These model designations represent three prominent over-and-under shotguns within the Beretta product line. They are often compared by prospective buyers due to their similar configurations, build quality, and intended purposes, primarily competitive clay shooting and hunting. The numbers differentiate specific models within the 600 series, indicating variations in features, embellishments, and sometimes mechanical components.
Discerning the nuances between these models is crucial for informed purchasing decisions. The selection of a shotgun hinges on individual needs and preferences, encompassing factors such as intended use, budget, desired features, and aesthetic appeal. Understanding the historical development and evolution of these models within Beretta’s lineup can further provide valuable context for evaluation. Such knowledge equips shooters to optimize their selection, maximizing performance and satisfaction.
This exploration will delve into the specific attributes of each model, highlighting key differences in areas such as construction, stock dimensions, engraving, and overall performance characteristics. Further analysis will address typical pricing variations and their correlation with specific features, enabling a comprehensive understanding of the value proposition offered by each model. Finally, recommendations will be offered based on various shooting disciplines and individual requirements, providing practical guidance for prospective purchasers.
1. Target vs. Field Use
The intended application, whether target shooting or field use, significantly influences the suitability of a specific Beretta 600 series model. Target shooting often demands specific features like adjustable ribs, combs, and potentially heavier barrels for recoil management and swing dynamics. Field use prioritizes lighter weight, quicker handling, and sometimes more durable finishes for challenging outdoor conditions. Understanding these distinctions is essential for optimizing shotgun selection.
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Competitive Clay Shooting
Disciplines like trap, skeet, and sporting clays frequently favor the 682 series due to its adjustable features and robust construction, allowing for precise customization and sustained performance over high-volume shooting sessions. The ability to fine-tune stock dimensions and balance points offers competitive shooters a distinct advantage.
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Hunting Applications
Upland bird hunting or waterfowl pursuits might prioritize the lighter weight and quicker handling characteristics often found in the 686 or specific 687 variants. The 687 series, while potentially utilized for clays, also provides models tailored for hunting, often showcasing features like improved camouflage finishes and shorter barrels for maneuverability in dense cover. Durability and weather resistance become paramount considerations in these environments.
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Stock Configuration and Dimensions
Target models often feature adjustable combs and longer barrels, enabling personalized gun fit for optimal sight alignment and recoil control during repeated shots. Field models may prioritize shorter barrels for easier handling in brush or tight quarters, with stock dimensions geared towards instinctive shooting and quick target acquisition.
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Weight and Balance
Heavier target shotguns can reduce felt recoil and promote smoother swings, particularly beneficial during extended clay shooting sessions. Lighter field guns facilitate faster mounting and maneuverability, essential for hunting scenarios demanding rapid reactions. The balance point of the shotgun further contributes to overall handling dynamics, influencing swing characteristics and perceived weight.
Selecting the appropriate Beretta model necessitates careful consideration of intended use. Competitive shooters benefit from adjustable features and robust construction, while hunters often prioritize lighter weight, maneuverability, and weather resistance. The 686, 687, and 682 models each offer unique strengths tailored to specific applications, empowering informed choices that enhance performance and enjoyment in diverse shooting environments.
2. Rib Design and Sights
Rib design and sight configuration are critical factors differentiating the Beretta 686, 687, and 682 shotguns, significantly impacting aiming, target acquisition, and overall shooting performance. Variations in rib height, width, taper, and sight type cater to specific shooting disciplines and individual preferences. Understanding these distinctions is essential for informed model selection.
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Rib Height and Taper
Higher ribs promote a more heads-up shooting posture, often preferred for disciplines like trap and skeet, allowing for better target visibility and reduced perceived recoil. Lower ribs facilitate a more instinctive shooting style, often favored in sporting clays and field hunting. Tapering ribs, narrower at the muzzle, can aid in target acquisition by minimizing visual obstruction. The 682 series frequently offers adjustable ribs, enabling shooters to fine-tune rib height and point of impact.
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Rib Width and Profile
Wider ribs provide a larger sighting plane and can enhance visibility in bright conditions. Narrower ribs offer a sleeker profile and can reduce perceived weight. Flat ribs provide a consistent sight picture, while stepped or concave ribs can minimize glare and enhance target focus. These variations cater to individual preferences and shooting styles.
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Sight Types and Configuration
Mid-bead sights assist in maintaining consistent gun mount and alignment. Front bead sights vary in size and color, influencing target acquisition speed and visibility. Fiber optic sights enhance visibility in low-light conditions. The choice of sight configuration depends on personal preference and shooting environment. The 682, being a competition-oriented model, may offer more options for sight customization.
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Impact on Shooting Discipline
Trap shooting often benefits from higher ribs and prominent mid-beads for consistent gun mount and vertical target tracking. Skeet shooting may favor mid-height ribs and smaller beads for quick target acquisition. Sporting clays and hunting frequently utilize lower ribs and fiber optic front sights for instinctive shooting and enhanced visibility in varied terrain and lighting. The 686, 687, and 682 models offer varying rib and sight configurations to address these specific needs.
Careful evaluation of rib design and sight features is essential when selecting between the Beretta 686, 687, and 682. These components directly influence sight picture, target acquisition, and overall shooting performance. Understanding the interplay between rib height, width, taper, sight type, and intended shooting discipline empowers shooters to select the optimal model aligned with individual needs and preferences.
3. Stock Dimensions and Wood
Stock dimensions and wood quality are critical factors differentiating the Beretta 686, 687, and 682 shotguns, significantly influencing gun fit, comfort, and overall shooting experience. Variations in length of pull, drop at comb, drop at heel, cast, and wood grade cater to individual body types, shooting styles, and aesthetic preferences. Careful consideration of these factors is essential for optimizing performance and enjoyment.
The 682, often designed for competitive shooting, frequently offers adjustable stocks, allowing for precise customization of length of pull, comb height, and cast. This adjustability enables shooters to achieve optimal gun fit, promoting consistent gun mount, recoil management, and sight alignment. The 687 models often feature higher-grade wood with enhanced figure and finer checkering patterns, appealing to those prioritizing aesthetics and potentially demanding greater durability for field use. The 686, representing a more value-oriented option, may utilize less-figured wood but still maintains functional stock dimensions suitable for both hunting and sporting clays. Differences in wood density and grain structure can also influence the overall balance and feel of the shotgun. For example, a denser wood stock can shift the balance point rearward, potentially benefiting shooters who prefer a heavier feel in the hands. Conversely, a lighter wood can contribute to a quicker-handling shotgun, desirable for certain hunting applications. A shooter with a longer neck might require a higher comb to achieve proper cheek weld and eye alignment with the rib, influencing their choice between models with fixed or adjustable combs.
Understanding the interplay between stock dimensions, wood quality, and individual shooter characteristics is paramount when selecting among these Beretta models. Proper gun fit, influenced by stock dimensions, directly impacts comfort, control, and shooting accuracy. Wood quality contributes to both aesthetics and functional characteristics such as balance and weight distribution. Careful evaluation of these factors, alongside intended use and budget considerations, empowers shooters to make informed decisions, maximizing performance and ensuring a satisfying shooting experience. Selecting a shotgun with ill-fitting stock dimensions can lead to discomfort, inconsistent gun mount, and ultimately diminished accuracy. Therefore, prioritizing proper gun fit through appropriate stock dimensions is paramount for achieving optimal shooting performance and enjoyment.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the Beretta 686, 687, and 682 shotguns, providing concise and informative responses to facilitate informed decision-making.
Question 1: What are the primary differences between the 682, 687, and 686 models?
Key distinctions lie in intended use, features, and price point. The 682 is purpose-built for competition, featuring adjustable ribs and stocks. The 687 often balances field and sporting use with variations emphasizing aesthetics and handling. The 686 represents a value-oriented option suitable for both disciplines.
Question 2: Which model is best suited for competitive clay shooting?
The 682 series, with its adjustable features and robust construction, generally caters best to competitive clay target disciplines, allowing for precise customization and sustained performance.
Question 3: Which model is recommended for hunting applications?
Specific 687 variants and the 686 offer lighter weight and quicker handling, often preferred for hunting scenarios. Field-specific features like camouflage and shorter barrels may also be present.
Question 4: How do stock dimensions influence shotgun selection?
Stock dimensions, including length of pull, drop, and cast, significantly impact gun fit and comfort. Adjustable stocks, common on the 682, allow for personalized fit, while fixed stocks require careful consideration of existing dimensions.
Question 5: What role does wood grade play in these models?
Wood grade influences aesthetics, weight, and potentially balance. Higher grades often feature enhanced figure and finer checkering, while lower grades prioritize functionality and value.
Question 6: How do pricing differences reflect features and intended use?
The 682, with its competition-focused features, typically commands the highest price. The 687 series occupies a mid-range, while the 686 offers a more accessible entry point, often balancing performance and affordability.
Careful consideration of individual needs, intended use, and budget constraints, in conjunction with the information provided, will facilitate optimal model selection within the Beretta 600 series.
Further sections will delve into detailed specifications, performance comparisons, and specific model recommendations tailored to various shooting disciplines.
Tips for Selecting Among the Beretta 686, 687, and 682
Choosing among these Beretta over-and-under shotguns requires careful evaluation aligned with individual shooting needs and priorities. The following tips offer guidance for navigating the selection process.
Tip 1: Prioritize Intended Use: Clearly define the primary shooting application. Competitive clay shooting demands features like adjustable ribs and stocks, often found in the 682 series. Hunting applications benefit from lighter weight, quicker handling, and potentially camouflage finishes, characteristics often present in certain 687 and 686 models.
Tip 2: Evaluate Stock Dimensions: Proper gun fit is paramount. Consider existing stock dimensions or the adjustability offered by models like the 682. Ill-fitting stocks negatively impact comfort, control, and accuracy. Professional gun fitting is recommended for optimal performance.
Tip 3: Assess Rib and Sight Configuration: Rib height, taper, and sight type influence target acquisition and shooting style. Higher ribs suit disciplines like trap, while lower ribs benefit sporting clays and hunting. Consider sight visibility and personal preferences.
Tip 4: Factor in Budgetary Constraints: Model pricing varies significantly. The 682 typically commands a premium due to its competition-focused features. The 687 series occupies a mid-range, while the 686 offers a more accessible price point. Balance desired features with budgetary limitations.
Tip 5: Consider Wood Grade and Aesthetics: Higher wood grades enhance aesthetics but may not significantly improve functionality. Evaluate the balance between visual appeal and practical considerations, particularly for field use where durability is paramount.
Tip 6: Research Specific Model Variations: Within each series (682, 687, 686), variations exist with differing features and configurations. Thoroughly research specific models within the chosen series to ensure optimal alignment with individual requirements.
Tip 7: Handle and Test Fire (If Possible): Whenever feasible, handle and test fire different models before purchase. This provides invaluable insight into balance, feel, and overall handling dynamics. Evaluate how the shotgun mounts, swings, and points for a personalized assessment.
Careful consideration of these tips, combined with thorough research and, ideally, hands-on evaluation, empowers informed decisions, ensuring the selected Beretta shotgun aligns perfectly with individual needs and shooting aspirations.
The following conclusion synthesizes key takeaways and offers final recommendations for selecting the ideal Beretta over-and-under.
Concluding Remarks
Discerning the optimal selection among the Beretta 686, 687, and 682 shotguns hinges upon a comprehensive understanding of their respective strengths and intended applications. The 682, engineered for competitive shooting, excels with its adjustable features and robust construction. The 687 series offers a balance of sporting and field capabilities, often prioritizing aesthetics and handling nuances. The 686 presents a value-driven option suitable for both disciplines, making it a versatile choice for those seeking balanced performance and affordability. Key differentiators encompass stock dimensions, rib configurations, wood quality, and overall build characteristics. Careful consideration of these factors, coupled with individual shooting needs and budgetary constraints, empowers informed decisions.
Ultimately, the ideal Beretta shotgun selection represents a harmonious convergence of individual preferences, intended use, and practical considerations. Thorough research, hands-on evaluation when feasible, and a clear understanding of the nuances distinguishing these models pave the path toward a satisfying and successful shooting experience, regardless of discipline or skill level. Empowered with this knowledge, shooters can confidently select the Beretta over-and-under best suited to their unique requirements, setting the stage for years of enjoyment and successful performance on the range or in the field.