I had a blast making this video with you Joel. Thanks for making the trip to MN and I can't wait to see the other collab content for your channel. Keep up the great work. 👊 Stay Target 🎯Focused (Hebrews 12:1-3)
Joel. Just watched your 870 video. Did you settle on a new gun yet? Was this a glimpse into the process and is he your buddy with “lots of 12’s and 20’s??” Cheers.
Just shocked to see this collaboration. Joel, your channel makes me a better duck hunter every year. My hunting partner and me both watch your videos religiously. The most informational videos on duck hunting around in my opinion. Your work on decoy spreads and blinds is phenomenal. Steve I love your channel, you and excellent shot. You review all the top end shotguns which is great for a consumer to see. I really like my A400 as well. I do agree that if I mount wrong I am feeling it more in the cheek compared to my buddies SBE3. I definitely feel this is due to the comb to heel dimension, it’s quite steep compared to other guns. If I mount properly I seem to not have an issue, but that’s just my experience. Will say while the A400 takes down faster it certainly does not clean faster. A5 would have an edge here. The joy as a consumer is so many great choices, A5, A400, SBE 3, Maxus 2 it’s hard to go wrong and it comes down to fit much of the time. Great video from the two of you, love both the channels.
Great video, as all your other videos. I love them all! Can you please do the Benelli SBE 3 vs. Browning A5? I want to see an inertia vs. inertia showdown 👊
A400 hands down is better my buddy has the sb3 and we talk crap to each other all the time about our guns and every other hunt his gun fails according to him it’s never the guns fault. I never and I mean never had a single issue with any of my beretta’s.
I owned both the A400 extreme plus and SBE3 because I wanted first hand to see what all the hype is about between the two which are both at the same price point. From my experience, the A400 is by far more accurate and softer shooting. The A400 is beefier and heavier. The SBE3 is slimmer and lighter and fits me better. For that reason and for far hiking hunts, I really want to love and carry my SBE3 but it does not hit too well for me even compared to my old Remingtons. I may need to do more pattern test with my SBE3 and perhaps play around with the shims. For now you cannot beat the A400. I am considering getting an A5 for old classic look or Maxus 2 for more the beautify look without the hump. Any thougths? I'm also considering getting Benelli's lower cousin the Franchi Affinity as a beat up gun but if I'm not hitting well with his better cousin the Benelli then I'm reluctant to get something lower. Thoughts anyone?
@@MT-vm1zhI have a Franchi affinity 3 and you will not regret getting that shotgun i absolutely love it and seems to hit where you aim it but I haven’t pattern test it. I was debating about getting the beretta a400 or benelli cordoba best. The only problem is that benelli shoots high because they are designed for the bird to be floated above the sight which I don’t feel like adjusting how I shoot.
I am on a shotgun team and I personally love over unders but when it comes to auto loading shotguns I have a soft spot in my heart for the beretta a400 xcel.
Knowing Joel is looking to upgrade from his good ole 870 I’m glad he had a good resource to help him get some hands on time with different guns. Also…maybe do more over under content *cough Browning Cynergy Wicked Wing *cough.
Only thing I have against the rubber overmolds on the A400… if you get solvents or oil on them over time they slough off or become a gooey mess. Sometimes less is more 🤷🏻♂️
I really like your review. I currently own the Beretta A400 Extreme Plus and I absolutely love the gun. I hunt in extreme late season conditions in Montana and I don't baby my shotguns and the Beretta just keeps performing. I also love it for extremely quick follow up shots when I am chukar hunting. I know it's a bit heavy for upland, but it's worth it when you have hiked to the top of a mountain and you know you will only get a few quick shots at flushing chukars, you won't be disappointed that you carried the A400 with you.
The browning a5 was my first autoloader so it has a soft spot in my heart. I was torn between the a5 and the benelli ethos but the a5 felt so much better
Great video, but at the end of the day it's all up to personal preference. I prefer the a5 myself. We all know that interia guns need to have to be shoulder good to cycle.
I just bought a beretta a400 this year and love it. Took it dove hunting and shoot some skeet with it a few times couldn’t feel it kick and never had a malfunction. Can’t wait to take it duck hunting this year I highly recommend it. It was also cool to see Joel on here his channel has some great information about duck hunting on it.👍
I usually prefer the inertia driven guns like the sbe from banelli or the a5. Reason being is we’ve had issues with gas cycling guns having issues if really cold weather due to moisture freezing the gun
Great review and love collaboration with Joel. A400XP for sure! First gun I go for every time. 6’ 225 lbs and if you think the gun is “too heavy”, pick it up. I prefer over my SBE3 and that little bit of weight actually helps with swing. Remember It is a Duck Gun and designed as such. Not made to be carrying it for hours on end in a pheasant field.👍 Keep up the great work. Appreciate you.
I work with firearms mostly in the Shotguns and having put my hands on most brands in the store and the range I still love the A400. The line of sight on the 7mm rib shoulders and aligns much more naturally over the A5. That said it was neck and neck with the Maxus for me but ultimately the A400 is my go to! thanks for the comparison
@@johnstanford1103been a die hard browning guy but starting to think modern brownings are over priced junk . Trigger is about only thing that I like about mine these days and the hump back . Between coating issues poorly prepped barrels , coating recalls and other issues with my modern brownings I am to the point I won’t buy another after all the warranty work and issues and I’ve honestly not put many rounds through them over the years due to constant issues
I had the A400 Extreme Plus, wasn’t in love with it so I gave it to my son. I have the SBE3 currently and swapped the trigger and hammer springs from Roth Performance and a Maxus 2 on order. One will become a backup. I prefer a hunting gun to have a 4-5lb trigger. A gun that fits and shoots where you look is way more important than how fast it shoots.
I have the SBE3 and interested in the Maxus 2 so, I will really be curious to see which one becomes your back up. If I was a betting man I would bet the Maxus 2 could be the one you grab on the way out the door to hunt.
The getting "hit in the face" is a result of the A400's greater drop at the heel vs. the A5 having an almost straight comb. I really like Browning's propensity to put straight-combed stocks on their hunting (and target) guns. BTW, my favorite duck gun is...and has been since 2015...the A300 Outlander. Even though my previous duck guns are a Beretta Xtrema2 and a Browning Gold Hunter. All great guns, but the gun that goes into my duck boat with me is always the A300.
I have owned beretta A400 extreme plus for last 3 years . It is a very reliable shotgun hands down but I never really liked it . It is very bulky and just doesn’t point like benelli so this year I got rid of the a400 and bought a new 3” Benelli SBE and a new 20 guage SBE glad to back with benelli feels way better . I also bought a maxus 2 wicked wings I love it also
I have owned the Browning Maxxus. It was two light for me. I now own the Beretta Extreme. Both guns have adjustments for total fit. This means stock drop, cast, and length. The Beretta is harder to set up but a proper set up minimizes face slap. Both are easy to clean. Overall the Beretta is a more robust gun. I love the Browning O/Us but the Extreme is a better duck gun for me.
Another thing I may add is the rubber over=molds on the Beretta. They will become a gooey mess over time especially when one gets insect repellant on them. Very common occurrence when early duck hunting because of mosquitoes in the blind..
I have an A5 Wicked Wing and there are things I like and things I don’t like. I needed to change the bolt handle as the bolt release button kept getting the way. Caught my finger on all the time. After only a few boxes of target loads the bolt failed to lock back so back to Browning. I like the fit, I am 6’, I like the safety location. It shoots 1 oz target loads fine. My friends brand new A 400 plus is nice but for me kicking me in the face, the safety in front and the fact it won’t shoot 1 oz loads are a no go. Especially the safety in front. Had bad experiences with safety in front guns. The final decision I am sticking with my Benelli SBE lll.
Dang that was awesome. Nice comparison. Me personally, i like the A5, like Joel, it just mounts better for me and the A400 is a bit stocky for my liking but then i have an SX3 and it's been doing me wonders. I shoot 3 1/2 all day out of it and not feel a thing.
We have owned Beretta Xtremas' from the day they came out. As a family, we own 5 Xtremas' & have fired thousands of rounds in the worst conditions, rain, snow, sleet. You name it, the gun has seen it. Never a misfeed or a misfire. That says a lot about a firearm.
I can't hunt below 0 degrees with my a400 x plus and had malfunctions from new to now and after not cleaning for half a season it won't cycle shells or lock back after last shell and patterns boss very very terribly today I patterned boss 3/5 stack load at 20 yards 30 inch circle only got maybe 20 bbs on target its unbelievable idk what's going on with my berreta was good for the first weeks and now it's worst than most tri stars
Hello Dillon, I believe there is something wrong with the firearm. Please send it back to Beretta for repairs. I live in CO and hunt below zero all the time. I have never experienced any of the problems exhibited.
You should show how the browning repeaters will eat the first shell in the tube when the action is open. You usually load one in the chamber and hit the button, but browning can be fed from the bottom and will cycle it in and close the action.
Would love a review of the Fabarm XLR5 Waterfowler or Chesapeake (difference is the rib type). There is zero information on them but appear to be a quite high end shotguns adapted from sporting clays to waterfowl. Being a gas gun it would make a great comparison to the A400 Plus and Maxus II.
Shot the A400 this past weekend. The comments about the gun hitting you in the face are spot on. After about 3 boxes I really started to notice it. Great gun but I really don't like the recoil.
Bought one it did the same thing. Then i shimmed it down put the one inch spacer in it. Softest recoiling gun ive shot now. Still prefer my sbe3 over it but great backup gun.
@@speedybeak id go sbe3 but thats me. They both are awesome. Very reliable. The sbe3 feels and swings a bit better for me. Go shoulder them and see what ya think is what id do. Some people say the a400 is more their style others say sbe3
I love your video format! Had a lot of luck with my Beretta A300 Outlander. I’m really wanting to upgrade to the A400 extreme plus. I’ve handled the Benelli Eagle 3, Browning Maxus 2, and the A400. The Benelli definitely feels like the supermodel of the bunch, sleek and skinny. The Browning feels very premium, but a little awkward in the hands. The Beretta feels a little larger in the, but the fit is so spot on for a me. I’m a larger guy at 6’2’’ 212 pounds. It also feels like the most durable gun also. Thanks for the video! Greetings from Texas, and Happy Thanksgiving!
I’ve had an A400 xtrema since they came out. 7 hard years of hunting and shooting zero failures. I picked up a Franchi 3 the other day to give inertia a shot. Personally I’m finding the raised rib a bit hard to get on target. And honestly I couldn’t see myself owning a SBE3 being the franchi has not won me over my A400.
My Outlander has been flawless. Been thinking of upgrading as well; mainly just cuz, but also wanting a 3.5” chamber. I’d def go with the A400!!! I use my paps all the time, and it’s a winner for sure!
Greetings from Colorado! Great Video. I shoot a 3.5 Beretta xtrema A400 Plus. I don't feel the kick so much. Both my daughters & wife shoot Beretta xtrema A400s'. Remember you are not shooting 3.5 shells all day. I also own & shoot a 10 Browning Gold and a Remington SP 10. Now you are talking real recoil. Anyhow, love your show.
First time watcher. I thought you did a great job at talking through the evaluation. I own a a400, it works for me (except carrying it when I’m shooting clays to get ready for the season, I miss my double a lot then), but that’s mostly just what I picked. No losers in these guns.
Hi Eric C, thank you for checking out the channel and subscribing. I couldn't do what I do without people like you! Thank you for sharing your experience with us 👊 Stay Target 🎯Focused (Hebrews 12:1-3)
In very cold, harsh conditions the A400 becomes single shot. At least that's my experience. Didn't try the A5 yet, but it's on my list - probably this late season...
A400 every time. Had multiple friends m2’s sb3’s and maxis jam and just fail on them when the shotguns were really tested over the last few water fowl seasons. But my a400 never gave me a single issue. But anyways I got some buddies selling their shotguns to trade up for some a400s
I have the a400, the new a5, a new sweet 16, and a Belgium light 12. As far as a dedicated duck gun the a400 is lights out. Always runs no matter the weather (unless it gets wet and freezes), it is also the best patterning shotgun I have ever shot. I like the new a5. It kicks a little more with duck loads but not nothing intolerable. But when it comes to an all around shotgun that I use the most is my Belgium made light 12. Literally never had a jam in that gun and once you start shooting one it’s hard to shoot anything else! Only shoots 2 3/4 but as I’ve gotten older you don’t need much more than that unless your shooting geese at longer ranges. Clean kills with boss #5’s on mallards and woodies all the way out to 40 yards!
Haha...pick one up! 15% off right now with code "targetfocused". I will eventually do more with less expensive guns too. Thanks for watching my man. 👊 Stay Target 🎯Focused (Hebrews 12:1-3)
I had the A5 and sold it to purchase the A400. For high-volume goose hunting, the A400 is king! Love the A400 and only shoot 3 1/2" shells for turkey hunting.
@@JasonOutlaw-kd7kc I've never had a target load jam. I've shot several cases on the sporting clays courses and they all cycle very well, plus a few boxes of reloads that a friend of mine had. He also shoots the A-400. Our group returned from Canada this season and we only shot 335 geese. The weather was just too warm. We shoot 3" #2'. Hope that helps.
Great reviews! What about the cheaper Tri-Star Viper 2 in 28 ga. or some of the cheaper shotguns? I sure most people can't afford most of the high end guns. Great reviews. Just a thought. Thanks!
real quick idk if the Browning A5’s still have the recoil system in the barrel like the originals had, But if it does i would probably go with that. Beretta put the Kick Off Recoil system in the stock of the A400, where as Browning Has the the recoil system near the barrel. That being said the Beretta BLINK system is impossible to beat when it comes to Rate of Fire. Also as a personal note I like the Paddle bolt release of the Beretta instead of the Huge Button release on the Browning.
Biggest test for waterfowl hunting is freezing nasty temperatures which gun will cycle through it I owned a sbe2 and sbe3 never had a issue with it cycling it might slow down a bit but always cycle I have a buddy who shoots a extrema and have seen it not firing in wet cold freezing temp
I have the a300 and so smooth. Many friends have the a5. I’m a big beretta guy. My dad has the teknys 391 and a Remington 1100. He bought me the a300. Still solid but I’d love the a400 someday
I went from a Remington Versamax to a Beretta A400 due to cycling issues. The cleaning and breakdown is way easier on the A400 and it took me less time to get comfortable with the gun. The Versamax shot well but eventually I was unable to use it hunting. The Beretta comes up to my shoulder fast and easy, and the shots are easy to make. Shooting an Anaconda choke and Boss #3's, turn out the best pattern I have ever seen. I patterned multiple chokes and over 20 different waterfowl loads through the Versamax but was never satisfied. The Boss loads, being copper plated bismuth, had almost every pellet in a 30" circle at 40 yards. Being a heavier metal, that means ducks and geese are in trouble, easily out to 40-50 yards. Hevi-Shot was my go to previously but I sold all of it and bought three cases of Boss. That's how obvious of a decision it was for me. My Dad killed his first turkey this year with TSS loads and I am a firm believer in the performance of Tungsten and Bismuth. Breaking turkey bones completely at max range with TSS. Extremely happy with Beretta. I will keep all my nice Remingtons but will from now on buy Beretta only.
A400 I have owned several benellis over the years and a A400 30inch when they first came out in 2018 and now a 28inch A400 xtreme plus seaduck hunting here in Alaska. The A400 hands down is more reliable easier to maintain and better shooting heavy loads!
Great vid man, I really liked you having guests on your show and doing a review. It was great, please do some more and with more guests. Yeah, I surely do like the a400 shotgun too, I only own Berettas and over n unders right now. I will be buying the a400 ultra light model in black. At my age if 70, it’s lighter and has enough kill power with 2 3/4 shells.
Hi Rudy, thank you for the feedback. Glad you enjoyed the special guest. I will certainly look for opportunities to have more guests. 👊 Stay Target 🎯Focused (Hebrews 12:1-3)
I have an early A400 with near 15k rounds thru it and I can remember one time on the last round it failed to eject, I just dumped the shell out. I will say out of the box the gun didn't fit me and I didn't love it at first. Some comb adjustment and right cant put it right on the money for me. I have shot A5's (old and new) and the Browning Maxxus side by side. Those gold triggers just point so good no matter what. Close your eyes, point, and they are on the money every time. I don't think there is a better auto shotgun on the market than the A400 action. Beretta took an already reliable system (391) and made it that much better with the kickoff system and bolt buffer piston. I have 2 12's and the wife has an xcel. Love us some Berretta autos!
Would you recommend the Beretta A300 Ultima Turkey or the Remington V3 Turkey Pro? It will be specifically used as a designated Turkey hunting shotgun. Recoil management from the 12 gauge is biggest concern. Haven’t shot either so not sure which one would be softer shooter.
I own the A5, but two of my buddies own the A400. Both are stellar guns for sure. With that being said, the recoil of the A400 is worse. The recoil is in the side of your face where the Browning is straight back. The A400 also has a bulky feel to it. Im not hating on the A400 at all, its a beautiful gun. The A5 is superior to me in all fields, but thats a personal preference. Happy hunting, friends!
Bought the A400 12ga this week, specifically due to your review. Shot for the first time yesterday. Using 2 3/4 shells 7.5 shot for my initial practice, the 12ga gas action felt like I was shooting a 20ga inertia. Very little recoil. The additional 1/2 pound overall weight, thicker fore end and rubber hand grips are actually MORE comfortable to me than the SBE3, an excellent gun itself as is the A5 (which I have several models of). When making significant purchases, many times it’s a trade-off for hunters and shooters and we end-up with some degree of buyer’s remorse. However, i’m pleased to say that that hasn’t been the case with my A400. So far, it’s performance has exceeded my expectation. Looking forward to putting it through Turkey, Dove and Duck seasons this year.
I’m just not wanting an 8lbs shotgun. Regardless if it’s a pump, semi, etc. That’s what’s nice about the benellis 6.6-7lbs. Although, the best shotgun will vary for everyone. The best shotgun is the one that naturally points the best for each person. The pattern does matter, although if it doesn’t point well, you’re already at a major disadvantage.
I have both guns. I love both of them. The A5 to me is a little easier to shoulder, I like the auto load and and is smooth. Doesn’t kick like other inertia guns That said the A400 is kind of like driving a Cadillac. To me, it seems a little more bulky to shoulder and I don’t like the safety in front of the trigger but I can tell you, it is super smooth. You can shoot 3 1/2s all day and there isn’t much recoil. It’s my go to goose gun for sure.
Here is a test you can try, shoot 250 rounds at like a sporting clays range from each auto loader, next as the insides start to accumulate the normal residue see which firearm starts to chug , chugging is when it seems like the auto loader is taking a deep breath between rounds
One of the advantages is speed shooting in terms of the Browning A-5 with it's speed reloading feature which was not shown. For example they should have shot three clays, reload and shoot three more clays. The Browning will automatically reload one shell into the breech when it is cocked back on an empty chamber. This is done by pushing a shell into the magazine and instantly releasing it. The receiver will instantly pick up the shell and load it into the chamber. Way faster than any other shotgun when reloading in a duck blind when that extra few rounds are needed after firing their first three rounds. There is nothing worse than shooting a box of shells with a shotgun that slaps ones cheeks !!
A5 for me. Never seen one with an issue. I still shoot a 1965 every now and then. I have had a300 and a400 jam or eject improperly. I think you need to take weather and elements into consideration which affect the gas more than the inertia driven. Just my two cents. Both great guns. Just sending my experience.
I’ve owned the Beretta and the sbe2 for ducks. I shot the beretta better for some odd reason. And I did get the ole sbe2 clunk a few times and missed ducks. Lol. Both are great guns.
it isn't very strange that an inertia gun doesn't cycle on smaller/lighter loads when shot upside down. As you don't press it against anything firm, i.e your body you loose some of the inertia needed to cycle a lighter load. also, for us european viewers - why not a review of budget shotguns like Hatsan or Artsan...but maybe those aren't available in the states?
Really I enjoy ur video Steve,but u had missed Something in the Beretta,,A400 extreme plus ,which u didn’t mention,it’s Steelium plus barrel ,for me it’s an edge over the A5.
That’s just marketing hype. All that matters is how it patterns. I’m an A400 owner and the steelium barrel and longer forcing cone mean nothing fit down range patterns. I had to go aftermarket chokes to get better range.
I hate to say it but I prefer my old A390 over my new A400, To me the 390 recoils less has less drop at the heal and just overall fits me and my style of shooing better.
I have both the beretta a400 12 and also a sweet 16 a5.... different guages but I am obsessed with the wicked wing sweet 16.i also shoot consistently better with my browning a5 b80 super light 12. I'm a hump back guy
I live in another country and I'm watching you. I want to ask a question. Which one do you think is more durable and hassle-free in terms of quality and durability? Beretta A400 XP .. SBE3 .. Browning A5 .. Browning maxus. maxus 2. ???
For light dove and duck hunting the normal Browning a5 is better lighter ,thinner. For goose and ducks get the 3 1/2 A400 Xtreme , inertia guns are not designed for 3 1/2. inch.
So much fun, Steve! I enjoyed being a part of it! Thanks for the shooting tips as well. Never too old to learn something new!
I had a blast making this video with you Joel. Thanks for making the trip to MN and I can't wait to see the other collab content for your channel. Keep up the great work. 👊 Stay Target 🎯Focused (Hebrews 12:1-3)
Joel. Just watched your 870 video. Did you settle on a new gun yet? Was this a glimpse into the process and is he your buddy with “lots of 12’s and 20’s??” Cheers.
Just shocked to see this collaboration. Joel, your channel makes me a better duck hunter every year. My hunting partner and me both watch your videos religiously. The most informational videos on duck hunting around in my opinion. Your work on decoy spreads and blinds is phenomenal.
Steve I love your channel, you and excellent shot. You review all the top end shotguns which is great for a consumer to see. I really like my A400 as well. I do agree that if I mount wrong I am feeling it more in the cheek compared to my buddies SBE3. I definitely feel this is due to the comb to heel dimension, it’s quite steep compared to other guns. If I mount properly I seem to not have an issue, but that’s just my experience. Will say while the A400 takes down faster it certainly does not clean faster. A5 would have an edge here. The joy as a consumer is so many great choices, A5, A400, SBE 3, Maxus 2 it’s hard to go wrong and it comes down to fit much of the time.
Great video from the two of you, love both the channels.
Great video, as all your other videos. I love them all! Can you please do the Benelli SBE 3 vs. Browning A5? I want to see an inertia vs. inertia showdown 👊
Put the A400 against the SBE3. It’s what we all want. Two most commonly talked about guns. Quit holding out
A400 hands down is better my buddy has the sb3 and we talk crap to each other all the time about our guns and every other hunt his gun fails according to him it’s never the guns fault. I never and I mean never had a single issue with any of my beretta’s.
He did that
The A400 is a better gun. Period.
I owned both the A400 extreme plus and SBE3 because I wanted first hand to see what all the hype is about between the two which are both at the same price point. From my experience, the A400 is by far more accurate and softer shooting. The A400 is beefier and heavier. The SBE3 is slimmer and lighter and fits me better. For that reason and for far hiking hunts, I really want to love and carry my SBE3 but it does not hit too well for me even compared to my old Remingtons. I may need to do more pattern test with my SBE3 and perhaps play around with the shims. For now you cannot beat the A400.
I am considering getting an A5 for old classic look or Maxus 2 for more the beautify look without the hump. Any thougths?
I'm also considering getting Benelli's lower cousin the Franchi Affinity as a beat up gun but if I'm not hitting well with his better cousin the Benelli then I'm reluctant to get something lower. Thoughts anyone?
@@MT-vm1zhI have a Franchi affinity 3 and you will not regret getting that shotgun i absolutely love it and seems to hit where you aim it but I haven’t pattern test it. I was debating about getting the beretta a400 or benelli cordoba best. The only problem is that benelli shoots high because they are designed for the bird to be floated above the sight which I don’t feel like adjusting how I shoot.
I am on a shotgun team and I personally love over unders but when it comes to auto loading shotguns I have a soft spot in my heart for the beretta a400 xcel.
Just for reference, a 6'1" 240lb guy can get the a5 to cycle over the head upside down. Legs for arms makes a huge difference lol
Knowing Joel is looking to upgrade from his good ole 870 I’m glad he had a good resource to help him get some hands on time with different guns.
Also…maybe do more over under content *cough Browning Cynergy Wicked Wing *cough.
Only thing I have against the rubber overmolds on the A400… if you get solvents or oil on them over time they slough off or become a gooey mess. Sometimes less is more 🤷🏻♂️
Just watched my buddy peel all of the rubber off the stock in the blind this morning.
I really like your review. I currently own the Beretta A400 Extreme Plus and I absolutely love the gun. I hunt in extreme late season conditions in Montana and I don't baby my shotguns and the Beretta just keeps performing. I also love it for extremely quick follow up shots when I am chukar hunting. I know it's a bit heavy for upland, but it's worth it when you have hiked to the top of a mountain and you know you will only get a few quick shots at flushing chukars, you won't be disappointed that you carried the A400 with you.
Do you notice recoil to the face with it?
The browning a5 was my first autoloader so it has a soft spot in my heart. I was torn between the a5 and the benelli ethos but the a5 felt so much better
I’m a sucker for an A5, and the recoil to the face of the Beretta would be a deal breaker for me…all in all both guns look damn good
I shoot an A5 because I think it’s beautiful
Great video, but at the end of the day it's all up to personal preference. I prefer the a5 myself. We all know that interia guns need to have to be shoulder good to cycle.
Just got my A5 I like the way I can point it with the hump my sight line is perfect!
I just bought a beretta a400 this year and love it. Took it dove hunting and shoot some skeet with it a few times couldn’t feel it kick and never had a malfunction. Can’t wait to take it duck hunting this year I highly recommend it. It was also cool to see Joel on here his channel has some great information about duck hunting on it.👍
Awesome, thanks for sharing your experience with the A400. Glad it is working out well for you.
Cason, what’s your update on the A400??
I usually prefer the inertia driven guns like the sbe from banelli or the a5. Reason being is we’ve had issues with gas cycling guns having issues if really cold weather due to moisture freezing the gun
Great review and love collaboration with Joel. A400XP for sure! First gun I go for every time. 6’ 225 lbs and if you think the gun is “too heavy”, pick it up. I prefer over my SBE3 and that little bit of weight actually helps with swing. Remember It is a Duck Gun and designed as such. Not made to be carrying it for hours on end in a pheasant field.👍 Keep up the great work. Appreciate you.
Thanks for sharing your experience. You are spot on about it being a Duck Gun. 👊 Stay Target 🎯Focused (Hebrews 12:1-3)
Just picked up a Browning silver field last month. Have already taken out on 2 goose hunts! I love it!
Love my A400..fits me well and the shootability of it is unreal. The A400 will run..
A 400 hands down. Would like to see a5 vs sbe 3
I totally agree
I love the looks of the A5, but i would have to go with the A400!
It’s so good to see Joel on the channel. Love that guy and his outlook on things.
Yes, it was awesome to have him on. Thanks for tuning in! 👊 Stay Target 🎯Focused (Hebrews 12:1-3)
I work with firearms mostly in the Shotguns and having put my hands on most brands in the store and the range I still love the A400. The line of sight on the 7mm rib shoulders and aligns much more naturally over the A5. That said it was neck and neck with the Maxus for me but ultimately the A400 is my go to! thanks for the comparison
Thanks for sharing Scott! 👊 Stay Target 🎯Focused (Hebrews 12:1-3)
Maxus is junk. Gunsmiths biggest money maker right now. Go talk to a few.
@@johnstanford1103been a die hard browning guy but starting to think modern brownings are over priced junk . Trigger is about only thing that I like about mine these days and the hump back . Between coating issues poorly prepped barrels , coating recalls and other issues with my modern brownings I am to the point I won’t buy another after all the warranty work and issues and I’ve honestly not put many rounds through them over the years due to constant issues
@@barrettmills856 browning has been overpriced junk since the mid late 90’s.
Aint gonna lie the belgium browning a5 is way better looking then the new ones and has the bigger "hump" so you can pull up a lot faster
I had the A400 Extreme Plus, wasn’t in love with it so I gave it to my son. I have the SBE3 currently and swapped the trigger and hammer springs from Roth Performance and a Maxus 2 on order. One will become a backup. I prefer a hunting gun to have a 4-5lb trigger.
A gun that fits and shoots where you look is way more important than how fast it shoots.
What do the Roth springs do to the SBE?
I have the SBE3 and interested in the Maxus 2 so, I will really be curious to see which one becomes your back up. If I was a betting man I would bet the Maxus 2 could be the one you grab on the way out the door to hunt.
You’re going to love your Maxus 2
The getting "hit in the face" is a result of the A400's greater drop at the heel vs. the A5 having an almost straight comb. I really like Browning's propensity to put straight-combed stocks on their hunting (and target) guns. BTW, my favorite duck gun is...and has been since 2015...the A300 Outlander. Even though my previous duck guns are a Beretta Xtrema2 and a Browning Gold Hunter. All great guns, but the gun that goes into my duck boat with me is always the A300.
I have owned beretta A400 extreme plus for last 3 years . It is a very reliable shotgun hands down but I never really liked it . It is very bulky and just doesn’t point like benelli so this year I got rid of the a400 and bought a new 3” Benelli SBE and a new 20 guage SBE glad to back with benelli feels way better . I also bought a maxus 2 wicked wings I love it also
It would be the a400 all day I have the Unico the original version of it and love it. Gas just cycles faster than inertia
I have a Maxus 1 in WW and also have the A400 extreme plus K.O..Love them both. A lot of it is preference.
I have owned the Browning Maxxus. It was two light for me. I now own the Beretta Extreme. Both guns have adjustments for total fit. This means stock drop, cast, and length. The Beretta is harder to set up but a proper set up minimizes face slap. Both are easy to clean. Overall the Beretta is a more robust gun. I love the Browning O/Us but the Extreme is a better duck gun for me.
It was awesome to see Joel on your channel. You two need to make a duck hunting video together.
I agree. Maybe some day @survivingduckseason will invite me on a hunt 😉
Would love to make that happen👍🏻
Another thing I may add is the rubber over=molds on the Beretta. They will become a gooey mess over time especially when one gets insect repellant on them. Very common occurrence when early duck hunting because of mosquitoes in the blind..
Awesome video Steve, I would honestly take either one I have shot both of them before but I don't own neither one ,they're a little expensive for me .
"one thing about recoil, it comes down to gun fit" - that says it all right there.
Thanks for the video. I have the old school A5. It's my first gun with decorative engraving, and beautiful wood.
I have an A5 Wicked Wing and there are things I like and things I don’t like. I needed to change the bolt handle as the bolt release button kept getting the way. Caught my finger on all the time. After only a few boxes of target loads the bolt failed to lock back so back to Browning. I like the fit, I am 6’, I like the safety location. It shoots 1 oz target loads fine. My friends brand new A 400 plus is nice but for me kicking me in the face, the safety in front and the fact it won’t shoot 1 oz loads are a no go. Especially the safety in front. Had bad experiences with safety in front guns. The final decision I am sticking with my Benelli SBE lll.
Dang that was awesome. Nice comparison. Me personally, i like the A5, like Joel, it just mounts better for me and the A400 is a bit stocky for my liking but then i have an SX3 and it's been doing me wonders. I shoot 3 1/2 all day out of it and not feel a thing.
We have owned Beretta Xtremas' from the day they came out. As a family, we own 5 Xtremas' & have fired thousands of rounds in the worst conditions, rain, snow, sleet. You name it, the gun has seen it. Never a misfeed or a misfire. That says a lot about a firearm.
I can't hunt below 0 degrees with my a400 x plus and had malfunctions from new to now and after not cleaning for half a season it won't cycle shells or lock back after last shell and patterns boss very very terribly today I patterned boss 3/5 stack load at 20 yards 30 inch circle only got maybe 20 bbs on target its unbelievable idk what's going on with my berreta was good for the first weeks and now it's worst than most tri stars
Hello Dillon, I believe there is something wrong with the firearm.
Please send it back to Beretta for repairs.
I live in CO and hunt below zero all the time. I have never experienced any of the problems exhibited.
You should show how the browning repeaters will eat the first shell in the tube when the action is open. You usually load one in the chamber and hit the button, but browning can be fed from the bottom and will cycle it in and close the action.
Steve watch the video and keep an eye on your cheek. You can see a difference between the two. Great work.
Would love a review of the Fabarm XLR5 Waterfowler or Chesapeake (difference is the rib type). There is zero information on them but appear to be a quite high end shotguns adapted from sporting clays to waterfowl. Being a gas gun it would make a great comparison to the A400 Plus and Maxus II.
Thank you for the suggestion. I would love to check one out and eventually will, just not sure when right now.
Shot the A400 this past weekend. The comments about the gun hitting you in the face are spot on. After about 3 boxes I really started to notice it. Great gun but I really don't like the recoil.
Bought one it did the same thing. Then i shimmed it down put the one inch spacer in it. Softest recoiling gun ive shot now. Still prefer my sbe3 over it but great backup gun.
@@thedude-wb5vx I’m in the market and torn between a sbe3 and the a400.
Combo of hunting and clay pigeons. What would you recommend?
@@speedybeak id go sbe3 but thats me. They both are awesome. Very reliable. The sbe3 feels and swings a bit better for me. Go shoulder them and see what ya think is what id do. Some people say the a400 is more their style others say sbe3
My comment is pretty biased as I own the A400 and have never shot the SBE3 but I absolutely love my baretta. Super happy with the gun
A5 is superior
I love your video format! Had a lot of luck with my Beretta A300 Outlander. I’m really wanting to upgrade to the A400 extreme plus. I’ve handled the Benelli Eagle 3, Browning Maxus 2, and the A400. The Benelli definitely feels like the supermodel of the bunch, sleek and skinny. The Browning feels very premium, but a little awkward in the hands. The Beretta feels a little larger in the, but the fit is so spot on for a me. I’m a larger guy at 6’2’’ 212 pounds. It also feels like the most durable gun also. Thanks for the video! Greetings from Texas, and Happy Thanksgiving!
I’ve had an A400 xtrema since they came out. 7 hard years of hunting and shooting zero failures.
I picked up a Franchi 3 the other day to give inertia a shot. Personally I’m finding the raised rib a bit hard to get on target. And honestly I couldn’t see myself owning a SBE3 being the franchi has not won me over my A400.
My Outlander has been flawless. Been thinking of upgrading as well; mainly just cuz, but also wanting a 3.5” chamber.
I’d def go with the A400!!! I use my paps all the time, and it’s a winner for sure!
One of the very best videos i have watched. Thankyou both
Man you shoot Clays fast 👏 Steve I enjoyed all your videos can you please add Pattren test For future comparison 🙏
Greetings from Colorado! Great Video. I shoot a 3.5 Beretta xtrema A400 Plus. I don't feel the kick so much. Both my daughters & wife shoot Beretta xtrema A400s'. Remember you are not shooting 3.5 shells all day. I also own & shoot a 10 Browning Gold and a Remington SP 10. Now you are talking real recoil. Anyhow, love your show.
How does this telegram thing work? You have my email. Just reach out. I hope this is not a scam.
I think the recoil impulse of the Beretta is sharper because its cycle rate. It really slams that bolt back and forth. You can hear it clang
I've been shooting the browning auto 5 since I was a teenager. My current go to squirrel gun is a 1947 Belgium auto 5
First time watcher. I thought you did a great job at talking through the evaluation. I own a a400, it works for me (except carrying it when I’m shooting clays to get ready for the season, I miss my double a lot then), but that’s mostly just what I picked. No losers in these guns.
Hi Eric C, thank you for checking out the channel and subscribing. I couldn't do what I do without people like you! Thank you for sharing your experience with us 👊 Stay Target 🎯Focused (Hebrews 12:1-3)
In very cold, harsh conditions the A400 becomes single shot. At least that's my experience. Didn't try the A5 yet, but it's on my list - probably this late season...
A400 every time. Had multiple friends m2’s sb3’s and maxis jam and just fail on them when the shotguns were really tested over the last few water fowl seasons. But my a400 never gave me a single issue. But anyways I got some buddies selling their shotguns to trade up for some a400s
I have the a400, the new a5, a new sweet 16, and a Belgium light 12. As far as a dedicated duck gun the a400 is lights out. Always runs no matter the weather (unless it gets wet and freezes), it is also the best patterning shotgun I have ever shot. I like the new a5. It kicks a little more with duck loads but not nothing intolerable. But when it comes to an all around shotgun that I use the most is my Belgium made light 12. Literally never had a jam in that gun and once you start shooting one it’s hard to shoot anything else! Only shoots 2 3/4 but as I’ve gotten older you don’t need much more than that unless your shooting geese at longer ranges. Clean kills with boss #5’s on mallards and woodies all the way out to 40 yards!
The Ridge wallet is the first thing you had on here that I want that I can afford. LOL.
Haha...pick one up! 15% off right now with code "targetfocused". I will eventually do more with less expensive guns too. Thanks for watching my man. 👊 Stay Target 🎯Focused (Hebrews 12:1-3)
Props for the chamber check. 👍
I had the A5 and sold it to purchase the A400. For high-volume goose hunting, the A400 is king! Love the A400 and only shoot 3 1/2" shells for turkey hunting.
How did your a five do with target loads
@@JasonOutlaw-kd7kc I've never had a target load jam. I've shot several cases on the sporting clays courses and they all cycle very well, plus a few boxes of reloads that a friend of mine had. He also shoots the A-400. Our group returned from Canada this season and we only shot 335 geese. The weather was just too warm. We shoot 3" #2'. Hope that helps.
Great reviews! What about the cheaper Tri-Star Viper 2 in 28 ga. or some of the cheaper shotguns? I sure most people can't afford most of the high end guns. Great reviews. Just a thought. Thanks!
And it is a great thought. Eventually, I will cover more of the budget options.
real quick idk if the Browning A5’s still have the recoil system in the barrel like the originals had, But if it does i would probably go with that.
Beretta put the Kick Off Recoil system in the stock of the A400, where as
Browning Has the the recoil system near the barrel.
That being said the Beretta BLINK system is impossible to beat when it comes to Rate of Fire.
Also as a personal note I like the Paddle bolt release of the Beretta instead of the Huge Button release on the Browning.
Biggest test for waterfowl hunting is freezing nasty temperatures which gun will cycle through it I owned a sbe2 and sbe3 never had a issue with it cycling it might slow down a bit but always cycle I have a buddy who shoots a extrema and have seen it not firing in wet cold freezing temp
Joel's the best ... love his channel
I have the a300 and so smooth. Many friends have the a5. I’m a big beretta guy. My dad has the teknys 391 and a Remington 1100. He bought me the a300. Still solid but I’d love the a400 someday
I went from a Remington Versamax to a Beretta A400 due to cycling issues. The cleaning and breakdown is way easier on the A400 and it took me less time to get comfortable with the gun. The Versamax shot well but eventually I was unable to use it hunting. The Beretta comes up to my shoulder fast and easy, and the shots are easy to make. Shooting an Anaconda choke and Boss #3's, turn out the best pattern I have ever seen. I patterned multiple chokes and over 20 different waterfowl loads through the Versamax but was never satisfied. The Boss loads, being copper plated bismuth, had almost every pellet in a 30" circle at 40 yards. Being a heavier metal, that means ducks and geese are in trouble, easily out to 40-50 yards. Hevi-Shot was my go to previously but I sold all of it and bought three cases of Boss. That's how obvious of a decision it was for me. My Dad killed his first turkey this year with TSS loads and I am a firm believer in the performance of Tungsten and Bismuth. Breaking turkey bones completely at max range with TSS. Extremely happy with Beretta. I will keep all my nice Remingtons but will from now on buy Beretta only.
Thanks for sharing your experience 👊 Stay Target 🎯Focused (Hebrews 12:1-3)
A400 I have owned several benellis over the years and a A400 30inch when they first came out in 2018 and now a 28inch A400 xtreme plus seaduck hunting here in Alaska. The A400 hands down is more reliable easier to maintain and better shooting heavy loads!
Great vid man, I really liked you having guests on your show and doing a review. It was great, please do some more and with more guests. Yeah, I surely do like the a400 shotgun too, I only own Berettas and over n unders right now. I will be buying the a400 ultra light model in black. At my age if 70, it’s lighter and has enough kill power with 2 3/4 shells.
Hi Rudy, thank you for the feedback. Glad you enjoyed the special guest. I will certainly look for opportunities to have more guests. 👊 Stay Target 🎯Focused (Hebrews 12:1-3)
I have an early A400 with near 15k rounds thru it and I can remember one time on the last round it failed to eject, I just dumped the shell out. I will say out of the box the gun didn't fit me and I didn't love it at first. Some comb adjustment and right cant put it right on the money for me. I have shot A5's (old and new) and the Browning Maxxus side by side. Those gold triggers just point so good no matter what. Close your eyes, point, and they are on the money every time. I don't think there is a better auto shotgun on the market than the A400 action. Beretta took an already reliable system (391) and made it that much better with the kickoff system and bolt buffer piston. I have 2 12's and the wife has an xcel. Love us some Berretta autos!
Thank you for sharing your experience with the A400 👊 Stay Target 🎯Focused (Hebrews 12:1-3)
He leaves the sticker on his barrel 😂 no one ever leaves the sticker on
Yeah, that’s a clown move.
Would you recommend the Beretta A300 Ultima Turkey or the Remington V3 Turkey Pro? It will be specifically used as a designated Turkey hunting shotgun. Recoil management from the 12 gauge is biggest concern. Haven’t shot either so not sure which one would be softer shooter.
Great review man! 👍 Great video!
A400 would be my choice.
I own the A5, but two of my buddies own the A400. Both are stellar guns for sure. With that being said, the recoil of the A400 is worse. The recoil is in the side of your face where the Browning is straight back. The A400 also has a bulky feel to it. Im not hating on the A400 at all, its a beautiful gun. The A5 is superior to me in all fields, but thats a personal preference. Happy hunting, friends!
A400 for sure
Bought the A400 12ga this week, specifically due to your review. Shot for the first time yesterday. Using 2 3/4 shells 7.5 shot for my initial practice, the 12ga gas action felt like I was shooting a 20ga inertia. Very little recoil. The additional 1/2 pound overall weight, thicker fore end and rubber hand grips are actually MORE comfortable to me than the SBE3, an excellent gun itself as is the A5 (which I have several models of).
When making significant purchases, many times it’s a trade-off for hunters and shooters and we end-up with some degree of buyer’s remorse. However, i’m pleased to say that that hasn’t been the case with my A400. So far, it’s performance has exceeded my expectation. Looking forward to putting it through Turkey, Dove and Duck seasons this year.
Think both will have good long years of service. This was really cool vid. Hope you have jolly joule back. He has a fantastic channel too.
We need an sx4 vs franchi affinity video
Benelli sbe3 vs beretta a400 extreme plus!! We need this!
I have never shot the A5, but I love my A400 Xtreme Plus!
I would love to see you put the remington versamax waterfowl pro against the a400 extreme
As a guy with a chubby face I feel like the A5 fits me better, I’ve always had an issue getting low on the bead.
I’m just not wanting an 8lbs shotgun. Regardless if it’s a pump, semi, etc.
That’s what’s nice about the benellis 6.6-7lbs.
Although, the best shotgun will vary for everyone. The best shotgun is the one that naturally points the best for each person. The pattern does matter, although if it doesn’t point well, you’re already at a major disadvantage.
Do Review about beretta A400 Lite
I have both guns. I love both of them. The A5 to me is a little easier to shoulder, I like the auto load and and is smooth. Doesn’t kick like other inertia guns That said the A400 is kind of like driving a Cadillac. To me, it seems a little more bulky to shoulder and I don’t like the safety in front of the trigger but I can tell you, it is super smooth. You can shoot 3 1/2s all day and there isn’t much recoil. It’s my go to goose gun for sure.
Here is a test you can try, shoot 250 rounds at like a sporting clays range from each auto loader, next as the insides start to accumulate the normal residue see which firearm starts to chug , chugging is when it seems like the auto loader is taking a deep breath between rounds
One of the advantages is speed shooting in terms of the Browning A-5 with it's speed reloading feature which was not shown. For example they should have shot three clays, reload and shoot three more clays. The Browning will automatically reload one shell into the breech when it is cocked back on an empty chamber. This is done by pushing a shell into the magazine and instantly releasing it. The receiver will instantly pick up the shell and load it into the chamber. Way faster than any other shotgun when reloading in a duck blind when that extra few rounds are needed after firing their first three rounds. There is nothing worse than shooting a box of shells with a shotgun that slaps ones cheeks !!
A5 for me. Never seen one with an issue. I still shoot a 1965 every now and then. I have had a300 and a400 jam or eject improperly. I think you need to take weather and elements into consideration which affect the gas more than the inertia driven. Just my two cents. Both great guns. Just sending my experience.
Nope, not possible! The A5 wasn't made in 1965. The Auto-5 was. Two entirely different guns.
Browning has my A5, less than 2000 shells through it. I really wish I’d bought the Beretta at this point.
Why do you want to get rid of it?
It’s nice to know when I’m “laser focused “ knocking birds down that I’m feeling that slight kick to the face 👍
You can’t base reliability from a over the head shot. I’ve never seen a duck killed like that.
I’ve owned the Beretta and the sbe2 for ducks. I shot the beretta better for some odd reason. And I did get the ole sbe2 clunk a few times and missed ducks. Lol. Both are great guns.
How did you get the stickiness off the rubber of the berreta rubber grips as they age
For me, having shot both… I go A5. It just fits better and thus I shoot it better.
The "upside down" test isn't fair. An inertia gun requires resistane to cycle the bolt; that's how it works.
That’s literally the point of the test. If you don’t mount an inertia gun properly it can also fail to cycle. A gas gun will not.
it isn't very strange that an inertia gun doesn't cycle on smaller/lighter loads when shot upside down. As you don't press it against anything firm, i.e your body you loose some of the inertia needed to cycle a lighter load.
also, for us european viewers - why not a review of budget shotguns like Hatsan or Artsan...but maybe those aren't available in the states?
I would love to see your thoughts on a FabArms L4S. I’m super interested in one for Upland Bird Hunting!
Thank you for the suggestion. I would like to check one out as well.
Really I enjoy ur video Steve,but u had missed Something in the Beretta,,A400 extreme plus ,which u didn’t mention,it’s Steelium plus barrel ,for me it’s an edge over the A5.
That’s just marketing hype. All that matters is how it patterns. I’m an A400 owner and the steelium barrel and longer forcing cone mean nothing fit down range patterns. I had to go aftermarket chokes to get better range.
Exactly what i was looking for!
Awesome to hear. Which one do you like best?
I hate to say it but I prefer my old A390 over my new A400, To me the 390 recoils less has less drop at the heal and just overall fits me and my style of shooing better.
I have both the beretta a400 12 and also a sweet 16 a5.... different guages but I am obsessed with the wicked wing sweet 16.i also shoot consistently better with my browning a5 b80 super light 12. I'm a hump back guy
Beretta a400 all the way
Can you do a review of the A400 28ga?
I live in another country and I'm watching you. I want to ask a question. Which one do you think is more durable and hassle-free in terms of quality and durability? Beretta A400 XP .. SBE3 .. Browning A5 .. Browning maxus. maxus 2. ???
Inertia guns are almost always more durable and reliable over the long term then gas guns
Does the browning 3 1/2 inch a5 realtree timber use 3 inch shells ?
Yes. 2 3/4, 3", and 3 1/2".
What shells did you use speed shooting?
For light dove and duck hunting the normal Browning a5 is better lighter ,thinner. For goose and ducks get the 3 1/2 A400 Xtreme , inertia guns are not designed for 3 1/2. inch.