Beretta 1301 Tactical Shotgun
There are very few guns as versatile as a 12 gauge shotgun and the 1301 brings that versatility in a semi-automatic action. While semi-auto shotguns are not new, the Tactical version of the 1301 is a more versatile gun off-the-shelf than some older designs.
This comes from the more rifle-like sights and the option to mount a Picatinny compatible optic. These bring better accuracy and quicker targeting when compared to bead sights which improves the handling of the gun.
The fast cycle rate and base 5+1 capacity make it a great option for home defense for those who either prefer a shotgun or for those who live in an area where other home defense options are limited.
The 1301 features easy to use controls and familiar ergonomics, making it a good upgrade from traditional pump-action shotguns. Since the gun can be customized to the end user, it allows you to get the most out of the gun since shotguns are not a “one-size-fits-all” platform.
Let’s look at some of the standard features on the 1301 family.
Beretta 1301 Standard Features
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The 1301 is a 12 gauge semi-automatic shotgun with a 5+1 to 7+1 standard capacity. This gun is designed to be controllable, fast shooting, and customizable.
The controllability comes from the gun’s relatively small size. The Tactical’s barrel length is 18.5 inches, keeping it within the legal length limits for civilian use without the cumbersome sporting length barrel.
The stock and forend feature aggressive checkering for better grip even while wearing gloves. This also allows you to pull the gun into you for better control.
The 1301 comes with spacers to adjust your length of pull while also being able to adjust the drop and cast of the gun.
Additionally the 1301 takes a departure from classic shotgun sighting options and features a ghost ring front and rear sight combination. The front post can be swapped out for your preferences, and the ghost ring combination makes aiming the shotgun easier while allowing for more precise shots.
Additionally the 1301 takes a departure from classic shotgun sighting options and features a ghost ring front and rear sight combination. The front post can be swapped out for your preferences,and the ghost ring combination makes aiming the shotgun easier while allowing for more precise shots.
The shotgun also features a Picatinny rail just in front of the rear sight for mounting a red dot optic. These sighting options make the Tactical perfect for 3-gun or similar competitions where accuracy and speed are a benefit.
The 1301 uses the BLINK gas operating system which uses a cross tube gas piston to cycle the bolt. Beretta states this makes the 1301 36% faster than other semi-automatic shotguns currently on the market. This means you will have faster follow up shots and better feeding with the appropriate loads.
The competition versions feature fiber optic and mini-bead sights for precision in their specific categories.
The controls for the 1301 are oversized so you can use them easily without the need for extremely precise movements.
The large bolt release, prominent charging handle, and oversized safety make this gun easy to run quickly without you having to waste time searching for them.
In terms of magazine tube extensions, the base model comes with a 5+1 tube and the extended 7+1 and a competition 10+1 tube is sold as aftermarket accessories to comply with US firearms law.
Since the 1301 is a semi-automatic shotgun, you can also ghost load the shotgun by placing an additional shell on the loader. This adds an additional shell to the gun without modification.
Price: $400-$1,500
Beretta 1301 Models and Variations
The pistol grip variation of the Beretta 1301 has the most customizable stock but that stock is not the standard 1301 option. A more traditional stock is commonly found on the 1301 which only allows the adjustment of the length of pull and comb drop using spacers.
The 1301 comes in black, OD Green, FDE, and a stainless/black Marine color scheme. This allows you to match it to your environment and needs.
The extended tube with magazine clamp is a great upgrade for your capacity if it is legal to do in your area. The loading port is also oversized to make putting shells in the gun easier, quickening your reload in both home defense and competition.
1301 Tactical specs:
| Attribute | Spec |
|---|---|
| Action: | Semi-automatic, BLINK system |
| Caliber: | 12 gauge |
| Capacity: | 5+1, 7+1 w/extended tube using 2.75 inch shells |
| Barrel length: | 18.5 inches |
| Choke: | OBHP removable (fixed choke is LE only) |
| Chamber Length: | 3 inches |
| Overall Length: | 37.8 inches |
| Sights: | Ghost ring, Picatinny Rail |
Popular variations:
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Beretta 1301 Comp
For those looking for a competition shotgun, the 1301 Comp is designed to meet the needs of 3-gun. This version of the 1301 comes in two barrel lengths, 21 and 24 inches. The receiver is also drilled and tapped for adding rails to mount optics or other aiming devices without the need of a gunsmith.
It features the Optimabore HP choke system which allows you to swap out your choke to fit your performance needs. A 10x8 step rib is found on the barrel with a fiber optic front sight. The rib is designed to dissipate heat mirage while using the gun.
Due to the BLINK gas system the 1301 can fire 4 rounds in under a second which aids in the heat of competition. The aggressively checkered furniture and oversized controls make it easy to quickly use the 1301 Comp.
1301 Comp specs:
| Attribute | Spec |
|---|---|
| Action: | Semi-automatic, BLINK system |
| Caliber: | 12 gauge |
| Capacity: | 5+1, 7+1 |
| Barrel length: | 24 or 21 inches |
| Choke: | OCHP/OBHP-IC |
| Chamber Length: | 3 inches |
| Rib: | Step Rib 10x8, fiber optic, mini bead |
Popular variations:
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Beretta 1301 Comp Pro
If you really want to dive into competition shooting the Comp Pro is a great option. It is more than just a regular 1301 tweaked to meet competition standards, it has numerous performance increasing features.
This version of the 1301 can accept a 10+1 Tony system tube extension (sold separately) so you don’t have to reload as often. The loading gate also allows for easier dual and quad loading of shells with the Pro series lifter.
The stock differs from the normal 1301 with the addition of the Kick-Off Plus system. This polymer stock features two elastomer dampeners with return springs that help reduce the perceived recoil by 40%.
Another dampener is located in the bolt to absorb the impact from the slide and the stock to reduce the second recoil peak in addition to any vibrations involved with the slide’s movement.
The stock also features a B-Steady system which divides the stock into butt and forearm sections. The forearm features a recoil absorption point which moves with the recoil but leaves the butt in the same position. This is to prevent the comb from rubbing against the cheek while firing.
A soft comb, rubber Comfort Grip and spacer set allow you to adjust the dimensions of the gun for a more pleasant experience. A MicroCore recoil plate helps ensure proper shouldering and stability when using the gun in addition to adjusting the length of pull.
The Comp Pro sights are a fiber optic and mini bead system for better targeting. The choke system also comes with three interchangeable OptimaChoke HP Black Edition chokes to adjust the pattern of your gun for your competition needs.
The Comp Pro also features threaded holes to attach Picatinny rails to the gun should you prefer to mount an optic.
Comp Pro specs:
| Attribute | Spec |
|---|---|
| Action: | Semi-automatic, BLINK system |
| Caliber: | 12 gauge |
| Capacity: | 10+1, 5+1 |
| Barrel length: | 24 or 21 inches |
| Choke: | OBHP |
| Chamber Length: | 3 inches |
| Rib: | Step Rib 10x8, fiber optic, mini bead |