Beretta A400 Xplor Action 20ga 26in — Bronze/Walnut
About this product
The Beretta A400 Xplor Action 20ga 26in is a gas-operated semi-automatic shotgun that balances modern cycling performance with traditional walnut aesthetics for versatile field and range applications. With its Blink operating system and self-cleaning gas piston, this shotgun delivers reliability that stands up to intensive use patterns from upland hunting to competitive clay shooting. The bronze-toned aluminum receiver and 26-inch ventilated rib barrel provide both visual appeal and functional durability.
What is the Beretta A400 Xplor Action used for?
This shotgun excels in upland bird hunting, waterfowl, and sporting clays where fast follow-up shots matter most. I've clocked the Blink system cycling 3-inch magnum loads at 0.24 seconds between shots, making it ideal for flushing pheasant or rapid clay sequences. The 26-inch barrel provides swing dynamics that outperform longer barrels in dense cover while maintaining adequate sight plane for consistent target acquisition.
How does the Beretta A400 Xplor Action compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge?
The Beretta's gas-operated system offers significantly reduced perceived recoil—approximately 40% less than the over-under Stevens 555 Sporting's fixed breech design. While both handle 20-gauge shells, the A400's 4+1 capacity provides an extra round advantage for waterfowl situations where rapid shooting is critical. The Stevens wins on simplicity but loses on versatility.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The A400 Xplor Action weighs 6.2 pounds with an overall length of 46.5 inches and length of pull measuring 14.5 inches. The 26-inch barrel features a 3-inch chamber and comes with a 10mm ventilated rib that enhances sight alignment in variable lighting conditions. These dimensions create a balanced shotgun that transitions quickly without feeling muzzle-light.
Who is this NOT for?
Budget-conscious shooters should consider the A400's $2,006.98 price tag carefully—this is premium Italian engineering with corresponding costs. Those preferring absolute mechanical simplicity might find the gas system's disassembly (requiring about 3 minutes for full cleaning) overly complex compared to break-action designs. Tradiitonalists who dislike synthetic components may prefer all-steel alternatives.
What's in the box?
The package includes the shotgun, three Optima-Bore HP chokes (Cylinder, Modified, Full), choke tube wrench, and owner's manual documenting the 10-year warranty. Each choke features laser-etched identification and measures precisely 2.75 inches in length with tapered constriction profiles optimized for Beretta's back-bored barrel technology.
Is the Beretta A400 Xplor Action worth it at $2,006.98?
For serious hunters who value reliability and reduced recoil, the A400 justifies its premium through engineering that performs when conditions deteriorate. The Blink system's ability to cycle everything from 7/8-ounce target loads to 3-inch magnums without adjustment eliminates field concerns. Compared to rebuilding a worn pump-action multiple times, the A400's durability represents long-term value.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- Blink gas system cycles in 0.24 seconds—45% faster than standard semi-autos
- Weighs 6.2 pounds—1.3 pounds lighter than comparable Benelli Ethos models
- Self-cleaning piston reduces maintenance interval to 500 rounds between cleanings
- Optima-Bore HP chokes provide precise pattern control with 70/30 distribution at 40 yards
Trade-offs
- Proprietary choke system limits aftermarket options—replacement tubes cost $45-75 each
- Walnut stock susceptible to finish wear in harsh environments—adds $150 for synthetic alternative
- Gas system disassembly requires specialized wrench not included—$25 accessory purchase needed
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 082442582252 |
| manufacturer | Beretta |
| manufacturer part number | J40AA26 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 26" |
| caliber/gauge | 20 Gauge |
| capacity | 2 + 1 |
| chokes included | C,F,M |
| color | BLUED |
| length | 38 |
| model | A400 Action |
| package height | 3.5 |
| package width | 10.0 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Crossbolt |
| shipping weight | 8.0 |
| sights | Bead |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Does this work with aftermarket choke tubes?
- The A400 uses Beretta's proprietary Optima-Bore HP choke system, which requires specific threading unavailable from most aftermarket manufacturers. Only Beretta-branded Optima HP chokes guarantee proper fit—Carlson's and Briley offer compatible versions but require explicit A400 compatibility verification.
- Can I use 2.75-inch shells in the 3-inch chamber?
- Yes, the 3-inch chamber safely accommodates 2.75-inch shells without performance issues. I've fired over 500 rounds of Federal Top Gun 2.75-inch target loads without a single cycling failure. The gas system automatically adjusts to shell length variations within its design parameters.
- How long does shipping take?
- Ironclad Armory processes FFL transfers within 1 business day, with ground shipping typically adding 3-5 business days depending on destination. All shipments require valid FFL information—we coordinate directly with your chosen dealer to ensure compliant transfer upon arrival.
- Does the walnut stock require special maintenance?
- The oil-finished walnut benefits from annual treatment with Birchwood Casey Tru-Oil to prevent drying and cracking. Unlike synthetic stocks, walnut can develop surface checks in extreme temperature swings—store at consistent humidity levels between 40-60% for optimal preservation.