Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon I 12 Gauge 26″ Over/Under
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Expert review
About this product
The Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon I 12 Gauge 26" is a field-oriented over/under shotgun designed for upland hunting and sporting clays. Its optimized 6-pound, 13-ounce weight and 26-inch barrel are engineered for quick handling in thick cover. The receiver features Beretta's standard grade floral laser engraving, and the system ships with five Optima HP choke tubes.
What is the Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon I used for?
This shotgun is engineered primarily for upland bird hunting over pointing dogs and walk-up shooting scenarios. Its 26-inch barrel and 44.5-inch overall length provide a fast swing-through in dense brush and timber. The 3" chamber and Optima HP chokes allow patterning from #9 shot for early-season doves to 1-1/4 oz turkey loads, though the semi-pistol grip field stock is less ideal for formal trap lines requiring high gun holds.
How does the Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon I compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The Beretta 686 is a mechanically superior and more durable firearm built for serious volume shooting. The key difference is the action: Beretta uses a proven, forged-steel monobloc barrel assembly with conical locking lugs, while the Stevens 555 uses a less expensive, investment-cast receiver. For sustained clay shooting over 500-1000 rounds per month, the Beretta's lockup will maintain headspace and timing longer. The Stevens is better for a budget-conscious shooter who fires less than 100 shells annually.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The shotgun weighs 6 pounds, 13 ounces (3.09 kg) unloaded, with a 26-inch barrel contributing to a 9.1 mm point of impact at 40 yards. Overall length measures 44.5 inches, with a 14.5-inch length of pull and a 1.5-inch drop at comb. The forend width is 1.4 inches, and the trigger pulls breaks at a consistent 4.2 pounds.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not for left-handed shooters, as it is configured only for right-hand operation. It is also a poor choice for waterfowl hunters needing a 3.5" chamber or a dedicated trap shooter seeking a high-rib target gun. The walnut stock lacks an adjustable comb or buttpad, limiting precise fit adjustments compared to competition models like the Beretta 694.
What's in the box?
You receive the shotgun, five Optima HP choke tubes (Cylinder, Improved Cylinder, Modified, Improved Modified, Full), a fitted hard case with foam inserts, a choke tube wrench, and owner's manual. The package does not include a cleaning kit, grease, or snap caps, which are necessary for initial maintenance and dry-fire practice.
Is the Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon I worth it at $2799?
At $2799, it is objectively worth the cost for a shooter who values mechanical longevity and resale value over initial savings. You are paying for a forged action that can handle 50,000+ rounds with proper maintenance, compared to the cast actions on sub-$1500 Turkish imports. For a hunter or recreational clay shooter who will put less than 500 shells per year through the gun, a model like the Stevens 555 Sporting represents a more efficient allocation of funds.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 6 lb 13 oz — optimized balance for fast acquisition in thick cover
- Forged steel monobloc barrel assembly — proven longevity beyond 50,000 rounds
- Five Optima HP choke tubes included — patterns from Cylinder to Full constriction
- Consistent 4.2 lb trigger pull — minimal creep for follow-up shots
Trade-offs
- Right-hand configuration only — no left-hand ejector or cast options available
- Fixed walnut field stock — lacks adjustable comb or buttplate for precise fitment
- Requires proprietary Optima HP chokes — aftermarket selection is narrower than Mobilchoke
Key attributes
| upc | 082442989716 |
| manufacturer | Beretta |
| manufacturer part number | J686F1226 |
| action | Over / Under |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 26" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 2 |
| color | BI-TONE |
| length | 33.2500 |
| model | Silver Pigeon I |
| package height | 3.1 |
| package width | 11.2 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Trigger |
| shipping weight | 13.05 |
| sights | Front Metal Bead |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with 3.5" magnum shells?
- No, the maximum chamber length is 3 inches. It will safely fire 2 3/4" and 3" shells in 12 gauge. Attempting to chamber a 3.5" shell can cause a catastrophic failure due to excessive headspace.
- Does this work with aftermarket choke tubes like Carlson's or Briley?
- It uses Beretta's proprietary Optima HP thread pattern, not the common Mobilchoke or Benelli Crio systems. Only choke tubes specifically marked 'Optima HP' will fit. Aftermarket options are available from brands like Trulock, but expect a 2-3 week lead time for custom orders.
- What is the shipping time and required paperwork?
- Shipping to your local FFL dealer takes 5-7 business days after payment clears. You must provide a copy of your dealer's license and complete a Form 4473 and NICS background check upon pickup. Interstate transfers add 2-3 days for logging.
- Can I return it if there is a mechanical defect?
- Yes, Ironclad Armory accepts returns for manufacturer defects within 30 days. The firearm must be unfired and in original packaging. We coordinate directly with Beretta USA for warranty service, which typically involves a 4-6 week turnaround for repair or replacement.
- Does the case have TSA-approved locks?
- No, the supplied case uses standard keyed locks. For airline travel, you must replace them with TSA-accepted locks, which are available from Master Lock or American Lock for approximately $15-$25 per pair.