Beretta 682: An icon of Italian shotgun craftsmanship
28-Apr-2025
Mark Eves
Few names in the world of sporting shotguns carry the prestige and heritage of Beretta, and among their extensive lineup, the Beretta 682 stands as a true legend. Known for its reliability, precision and elegant craftsmanship, the 682 has long been a favourite among competitive clay shooters and discerning hunters alike.
A legacy in the making
First introduced in the 1980s, the Beretta 682 series was designed as a high-performance over-and-under shotgun built with competition in mind. Whether in trap, skeet or sporting clays, the 682 quickly carved out a reputation for its rock-solid reliability and shoot-ability.
As part of Beretta’s 600-series family, it shares mechanical DNA with other models like the 686 and 687, but the 682 was fine-tuned for competitive use, offering features that shooters at all levels could appreciate.
Key features
Barrel options: The 682 was available in a range of barrel lengths (typically 28”, 30”, 32”) with well-balanced weight for smooth target transitions.
Mobilchoke or optima-choke systems: Depending on the model year, users could enjoy interchangeable choke systems for greater versatility.
Adjustable stock options: Many 682s came with factory or aftermarket adjustable combs, enabling perfect fit and sight picture alignment.
Robust locking system: The locking mechanism is classic Beretta—strong, low-profile and designed to last for hundreds of thousands of rounds.
Competition-ready trigger: Crisp, selective single trigger with mechanical or inertia operation depending on model variant.
Evolution and variants
The Beretta 682 series has seen several iterations:
682 Gold / Gold E: These were higher-end models with improved woodwork, updated engraving and enhanced balance.
682 X / Super Sport: Tailored more towards sporting clays with ported barrels and wider rib profiles.
682 LTD: A limited edition version known for premium finishing and unique styling.
Beretta eventually replaced the 682 with the DT10 and later the DT11, but many shooters still swear by the 682 for its balance of tradition and modern performance.
Why is it still in demand?
Even though production has stopped, the 682 remains incredibly popular on the second-hand market. Its rugged build and timeless ergonomics make it a go-to for shooters looking for proven reliability without the cost of newer models. It’s not uncommon to see 682s still dominating competitions decades after they were first purchased.
Legal considerations in the UK
In the UK, the Beretta 682 falls under Section 2 of the Firearms Act 1968, as it is a typical over-and-under smooth-bore shotgun with a non-detachable magazine that holds two cartridges. To legally own one, you must hold a valid shotgun certificate (SGC) issued by your local police force. This requires:
A “good reason” for ownership (such as clay shooting or game hunting),
Adequate secure storage (usually a locked gun cabinet),
No history of criminal activity or mental health issues that could pose a danger.
For more on licensing, you can refer to the Home Office Firearms Licensing Guide or check your local police’s firearms unit.
Final thoughts
The Beretta 682 isn’t just a shotgun—it’s a legacy. Whether you’re stepping into the world of clay shooting or seeking a workhorse for serious sport, the 682 offers everything a shooter could want: balance, durability and that unmistakable Italian finesse.
Explore Beretta 682 Shotguns at Rightgun.uk.
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