The Beretta SL2: Is This the Hypergun of Competition Shotguns?
The Beretta SL2 is an over-and-under shotgun positioned at the pinnacle of Beretta’s offerings for clay target sports. Dubbed the “Ultimate Hypergun,” the SL2 fuses Beretta’s traditional excellence in Italian craftsmanship with innovative, race-inspired technical solutions, aiming to provide competitive shooters with an unparalleled edge.
The SL2 is a product of the Pietro Beretta Selection Custom Shop, blending the lineage of the highly successful DT11 and the bespoke SO series while forging a distinct path with its own mechanical platform.
The Engine: Steelium Pro X Barrels
The centerpiece of the SL2’s performance is its pioneering barrel technology, the Steelium Pro X. This marks the latest evolution in Beretta’s proprietary tri-alloy steel barrels, engineered in collaboration with professional shooters.
The key innovation is the revised internal geometry, which features elongated forcing cones and brand-new, extra-long 90mm Optimachoke XP (OCXP) chokes. These components work together to:
- Maximize Ballistic Efficiency: The design enhances shot pattern consistency and density.
- Improve Energy Transfer: It delivers superior terminal energy retention downrange.
- Reduce Recoil: The barrel profile and extended chokes contribute to significantly smoother recoil management and reduced muzzle rise, allowing for faster follow-up shots.
The Chassis: Enhanced Stability and Sight Picture
The receiver of the SL2 is designed for both aesthetic appeal and mechanical superiority, focusing on maximizing the shooter’s view and control.
- Modified SO10 Locking System: The SL2 incorporates a variation of the reliable Boss-type locking system derived from the SO10 platform. This system is designed to lower the shotgun’s center of gravity and align the locking lug at the hinge pin height, which increases the gun’s stability, improves its swing dynamics, and further mitigates felt recoil.
- Anti-Glare Design: The receiver features a sleek, reduced profile and a top surface finished with a revolutionary laser-engraved anti-glare texture. These microscopic pyramids are engineered to break up light, eliminating the distractions caused by glare when aiming.
Race-Ready Mechanics and Custom Fit
Every component of the SL2 is designed for peak performance and tailor-made precision:
- Detachable Trigger Group: Taking a cue from the DT11, the SL2 utilizes a quick-removable trigger group with precision leaf springs. This ensures a consistently clean and crisp trigger pull while allowing for rapid replacement or field maintenance—a critical advantage in time-sensitive competitions. An optional carbon fiber trigger group is available for those seeking reduced weight and a modern aesthetic.
- Premium Customization: The shotgun features stunning Grade 4 or higher hand-selected walnut wood. Beretta offers extensive customization, including made-to-measure stock and forend shaping to fit the shooter’s exact dimensions. Finish options include custom oil treatments, and even custom engraving on components like the hinge pins.
The Beretta SL2 is available in dedicated configurations for Sporting, Trap, and Skeet disciplines, making it a professional-grade platform for those who demand the highest level of mechanical and ballistic performance. As a top-tier, custom-built firearm, pricing generally starts above $22,000 USD depending on configuration and region.
