Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon I: A Top-Selling Over-Under

by
posted on September 10, 2020
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
beretta-686-silver-pigeo-i.jpg

Built on the company’s popular 686 action, the Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon I has become one of the best-selling over-under shotguns in the nation. Its pair of mid-action, conical locking lugs provide it the kind of lockup strength the company is known for, as well as maintaining a low profile to place a shooter’s eye closer to the support hand plane—geometry designed to improve eye-hand coordination.

The timeless looks match that long-lasting performance, a combination we’ve come to expect from Beretta. The receiver has artfully done scroll engraving and the walnut stock and Schnabel fore-end are finely checkered. Add the furniture’s oil finish with the other flourishes it is the kind of shotgun destined to become a family heirloom.

Models are available in 12, 20 and 28 gauge, as well as .410 bore. The latter chamberings have their receivers scaled down proportionately, shaving weight and providing a commensurate improvement in ability to swing on target.

Regardless of the version selected, MSRP for any brand-new Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon I is $2,350. Each chamber up to 3" shotshells, with the exception of the 28 gauge, which can digest 2 3/4" shells.

They come with a choice of 26", 28" and 30" cold-hammer-forged barrels for the 12-, 20- and 28-gauge models. In the .410 bore you can choose a length of either 26" or 28". The shotguns employ the Beretta Mobilchoke System. The safety is located on the tang as well as the barrel selector.

Last year the Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon I claimed fourth place honors in the over-under shotgun category of Gunbroker.com’s annual rankings of best-selling guns. The finish is a slight slip in popularity for the gun, which claimed second place in 2018 and the same in 2017.

Latest

Clockwork Basilisk Book Review F
Clockwork Basilisk Book Review F

Book Review: Clockwork Basilisk: The Early Revolvers Of Elisha Collier & Artemas Wheeler

The result of a decade of research, Clockwork Basilisk is a comprehensive, two-volume history of the rare revolvers that preceded the development of the well-known Colt guns of the 1830s.

Preview: 1791 Gunleather Cobra Gun Belt 01

Employing the same rugged and rigid 0.25"-thick American steerhide as 1791 Gunleather’s original Gun Belt 01, the new Cobra Gun Belt 01 offers enhanced ease of use by taking advantage of a high-strength Cobra quick-latch/release buckle.

NRA CEO Hamlin and President Bachenberg Hold First Virtual Townhall

In the interests of transparency, NRA CEO and EVP Doug Hamlin and NRA President Bill Bachenberg held a live Townhall event, where both answered direct questions from NRA members.

Benelli Adds New 28-Gauge Models to Super Black Eagle 3 Line

Benelli initially introduced the 28-ga. chambering to its Super Black Eagle 3 line in 2022, but this year, the company added three new models tailored specifically to hunters.

Preview: BKL Technologies Model 260

BKL Technologies is a well-regarded manufacturer of scope mounts and rings for airguns and rimfire rifles in particular, offering several different lines of products depending on the optic and mounting interface being used.

Gun Of The Week: Ruger 10/22 Carbon Fiber

We're on the range with one of the most iconic rimfires in America–only this time, it's got a high-tech twist. This is the Ruger 10/22 Carbon Fiber, a lightweight and modernized take on a classic plinker.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.