The Beretta 1301 has been around for several years and has gone through several generations over the years. The most recent generations are the Beretta 1301 Gen 2 and Gen 3. Both generations of the Beretta 1301 have been popular among shooters and hunters, but there are some key differences between the two.
In this article, we will compare the Beretta 1301 Gen 2 and Gen 3 to help you decide which one is the right choice for you.
beretta 1301 gen 2 vs gen 3: What’s the Difference?
1. Overview
Beretta 1301 Gen 2 vs Gen 3 is a comparison of two semi-automatic shotguns produced by Italian firearms manufacturer Beretta.
The Beretta 1301 is a popular shotgun for home defense, hunting, and competition shooting. The Gen 2 and Gen 3 models are the latest iterations of the 1301, and they offer several improvements over the original model. This article will compare the features of the Gen 2 and Gen 3 models, and provide an overview of the differences between them.
2. Design and Construction
Design: The Beretta 1301 Gen 2 and Gen 3 shotguns are semi-automatic shotguns designed for sporting and home defense. The Gen 2 has a black synthetic stock and forend, while the Gen 3 has a black synthetic stock and forend with a camo finish. Both models have a four-position adjustable buttstock, a crossbolt safety, and a removable choke system.
Construction: The Beretta 1301 Gen 2 and Gen 3 shotguns are constructed from high-quality steel and aluminum components. Both models feature a rotating bolt head, a chrome-lined barrel, and a self-cleaning gas system. The Gen 2 has a chrome-plated bolt carrier, while the Gen 3 has a stainless steel bolt carrier.
Both models are designed to be lightweight and easy to handle.
3. Features
The Beretta 1301 Gen 2 is a semi-automatic shotgun designed for home defense and law enforcement use. It features a gas-operated, rotating bolt action and a 4+1 capacity.
It has a Picatinny rail for mounting optics and accessories, a cross-bolt safety, and a reversible charging handle. The barrel has a length of 18.5 inches and it comes with a standard chokes.Beretta 1301 Gen 3: The Beretta 1301 Gen 3 is a semi-automatic shotgun designed for home defense and law enforcement use.
It features a gas-operated, rotating bolt action and a 5+1 capacity. It has a Picatinny rail for mounting optics and accessories, a cross-bolt safety, and a reversible charging handle. The barrel has a length of 18.5 inches and it comes with a standard chokes.
Additionally, the Gen 3 features a larger ejection port, a redesigned magazine tube, and an improved recoil spring system.
4. Performance
The Beretta 1301 is a semi-automatic shotgun designed for tactical, home defense, and competition shooting. It has been around since 2012, and there have been two generations of the gun released. The Gen 2 1301 was released in 2017, and the Gen 3 was released in 2020.
When it comes to performance, the Gen 3 1301 is a significant improvement over the Gen 2. It has a redesigned gas system that is more reliable and smoother cycling. The Gen 3 also features an improved trigger with a shorter reset, making it easier to shoot accurately.
Additionally, the Gen 3 has a larger charging handle, making it easier to operate.The Gen 3 1301 also has a number of other improvements, including a larger bolt release button, a redesigned magazine tube, and an improved recoil pad. These improvements make the Gen 3 1301 a more reliable and comfortable gun to shoot.
Overall, the Beretta 1301 Gen 3 is a significant improvement over the Gen 2 model. It is more reliable, more comfortable to shoot, and easier to operate. It is an excellent choice for tactical, home defense, and competition shooting.
5. Price
The Beretta 1301 Gen 2 is available for an MSRP of $1,099.Beretta 1301 Gen 3: The Beretta 1301 Gen 3 is available for an MSRP of $1,199.
6. Conclusion
The Beretta 1301 Gen 2 and Gen 3 are both reliable and well-built shotguns that are designed for a variety of shooting sports.
Both models offer reliable performance and are suitable for both competitive and recreational shooting. The Gen 2 is a slightly more affordable option, while the Gen 3 offers a few additional features and upgrades. Ultimately, the choice between the two models will come down to personal preference and budget.

Similarities
There are some similarities between the Beretta 1301 Gen 2 and Gen 3 shotguns. Both models have a gas-operated system, a rotating bolt, and a cross-bolt safety. Both models also feature a synthetic stock and forend, as well as a Picatinny rail for mounting optics. The main difference between the two models is the action.
The Gen 2 model has a semi-automatic action, while the Gen 3 model has a semi-automatic/pump-action hybrid. The Gen 3 also has a larger bolt release button, a larger magazine release button, and an enlarged loading port. Additionally, the Gen 3 model has an improved recoil pad and a more ergonomic pistol grip.
More Quirks Of The Beretta 1301 Tactical
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the main differences between the Beretta 1301 Gen 2 and Gen 3 shotguns?
• Gen 2 shotguns feature a crossbolt safety, while Gen 3 shotguns feature a tang safety.
• Gen 2 shotguns have a fixed stock, while Gen 3 shotguns have an adjustable stock.
• Gen 2 shotguns have a manual loading port, while Gen 3 shotguns have an automated loading port.
• Gen 2 shotguns have a single-piece receiver, while Gen 3 shotguns have a two-piece receiver.
• Gen 2 shotguns have a fixed choke, while Gen 3 shotguns have an interchangeable choke.
• Gen 2 shotguns have a fixed barrel, while Gen 3 shotguns have a removable barrel.
• Gen 2 shotguns have a fixed magazine capacity, while Gen 3 shotguns have an adjustable magazine capacity.
2. How does the recoil reduction system of the Beretta 1301 Gen 3 compare to the Gen 2?
The Beretta 1301 Gen 3 has a recoil reduction system that is significantly improved from the Gen 2.
The Gen 3 features a new recoil-reducing gas system that is designed to reduce felt recoil by up to 70%. This is achieved by using a combination of a longer piston stroke and a new gas valve design. The new gas system also allows for a faster cycling of the action, allowing for faster follow-up shots.
Additionally, the Gen 3 also features an improved stock design with a new recoil pad and a new cheek rest for improved comfort and control.
3. What are the advantages of the Beretta 1301 Gen 3 over the Gen 2?
The Beretta 1301 Gen 3 has several advantages over the Gen 2.
1. Improved ergonomics: The Gen 3 has a redesigned stock and forend that make it easier to handle and more comfortable to shoot. The stock is adjustable for length of pull and the forend is textured for a better grip.
2. Improved recoil system: The Gen 3 features a new recoil system that reduces felt recoil and muzzle rise, making it easier to stay on target.
3. Improved trigger: The Gen 3 has a new trigger system that provides a smoother, lighter pull and a shorter reset.
4. mproved magazine capacity: The Gen 3 has an increased magazine capacity of 5+1, compared to the Gen 2’s 4+1.
5. Improved safety: The Gen 3 has an improved safety system that is easier to operate and provides better protection against accidental discharges.
6. Improved finish: The Gen 3 has a new corrosion-resistant finish that is more durable and provides better protection against wear and tear.
Final Words For beretta 1301 gen 2 vs gen 3
The Beretta 1301 Gen 2 and Gen 3 shotguns are both reliable and well-made firearms. Both generations offer reliable performance and a variety of features that make them great for hunting, home defense, and competition shooting. The Gen 3 model has some additional features such as an enlarged loading port, improved ergonomics, and an improved trigger, making it a great choice for those looking for a more modern shotgun.
Ultimately, the choice between the two generations of the Beretta 1301 will come down to personal preference and the intended use of the firearm.






