Are Older Berettas Better?

Published on October 18, 2019
Duration: 11:43

This video provides a detailed comparison between older and modern Beretta shotguns, specifically focusing on the 687 model from 1985 and a 2018 model. The presenter, with apparent expertise in firearms, highlights differences in stock dimensions, wood quality, checkering techniques (hand vs. machine), engraving depth and style, action thickness, and barrel technology. While acknowledging advancements in modern machining and ergonomics, the video suggests that older Berettas may offer a superior aesthetic and certain craftsmanship elements, though modern guns are arguably more fit for current shooting styles and market demands. The overall sentiment is that while Berettas have evolved, they remain high-quality firearms, with older models possessing a distinct character.

Quick Summary

Older Beretta shotguns are often praised for superior wood quality, deeper hand-engraving, and hand-checkering, offering an artisanal appeal. Modern Berettas, however, benefit from advanced machining, improved ergonomics for current shooting styles, and enhanced barrel technology like multi-choke systems. While older models may possess more 'soul,' modern guns are engineered for greater efficiency and market relevance.

Chapters

  1. 00:08Introduction: Older vs. New Berettas
  2. 00:42Stock Dimensions & Butt Pads
  3. 01:20Wood Quality & Deluxe Models
  4. 01:41Stock Height & Modern Shooting Styles
  5. 02:10Finish Quality: Oil vs. Lacquer
  6. 02:40Checkering: Hand vs. Machine
  7. 03:13Grip and Stock Depth Changes
  8. 03:40Trigger Guard Design & Refinement
  9. 04:21Hand Engraved vs. Machine Engraved Trigger Guards
  10. 05:01Action Engraving Quality Comparison
  11. 05:56Action Thickness & Strength
  12. 06:13Top Lever Pigeon Detail
  13. 06:20Wood-to-Metal Fit: Stock & Forend
  14. 07:05Metal-to-Barrel Fit
  15. 07:28Machining Advancements
  16. 07:50Forend Checkering & Wood Fit
  17. 08:17Forend Shape: Schnabel vs. Rounded
  18. 08:54Barrel Technology: Chokes & Forcing Cones
  19. 09:21Conclusion: Have Older Berettas Changed?
  20. 10:03Technological Filtering Down
  21. 10:18Soul vs. Modern Engineering
  22. 10:34Final Opinion: Not Worse, Just Different
  23. 11:02Viewer Thoughts & Channel Outro

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key differences between older and modern Beretta shotguns?

Older Berettas often feature superior wood quality, deeper hand-engraving, and hand-checkering, contributing to a more artisanal feel. Modern guns excel in machining precision, ergonomics suited for current shooting styles, and advanced barrel technology like multi-choke systems. While older models may have more 'soul,' modern ones are engineered for efficiency and market demands.

Is the wood quality on older Beretta shotguns better than on new ones?

Many enthusiasts and experts believe that higher-grade older Beretta shotguns, particularly from the 1980s, showcase superior wood quality with richer grain and better finishing. While modern Berettas still use good wood, the aesthetic appeal of older models is frequently cited as a distinct advantage.

How has Beretta's checkering and engraving evolved over the years?

Historically, Beretta used hand-checkering and deeper, more varied hand-engraving on their shotguns, which is considered an art form. Modern production has shifted to machine checkering and shallower, more uniform engraving. While functionally adequate, the older methods are often preferred for their aesthetic and artisanal value.

Are modern Beretta shotguns more practical for today's shooters?

Yes, modern Beretta shotguns are generally considered more practical for contemporary shooting styles. They feature improved stock dimensions for better fit, more advanced barrel technology with multi-choke systems, and refined ergonomics. Older models might require custom adjustments to match the suitability of newer guns for modern use.

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