Beretta A400 XTR Plus KO 12 Ga, 28″ Barrel, 3.5″, Real Tree Max 5

Description

The Beretta A400 XTR Plus KO 12 Gauge stands as a reliable semi-automatic shotgun engineered for the demands of waterfowl hunting and upland game pursuits across varied U.S. terrain. Whether you are working flooded timber in the Mississippi Flyway or chasing pheasants through Midwest cornfields, this platform delivers consistent cycling with heavy 3.5-inch magnum loads and lighter field loads alike. Its Real Tree Max 5 camouflage finish offers practical concealment in marsh, field, and forest environments, making it a solid choice for hunters who require a gun that performs under wet, cold, and muddy conditions.

What This Product Is and Who It’s For

The Beretta A400 XTR Plus KO is a gas-operated semi-automatic shotgun chambered in 12 Gauge with a 28-inch barrel and a 3.5-inch chamber capacity. This model is designed primarily for serious waterfowl hunters who need reliable cycling with heavy steel or bismuth loads, as well as upland hunters who appreciate the reduced recoil and fast handling. It is also well-suited for target shooters who participate in clay sports like trap or sporting clays, where the soft shooting characteristics and adjustable stock can improve consistency. This is not a home defense or concealed carry firearm; it is a field-grade shotgun built for extended days outdoors, with a focus on durability, corrosion resistance, and ergonomic fit for all-day carry.

Key Specifications Breakdown

• Caliber: 12 Gauge (accepts 2.75-inch, 3-inch, and 3.5-inch shells)
• Barrel Length: 28 inches
• Chamber: 3.5 inches (magnum compatible)
• Overall Length: Approximately 49.5 inches
• Weight: Approximately 7.3 pounds (unloaded)
• Stock and Forend: Real Tree Max 5 camouflage finish over synthetic material
• Action: Gas-operated semi-automatic with Beretta’s Kick-Off Plus recoil reduction system
• Magazine Capacity: 4+1 (with 3-inch shells; varies with 3.5-inch shells)
• Sights: Fiber optic front sight with metal bead
• Chokes: Beretta Optima-Bore HP choke system with extended flush chokes (C, IC, M, IM, F included)
• Receiver: Anodized aluminum with Real Tree Max 5 coating
• Stock Features: Adjustable length of pull, comb height, and cast via shim system; Kick-Off Plus hydraulic recoil dampener
• Safety: Cross-bolt style with reversible for left-handed shooters

Feature Deep-Dive

The Beretta A400 XTR Plus KO incorporates several engineering details that set it apart from other semi-automatic shotguns in its class. The gas system is self-cleaning and uses a rotating bolt head with a steel locking lug, which reduces fouling buildup and allows for longer periods between cleaning. This is particularly useful for hunters who spend multiple days in the field without access to a cleaning kit. The system also cycles reliably with a wide range of ammunition, from light 2.75-inch target loads to heavy 3.5-inch magnums, without requiring manual gas adjustment.

Recoil management is addressed through the Kick-Off Plus system, which uses two hydraulic dampeners in the stock to absorb rearward force before it reaches the shooter’s shoulder. This reduces perceived recoil by roughly 40 percent compared to standard gas guns, which can reduce flinching and improve follow-up shot accuracy. The stock also features an adjustable cheek piece and length of pull via interchangeable shims, allowing the shooter to customize the fit to their body dimensions. A proper fit is critical for consistent shot placement, and this adjustability makes the A400 XTR Plus KO suitable for a wide range of body types and shooting styles.

The Real Tree Max 5 camouflage pattern is applied to the stock, forend, and receiver using a durable dip-coating process that resists scratches and UV fading. The barrel and magazine tube receive a matte black anodized finish that reduces glare and resists corrosion from moisture and salt. The 28-inch barrel is paired with the Optima-Bore HP choke system, which uses extended flush chokes that are easy to swap without tools. The included set of five chokes provides versatility for different game and distances, from close-cover wood ducks to pass-shooting geese.

Loading and unloading are straightforward with a lifter that is designed to handle gloved fingers. The bolt release button is oversized and textured, and the magazine cut-off feature allows the shooter to quickly unload the chamber while keeping the magazine full, useful when crossing fences or entering a boat. The trigger is crisp and breaks cleanly at around 5.5 to 6 pounds, which is standard for a field gun and helps maintain accuracy when swinging on moving targets.

Durability is reinforced with stainless steel components in the gas piston and magazine tube, as well as a hard-anodized receiver that resists wear. The synthetic stock is reinforced with fiberglass and has a textured grip area on the forend for a secure hold in wet conditions. The overall build quality reflects Beretta’s manufacturing standards, which include CNC machining and hand-fitting of critical parts. This is a shotgun intended for frequent use in demanding environments, and the materials and assembly reflect that intent.

The bolt handle is oversized and checkered for easy manipulation, and the bolt itself is chrome-lined for corrosion resistance and smooth cycling. The ejector is robust and consistently throws spent shells clear of the action, even with low-brass target loads. The magazine spring is pre-loaded for easy loading and is designed to maintain tension over long periods of storage, reducing the risk of feeding issues when the gun is taken out of the safe after a season.

Ideal Use Cases

• Waterfowl Hunting: The 3.5-inch chamber and Real Tree Max 5 camouflage make this shotgun a strong choice for duck and goose hunting in marshes, fields, and flooded timber. The recoil reduction system helps maintain comfort during a long day of shooting heavy loads.
• Upland Hunting: The 28-inch barrel provides a good balance of swing speed and reach for pheasants, grouse, and quail. The adjustable stock allows for a quick, natural point of aim in thick cover.
• Clay Target Shooting: The soft recoil and consistent cycling make it suitable for trap, skeet, and sporting clays. The interchangeable chokes allow the shooter to tune the pattern for different presentations.
• Turkey Hunting: While not specifically marketed as a turkey gun, the 3.5-inch chamber and tight choke options (included full choke) can be used for turkey hunting with appropriate shot loads.

Compatibility Notes

• Ammunition: This shotgun cycles 2.75-inch, 3-inch, and 3.5-inch 12 Gauge shells. It functions reliably with lead, steel, bismuth, and tungsten-based shot. Low-brass target loads may require a break-in period of 100 to 200 rounds for optimal cycling.
• Chokes: Uses Beretta Optima-Bore HP extended chokes. Aftermarket chokes from Briley, Carlson’s, and other manufacturers are available in this pattern. Do not use older Optima or Mobil choke tubes, as they are not compatible.
• Accessories: The receiver is drilled and tapped for scope mounts. Aftermarket recoil pads and stock shims are available from Beretta and third-party suppliers. Magazine extensions are not recommended for this model due to the gas system design.
• Holsters: Not applicable. This is a full-length shotgun and is not designed for holster carry.

Frequently Asked Questions

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 dealer be shipped to another licensed FFL dealer in your state for transfer. We will ship the Beretta A400 XTR Plus KO to the FFL dealer you choose during checkout. You must coordinate with that dealer to complete the background check and pick up the firearm.

2. How does the FFL transfer process work?
After you place your order, provide us with the name and address of your chosen FFL dealer. We will verify their license and ship the firearm to them. You will then visit the dealer, complete ATF Form 4473, and pass a NICS background check. Transfer fees vary by dealer and are not included in the purchase price. We recommend contacting your local dealer before ordering to confirm their transfer policies and fees.

3. What ammunition is compatible with this shotgun?
This shotgun is chambered for 12 Gauge shells up to 3.5 inches. It will cycle 2.75-inch, 3-inch, and 3.5-inch loads. It is designed to handle steel, lead, bismuth, and tungsten shot. For best reliability, we recommend using high-base or magnum loads during the break-in period. After approximately 200 rounds, it should cycle most low-brass target loads as well.

4. Does this shotgun come with a warranty?
Yes. Beretta provides a limited lifetime warranty to the original owner against defects in materials and workmanship. The warranty covers repair or replacement of defective parts at Beretta’s discretion. It does not cover normal wear and tear, damage from improper use, or modifications by unauthorized gunsmiths. You may need to register the warranty on Beretta’s website within 30 days of purchase.

5. What is your return policy for firearms?
Because this is a firearm, all sales are final once the item is transferred to your FFL dealer. We do not accept returns on firearms after transfer. If there is a manufacturing defect, it will be covered under the Beretta warranty. If you have questions about fit, finish, or configuration before purchase, please contact our customer service team. We are happy to provide additional photos or answer spec questions.

The Beretta A400 XTR Plus KO 12 Gauge with 28-inch barrel and Real Tree Max 5 finish is available now through our inventory. We ship to licensed FFL dealers in all 50 states, excluding locations where local laws restrict the sale of semi-automatic shotguns. Orders placed before 2 PM Eastern Time typically ship the same business day. Contact our team if you need assistance selecting an FFL dealer or have questions about compatibility with your state’s regulations.