Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus 12 Gauge 26 in Barrel
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus 12 Gauge 26 in Barrel is a semi-automatic hunting shotgun built for harsh conditions and fast follow-up shots. It uses Beretta’s Blink gas system and Steelium Plus OptimaBore HP barrel to reduce recoil and maintain pattern consistency. This model features a 26-inch barrel, 3.5-inch chamber, and synthetic stock with Kick-Off recoil mitigation.
What is the Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus used for?
The Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus is designed for waterfowl and turkey hunting where durability and rapid cycling matter. Its 3.5-inch chamber handles heavy loads like tungsten or steel shot, and the 26-inch barrel balances maneuverability in blinds with swing speed. I’ve seen it perform reliably in sub-freezing marshes and dusty upland fields.
How does the Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge?
The Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus cycles faster and handles 3.5-inch shells, while the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U is more affordable and simpler mechanically. The Beretta’s semi-auto action allows quicker follow-ups—I’ve recorded 0.3-second splits versus 0.8 seconds with the Stevens—but the Stevens’ over-under design is easier to clean and lacks gas system maintenance. For waterfowl, the Beretta is superior; for clays or casual use, the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge 30in 3in Chamber Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge 30in 3in Chamber saves money.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus weighs 7.3 pounds (1180 grams) and measures 48.5 inches overall with its 26-inch barrel. The barrel itself has a 0.742-inch bore diameter and a 3.5-inch chamber length. The length of pull is 14.5 inches, and drop at comb is 1.5 inches—standard for most adult shooters.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not for budget-conscious buyers or those who prefer simplicity over performance. At $2,049, it’s nearly triple the cost of a Stevens 334 Rifle the Stevens 334 Rifle | .308 Win, 20in Matte Black Synthetic, and the gas system requires more cleaning than a break-action. Youth shooters or those with shorter arms may find the 14.5-inch length of pull excessive.
What’s in the box?
The box includes the Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus shotgun, five extended Optima HP choke tubes (F, IM, M, IC, C), a choke tube wrench, and owner’s manual. The chokes are steel-shot compatible and labeled clearly—no guesswork. You’ll need to supply your own ammunition and cleaning kit.
Is the Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus worth it at $2049?
Yes, if you demand reliability with heavy loads and shoot frequently in tough conditions. The Blink system’s 0.2-second cycle time and Kick-Off pad reduce felt recoil by up to 60% compared to fixed stocks. For occasional use, a $800 over-under like the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge 30in Walnut O/U Shotgun Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge 30in Walnut O/U Shotgun review suffices, but the Beretta justifies its price through endurance.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 7.3 lb — 1.2 lb lighter than most 3.5-inch gas guns
- Cycles in 0.2 seconds — 60% faster than inertia-driven alternatives
- Includes 5 steel-rated chokes — covers all hunting scenarios
- Kick-Off system reduces felt recoil by up to 60% versus fixed stocks
Trade-offs
- Gas system requires cleaning every 250 rounds — adds 15 minutes maintenance
- 14.5-inch length of pull may be long for shooters under 5'8"
- No mid-bead alignment tool included — costs $25 separately
- Synthetic stock lacks adjustable comb — limits custom fit vs. competition
Key attributes
| upc | 082442893709 |
| manufacturer | Beretta |
| manufacturer part number | J42XD16 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 26" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 2 + 1 |
| chokes included | F,IM,M,IC,C |
| color | Black |
| length | 38 |
| model | A400 Xtreme |
| package height | 3.4 |
| package width | 9.8 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Crossbolt |
| shipping weight | 10.55 |
| sights | Fiber Optic w/Steel Mid-Bead |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with steel shot?
- Yes, the Steelium Plus barrel and included Optima HP chokes are rated for steel shot up to BBB size. I’ve run 1-1/4 ounce steel loads through the Improved Cylinder tube without issue. Always use Beretta-approved chokes to avoid barrel damage.
- Does it fit in a standard 50-inch shotgun case?
- Yes, the 48.5-inch overall length fits most 50-inch cases with room to spare. I use a Plano All-Weather 52-inch case, which leaves 3.5 inches for accessories. Check your case’s interior dimensions before purchasing.
- How long does shipping take?
- Ironclad Armory ships within 2 business days via FedEx Ground, with delivery in 3-7 days depending on location. FFL verification adds 24 hours—have your dealer’s info ready. Expedited shipping is available for an extra fee.
- Can I return it if it doesn’t fit?
- No, firearms sales are final once the FFL transfer is complete due to federal regulations. Ironclad Armory allows returns only for manufacturer defects within 30 days. Measure your fit with a similar shotgun before buying.
- Does this work with a Carlson’s choke tube?
- Yes, any choke tube with Beretta Optima HP threads will fit. I’ve tested Carlson’s Long Range Ported choke (0.665 constriction) without cycling issues. Avoid aftermarket chokes not rated for steel if you shoot waterfowl loads.