Shotgun Life | The Best in Wing and Clays Shooting

Author: Irwin Greenstein

Fausti, Beretta, Purdey, Holland & Holland, McKay Brown, Fabbri and Vintage Classics Debut at the New Sprawling Mallards Shooting Supply & Apparel Destination

Tuesday, December 02, 2025
Written by Irwin Greenstein
Categories: Briefs

Enter the luxurious fine gun room of the new Mallards Shooting Supply & Apparel and you’ll be amazed at the names of legendary shotguns resting in the red-velvet-lined cases: Fabbri, Purdey, Perazzi, Buchan, Holland & Holland, Beretta Premium along with vintage collectibles from LC Smith, Winchester and Parker Brothers (plus a selection of stunning Rigby rifles).

It’s Grand Opening Saturday night on November 15, 2025. The classical Julian & Sons built gun room, safeguarded by a massive vault door, is jammed with guests browsing and chatting. Among them are Grant Buchan and his wife Holly. Grant owns Scottish shotgun makers McKay Brown and Buchan Guns. The Buchans arrived from Scotland to help promote the new relationship between McKay Brown and Mallards. Grant explained that he had parted ways with fabled Griffin & Howe, his original East Coast agent, in favor of Mallards because he strongly believed that Mallards is the more visionary of a business partner in the marketing of best shotguns and their new joint program of organizing and promoting Scottish estate driven shoots to Mallard clients.

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Beretta Launches the AX800 Suprema

Tuesday, November 25, 2025
Written by Irwin Greenstein
Categories: Briefs
AX800

Beretta unveils the new AX800 Suprema, a ground-up engineered waterfowl shotgun that pushes the company’s performance, durability, and ergonomics into a new class. Built for serious hunters who demand maximum reliability in the blind, on the boat, and in the worst weather, the AX800 Suprema combines breakthrough gas-system technology, championship barrel engineering, and industry-leading recoil mitigation to deliver more effective shots, faster follow-ups, and less maintenance between hunts.

“The AX800 Suprema is the most advanced waterfowl shotgun we’ve ever built,” said Caleb McMillen, Beretta USA Sr. Product Manager for Long Guns. “Every part of this platform was designed and engineered to give waterfowl hunters an advantage: harder hitting and more consistent patterns, faster cycling, dramatically reduced felt recoil, cleaner operation, and a fit system that lets shooters fine-tune the gun to their body.”

Key innovations & features

  • B-LINK® Pro Gas System – Our fastest, cleanest, most reliable gas system to date. B-LINK Pro cycles everything from light target loads to heavy magnums with ease, running 36% faster and 46% cleaner than prior Beretta gas systems (including the A400 Xtreme Plus). The result: softer felt recoil, more consistent cycling, and less time cleaning between hunts.
  • Steelium® Pro Barrels – Barrel technology trusted by the world’s best clay shooters is now built for the blind. Proven in our world-champion DT11, the shotgun behind 14 out of 15 podium finishes at the 2024 Olympics, Steelium® Pro features an extended 17.7″ (450mm) forcing cone to deliver tighter, more consistent patterns, greater down range energy, and reliable performance, shot after shot.
  • Kick-Off® Pro Recoil Reduction – Built to handle the heaviest waterfowl loads, the Kick-Off® Pro stock system cuts felt recoil by up to 70%.
  • High-Tech Polymer Receiver – Rugged, weatherproof, and easy to clean. The sleek high-tech polymer receiver features a modular design and an integrated optic mount to keep you ready for any setup.
  • Adjustable Fit System – Fully configurable to fit each shooter out of the box. Interchangeable pistol grip, adjustable comb, adjustable length of pull, cast/drop adjustments, and a weather-resistant recoil pad. Designed for intuitive handling in tight blind and boat environments; features a flat trigger with a crisp break and fast reset.
  • User-First Ergonomics – Oversized loading port with pro-lifter, bolt handle, bolt release, and enlarged trigger guard for reliable operation in wet, cold, or gloved conditions.

Designed for real-world waterfowl hunting, the AX800 Suprema emphasizes both peak performance and field durability. The combination of B-LINK® Pro’s rapid, clean cycling, the Steelium® Pro barrel’s pattern control and recoil reduction means hunters can trust their first shot and their last, all season long. The AX800 Suprema will be available through authorized Beretta dealers in December, offered in a variety of finishes to match any environment or style. The release also complements Beretta’s recently launched Suprema Waterfowl Collection, a premium apparel line designed to keep hunters dry, warm, and concealed in even the toughest environments.

Stay connected with Beretta USA. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube and LinkedIn for the latest news, products, and updates.

About Beretta

Established in 1526, Beretta is the world’s longest-standing industrial dynasty, with a legacy spanning 16 generations of continuous family ownership. For nearly 500 years, firearms bearing the Beretta name have been trusted and used around the world. Beretta USA Corp. was established in 1977 and quickly became the provider of the most widely deployed sidearm in the U.S. Armed Forces. Today, Beretta USA is part of Beretta Holding Group, which includes over 50 global subsidiaries and 20 renowned brands. Beretta manufactures, distributes, and markets a complete range of firearms, accessories, and apparel. The company also owns and operates six Beretta Gallery retail stores worldwide.

For more information, visit www.Beretta.com.

The Kizilkaya RT25 or Beretta DT11? When it Comes to Clays Crushers, Let Your Wallet Do the Talking

Tuesday, October 21, 2025
Written by Irwin Greenstein
Categories: Shotguns
Tags: #BerettaDT11, #claysshootingshotguns, #KizilkayaRT25, #RT25shotgun, #turkishshotguns

Ask Matt Nelson about the Turkish Kizilkaya RT25 competition-grade clays gun and the Texan tell you straight-up, in no uncertain terms, that it’s a clone of the legendary Olympian Beretta DT11.

But while the Beretta DT11 starts at around $10,400, you can get into the 12-gauge  Kizilaya RT25 for only $4,900. Certainly, Kizilaya isn’t the first Turkish gunmaker to knock-off Europe’s best at bargain-basement prices. However, Kizilaya has tackled the challenge of successfully reverse engineering the shotgun that took 14 of the 15 medals in the 2024 Paris Olympics.

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In 28 Gauge, the Fausti DEA SLX Side by Side Just Might Be the Perfect Quail Gun

Tuesday, October 07, 2025
Written by Irwin Greenstein
Categories: Shotguns

When it comes to upland hunting, aside from a great dog, you want a shotgun that’s predictable and reliable: it instinctively snaps to your shoulder, has a clear sight picture and always goes bang. And better yet, it possess a classic aesthetic that compliments the tradition and art of wingshooting to make you feel a bit prouder about that downed bird.

Here in the Red Hills Region of South Georgia and Northern Florida, where King Bob prospers, you’d be hard pressed to find a better side-by-side companion than the 28-gauge Fausti DEA SLX. It’s a natural fit for the plantation stands of longleaf pines that echo the bobwhite hunting tradition of nearly 200 years.

Refined over the years, the DEA SLX is a straightforward, honest piece of engineering that contributes to its dependability. The shotgun relies on the proven Anson & Deeley boxlock action. The receiver is machined from a single billet of steel. Lockup is simple, comprising of an underbolt that engages a lug on the lower monobloc. The barrels hinge on a sturdy cross pin with a second pair of lugs inside the monobloc providing more of a mating surface compared to trunnions. Our model had a single non-selective inertia trigger that pulled at about four pounds, but for the more traditional minded double triggers are available.

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History of the Beretta 303 Semi-Automatic Shotgun

Saturday, August 30, 2025
Written by Irwin Greenstein
Categories: Briefs
Tags: #berettasemiautomaticshotguns, #berettashotguns, #berreta303

The Beretta 303 semi-automatic shotgun is a versatile and dependable firearm that has a rich history dating back to its beginnings in the early 1970s. With its innovative design and reliable performance, the Beretta 303 has become a popular choice among hunters, sports shooters, and law enforcement agencies around the world.

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The Beginnings of the Beretta 303 Shotgun

The Beretta 303 shotgun was first introduced by the Italian firearms manufacturer in 1974. It was designd as a successor to the popular Beretta 302, with improvements made to the gas system and overall reliability. The Beretta 303 quickly gained a reputation for its smooth operation and durability, making it a favorite among shooters looking for a reliable semi-automatic shotgun.

Innovations and Advancements in Design

One of the key innovations of the Beretta 303 shotgun was its self-regulating gas system, which helped reduce recoil and improve overall shooting comfort. The gun also featured a distinctive cross-bolt safety and a reversible shell ejector, making it user-friendly and versatile for shooters of all levels. Additionally, the Beretta 303 was known for its sleek and ergonomic design, with a slim profile and comfortable grip that made it easy to handle in the field.

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Legacy and Impact of the Beretta 303

The Beretta 303 semi-automatic shotgun has left a lasting legacy in the world of firearms. Its reliable performance and innovative design have made it a popular choice for hunters, sports shooters, and law enforcement agencies alike. The Beretta 303 has also influenced the development of other semi-automatic shotguns, setting a high standard for quality and performance in the industry.

The Beretta 303 shotgun, produced in the mid-1980s through early 1990s, was a landmark semi-automatic design that cemented Beretta’s reputation for reliable, versatile, and high-quality sporting shotguns. It bridged the gap between the early 300-series autos and the modern 390/391/A400 lineage.

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Luxury Wingshooting & Upland Hunting in Sonoma Wine County, California

Friday, August 29, 2025
Written by Irwin Greenstein
Categories: Destinations
Tags: #californiauplandhunting, #finedining, #luxuryuplandhunting, #pheasanthunting, #sonomacountyhunting, #sonomacountyuplandhunting, #sportingclays, #winetastings, #wingandbarrelranch
Wing and Barrel woman

Discover Wing & Barrel Ranch, a premier private sporting club nestled in the heart of Sonoma County, California. Here, luxury wingshooting, upland bird hunting, and fine wine experiences come together in an unparalleled setting for enthusiasts seeking the ultimate sporting lifestyle.

Exclusive Sporting Experiences for Members

At Wing & Barrel Ranch, members enjoy year-round sporting clays, upland bird hunting, fly casting, and expert shooting instruction. Whether you’re a seasoned wingshooter or just beginning, our luxury sporting facilities provide the perfect environment to refine your skills and enjoy the thrill of the sport.

Fine Dining & Winemaker Experiences

The elegant clubhouse offers seasonal farm-to-table dining, curated by renowned chefs. Members can also participate in exclusive Winemaker Series events, enjoy private wine pairings, and even shoot and dine with top vintners. Rare bottles can be stored in private wine lockers, creating a truly unique culinary and oenological experience in Sonoma wine country.

Every detail is designed to enhance your luxury wingshooting and sporting experience.

Sustainable Land Stewardship in Sonoma County

Spanning 1,000 acres of ecologically rich land, the ranch is committed to habitat restoration and climate resiliency. In partnership with Point Blue Conservation Science, we work to preserve native species and ensure the land remains pristine for generations of sporting enthusiasts.

Experience Wing & Barrel Ranch

Join them for an unforgettable combination of luxury wingshooting, upland bird hunting, fine dining, and Sonoma wine country adventures. Explore membership opportunities and learn more about our unique offerings on the Wing & Barrel Ranch website at https://www.shotgunlife.com/go/6dap

Webley & Scott in America Part 3: The Sport X Over/Under

Tuesday, August 12, 2025
Written by Irwin Greenstein
Categories: Shotguns

Webley & Scott was established in Birmingham, England in 1790. Today, like some other revered names from the Birmingham and London trades, the shotguns are  made in Turkey. Under the leadership of Matt Nelson based in Baird, Texas, Webley & Scotts have returned to the U.S. In this series, we discuss the Webley & Scotts currently available at affordable prices to American wing and clays shooters.

The formula for the Webley & Scott Sport X is simple: build an affordable over/under that’s a clays crusher.

For an MSRP of $2,399, you get a 12-gauge Sport X with black-chrome 30-barrels topped by a High-Viz bead and proofed for steel, plus five extended chokes. The barrels are chambered for three-inch shells. The shotgun’s handsome oil-finished Grade 3 Turkish walnut stock features an adjustable comb, a pistol grip and palm swell. The receiver is black chrome as well – a finish that’s been proven to resist corrosion in the elements. An automatic safety integrated into the stop strap.

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Webley & Scott in America Part 2: The APS Pro/APM Pro Clays Crushers

Tuesday, July 22, 2025
Written by Irwin Greenstein
Categories: Shotguns
Tags: #claysshootingshotguns, #montecarlo stocks, #webleyandscott, #webleyandscott shotguns, #webleyandscottallpurposeproshotgun, #webleyandscottapmshotgun, #webleyandscottapsshotgun

When Webley & Scott was founded in Birmingham, England in 1790, clays shooting seemed inconceivable. It wasn’t until the early 20th century that Webely & Scott’s homeland would get around to introducing sporting clays to the British shooting public as a means of keeping their shooting skill sharp during the off-season.

British marques dragged their feet for hundreds of years before producing sporting shotguns. When they finally came around the shotguns cost around $100,000, locking most enthusiasts out of the market – unless they wanted to take out a second mortgage on their house. In 2019, some 200 years after its founding, Purdey introduced it’s trigger-plant over/under in both game and clays models. Holland & Holland came pretty close with its 12-gauge, trigger-plate Noble over/under unveiled in 2023. It was portrayed as an all-around sporter.

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The Beretta 688 Performance is a Baby Olympian DT11 Clays Crusher

Wednesday, May 28, 2025
Written by Irwin Greenstein
Categories: Shotguns
Tags: #beretta686silverpigeon, #beretta688performance, #berettashotguns, #claysshotguns

The saying “Win on Sunday, Sell on Monday” is a long-standing belief in the automotive industry. It captures the view that winning a race, especially a prominent one, can boost sales and buff up the entire brand. In essence, taking the checkered flag becomes an adverting campaign that fuels demand by everyday drivers looking to capture some of the glory and performance. 

We see it all the time from Chevrolet, Ford, Chrysler, Toyota, Porsche, Cadillac and Audi, among others. But for them, race cars also serve as rolling laboratories. Features we take for granted including disk brakes, fuel injection, turbochargers, aerodynamics, active suspensions and paddle shifters started at grueling races such as the 24 hours of Le Mans, 24 hours of Sebring and Daytona 500 to eventually make their way into their bread-and-butter cars and trucks.

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