shotguns can perform maintenance or upgrades.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can you ship this shotgun to my address in the United States?
A: We ship to licensed Federal Firearms License (FFL) holders across the United States. We cannot ship directly to a residential address. After you place your order, we will need the name and contact information of the FFL dealer who will receive the transfer. We do not ship to P.O. boxes; a physical street address for the receiving FFL is required.

Q: What is the FFL transfer process for purchasing this shotgun?
A: After you place your order, we will contact you to confirm the FFL details. Your chosen FFL dealer must send us a copy of their current FFL license via email or fax. We verify the license, then ship the shotgun to that dealer. You will complete the ATF Form 4473 and any required state background check at the dealer’s location before taking possession. There is no additional fee from us for the transfer, but your FFL dealer may charge their own transfer fee.

Q: What ammunition is compatible with the Beretta 1301 Competition?
A: This shotgun is chambered for 12-gauge shells with a case length up to 3 inches. It functions best with 2 3/4-inch shells for target loads and defensive loads. 3-inch magnum shells are safe and will cycle, but recoil is noticeably heavier. We recommend using high-quality factory ammunition from reputable brands. Reloaded or low-pressure shells may not cycle the action reliably due to the gas system’s design.

Q: Does this shotgun come with a warranty, and how do I use it?
A: Beretta provides a limited lifetime warranty to the original owner for defects in materials or workmanship. The warranty is non-transferable. If you experience a functional issue, contact Beretta USA customer service directly with your serial number and proof of purchase. They will guide you through repair or replacement. We do not handle warranty claims directly, but we can provide documentation to support your claim if needed.

Q: What is your return policy for this firearm?
A: Due to federal regulations and safety concerns, we do not accept returns on firearms for change of mind or fit issues. All firearm sales are final. If there is a manufacturer defect or a shipping error (wrong model, damaged in transit), we will work with you and the manufacturer to resolve the issue. Please inspect your firearm at the FFL dealer before completing the transfer; if you notice damage, do not accept the transfer and contact us immediately.

Ordering and Shipping Information

This Beretta 1301 Competition 12 GA with a 21-inch barrel is in stock and available for purchase. We ship to all states where this firearm is legal, and we comply