Discount Gun Mart

Description

The Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon I Vittoria in 20 gauge is a purpose-built over/under shotgun that addresses a specific need for American shooters: a lightweight, reduced-reach design for smaller-framed individuals, youth shooters, or anyone who prefers a more compact handling platform. Whether you are introducing a new shooter to the sport, working a field course with a lighter load, or simply want a shotgun that swings fast and carries easy, this Vittoria model from Beretta’s storied 686 line delivers proven Italian craftsmanship in a youth-friendly package. While it is categorized under handguns on our site, this is a dedicated shotgun, and we have it listed here for your convenience.

What This Product Is and Who It Is For

The Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon I Vittoria is a 20-gauge, over/under shotgun built on a compact frame with a shorter length of pull and a smaller grip profile. It is specifically designed for smaller-framed shooters, including women, teenagers, and anyone with a shorter reach who finds standard shotgun stocks unwieldy. This model is not a home defense tool or a concealed carry arm; it is a field-grade shotgun intended for upland bird hunting, target shooting on the range, and clay sports like sporting clays or trap. The Vittoria is also an excellent choice for a first shotgun for a young hunter, offering manageable recoil and a balanced feel that encourages proper form.

Key Specifications Breakdown

• Gauge: 20 Gauge (2 3/4-inch chambers)
• Action: Over/Under, break-action
• Barrel Length: 30 inches
• Overall Length: Approximately 45.5 inches (depending on stock dimensions)
• Stock: Select walnut with a compact youth-style stock, oil finish
• Receiver Finish: Silver, engraved with game scene
• Barrel Finish: Blued steel
• Choke System: Beretta Mobilchoke (typically includes IC, M, F chokes)
• Rib: Ventilated, 6mm wide
• Sights: Red front bead
• Weight: Approximately 6.5 to 6.8 pounds
• Length of Pull: 13.5 inches (compact stock)
• Drop at Comb: Approximately 1.5 inches
• Drop at Heel: Approximately 2.25 inches
• Safety: Manual, tang-mounted, barrel-selector
• Handedness: Right-hand cast

Feature Deep-Dive

The 686 Silver Pigeon I Vittoria is built around Beretta’s proven monobloc barrel construction. This method uses a single block of steel machined to hold both barrels, which are then brazed and soldered into place. The result is a strong, consistent barrel alignment that contributes to reliable shot patterns and long-term durability. The 30-inch barrels are chambered for 2 3/4-inch shells, which is the standard length for most 20-gauge field loads, target loads, and hunting ammunition. The ventilated rib helps dissipate heat during sustained shooting sessions and provides a clear, flat sighting plane for consistent swing.

The compact stock is the defining feature of the Vittoria model. It has a length of pull of 13.5 inches, which is approximately 1 to 1.5 inches shorter than a standard shotgun stock. This reduction allows the shooter to mount the shotgun more naturally without overreaching, which improves cheek weld and reduces the tendency to shoot high. The stock is made from select walnut with a hand-oiled finish, offering a traditional look and a secure grip. The fore-end is also scaled to match the smaller frame, providing a balanced feel that helps the shotgun swing smoothly on moving targets.

The silver receiver is a hallmark of the Silver Pigeon line. It is machined from steel and features a polished silver finish with a light scroll engraving and a game scene on the sides. This is not a coating; it is the natural color of the steel after polishing, which will develop a subtle patina over time with normal use. The receiver houses a single-selective trigger mechanism, meaning you can choose which barrel fires first via the tang-mounted selector. The safety is also located on the tang and is automatic, engaging when the action is opened. The ejectors are automatic, kicking spent shells clear of the chamber for faster reloading.

The Beretta Mobilchoke system is included, allowing the shooter to change chokes quickly without tools. The set typically includes Improved Cylinder, Modified, and Full chokes, covering most upland and clay target scenarios. The 20-gauge platform offers reduced recoil compared to a 12-gauge, which is a significant advantage for smaller shooters or those sensitive to heavy recoil. Recoil is further mitigated by the shotgun’s weight, which is around 6.5 pounds, providing enough mass to absorb energy without being heavy to carry. The balance point is forward of the hinge pin, which helps the barrel swing through the target rather than stopping short.

The fit and finish on this shotgun reflect Beretta’s Italian manufacturing standards. The wood-to-metal fit is tight, with no gaps or rough edges. The bluing on the barrels is deep and even, and the action opens and closes with a crisp, confident lock-up. The trigger pull is clean and breaks consistently, typically around 4 to 5 pounds. This is a field-grade shotgun, not a safe queen, but it is built to last for decades with proper care. The Vittoria is a specific variant within the 686 line, so it is not a generic compact stock; it is a dedicated design with a shorter fore-end and a smaller pistol grip profile that fits smaller hands better than a standard stock that has simply been cut down.

For the U.S. shooter, the 20-gauge Vittoria is a practical choice for upland birds like quail, woodcock, and grouse, where lighter loads and quick handling are valued. It is also suitable for skeet and sporting clays, particularly for shooters who prefer the challenge of a smaller gauge. The compact stock makes it an excellent loaner gun for introducing new shooters to the sport, as it will fit a wider range of body sizes than a standard stock. The 30-inch barrels provide a good balance between swing speed and sight radius, making it versatile for both field and range use.

Ideal Use Cases

• Upland Bird Hunting: The lightweight build and 20-gauge chambering make this shotgun ideal for walking up birds in fields and brush. The compact stock helps with quick mounting in tight cover.
• Clay Target Sports: Suitable for skeet, sporting clays, and some trap disciplines. The 30-inch barrels and Mobilchoke system allow for choke adjustments based on target presentations.
• Youth and Small-Frame Shooter Introduction: The reduced length of pull and smaller grip profile make this a practical first shotgun for younger or smaller-framed individuals who are ready to move beyond a .22 or a single-shot.
• Range Practice: A reliable tool for building fundamentals, with manageable recoil and consistent trigger feel. The automatic ejectors keep the pace of practice moving.

Compatibility Notes

This shotgun is chambered for 2 3/4-inch 20-gauge shells only. Do not use 3-inch magnum shells in this model, as the chamber is not designed for them. Standard field loads, target loads, and low-recoil training loads are all compatible. The Beretta Mobilchoke system uses a specific thread pattern, and replacement chokes are available from Beretta and aftermarket manufacturers like Briley and Carlson’s. The stock and fore-end are specific to the Vittoria model; standard 686 wood will not fit due to the different dimensions. The shotgun is designed for right-handed shooters, with cast-off in the stock. Holsters and slings are not typically used with break-action shotguns, but a quality shotgun sling with swivels can be added if desired. The case that comes with the shotgun is a standard Beretta hard or soft case, depending on current packaging.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can this shotgun be shipped directly to my home in the U.S.?
No. This is a firearm and must be shipped to a Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder in your state. We will ship to the FFL you designate. Once the transfer is complete, you can take possession of the shotgun from that dealer. Some states require additional background checks or waiting periods; please check your local laws.

2. How does the FFL transfer process work?
After you place your order, we will contact you to confirm your chosen FFL dealer. You will need to provide the dealer’s name, address, and FFL number. We will verify the license and ship the shotgun to them. The dealer will then process the transfer to you, which may include a background check and transfer fee (the fee is set by the dealer, not by us). We ship to all 50 states, but we cannot ship to PO boxes.

3. What ammunition is compatible with the Beretta 686 Vittoria?
This shotgun is designed for 20-gauge, 2 3/4-inch shells only. It will function with birdshot, buckshot, and slugs as long as they are within the 2 3/4-inch length. Steel shot is acceptable through the included Mobilchoke tubes, but we recommend using the Improved Cylinder or Modified choke for steel to avoid excessive pressure. Do not use 3-inch shells.

4. What is the warranty on this Beretta shotgun?
Beretta offers a limited lifetime warranty to the original owner. This covers defects in materials and workmanship for the life of the firearm. The warranty is transferable only under specific conditions, so we recommend keeping the original sales receipt. If you have a warranty issue, contact Beretta USA directly or reach out to us for assistance with the process.

5. What is your return policy for firearms?
Due to federal regulations, we cannot accept returns on firearms once they have left our inventory. If there is a defect or damage during shipping, we will work with you and the manufacturer to resolve the issue. For any other concerns, please contact us before shipping the firearm back. We stand behind the products we sell and will help facilitate warranty repairs or exchanges as needed.

Closing Call to Action

If you are looking for a well-built, compact 20-gauge over/under for a smaller-framed shooter or for your own field use, the Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon I Vittoria is a dependable choice. We ship this shotgun to your local FFL dealer anywhere in the United States. Order today, and we will handle the rest.