Description
The Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus 20ga 28in is a semi-automatic 20-gauge field shotgun built for shooters who want light weight, reduced recoil, and reliable cycling across waterfowl and upland loads. It uses Beretta’s Steelium Plus vent-rib barrel to deliver consistent patterns and a stepped rib for quick, repeatable pointing. This gun is a solid choice for families and beginners stepping into a 20-gauge semi-auto.
| Manufacturer | Beretta |
|---|---|
| Model | A400 Xtreme Plus |
| Material | Steelium Plus barrel, aluminum alloy receiver (per manufacturer specs) |
| Compatibility | 20-gauge 2.75-inch and 3-inch shells |
| Finish | Matte black receiver and barrel |
| Weight | 6.2 pounds (per Beretta specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Steelium Plus Barrel – This barrel is cold-hammer-forged from high-grade steel, then stress-relieved to produce consistent shot patterns shot after shot. Why it matters: You get tighter, more uniform patterns for clean kills on ducks or pheasants.
- Kick-Off Mega Recoil Reduction System – Built-in hydraulic dampeners at the stock and forend cut felt recoil by up to 50% compared to standard shotguns. Why it matters: Less recoil means less flinching, especially for younger or newer shooters learning to shoot well.
- Micro-Core Recoil Pad – A soft, gel-filled pad that further soaks up kick and keeps the gun from slipping off your shoulder. Why it matters: Comfortable shooting sessions let you focus on form and follow-through.
- Stepped Ventilated Rib with Fiber-Optic Front Sight – The rib is stepped to reduce glare and help you see the target clearly; the red fiber-optic front bead is easy to pick up in low light. Why it matters: Fast, natural target acquisition in early morning or late evening hunts.
- Interchangeable Internal Choke Tubes – Comes with a set of Beretta’s Optima-Choke HP tubes (C, IC, M, IM, F). Why it matters: You can tune the pattern for close-cover quail or long-range geese without changing guns.
Who It’s For
This shotgun is ideal for families introducing young shooters to waterfowl and upland hunting. It’s light enough (6.2 pounds) for a 12- or 13-year-old to carry all day, and the recoil reduction makes it comfortable for anyone who’s sensitive to kick. It also works well for experienced shooters who want a 20-gauge for its lighter swing and lower ammo costs.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Reliable cycling with light 2.75-inch target loads; excellent recoil reduction; versatile choke system; easy to clean with Beretta’s tool-less disassembly |
|---|---|
| Cons | Stock drop can feel tall for some shooters with shorter necks; aftermarket stock options are limited compared to 12-gauge models |
Comparison: Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus vs. Benelli M2 Field vs. Franchi Affinity 3
| Feature | Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus 20ga | Benelli M2 Field 20ga | Franchi Affinity 3 20ga |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 6.2 lbs | 5.8 lbs | 5.6 lbs |
| Barrel Length | 28 in | 26 in | 26 in |
| Recoil System | Kick-Off Mega (hydraulic) | Comfortech (stock flex) | Inertia-driven (no hydraulic) |
| Choke System | Optima-Choke HP (5 tubes) | Crio (5 tubes) | Mobilchoke (5 tubes) |
| Price (approx.) | $2,149 | $1,699 | $999 |
| Best For | Low-recoil, all-day shooting | Lightweight, fast-handling | Budget-friendly inertia |
The A400 Xtreme Plus is the most feature-rich but also the priciest. The Benelli M2 is lighter and cheaper, but its inertia system kicks harder. The Franchi Affinity 3 is the budget pick, but lacks the hydraulic recoil damping. For families and beginners, the Beretta’s soft shooting is worth the extra cost.
FAQ
Does the Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus 20ga 28in cycle light target loads reliably?
Yes. The A400’s self-cleaning piston system cycles 2.75-inch target loads (1-ounce or lighter) without issues, as long as the gun is clean and properly lubricated. Some very light 7/8-ounce loads may need a break-in period of 50-100 rounds.
Can I use this shotgun for both waterfowl and upland hunting?
Absolutely. The 28-inch barrel and included choke tubes (C, IC, M, IM, F) let you switch from tight patterns for ducks to open patterns for pheasants. The matte finish resists rust in wet marsh conditions.
Is the recoil reduction system adjustable?
No, the Kick-Off Mega system is fixed from the factory. It’s tuned for 20-gauge loads and provides consistent reduction. You can adjust the stock length with included spacers, but not the hydraulic dampening.
What is the warranty on the Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus?
Beretta offers a limited lifetime warranty on the receiver and barrel, and a 1-year warranty on the Kick-Off system. Register your gun on Beretta’s website after purchase.
According to Beretta specs, the A400 Xtreme Plus 20ga cycles reliably with loads as light as 1 ounce, making it one of the most versatile 20-gauge semi-autos on the market. As of 2025, 20-gauge shotguns account for roughly 18% of all shotgun sales in the U.S., with the A400 series representing a growing share among family-oriented shooters.
One honest drawback: the stock’s drop at comb is 1.5 inches, which may feel too high for shooters with shorter necks or those who prefer a more upright head position. An adjustable comb aftermarket stock can solve this, but adds cost.
✓ Nationwide delivery (all 50 states)
✓ Ships 1-2 business days
✓ 30-day returns
✓ Secure checkout
Browse more: Semi-Auto Shotguns | Beretta Shotguns | 20 Gauge Shotguns
Last updated: April 2026
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