Beretta Model A303 A 303 12 GA 28″ & 30″ Barrels Semi-Auto Shotgun MFD 1991
SOLD FOR: $1075
LSB#: 211203FH55
Make: Beretta
Model: A 303
Serial Number: N53740E
Year of Manufacture: 1991 (BA Date Code)
Gauge: 12 Gauge 2 3/4” Shells
Action Type: Semi Automatic Gas Operated Tubular Magazine
Markings: The left side of the receiver is marked “P. Beretta” in cursive, with the “PB” logo, “Mod. A 303”, and the serial number “N53740E”. The bottom of the receiver is marked with Italian proofs and “BA” in a box. The right side of the receiver is marked “P. Beretta”, “MADE IN ITALY”, and “PATENTED”. Both sides of the receiver have floral scroll engraving.
The 28” barrel is marked as such: the left side of the barrel is marked “P. BERETTA – MADE IN ITALY / 12 GA. 2 3/4 – 28””, the hidden portion is marked “P79393F”. The bottom of the shank is marked “24480”. The right side of the barrel is marked “BERETTA USA CORP., ACKK, MD.”, the hidden portion is marked “ALLOYED CR. MO. QUENCHED HIGH TENSILE STEEL”, various specifications and proofs, and the BB date code. The bottom of the barrel is marked “BB”.
The 30” barrel is marked as such: the left side of the barrel is marked “P. BERETTA – MADE IN ITALY / 12 GA. 2 3/4 – 30””, the hidden portion is marked “M62279F”. The right side of the barrel is marked “BERETTA USA CORP., ACKK, MD. / SPECIAL TRAP”, the hidden portion is marked “ALLOYED CR. MO. QUENCHED HIGH TENSILE STEEL”, various specifications and proofs, and an AA date code. The bottom of the barrel is marked “BB”
Barrel Length: 28” & 30” Both are Ported with Ventilated Ribs
Choke: The barrels are threaded to accept different chokes. Currently installed in the 28” barrel is a Skeet I choke, and in the 30” barrel, a Beretta Full choke is installed.
Sights / Optics: Both barrels are mounted with a white plastic bead front sight on a ventilated rib that is finely checkered for glare reduction. The top of the receiver is serrated for the same purpose. There is no rear sight.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stocks are checkered wood sporting a grooved forend, pistol grip, fluted straight comb, and a black Kick Eez rubber buttpad. The buttstock shows just a couple of small marks towards the rear. The forearm shows similar wear with a few minor interruptions in the checkering. The checkering is generally sharp throughout. The LOP measures 14 1/8” & 13 1/8” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad and wood, respectively. The buttpad shows scattered minor rub wear and is soft. The stock is in Fine-Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Black Alloy Receiver and Blue Barrels
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bores are bright. There is no erosion in either.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 98% of its metal finish. The 28” barrel shows some areas of light thinning throughout. Both barrels have sparse light marks throughout. The receiver shows light handling and operational wear. The screw heads are sharp and unmarred. The markings are all clear. Overall, this shotgun rates in about Fine-Plus condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We have not fired this shotgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This shotgun comes in a Browning hard case with 28” and 30” ported and threaded barrels, the previously mentioned chokes, a forend weight, and a shell catcher.
Our Assessment: This Beretta model A303 Sporting is a 12 gauge, self-compensating gas operation semi-auto, designed for 2 ¾ inch shells. This gun has quite clearly been well cared for over the last 30 years. It comes with two barrels, 28” and 30” respectively, giving you options at the range. This lightweight shotgun would make a terrific starting gun for anyone looking to take up the sport of clay shooting. With the included forend weight, you can adjust the balance of the shotgun to your liking. The barrels are threaded to accept different sized chokes. Retaining roughly 98% of its original finish, this shotgun easily has another 30 years of life left in it, likely more if properly maintained. Overall this is an excellent shotgun for sporting clays & hunting. Please see our photos and good luck!
