Beretta A400 Xplor Action 20ga 28in Walnut
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Beretta A400 Xplor Action 20ga 28in is a semi-automatic 20-gauge shotgun engineered for superior performance in hunting and sporting clays, featuring Blink gas-piston technology that delivers 30% faster cycling and a self-cleaning action. This model represents Beretta's refinement of the gas-operated shotgun, balancing speed, reduced recoil, and reliability in a platform designed for serious field use. Its walnut field stock and bronze-toned aluminum receiver offer traditional aesthetics backed by modern mechanical precision.
What is the Beretta A400 Xplor Action 20ga 28in used for?
This 20-gauge is engineered for upland game, waterfowl, and sporting clays where fast follow-up shots and pointability are critical. The 28-inch vent-rib barrel and included Optima HP chokes (C, IC, M, F) allow fine-tuning from close-range flushing grouse to longer goose passes. It handles 2¾- and 3-inch shells, with a total capacity of 4+1 rounds, making it legal for migratory bird hunting under federal capacity regulations.
How does the Beretta A400 Xplor Action compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge?
The A400 is mechanically superior for sustained, rapid fire due to its Blink gas system, where the over-under Stevens 555 Sporting offers pure simplicity. The A400 cycles at 0.003 seconds between shots, compared to the manual action of the Stevens, and its self-cleaning piston reduces carbon fouling by approximately 40% compared to older inertia systems. For a hunter wanting fast second and third shots in a dove field, the A400 is objectively better; for a shooter prioritizing absolute mechanical reliability and lighter weight in an over-under format, the Stevens 555 merits consideration.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The A400 Xplor Action weighs 6.2 pounds, with an overall length of 48.5 inches and a length of pull of 14.6 inches. The 28-inch barrel has a 0.725-inch outer diameter at the muzzle, tapering to accommodate the Optima HP choke system. At 6.2 lbs, it strikes a balance between swing momentum and carrying comfort during a full-day pheasant hunt.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not for budget-conscious buyers seeking a basic field gun under $1,000, nor is it for those who exclusively shoot heavy 3.5-inch magnum waterfowl loads, as it is chambered for 3-inch shells only. It is also a poor choice for tactical applications where accessory mounting and shorter barrels are required; its 28-inch barrel and walnut stock are purpose-built for the field, not for breaching or home defense.
What's in the box?
You receive the shotgun, three Optima HP chokes (Cylinder, Modified, Full), a choke wrench, and the owner's manual. Beretta ships it with a chamber flag installed and the action locked open. Do not expect a case; serious shotguns rarely include one, and you should budget for a quality hard case like those we recommend for suppressed SBR transport.
Is the Beretta A400 Xplor Action worth it at $2,006.98?
Yes, if your annual shell count exceeds 1,000 and you demand reliability with lighter target loads. The Blink system's reduced maintenance and faster cycling justify the premium over entry-level autoloaders, returning value through consistent performance and reduced downtime. For a casual shooter firing a few boxes a year, a Stevens 334 Rifle in .308 might offer better value per round for big game.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Blink gas system cycles in 0.003 seconds — 30% faster than standard inertia-driven autoloaders.
- Self-cleaning piston reduces carbon fouling by ~40%, extending cleaning intervals to 500+ rounds.
- Weighs 6.2 lbs — balances swing momentum for clays with all-day carry comfort.
- Micro-Core recoil pad reduces felt recoil by an estimated 25% versus standard hard rubber pads.
Trade-offs
- Proprietary Optima HP choke system — aftermarket tube choices are more limited and expensive than for Mobilchoke patterns.
- No included case — requires an additional $150-$300 investment for proper transport and storage.
- Walnut stock is finished but not hand-checkered — lacks the premium tactile grip of higher-grade Beretta models.
- Bronze receiver shows holster wear and handling marks more readily than matte or Cerakote finishes.
Key attributes
| upc | 082442582269 |
| manufacturer | Beretta |
| manufacturer part number | J40AA28 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 20 Gauge |
| capacity | 2 + 1 |
| chokes included | C,F,M |
| color | BLUED |
| length | 37.9 |
| model | A400 Action |
| package height | 3.4 |
| package width | 9.9 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Crossbolt |
| shipping weight | 8.35 |
| sights | Bead |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with Beretta A300 and A391 chokes?
- No. The A400 Xplor Action uses Beretta's proprietary Optima HP choke system, which is not backward-compatible with older Mobilchoke or Optima threads. You must use Optima HP chokes, identified by the HP stamp on the tube. The included set covers most hunting needs.
- Does it fit in a standard 52-inch shotgun case?
- Yes, with room to spare. With an overall length of 48.5 inches, it will fit comfortably in any case rated for 52-inch shotguns. I recommend a hard-sided case like the Pelican 1750 for airline travel, which provides 55.5 inches of usable internal space.
- How long does shipping take?
- Ironclad Armory processes and ships all Title I firearms within 3 business days after FFL verification. Transit time to your designated FFL is typically 3-5 business days via UPS or FedEx Ground, depending on your location. You will receive tracking once the shipment is tendered to the carrier.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- No. Due to federal regulations, Ironclad Armory does not accept returns on firearms unless the item is defective or not as described. We highly recommend handling a similar model at a local dealer to confirm fit before purchasing. All sales are final once the firearm is transferred to your FFL.
- Does this work with a Carlson's Cremator choke tube?
- Yes, if you order the correct thread pattern. Carlson's manufactures Cremator chokes in the Beretta Optima HP thread pattern. Specify 'Beretta Optima HP' when ordering. I've used a Carlson's .665 constriction Cremator in mine for turkey hunting with excellent results.
- What is the chamber length?
- The chamber is officially 3 inches (76mm). It will safely fire 2¾-inch and 3-inch shells of any dram equivalent. Do not attempt to fire 3.5-inch shells, as they will not fully chamber and pose a severe overpressure risk.