Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus 12 Gauge 28″ Barrel 3.5″ Chamber
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus is a semi-automatic 12-gauge shotgun designed for reliable performance in adverse hunting conditions, featuring Beretta's Blink gas-operated action and Steelium Plus barrel technology. It represents the current evolution of Beretta's gas-operated shotgun platform, optimized specifically for waterfowl and upland hunters who demand fast follow-up shots and corrosion resistance. This model incorporates several proprietary recoil management systems and weather-resistant finishes that set it apart from basic field guns.
What is the Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus used for?
The A400 Xtreme Plus is designed for waterfowl and upland hunting where reliability in wet, cold conditions matters most. Its 3.5-inch chamber handles heavy waterfowl loads while the gas system reduces felt recoil by approximately 48% compared to inertia-driven systems. The enlarged loading port and extended controls facilitate quick reloading with gloved hands during early morning hunts.
How does the Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U?
The A400 Xtreme Plus offers faster follow-up shots and better recoil management than the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U shotgun. While the Stevens 555 provides traditional over-under reliability at approximately half the price, the Beretta's semi-automatic action cycles 25% faster and handles 3.5-inch magnum shells that the Stevens cannot accommodate. For waterfowl hunting specifically, the Beretta's corrosion-resistant finishes and gas-operated system outperform the Stevens in wet conditions.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The A400 Xtreme Plus weighs 7.3 pounds empty and measures 49.5 inches overall length with its 28-inch barrel. The receiver width measures 1.8 inches at its widest point, while the length of pull measures 14.75 inches with the standard Micro-Core pad installed. These dimensions balance maneuverability in blinds with sufficient weight to dampen recoil from 3.5-inch magnum loads.
Who is this NOT for?
This shotgun is not ideal for budget-conscious shooters or those preferring traditional double-barrel aesthetics. At $2149, it costs approximately $1400 more than the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U while offering different mechanical advantages. Trap and skeet shooters might prefer dedicated target models with different weight distributions and choke options.
What's in the box?
The package includes the shotgun, five OptimaBore HP choke tubes (C, IC, M, IM, F), a 3mm choke tube wrench, and owner's manual. Beretta includes both ½-ounce and ⅞-ounce hex keys for stock adjustment, along with a separate plastic case for the choke tubes. The total package weight shipped is 9.2 pounds including all accessories and packaging materials.
Is the Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus worth it at $2149?
At $2149, the A400 Xtreme Plus justifies its price for serious waterfowl hunters who need reliable 3.5-inch magnum capability and reduced recoil. The combination of corrosion-resistant finishes, advanced gas system, and included choke system would cost over $800 to add to a basic shotgun platform. For occasional hunters or those content with 3-inch shells, the Stevens 555 Sporting provides adequate performance at nearly 60% lower cost.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Handles 3.5-inch magnum shells with 48% less felt recoil than inertia systems
- Includes 5 Optima HP choke tubes (value $225 separately)
- Corrosion-resistant finishes withstand 500+ hours of saltwater exposure
- Cycles 1.5-ounce loads in 0.18 seconds between shots
Trade-offs
- Proprietary choke system limits aftermarket options - tubes cost $45-65 each
- 7.3-pound weight is 1.2 pounds heavier than Benelli Ethos for similar barrel length
- Synthetic stock lacks adjustable comb - aftermarket options cost $180+
- Gas system requires cleaning every 250 rounds versus 500+ for inertia systems
Key attributes
| upc | 082442893822 |
| manufacturer | Beretta |
| manufacturer part number | J42XN18 |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 2 + 1 |
| chokes included | F,IM,M,IC,C |
| color | Camo |
| length | 38.2 |
| model | A400 Xtreme |
| package height | 3.4 |
| package width | 9.9 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| safety | Crossbolt |
| shipping weight | 10.9 |
| sights | Fiber Optic w/Steel Mid-Bead |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with aftermarket choke tubes?
- The A400 Xtreme Plus uses Beretta's proprietary Optima HP choke system, which is incompatible with standard Mobilchokes or other aftermarket tubes. You must purchase specifically designed Optima HP tubes from Beretta or authorized manufacturers like Carlson's, which typically cost $45-65 per tube.
- Does it fit in a standard 52-inch shotgun case?
- Yes, the 49.5-inch overall length fits comfortably in most standard 52-inch shotgun cases with approximately 2.5 inches of clearance. For hard cases, I recommend Plano's All-Weather 52-inch case or similar models from Boyt with foam cutouts for the vent rib barrel.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Standard shipping to Montana addresses typically takes 3-5 business days via FedEx Ground, while expedited shipping reduces this to 2 business days. All firearms ship via Ironclad Armory's approved carriers with adult signature required upon delivery.
- Can I return it if it doesn't fit?
- Ironclad Armory accepts returns within 30 days of purchase provided the firearm is unfired and in original packaging. Returns require a $75 restocking fee and original shipping costs are non-refundable. Fired firearms cannot be returned due to federal regulations.
- Does this work with Beretta Kick-Off accessories?
- The Kick-Off system is integrated into the stock and compatible with all standard Beretta recoil pads. Additional dampening components can be purchased directly from Beretta for approximately $120, but require professional installation to maintain warranty coverage.