Different Beretta - what is the difference ?

[JamieDenny]

Hi Guys,

I have carried out my own research but I can't find any real world comparisons or opinions in terms of what the difference is between the various Beretta 686 models. From the silver pigeon to the onyx and essential.
From what I have found out the earlier models (pre silver pigeon) seem to be the favorites but are the stocks the same etc..? I am buying a bit blind and it would be good to get a general understanding of the differences in terms of fit, weight and style if anyone knows.

thanks guys

 

[Dickie]

I think it an age thing and the 686 morphed into the silver pigeon, the only way to tell stocks and fit is a gun shop with a few in the rack you can play with.

 

[243varmint]

The original 686,687 are much nicer in my opinion than the silver pigeon models. Just feel more solid when handling.
A 682 is a very nice handling gun too.
I had a nice 687 with a beaver type fore end. It account for a few pheasants and a few clay comps. It earned its price back for me.
Jon

 

[Dickie]

I agree there I have 686sp sporting, 687 sporter both 12 and a 687 EL 20 which has lush dark wood.

 

[JamieDenny]

Thanks guys, does anyone know what the difference is with the onyx other than the engraving ?.

 

[Dan Newcombe]

The Essential is a pretty basic gun. No metal between the barrels and very light.

I have had one for years and it was my first shotgun, still use it for shooting rabbits over spaniels for training.

I bought a 30 inch silver pigeon a couple of years ago for posh shooting as i find that the essential is excellent for walkng about and snap shooting, i struggle with it for more considered driven targets as its so light its tough to keep swinging.

Would be for sale if you were looking for one.

Dan

 

[Southern]

The Essential, as said, is a plain gun, but mechanically same as the 686 Pigeons. The Onyx has a plain receiver, which is finished matte black, as are the barrels. The 686 Silver Pigeon 1 has a coin engraved receiver and polished blue / black barrels. The 686 comes in a higher grades, and comes in a sporting stock, sort of like the 682. The 687 jumps to higher grade woods and engraving combinations.

 

[Totsy]

My father has a 2 3/4" chambered older onyx with a game scene engraving and silver action. It's about 30yrs old with decent wood.

It will be mine one day!

 

[Pedro]

I've got a Silver Pigeon "S" model (lower end in terms of flashy engraving and wood) 28" barrels and 3" chambers with changeable chokes. It's heavier than, say, most side by sides but for an O/U is on the lighter side of average. It's a good compromise between being something to lug around all day and being able to swing through I find. I have used it for rough shooting, driven game, wildfowling, even a goose foray before I got something more suited. Does it all with aplomb.

I guess you should really look at what you'll use it for and then look for the right spec to suit that use.