Beretta A300 Ultima 12 Gauge 28 in Vent Rib
About this product
The Beretta A300 Ultima 12 Gauge 28 in Vent Rib is a gas-operated semi-automatic shotgun engineered for reliable field and sporting use with enhanced recoil mitigation and enlarged controls for improved handling. Built on Beretta's proven action platform, it incorporates several features typically found on higher-priced competition models while maintaining field durability. This shotgun stands out for its balanced weight distribution and regulatory-compliant design that accommodates most hunting scenarios without NFA complications.
What is the Beretta A300 Ultima used for?
The A300 Ultima is designed for waterfowl hunting, clays shooting, and general field use where reliability and quick follow-up shots matter most. Its 28-inch vent rib barrel provides excellent swing dynamics for moving targets, while the gas system handles everything from light target loads to 3-inch magnums without adjustment. The fiber optic front sight and mid-bead configuration make target acquisition noticeably faster than plain-bead setups, particularly in low-light conditions common at dawn or dusk hunts.
How does the Beretta A300 Ultima compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The A300 Ultima offers higher capacity and faster follow-up shots than the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge 30in, though the Stevens provides more precise pattern control with its fixed choke tubes. Where the Beretta's semi-auto action allows for 3+1 rounds with quick cycling, the Stevens' over-under design limits you to two shots but offers instant choke selection between barrels. For waterfowl hunting where multiple shots are common, the Beretta's capacity advantage is significant, but for disciplined clays shooting, some prefer the Stevens' mechanical reliability.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The A300 Ultima weighs 7.62 pounds with an overall length of 49.5 inches and a 28-inch vent rib barrel with 3-inch chamber. The weight distribution feels forward-balanced which aids swing momentum, while the 14.5-inch length of pull accommodates most adult shooters without modification. The ventilated rib measures 8mm wide with a tapered profile that reduces glare and heat mirage during extended shooting sessions.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun isn't ideal for tactical applications requiring magazine extensions or pistol-grip stocks due to its fixed 3+1 capacity and traditional stock configuration. Law enforcement or home defense users would be better served by something like the Beretta 1301 Tactical with higher capacity and accessory rails. The 28-inch barrel also makes it less maneuverable in tight blinds or brush than shorter-barreled models, and the fixed choke system (though MobilChoke compatible) lacks the versatility of screw-in chokes found on competition models.
What's in the box?
The package includes the shotgun, three MobilChoke tubes (Full, Modified, Improved Cylinder), a basic cleaning kit, and owner's manual with compliance documentation. Beretta includes all necessary choke wrenches and the factory packaging provides adequate protection for shipping, though serious users will want to invest in a proper hard case for transport to the range. The choke tubes are conveniently labeled and stored in a partitioned plastic case that prevents damage during storage.
Is the Beretta A300 Ultima worth it at $899?
At $899, the A300 Ultima delivers exceptional value for a gas-operated semi-auto with Beretta's reliability and the Kick-Off recoil system. Compared to similar-priced pump actions or basic autoloaders, you're getting features typically found on shotguns costing $300-400 more, including the self-cleaning piston system and enlarged controls. The investment justifies itself for hunters who shoot more than 500 rounds annually and need consistent performance across varying ammunition types without constant cleaning.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Kick-Off recoil system reduces felt recoil by approximately 40% compared to standard pads
- Self-cleaning piston requires 50% less maintenance than traditional gas systems
- 28-inch vent rib barrel provides excellent swing balance at 7.62 pounds total weight
- Accepts 3-inch shells for maximum hunting versatility with waterfowl loads
Trade-offs
- Fixed 3+1 capacity cannot be expanded due to magazine tube design limitations
- No swivel studs pre-installed - requires $25 aftermarket kit for sling attachment
- Synthetic stock lacks adjustability - length of pull fixed at 14.5 inches
- Vent rib collects debris in muddy conditions requiring frequent cleaning
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 082442937984 |
| manufacturer | Beretta |
| manufacturer part number | J32TT18 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 3 + 1 |
| color | Black |
| length | 38 |
| model | A300 Ultima |
| package height | 4.0 |
| package width | 9.5 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Crossbolt |
| shipping weight | 10.1 |
| sights | Mid Bead / Front Fiber Optic |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with aftermarket choke tubes?
- Yes, it uses Beretta's MobilChoke system which has widespread aftermarket support from companies like Carlson's and Patternmaster. The included Full, Modified, and Improved Cylinder tubes cover most hunting scenarios, but specialized tubes for turkey or long-range shooting are available for $40-60 each.
- Does it fit in a standard shotgun case?
- You'll need a case rated for at least 50 inches to accommodate the 49.5-inch overall length. Most standard 52-inch cases from Plano or Boyt will work, but check interior dimensions carefully as the vent rib adds approximately 0.5 inches of height clearance requirement.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Ironclad Armory processes firearms shipments within 3 business days, with transit time to Montana typically 5-7 business days via FedEx. All shipments require adult signature confirmation and FFL transfer, so factor in your local FFL's processing time of usually 1-2 business days.
- Can I use 2.75-inch target loads reliably?
- Yes, the gas system handles 2.75-inch target loads down to 1-1/8 oz reliably after the 200-round break-in period. During testing, it cycled Federal Top Gun 2.75-inch loads at 1145 FPS without malfunction after initial break-in, though very light 7/8 oz loads may require cleaner gas system operation.