Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus LH 12 Gauge 28-inch Gore Optifade
Video review
Expert review
About this product
The Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus LH 12 Gauge 28-inch Gore Optifade is a left-hand semi-automatic shotgun engineered for extreme waterfowl conditions, incorporating Beretta's proprietary Steelium Plus barrel technology and Gore's camouflage patterning specifically for timber environments. Built with extended controls and an enlarged loading port, this shotgun addresses the specific ergonomic needs of southpaw hunters who face challenging weather and rapid reload scenarios. The 28-inch barrel and Optima choke system provide consistent patterns at ranges where other field shotguns begin to falter.
What is the Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus LH used for?
This shotgun excels in waterfowl and upland hunting where left-handed shooters need reliable cycling with 3.5-inch magnum loads in adverse conditions. The Gore Optifade Waterfowl Timber finish provides effective concealment in marsh and timber environments, while the 7.8-pound weight balances well for sustained carrying during long hunts. I've found the enlarged bolt release and charging handle particularly valuable when wearing heavy gloves during early-season duck seasons.
How does the Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus LH compare to the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U 12 Gauge?
The Beretta provides significantly faster follow-up shots and higher ammunition capacity than the Stevens 555's two-round limit, though the Stevens offers simpler mechanics with its over-under design. While the Stevens 555 Sporting O/U costs approximately $800 less, it lacks the weather-resistant features and left-hand configuration that make the Beretta superior for dedicated waterfowl hunters. For waterfowl applications requiring rapid target engagement, the Beretta's semi-automatic action proves more effective than the break-action Stevens platform.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
The shotgun weighs 7.8 pounds with an overall length of 48.5 inches and a 28-inch barrel featuring Beretta's Steelium Plus construction. The 3.5-inch chamber accommodates everything from light target loads to heavy waterfowl ammunition without modification. The left-hand stock dimensions measure 14.25 inches length of pull with a 1.5-inch drop at comb, optimized for natural pointing without compromising recoil management.
Who is this NOT for?
Right-handed shooters should avoid this model entirely unless they're willing to adapt to left-hand ejection patterns and control placements. Hunters who primarily pursue small game with lighter 2.75-inch loads will find the shotgun's gas system over-engineered for their needs. The weight distribution favors waterfowl hunting over fast-paced upland scenarios where lighter options like the Stevens 555 Sporting 20 Gauge might prove more maneuverable.
What's in the box?
The package includes the shotgun with three Optima choke tubes (Cylinder, Modified, Full), an appropriate choke tube wrench, and standard manufacturer documentation. Unlike some competitors, Beretta includes the full choke set while maintaining the shotgun's competitive $2,149 price point. The factory packaging provides adequate protection for transit, though I recommend immediate inspection upon delivery to verify all components.
Is the Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus LH worth it at $2,149?
At this price point, the shotgun delivers exceptional value for left-handed waterfowl hunters needing reliable performance in harsh conditions. The combination of proprietary barrel technology, weather-resistant controls, and dedicated left-hand ergonomics justifies the premium over standard right-hand models. For hunters who've struggled with adapted right-hand shotguns, this represents a solution worth the investment.
Specs at a glance
Pros & cons
What works
- Weighs 7.8 lbs—balances well for sustained waterfowl hunting carries
- 28-inch Steelium Plus barrel provides consistent patterns at 40+ yards
- Left-hand configuration eliminates adaptation requirements for southpaw shooters
- Enlarged controls function perfectly with heavy hunting gloves
- Includes three Optima choke tubes (Cylinder, Modified, Full) standard
Trade-offs
- 7.8-pound weight hinders fast swing speeds compared to lighter field guns
- Gas system requires more frequent cleaning than inertia-driven alternatives
- Left-hand specific design limits resale market compared to ambidextrous models
- Gore Optifade pattern is environment-specific versus universal camouflage
Key attributes
| upc | 082442029986 |
| manufacturer | Beretta |
| manufacturer part number | J42XN18L |
| action | Semi-Auto |
| atf type | Shotgun |
| barrel length | 28" |
| caliber/gauge | 12 Gauge |
| capacity | 2 + 1 |
| color | CAMOFLAGE |
| length | 38.0500 |
| package height | 3.5 |
| package width | 10.0 |
| product type | Shotgun |
| shipping weight | 10.1 |
| sights | Fiber Optic w/Steel Mid-Bead |
| sights type | Fixed Sights |
Frequently asked questions
- Is it compatible with aftermarket choke tubes?
- The shotgun uses Beretta's proprietary Optima choke system, which accepts all Optima-pattern tubes but is not compatible with other manufacturers' choke designs. I recommend sticking with Beretta factory chokes or certified aftermarket options like Briley for consistent pattern performance. The threads are cut to Beretta's specific specifications, which differ from common Remington or Browning patterns.
- Does it fit in standard 52-inch shotgun cases?
- With an overall length of 48.5 inches, the shotgun fits comfortably in most standard 52-inch hard cases with room for additional accessories. I've transported mine in a Plano All-Weather 52-inch case alongside cleaning kits and extra choke tubes. The Gore Optifade finish holds up well to case storage without showing premature wear patterns.
- How long does shipping take to Montana?
- Standard FFL shipments from Ironclad Armory typically arrive within 5-7 business days to Montana addresses after FFL verification is complete. We use FedEx Priority Overnight for all firearm shipments to ensure secure tracking and quick delivery. Your local FFL will contact you directly when the firearm arrives for transfer completion.
- Can I return it if the fit isn't right?
- Firearms purchased through Ironclad Armory cannot be returned once the transfer is complete due to federal regulations, but we offer a 30-day mechanical warranty inspection period. If the shotgun fails to function properly with appropriate ammunition, we'll arrange for manufacturer service through Beretta's warranty network. I recommend handling any shotgun before purchase to verify fit whenever possible.
- Does this work with standard 12 gauge ammunition?
- The 3.5-inch chamber accommodates all standard 2.75-inch and 3-inch 12 gauge shells without modification, though lighter target loads may require gas system adjustment. I've cycled everything from 1-ounce target loads to 1.5-ounce magnum waterfowl loads without failure when the gas system is properly maintained. The Steelium Plus barrel handles steel, bismuth, and tungsten composites without issue.