Description
The Beretta A400 Action 12 Gauge represents a thoughtful evolution in semi-automatic shotgun design, built for American shooters who demand reliability across varied conditions—from waterfowl blinds in the Pacific Northwest to clay ranges in the Midwest. With a 28-inch barrel and 3-inch chamber, this model is engineered to handle heavy payloads while reducing felt recoil, making it a practical choice for hunters and sport shooters who spend long days in the field. Whether you’re cycling light target loads or magnum waterfowl shells, the A400 Action delivers consistent cycling without manual adjustment.
What This Product Is and Who It’s For
The Beretta A400 Action is a gas-operated, semi-automatic shotgun chambered in 12 gauge, featuring a 28-inch barrel and a 3-inch chamber. It is designed for shooters who require a versatile firearm that can transition between hunting, competitive clay sports, and home defense roles. This model is particularly suited for upland bird hunters, waterfowl hunters, and trap or skeet enthusiasts who value reduced recoil and rapid follow-up shots. It is also a strong option for those seeking a reliable shotgun for property defense, given its proven action and durable construction. Collectors will appreciate the Xtra Grain walnut stock, which offers a classic aesthetic with modern engineering.
Key Specifications Breakdown
- Caliber: 12 Gauge (12 Ga)
- Barrel Length: 28 inches
- Chamber: 3 inches (accepts 2.75-inch and 3-inch shells)
- Action: Gas-operated semi-automatic (Beretta A400 system)
- Stock: Xtra Grain walnut with gloss finish and checkered grip panels
- Receiver: Anodized aluminum alloy with matte black finish
- Overall Length: Approximately 49 inches (depending on choke)
- Weight: Approximately 7.2 pounds (unloaded)
- Sights: Red bar front sight with fiber optic insert
- Chokes: Beretta Mobilchoke system (includes IC, M, F chokes)
- Capacity: 4+1 rounds (3-inch shells) or 5+1 (2.75-inch shells) with included plug
- Finish: Blued barrel, anodized receiver, gloss oil-finished stock
- Safety: Cross-bolt safety located at the rear of the trigger guard
- UPC: 082442707709
- Manufacturer Number: J40AW18
Feature Deep-Dive
The Beretta A400 Action utilizes the company’s fourth-generation gas operating system, which reduces felt recoil by up to 40% compared to traditional inertia-driven designs. This is achieved through a self-cleaning piston system that vents excess gas pressure away from the action, keeping the internal components cleaner during extended shooting sessions. The system automatically adjusts to different shell loads—from light 1-ounce target loads to heavy 3-inch magnums—without requiring any manual adjustment of gas ports or rings. This makes it a practical choice for shooters who switch between ammunition types frequently.
The 28-inch barrel is fitted with the Beretta Mobilchoke system, allowing users to swap chokes for different applications. The barrel features a stepped, ventilated rib with a red fiber optic front sight, which provides a clear sight picture in varying light conditions. The chromed bore and chamber resist corrosion and fouling, which is particularly beneficial for hunters working in wet environments. The barrel’s length strikes a balance between swing speed for upland birds and sufficient sight radius for clay targets.
The Xtra Grain walnut stock is crafted from select-grade walnut with a gloss oil finish that highlights the wood’s natural grain patterns. The stock features a raised cheek piece for a consistent cheek weld and a checkered grip area at the wrist and forend for secure handling. The stock is fitted with a soft rubber recoil pad that reduces shoulder fatigue during high-volume shooting. The length of pull is adjustable via spacers (included), allowing the shooter to customize fit for different clothing layers or personal preference.
The receiver is machined from anodized aluminum alloy, which keeps weight low without sacrificing structural integrity. The matte black finish reduces glare in bright conditions, making it suitable for hunting applications. The bolt features a rotating head design with dual extractors for reliable ejection of spent shells. The trigger assembly is housed in a polymer unit that can be removed for cleaning without tools, simplifying maintenance. The cross-bolt safety is positioned at the rear of the trigger guard and is reversible for left-handed shooters.
The A400 Action includes a magazine plug that limits capacity to 2+1 rounds for waterfowl hunting compliance, but it can be removed for increased capacity in non-migratory bird hunting or sport shooting. The magazine tube holds up to 4 rounds of 3-inch shells or 5 rounds of 2.75-inch shells with the plug removed. The loading port is beveled for easier reloading, and the bolt release button is located on the right side of the receiver. The shotgun accepts standard Beretta 12-gauge magazines and aftermarket extensions from reputable manufacturers.
Beretta’s Kick-Off Plus recoil reduction system is integrated into the stock, using a hydraulic damper to absorb up to 70% of felt recoil energy. This system is especially beneficial for shooters using heavy loads or those with shoulder sensitivity. The combination of the gas system and recoil damper makes the A400 Action one of the softest-shooting 12-gauge semi-automatics available, allowing for faster follow-up shots and reduced shooter fatigue over long days at the range or in the field.
Ideal Use Cases
Hunting: The 28-inch barrel and 3-inch chamber make this shotgun well-suited for waterfowl, upland birds, and turkey hunting. The adjustable gas system cycles heavy loads reliably, while the Mobilchoke system allows for pattern customization. The weight and balance are favorable for all-day carry in the field.
Sport Shooting: For trap, skeet, and sporting clays, the A400 Action offers fast target acquisition and low recoil for extended practice sessions. The fiber optic front sight and ventilated rib aid in tracking fast-moving targets. The 28-inch barrel is a versatile length for most clay disciplines.
Home Defense: With a capacity of 5+1 rounds and reliable cycling of buckshot and slugs, this shotgun is a practical option for property defense. The reduced recoil aids in quick follow-up shots, and the cross-bolt safety is easy to operate under stress. The 28-inch barrel may be longer than typical home-defense shotguns, but it provides improved sight radius and pattern density.
Compatibility Notes
The Beretta A400 Action accepts all standard 12-gauge 2.75-inch and 3-inch shells, including birdshot, buckshot, and slugs. It is compatible with Beretta Mobilchoke tubes (flush and extended) and aftermarket chokes from Briley, Carlson’s, and Trulock. The shotgun uses Beretta standard 12-gauge magazines and can accept aftermarket magazine extensions from Nordic Components and similar brands. Holsters are generally not applicable for this platform, but soft cases and slings designed for 12-gauge shotguns with 28-inch barrels will fit. The stock accepts standard Beretta recoil pad spacers for length-of-pull adjustment. The receiver is drilled and tapped for scope mounts or red dot sights, though this is uncommon for shotguns in this category.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can this shotgun be shipped directly to my home?
A: No. Per federal law, all firearms must be shipped to a licensed Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer in your state. We ship to your chosen FFL, and you complete the background check and transfer there. We will require a signed copy of your FFL’s license before shipping.
Q: How does the FFL transfer process work?
A: After placing your order, we will contact you to confirm your chosen FFL dealer. You must provide their contact information, and we will verify their license. Once approved, we ship the firearm to them. You then visit the dealer, complete ATF Form 4473, and pass the NICS background check. Transfer fees vary by dealer and are not included in the purchase price.
Q: Does this shotgun cycle light target loads reliably?
A: Yes. The Beretta A400 gas system is designed to cycle a wide range of ammunition, including 1-ounce target loads (2.75-inch) and 3-inch magnum shells. No manual adjustment is needed. For best results, use ammunition with at least 1,200 fps velocity for the first few break-in rounds, though many users report reliable function with standard target loads out of the box.
Q: What is the warranty on this Beretta A400 Action?
A: Beretta offers a limited lifetime warranty to the original purchaser for defects in materials and workmanship. The warranty covers repairs or replacement at Beretta’s discretion. It does not cover damage from misuse, neglect, or unauthorized modifications. To file a claim, contact Beretta USA customer service with proof of purchase.
Q: Can I return this firearm if I change my mind?
A: Firearms are final sale due to federal regulations and safety reasons. We do not accept returns on firearms unless there is a manufacturer defect. If you experience a functional issue, we will work with you and Beretta to resolve it under warranty. Please ensure you are satisfied with the product before completing your purchase.
Closing CTA
This Beretta A400 Action 12 Gauge with 28-inch barrel and Xtra Grain walnut stock is available for purchase and ships to your licensed FFL dealer within the United States. We offer competitive pricing and secure checkout. If you have additional questions about compatibility or the ordering process, contact our team before purchase. Order now to add this reliable, versatile shotgun to your collection.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.