NRA Gun of the Week: Beretta 1301 Comp Shotgun

by
posted on October 22, 2016
** 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. **

From the world’s oldest gun maker, Beretta, comes a shotgun that’s purpose-built for serious competition use. At the heart of the 1301 Comp is the company’s Blink gas-operating system that quickly cycles 12-ga. loads up to 3”. A stepped, wide sporting ventilated rib runs the full length of the Steelium barrel, and the gun uses the company’s Optimabore HP choke system. Tailoring the shotgun to the competitive market, Beretta added out-of-the-box features that shooters have asked for, such as an over-sized charging handle that is large enough to grasp when the pressure is on, and an enlarged bolt release paddle for quick engagement. The 1301 also features an enlarged cross-bolt safety selector, ejection and loading ports, and aggressive texturing was added to forearm and styled pistol grip to improve purchase. Those looking for a shotgun to fill competition or home-defense needs should watch this week’s NRA Gun of the Week video hosted by American Rifleman's Brian Sheetz.

Specifications
Manufacturer: Fabbrica d'Armi Pietro Beretta S.p.A
Importer: Beretta USA
Action type: gas-operated, semi-automatic shotgun
Gauge: 12, 3”
Barrel: 21”; Optima Bore HP with screw-in chokes
Sights: stepped ventilated rib with steel center bead and red fiber optic front bead.
Stock: injection molded synthetic; 13” length of pull (adjustable to 14.5”)
Magazine: tubular; five-round-capacity
Trigger: 4-lb., 6-oz. pull
Overall Length: 44 1/2"
Weight:  6 lbs., 11 ozs.
Metal Finish: receiver, matte black anodized; barrel, blued
Accessories: owner’s manual, hard plastic case
MSRP: $1,275

Additional Reading:
Beretta 1301 Competition

Latest

Smith Wesson Model 1854 Stealth Hunter 1
Smith Wesson Model 1854 Stealth Hunter 1

Rifleman Review: Smith & Wesson Model 1854 Stealth Hunter

Smith & Wesson's Model 1854 Stealth Hunter is one of the latest additions to the company's line of modernized lever-action rifles.

VKTR Goes 2011: The Vanguard VKP Pro

Primarily known for its premium AR-15 rifles, VKTR Industries jumped into the 2011 handgun world in 2026 with its VKP Pro and Vanguard designs.

Rifleman Q&A: Cracking Marlin’s Code

Q: I have a Marlin Model 782 repeater, Serial No. 27392733, with a Micro-Groove barrel. I would like to understand how to narrow down its time of manufacture.

Review: Ruger 10/22 Carbon Fiber

Ruger recently released a variant of its popular 10/22 made with modern materials and incorporating performance-minded engineering: the 10/22 Carbon Fiber.

Winchester Celebrates USA 250th With Commemorative Ammo Line

Winchester Ammunition's special line of commemorative ammunition honors the 250th anniversary of the nation's founding, with unique packaging that honors the American heritage.

BANISH Suppressors Introduces BANISH 556

BANISH Suppressors introduced its BANISH 556, a full-auto rated suppressor with controlled-flow technology that the company claims is the "most advanced 5.56 NATO/.223 Rem. suppressor on the market."

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.