The Beretta 686 Onyx Pro is more than just a shotgun; it's a statement. This Italian-crafted beauty represents the pinnacle of Beretta's over-century-long dedication to firearms excellence. Its sleek design, unparalleled reliability, and exceptional performance have solidified its place as a favorite among competitive shooters and discerning hunters alike. This in-depth exploration will delve into every facet of the Beretta 686 Onyx Pro, examining its features, performance, and overall value proposition. We'll explore why it's considered a top choice for those seeking a high-quality over-under shotgun.
Understanding the Beretta 686 Onyx Pro's Heritage
Beretta's legacy is built on a foundation of innovation and craftsmanship. The 686 series, from which the Onyx Pro descends, is renowned for its robust construction and exceptional balance. This heritage is evident in the Onyx Pro's meticulous detailing and unwavering reliability. The 686 platform has served as the basis for countless variations, each tailored to specific disciplines and user preferences. The Onyx Pro, however, stands out with its unique blend of elegance and performance.
Key Features of the Beretta 686 Onyx Pro
The Beretta 686 Onyx Pro boasts a collection of features that contribute to its superior performance and handling. These include:
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Steelium Plus Barrels: These barrels are cold-hammer forged, resulting in exceptional strength, accuracy, and durability. The Steelium Plus process ensures consistent shot patterns and reduces barrel wear. This is crucial for maintaining accuracy over extended periods of use.
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Adjustable Comb: The adjustable comb allows shooters to customize the stock to fit their individual face and shoulder. This personalized fit significantly improves comfort, reduces recoil, and enhances overall accuracy. A proper fit is essential for consistent performance and reduces fatigue during extended shooting sessions.
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High-Grade Wood Stock: The Onyx Pro features a beautifully finished high-grade walnut stock. This provides not only an aesthetically pleasing look but also contributes to the shotgun's exceptional balance and feel. The wood's quality contributes to the gun's overall luxurious feel.
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Beautifully Engraved Receiver: The receiver often features intricate and elegant scrollwork engraving. This is more than just decoration; it's a testament to Beretta's commitment to craftsmanship and attention to detail.
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Selective Barrel System: The selective barrel system allows the shooter to choose between different choke tubes, optimizing performance for various shooting situations. This versatility is a significant advantage for both hunters and competitive shooters.
Performance and Handling of the Beretta 686 Onyx Pro
The Beretta 686 Onyx Pro’s performance speaks for itself. Its reputation for accuracy and reliability is well-earned. The combination of the Steelium Plus barrels, adjustable comb, and well-balanced design translates to excellent target acquisition and consistent shot placement.
Recoil Management: A Smooth Shooting Experience
One of the standout features of the Onyx Pro is its remarkably smooth recoil. This is achieved through a combination of factors, including the gun's weight distribution, the design of the stock, and the inherent characteristics of the Steelium Plus barrels. This reduction in felt recoil enhances both shooting comfort and accuracy, especially during prolonged shooting sessions.
Versatility: Adaptable to Different Disciplines
The Beretta 686 Onyx Pro's versatility is another key selling point. Whether used for sporting clays, skeet, trap, or hunting, it performs admirably. Its adaptability is a direct result of the adjustable comb and the use of interchangeable choke tubes. This allows shooters to fine-tune the shotgun for optimal performance in their chosen discipline.
The Beretta 686 Onyx Pro: A Value Proposition
While the Beretta 686 Onyx Pro carries a premium price tag, it represents exceptional value for money. Its longevity, performance, and craftsmanship ensure that it remains a worthwhile investment for years, if not decades, to come. The resale value of this shotgun also tends to be strong, reflecting the high demand and reputation for quality.
Comparison to Competitors
While other high-end over-under shotguns exist, the Beretta 686 Onyx Pro frequently distinguishes itself due to its exceptional balance of price, features, and performance. Competitors may offer certain features individually, but the Onyx Pro often manages to provide a more comprehensive package for a competitive price point.
Case Study: A Professional Shooter's Perspective
(Insert a hypothetical case study here featuring a professional shooter detailing their experience using the Beretta 686 Onyx Pro in competition. Include specific examples of the benefits they found from using this model. This could involve improved scores, reduced fatigue, or enhanced target acquisition.)
Conclusion: Is the Beretta 686 Onyx Pro Right For You?
The Beretta 686 Onyx Pro is a superior over-under shotgun, a testament to Italian craftsmanship and engineering. Its blend of performance, elegance, and reliability makes it a compelling option for serious shooters. However, its premium price point necessitates careful consideration of individual needs and budget. If you're seeking a high-quality, versatile, and long-lasting over-under shotgun, the Beretta 686 Onyx Pro deserves serious consideration. It's a tool that will serve you well for many years.