Hey guys! Let's dive deep into the Beretta Silver Pigeon III Sporting, a shotgun that has been turning heads and breaking clays for quite some time. If you're in the market for a reliable, beautiful, and high-performing over-under shotgun, then you've definitely come to the right place. In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore everything that makes the Silver Pigeon III Sporting stand out from the crowd, from its elegant design to its superior handling and performance. Whether you're a seasoned competitive shooter or a weekend enthusiast, understanding the nuances of this shotgun will help you make an informed decision. So, buckle up and let's get started!

Overview of the Beretta Silver Pigeon III Sporting

The Beretta Silver Pigeon III Sporting is not just a shotgun; it's a statement. It's a blend of classic Beretta craftsmanship with modern sporting features. This shotgun is designed for those who appreciate the finer things in life but also demand top-notch performance. From the beautifully engraved receiver to the meticulously crafted stock, every detail of the Silver Pigeon III Sporting exudes quality and attention to detail.

Beretta, a name synonymous with firearms excellence, has a long and storied history dating back to the 16th century. Over the centuries, Beretta has consistently pushed the boundaries of firearms technology, earning a reputation for innovation, reliability, and craftsmanship. The Silver Pigeon series, in particular, represents a pinnacle of Beretta's expertise in shotgun design. Building on the success of its predecessors, the Silver Pigeon III Sporting incorporates several key enhancements that make it an exceptional choice for sporting clays, skeet, and trap shooting.

The Silver Pigeon III Sporting is chambered in 12 gauge, the most popular and versatile shotgun caliber, and is also available in 20 gauge for those who prefer a lighter recoil and quicker handling. It typically comes with barrel lengths of 30 or 32 inches, allowing shooters to choose the configuration that best suits their shooting style and preferences. The longer barrels provide a smoother swing and improved sighting plane, while the shorter barrels offer increased maneuverability in tighter shooting environments.

One of the most striking features of the Silver Pigeon III Sporting is its elegantly engraved receiver. The intricate scrollwork and game scenes are laser-engraved, providing a level of detail and sophistication that is typically found on much more expensive shotguns. The receiver is also finished with a durable nickel coating, which not only enhances its appearance but also provides added protection against corrosion and wear.

Key Features and Specifications

Let's break down the key features that make the Beretta Silver Pigeon III Sporting a standout choice for serious shooters. Understanding these specifications will give you a clearer picture of what this shotgun brings to the table.

Action and Receiver

The heart of the Silver Pigeon III Sporting is its reliable and robust action. It's a classic over-under design known for its longevity and smooth operation. The low-profile receiver contributes to the shotgun's excellent balance and handling, making it comfortable to shoot for extended periods. The receiver is made from a high-strength steel alloy, ensuring durability and resistance to wear and tear. The action locks up tightly, providing consistent and reliable performance, shot after shot. The single selective trigger allows you to choose which barrel fires first, giving you greater control over your shot sequence.

Barrels and Chokes

The barrels of the Silver Pigeon III Sporting are made from high-quality steel and are cold-hammer forged for superior strength and accuracy. They are available in multiple lengths (typically 30" or 32") to suit different shooting styles and preferences. The vent rib on top of the barrel provides a clear and unobstructed sight picture, while also helping to dissipate heat and reduce glare. The shotgun comes with a set of five interchangeable Mobilchokes, allowing you to fine-tune the pattern to match the specific targets you are shooting. The chokes are easy to install and remove, making it simple to adjust your gun for different shooting disciplines.

Stock and Forend

The stock and forend of the Silver Pigeon III Sporting are crafted from select walnut, known for its strength, beauty, and comfortable feel. The wood is finished with a durable gloss that enhances its natural grain and provides added protection against the elements. The stock features a traditional Prince of Wales grip, which offers a comfortable and secure hold. The forend is slim and ergonomic, providing a natural and intuitive feel in the hand. The stock is also available in different lengths of pull, allowing you to customize the fit to your body size and shooting style. A well-fitted stock is essential for achieving consistent and accurate shots.

Trigger and Safety

The trigger on the Silver Pigeon III Sporting is crisp and responsive, providing a clean break and consistent pull. This is crucial for achieving precise and accurate shots. The single selective trigger allows you to choose which barrel fires first, giving you greater control over your shot sequence. The safety is located on the tang and is easy to operate, even with gloved hands. The safety is also designed to be reversible, allowing you to switch it from right-handed to left-handed operation. This is a valuable feature for left-handed shooters who may have difficulty operating a traditional safety.

Weight and Balance

The Silver Pigeon III Sporting is designed to be well-balanced and comfortable to carry, even for extended periods. The weight is evenly distributed between the hands, providing a smooth and controlled swing. The shotgun's weight helps to absorb recoil, making it more comfortable to shoot, especially during long shooting sessions. The balance point is located slightly forward of the hinge pin, which contributes to the shotgun's stable and predictable handling.

Shooting Performance and Handling

Alright, let's talk about how this beauty actually performs in the field. The Beretta Silver Pigeon III Sporting isn't just a looker; it's a workhorse designed for consistent, high-performance shooting.

Recoil and Comfort

One of the first things you'll notice when shooting the Silver Pigeon III Sporting is its manageable recoil. Thanks to its weight and balance, the shotgun absorbs recoil effectively, making it comfortable to shoot even with heavier loads. The well-designed stock and recoil pad further reduce felt recoil, allowing you to shoot for longer periods without fatigue. This is especially important for competitive shooters who need to maintain their focus and accuracy throughout a long day of shooting.

Swing and Target Acquisition

The Silver Pigeon III Sporting swings smoothly and naturally, making it easy to track and intercept moving targets. The balance point is located slightly forward of the hinge pin, which contributes to the shotgun's stable and predictable handling. The vent rib provides a clear and unobstructed sight picture, making it easy to acquire targets quickly and accurately. The shotgun's overall weight and balance help to maintain a smooth and controlled swing, even when shooting at challenging angles.

Accuracy and Patterning

The Silver Pigeon III Sporting is known for its exceptional accuracy and consistent patterning. The high-quality barrels and interchangeable chokes allow you to fine-tune the pattern to match the specific targets you are shooting. The chokes are easy to install and remove, making it simple to adjust your gun for different shooting disciplines. The shotgun's consistent patterning ensures that your shots are hitting where you aim, giving you the confidence you need to break more targets. Whether you're shooting sporting clays, skeet, or trap, the Silver Pigeon III Sporting will help you achieve consistent and accurate results.

Pros and Cons

No shotgun is perfect, so let's weigh the pros and cons of the Beretta Silver Pigeon III Sporting to give you a balanced perspective.

Pros

• Exceptional Build Quality: Beretta's reputation for craftsmanship shines through in every aspect of this shotgun.
• Beautiful Aesthetics: The engraved receiver and high-grade wood make it a visually stunning firearm.
• Versatile Performance: Suitable for sporting clays, skeet, and trap shooting.
• Manageable Recoil: Comfortable to shoot for extended periods.
• Interchangeable Chokes: Allows you to fine-tune the pattern for different targets.

Cons

• Price: It's an investment, and might be a bit steep for some beginners.
• Weight: Can be a bit heavy for some shooters, especially younger or smaller individuals.

Alternatives to the Beretta Silver Pigeon III Sporting

If the Beretta Silver Pigeon III Sporting isn't quite the right fit, here are a few alternatives you might want to consider:

• Browning Citori: A classic over-under shotgun known for its reliability and durability.
• Caesar Guerini Magnus Sporting: A high-end shotgun with exceptional craftsmanship and performance.
• Beretta A400 Xcel Sporting: A semi-automatic shotgun that offers fast and reliable cycling.

Final Verdict

So, what's the final word on the Beretta Silver Pigeon III Sporting? It's a fantastic shotgun that combines classic aesthetics with modern performance. It's an excellent choice for anyone serious about sporting clays, skeet, or trap shooting, and its beautiful design makes it a joy to own. While it may be a bit pricey for some, the quality and performance justify the investment.

If you're looking for a shotgun that will last a lifetime and provide years of reliable service, the Beretta Silver Pigeon III Sporting is definitely worth considering. Its exceptional build quality, beautiful aesthetics, and versatile performance make it a standout choice in the world of over-under shotguns. So go ahead, give it a try, and see for yourself why so many shooters swear by the Beretta Silver Pigeon III Sporting. Happy shooting, guys!