Introduction
The roar of the crowd, the metallic clang of steel, the adrenaline pumping – the world of competitive shotgun sports is a thrilling landscape. Success hinges on speed, accuracy, and the perfect equipment. For years, enthusiasts have searched for a shotgun that delivers peak performance, a weapon that can keep pace with their ambitions. In this landscape, the Beretta 1301 Comp has emerged as a frontrunner, a firearm lauded for its blistering speed and unwavering reliability. But does this shotgun truly live up to the hype? Is it the ultimate competition shotgun? This comprehensive Beretta 1301 Comp review will delve into its features, performance, and suitability for the demanding world of competitive shooting. We’ll explore every aspect of this impressive shotgun, from its advanced operating system to its ergonomic design, to provide a complete assessment.
Key Features and Specifications
Let’s begin by examining the core elements that make the Beretta 1301 Comp a standout choice. The foundation of this shotgun is the Beretta 1301 platform. Specifically designed for speed and competition, this platform has earned a reputation for its reliability and ease of use. The “Comp” designation emphasizes its focus on competitive shooting, reflecting its optimized design for the sport.
The Beretta 1301 Comp features a 12-gauge configuration, the standard for many shotgun competitions. It is available with various barrel lengths, with the common options tailored for fast target transitions and maneuvering.
A key characteristic is its gas-operated action. This sophisticated system is the heartbeat of the 1301 Comp’s performance, enabling incredibly fast cycling. The gas system harnesses energy from the fired shell to cycle the action. The speed and consistency of this operation contributes significantly to the gun’s competitive advantage.
The magazine capacity is a vital consideration for any competition shotgun. The Beretta 1301 Comp offers a capacity of 9+1 shells in the magazine tube with a standard configuration. This gives competitors plenty of firepower before needing to reload. Many competitors opt for aftermarket magazine tube extensions to further boost their capacity.
The 3-inch chamber allows the use of a wide variety of shotgun shells. This flexibility is beneficial in competitive shooting, as it allows the shooter to find the optimal loads for different types of targets.
The Beretta 1301 Comp delivers a manageable weight. The overall weight allows for easy handling while maintaining a sense of stability.
The ergonomics of the shotgun are also important. The 1301 Comp is designed with a focus on user comfort and intuitive control. The overall dimensions are designed to make the shotgun comfortable to handle.
The detailed breakdown of specific features is essential.
Action and its Operation
The heart of the Beretta 1301 Comp’s performance is the Blink gas operating system. This system is designed for incredibly fast cycling. The design minimizes the time between shots, giving competitive shooters a definite edge. The Blink system is engineered for consistent performance, minimizing malfunctions and increasing reliability. The gas system helps to reduce felt recoil, adding to the comfort and controllability of the 1301 Comp.
Barrel, Chokes and Patterns
The barrel and choke configuration plays a crucial role in accuracy and pellet spread. The Beretta 1301 Comp is usually supplied with Optima-Bore HP choke tubes. These high-performance chokes offer consistent patterns and are ideal for competition use. The different choke options give the shooter precise control over the spread of pellets, adapting to different target distances and shooting scenarios.
Receiver, Stock and Forend Materials
The receiver is manufactured from high-quality materials and is finished in a way that enhances both its durability and its aesthetic appeal. The stock and forend are often constructed of durable synthetic materials that can withstand the rigors of competitive shooting. The synthetic materials make the shotgun more resistant to weather and easier to maintain. Many models feature adjustable stocks to allow for better fit for individual shooters.
Sights, Controls and Ergonomics
The factory sights on the Beretta 1301 Comp often include a fiber optic front sight. This type of sight is easily visible in various lighting conditions, facilitating fast target acquisition. Ergonomics are a key design element. The bolt release, safety, and charging handle are placed for quick and intuitive operation. The design minimizes the time it takes to handle the controls during high-stress competitions.
Magazine Tube Considerations
The magazine tube on the Beretta 1301 Comp is designed to accept modifications. Many competitive shooters choose to install magazine tube extensions to increase the capacity. This allows for more shots without reloading, boosting the shooter’s speed and efficiency. These extensions are usually easy to install and are a popular upgrade.
Performance and Handling
Now, let’s shift our focus to how the Beretta 1301 Comp performs when put to the test.
The Shooting Experience
The Beretta 1301 Comp offers an excellent shooting experience. The felt recoil is notably manageable, thanks to the effective gas operating system. The gun allows for fast follow-up shots. Accuracy is consistently excellent. The gun’s balance and ergonomics contribute to its comfortable and controlled feel, making it a joy to shoot.
Reliability and Durability
Reliability is paramount in competitive shooting, and the Beretta 1301 Comp generally shines in this regard. The Blink gas system is known for its consistent performance. This reliability translates to fewer malfunctions, meaning fewer delays during competitions. The construction of the shotgun from quality materials contributes to its overall durability, even with heavy use.
Speed and Competitive Edge
The Beretta 1301 Comp excels in speed. The gas operating system, along with the ergonomics, contribute to the competitive advantage. The overall design enables faster target acquisition, reduced split times between shots, and improved shooting efficiency. This translates directly into higher scores and better performance on the range.
Pros and Cons
No firearm is perfect. Understanding the pros and cons will enable you to make an informed decision.
The Upsides
The Beretta 1301 Comp boasts numerous advantages. Its speed, reliability, and smooth handling are primary selling points. The factory features, such as the fiber optic front sight, enhance performance. The build quality is high, and the ergonomic design boosts comfort. The ability to customize and upgrade the shotgun further adds to its value.
Areas for Improvement
As with any firearm, some potential downsides warrant mention. The cost may be a consideration for some shooters, as the Beretta 1301 Comp falls into the premium price range. The availability of specific modifications, though generally good, could be further enhanced by increasing the number of aftermarket options. However, these are relatively minor considerations against its many positives.
Competition Use and Comparisons
How does the Beretta 1301 Comp measure up in the competitive shooting arena?
Suitability for Competition
The Beretta 1301 Comp is an excellent choice for various shotgun competitions, including 3-Gun and USPSA. The shotgun’s fast cycling and handling make it well-suited for these fast-paced shooting disciplines. The ease of customization also contributes, allowing shooters to tailor the gun to the specific requirements of their chosen competition.
Comparison with Other Shotguns
When considering the Beretta 1301 Comp, it’s worth comparing it to other top-tier competition shotguns. The Benelli M2 is another popular option, but the 1301 Comp often has the edge in cycling speed. The Mossberg 930 is an alternative that offers a lower price point, although it might not match the same level of performance. The Remington VersaMax, while a solid shotgun, might not be as streamlined as the Beretta 1301 Comp for competition use. The choice ultimately comes down to individual preferences and budget, but the Beretta 1301 Comp frequently comes out on top.
Modifications and Accessories
A critical aspect of customizing a competition shotgun is the availability of aftermarket modifications.
Popular Upgrades
The Beretta 1301 Comp readily accepts various upgrades. Magazine tube extensions are a common addition, increasing the capacity. Extended charging handles and bolt releases are also available, further improving ergonomics. There are a variety of options for aftermarket sights, allowing shooters to dial in their preferred sight picture. Aftermarket stocks are also very popular, allowing a more customized feel for the shooter.
Customization Possibilities
The Beretta 1301 Comp allows for significant customization. This allows shooters to tailor the shotgun to their specific needs and preferences. This is an important factor in optimizing performance in competitions.
Value and Pricing
A realistic evaluation requires an examination of price and value.
Price Considerations
The Beretta 1301 Comp is typically positioned in the mid-to-high price range. This price reflects its quality and performance, along with the manufacturer’s reputation.
Value Proposition
Does the Beretta 1301 Comp offer value for money? The answer is generally positive. The build quality, the speed, the reliability, and the overall performance combine to make the investment worthwhile for competitive shooters.
Long-Term Investment
The Beretta 1301 Comp is likely a good long-term investment. The quality of the gun, along with its popularity among competitors, can help hold its value. The availability of spare parts and the aftermarket support are also very good.
Conclusion
In summary, the Beretta 1301 Comp is a serious contender for the title of “ultimate competition shotgun.” Its combination of speed, reliability, and features makes it a top choice for competitive shooters. The 1301 Comp is well-suited for fast-paced action, target acquisition, and the demanding conditions of competition.
Final Verdict
The Beretta 1301 Comp lives up to its reputation. It consistently delivers and provides a competitive edge. If you are seeking a competition shotgun, the Beretta 1301 Comp is a fantastic choice.
Recommendation
The Beretta 1301 Comp is especially well-suited for competitive shooters who prioritize speed and reliability. This shotgun also makes a strong choice for shooters seeking to move up in the competitive shooting ranks.
Final Words
The Beretta 1301 Comp is a testament to Beretta’s engineering and dedication to the sport. If you are looking to excel in the shooting sports, the Beretta 1301 Comp may be the perfect shotgun to bring you to the next level.
