Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon I 20 Gauge 30-inch
About this product
The Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon I 20 Gauge 30-inch is a competition-ready over/under shotgun built for serious sporting clays and upland hunting. This isn't a beginner's gun – it's a precision instrument with dimensions and weight distribution that demand proper shooting form. Beretta's six-century manufacturing legacy is evident in every component, from the precisely regulated barrels to the hand-fitted lockwork.
What is the Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon I used for?
This shotgun excels in sporting clays competitions and sustained upland bird hunting where shot consistency matters. The 30-inch barrels provide the stable swing dynamics competitive shooters need for breaking 70-80 targets per round. With its 7.3-pound unloaded weight, it handles recoil better than lighter field guns during extended shooting sessions.
How does the Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon I compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge?
The Beretta outperforms the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge in mechanical precision and long-term durability. Where the Stevens uses investment casting for its receiver, the Beretta employs forged steel that's machined to tolerances within 0.002 inches. The Beretta's trigger breaks cleaner at 3.5 pounds versus the Stevens' 5-pound pull, giving competitive shooters an immediate advantage.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This shotgun weighs 7.3 pounds unloaded with a 30-inch barrel length and 46.5-inch overall length. The 14.5-inch length of pull accommodates most adult shooters without modification, while the 1.5-inch drop at comb positions your eye naturally along the vent rib. The balance point sits 1.25 inches ahead of the hinge pin, creating smooth swing momentum.
Who is this NOT for?
This isn't for budget-conscious shooters or those needing rapid follow-up shots. The $2,899 price tag puts it in the serious investment category, and the two-round capacity limits tactical applications. If you're primarily shooting skeet or need quick target transitions, consider a semi-automatic like the competition-focused alternatives we've tested.
What's in the box?
The package includes the shotgun, five Optima HP choke tubes (C, IC, M, IM, F), a fitted hard case, and owner's manual. The choke tube set covers every sporting application from 15-yard close shots to 45-yard crossing targets. The aluminum case provides crush-proof protection during transport to competitions.
Is the Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon I worth it at $2,899?
Absolutely – if you compete seriously or demand mechanical perfection in your hunting shotgun. The price reflects hand-fitted components that maintain zero over 50,000+ rounds, unlike mass-produced competitors. For the shooter who appreciates precision engineering, this represents better long-term value than repeatedly replacing cheaper guns.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Forged steel receiver maintains alignment through 50,000+ rounds
- Optima HP choke system delivers pattern consistency within 5% variance
- 7.3-pound weight balances recoil management with swing stability
- Single selective trigger breaks at consistent 3.5-pound pull weight
Trade-offs
- Right-hand cast only – no ambidextrous option without custom ordering
- Two-round capacity limits practical use beyond competition/hunting
- $2,899 price point exceeds many shooters' practical budget
- 30-inch barrel cumbersome in tight blind or brush hunting scenarios
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 082442027258 |
| manufacturer | Beretta |
| manufacturer part number | J686S2030 |
| action | Over / Under |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 30" |
| caliber/gauge | 20 Gauge |
| capacity | 2 |
| color | BI-TONE |
| length | 33.1500 |
| model | 686 Silver Pigeon I Sporting |
| package height | 3.25 |
| package width | 11.25 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| shipping weight | 12.5 |
| sights | White Frnt Bead/Steel Mid Bead |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Does this work with aftermarket choke tubes?
- It only accepts Beretta's proprietary Optima HP choke system, not other brands' tubes. The HP designation indicates longer parallel section for consistent patterns. You'll need to purchase additional chokes directly from Beretta or authorized dealers like Brownells.
- Can left-handed shooters use this model?
- No, this specific configuration is right-hand only with cast optimized for right-eye dominance. Beretta does make left-hand versions, but they typically require special ordering with 4-6 week lead times through distributors.
- What's the shipping time to Montana?
- FFL transfers typically take 7-10 business days including background check processing. We ship via FedEx 2-Day to licensed dealers, but state-specific waiting periods may add 1-3 additional days depending on local regulations.
- Is the walnut stock finished or unfinished?
- It arrives with Beretta's oil finish applied, providing moderate weather resistance. The finish absorbs about 0.5 ounces of oil during application but won't withstand extreme moisture without additional treatment. For harsh conditions, consider adding a paste wax coating.
- Does it include choke tube wrenches?
- Yes, the case includes one Beretta-specific choke tube wrench. It's stamped steel construction – adequate for field use but competitive shooters often upgrade to T-handle wrenches for faster changes between stations.