Hey guys, let's dive into the world of shotguns and specifically, the Beretta 686 Onyx Sporting. This isn't just any shotgun; it's a piece of equipment that many shooters, from seasoned pros to enthusiastic beginners, have come to love and rely on. Today, we're gonna take a deep dive into what makes this shotgun such a star in the shooting world. We'll explore its design, performance, and overall value. So, buckle up, and let's get started. I promise you'll be well-informed by the end of this review.

Unboxing the Beretta 686 Onyx Sporting: First Impressions

Okay, so the moment you get your hands on a Beretta 686 Onyx Sporting, the first thing you'll probably notice is the quality. The fit and finish are superb, you know? It's like, immediately, you can tell this isn't some cheap, mass-produced piece. The wood grain is usually gorgeous, with a rich, deep color that just screams elegance. The metalwork is equally impressive, often featuring a sleek, understated design. The balance is another standout feature. When you shoulder the gun, it just feels right. The weight distribution is spot-on, making it feel lively and responsive, ready to move with you. The overall build quality inspires confidence, giving you the feeling that this shotgun is built to last. Many shooters find this specific model to be an ideal choice for a variety of shooting disciplines, including sporting clays, trap, and skeet. Because of this, the first impression is one of quality, craftsmanship, and a promise of great performance. You’re holding a piece of equipment that's been carefully crafted, and that feeling alone is pretty awesome, am I right?

This isn't just about aesthetics, though. The way a gun feels in your hands impacts how you shoot. A well-balanced gun is easier to swing smoothly, track targets, and maintain your follow-through. This is super important when you're shooting at moving targets, which is what the Onyx Sporting is designed for. The attention to detail extends beyond the visible aspects of the gun. The mechanics are precise, the trigger pull is usually crisp and clean, and the ejection system is reliable. All of these factors come together to create a shooting experience that's both enjoyable and effective. This is an investment in your shooting. It's not just a purchase; it's a commitment to improving your skills and enjoying the sport to the fullest. Now, I know the price tag might seem a bit daunting at first. However, when you consider the quality of the materials, the craftsmanship, and the overall performance, the Beretta 686 Onyx Sporting offers great value for your money. So yeah, the initial impression is everything, and this one scores a perfect 10, hands down.

Design and Features: What Makes the Onyx Sporting Stand Out

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty and talk about what makes the Beretta 686 Onyx Sporting tick. The design of this shotgun is a beautiful blend of form and function. Beretta has a reputation for engineering excellence, and it really shines through in this model. The receiver, typically made of steel, is both strong and elegantly designed, often featuring subtle engraving that adds to its aesthetic appeal. The barrels are usually chrome-lined, which not only enhances durability but also helps to protect against corrosion. They also usually come in different lengths, allowing you to tailor the gun to your specific shooting style and the type of targets you'll be shooting. Speaking of barrels, the Onyx Sporting often features Beretta's Optima-Choke system. This means that you can easily swap out chokes to adjust the spread of your shot pattern. This is a super handy feature, giving you a lot of flexibility for different shooting scenarios. Whether you're shooting close-range targets or long-distance ones, you can fine-tune your choke to get the best possible results. The action is a work of art in itself. It's a reliable, smooth-operating, over-and-under design. It's designed to be durable, and it's designed to cycle shells quickly and efficiently. The trigger is typically crisp and responsive, allowing for precise shot placement. This is crucial when you’re trying to hit fast-moving targets. The stock and fore-end are usually made of high-quality walnut, often with a beautiful oil finish. The wood is not only attractive but also provides a comfortable and secure grip. The checkering on the stock and fore-end enhances your grip, even in wet or sweaty conditions. This helps you to maintain control of the gun and swing smoothly. The Onyx Sporting typically features a single selective trigger, allowing you to choose which barrel fires first. This is a pretty cool feature and one that's particularly useful in sporting clays. The overall design of the Onyx Sporting is about optimizing performance. Every detail, from the balance to the trigger pull, is carefully considered to enhance the shooter's experience. It’s all about creating a shotgun that is accurate, reliable, and a joy to shoot. The best part? It looks good doing it.

So, when you break it all down, the Onyx Sporting isn't just about good looks. It’s a well-engineered piece of equipment designed to enhance your shooting skills. From the quality of the materials to the thoughtful design of the features, every aspect is about helping you shoot more effectively and enjoy the sport of shooting to the fullest.

Performance on the Range: Shooting Experience and Accuracy

Now, let's talk about the fun part: how the Beretta 686 Onyx Sporting performs on the range. The shooting experience with this gun is, in a word, outstanding. The balance of the gun really comes into play here. It makes it super easy to swing smoothly and track targets. This helps you to maintain your momentum and follow through on your shots. This is a game-changer when you're shooting sporting clays or any other discipline where you need to hit moving targets. The trigger pull is usually crisp and clean, which means you can make precise shots without any surprises. The recoil is typically manageable, even with heavier loads. That's a huge benefit, especially if you're planning on spending a lot of time at the range. You won’t get fatigued as quickly, and you'll be able to focus on your shooting form. The Optima-Choke system is a real asset. It allows you to fine-tune your shot pattern for different targets and distances. The ability to adjust your choke gives you a major advantage, increasing your chances of breaking targets consistently. The reliability of the Onyx Sporting is another key factor. It's designed to function flawlessly, even under demanding conditions. You can trust this gun to perform every time you pull the trigger. That reliability is important whether you're competing or just out for a casual round of shooting. The accuracy of the Onyx Sporting is generally excellent. The barrels are typically well-regulated, which means that the point of impact is consistent. The combination of accuracy, reliability, and smooth handling makes this shotgun a joy to shoot. It gives you the confidence to take on any target. It's a pleasure to shoot. I mean, it's a solid investment that will last for years.

Now, let’s talk about the feel. The Onyx Sporting just fits. It’s comfortable to shoulder and easy to swing. It's an extension of your arm, which helps to improve your shooting and reduce your fatigue. That confidence can boost your scores and make the experience more enjoyable. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or just starting, the Onyx Sporting can help you take your shooting skills to the next level. The gun's performance, combined with its ergonomic design, creates a seamless shooting experience. It's not just about hitting targets; it’s about the feeling of shooting, the satisfaction of making a perfect shot, and the joy of being out on the range. This shotgun will elevate your shooting game and provide you with years of fun.

Comparing the Beretta 686 Onyx Sporting: Competitive Analysis

Okay, so the Beretta 686 Onyx Sporting is a great shotgun, but how does it stack up against the competition? Let's take a look at some of its rivals and see how it holds up. When we're talking about over-and-under shotguns, the field is pretty crowded. There are a lot of great options out there, but the Onyx Sporting holds its own. One of its main competitors is the Browning Citori. The Citori is a legendary shotgun, known for its durability and reliability. The Browning Citori and the Beretta 686 Onyx Sporting both offer exceptional quality and craftsmanship. However, the Onyx Sporting usually edges out the Citori in terms of handling and balance. Many shooters find the Onyx Sporting to be a bit more nimble and easier to swing. Another competitor is the Caesar Guerini line of shotguns. Caesar Guerini shotguns are known for their high-end features and exquisite craftsmanship. The Caesar Guerini shotguns are often more expensive than the Onyx Sporting. The Onyx Sporting offers great value, combining quality, performance, and a reasonable price point. When you compare it to other guns in its price range, it really shines. The build quality and the level of performance are just outstanding. The balance and the feel of the Onyx Sporting make it a joy to shoot. It makes it easier to track targets and make consistent shots. In this area, it often surpasses many of its competitors. The Beretta's Optima-Choke system is another key advantage. The ability to easily swap out chokes gives you a lot of flexibility. It allows you to tailor your shot pattern for different targets and distances, which isn't always available on other shotguns. When you're looking for a great over-and-under shotgun, the Beretta 686 Onyx Sporting is a top contender. It’s hard to ignore all the good things it brings to the table. When you consider the balance, the handling, the reliability, and the performance, the Onyx Sporting offers a compelling package. It's a well-rounded shotgun that can be a great choice for a wide variety of shooters. Ultimately, the best shotgun is the one that fits your needs and your budget. However, when you compare the Beretta 686 Onyx Sporting to other guns in its class, it's easy to see why it's so popular among shooters.

Maintenance and Care: Keeping Your Onyx Sporting in Top Shape

So, you've got your hands on a Beretta 686 Onyx Sporting. Congrats! But like any fine piece of equipment, it needs a little TLC to keep it running smoothly. Let's talk about maintenance. Regular cleaning is key. After each shooting session, you should give your gun a good cleaning. This involves removing any powder residue, dirt, or debris that may have accumulated. You should start by disassembling the gun. Make sure to consult your owner's manual for proper disassembly instructions. Then, use a cleaning rod, bore brush, and solvent to clean the barrels. You should also clean the action, the trigger mechanism, and any other moving parts. The owner's manual will provide detailed instructions for each of these steps. After cleaning, be sure to lubricate the gun. Use a high-quality gun oil to lubricate the action, the hinges, and any other points of friction. This will help to prevent wear and tear and ensure that the gun functions smoothly. Inspect your gun regularly. Check for any signs of wear and tear, such as loose screws, cracks in the stock, or damage to the barrels. If you notice any problems, have them addressed by a qualified gunsmith. Proper storage is important. Store your gun in a safe, dry place, away from extreme temperatures and humidity. If you're not going to be using the gun for an extended period, you should clean it thoroughly and apply a protective coating of oil. Protect the wood. The wood stock and fore-end of your Onyx Sporting are beautiful, so you'll want to take steps to protect them. Apply a coat of gun stock oil periodically to protect the wood from moisture and maintain its appearance. Consider professional maintenance. Every few years, you should have your gun professionally serviced by a qualified gunsmith. This will help to ensure that the gun is in top condition and that any potential problems are identified and addressed. Doing all this will ensure that your Beretta 686 Onyx Sporting will continue to perform for years to come.

Pros and Cons: Weighing the Good and the Bad

Alright, let's break down the Beretta 686 Onyx Sporting into its pros and cons. This will give you a clear picture of what you're getting. Let's start with the good stuff: the pros.

Pros:

• Exceptional Build Quality: The Onyx Sporting is known for its high-quality materials and craftsmanship. It’s designed to last, which means you're investing in a durable and reliable shotgun. The fit and finish are superb, giving you a sense of pride in ownership.
• Excellent Handling and Balance: The gun's balance makes it super easy to swing smoothly and track targets. This is especially helpful in sporting clays, where quick, accurate shots are a must. It just feels good in your hands.
• Reliable Performance: The Onyx Sporting is designed to function flawlessly, shot after shot. This reliability gives you the confidence to focus on your shooting. You can trust it to perform in any situation.
• Versatile Optima-Choke System: The ability to swap out chokes gives you a lot of flexibility. You can fine-tune your shot pattern for different targets and distances, which is a major advantage on the range.
• Comfortable Shooting Experience: The gun's ergonomics and recoil management make it a pleasure to shoot, even for extended periods. This is a game-changer for those long practice sessions or competitions.

Now, let's look at some of the cons:

Cons:

• Price Point: While the Onyx Sporting offers great value, it’s still an investment. It might be out of reach for some shooters, particularly beginners.
• Potential for Specific Needs: While great, the gun may not suit all disciplines. If you need a shotgun specialized for a unique need, this might not be the best choice.

Final Verdict: Is the Beretta 686 Onyx Sporting Right for You?

So, after all of that, is the Beretta 686 Onyx Sporting the right shotgun for you? Well, it depends on what you’re looking for. If you're looking for a high-quality, reliable, and well-balanced over-and-under shotgun, then absolutely, this is a fantastic choice. The Onyx Sporting offers exceptional performance, a comfortable shooting experience, and the versatility to handle a variety of shooting disciplines. It's a great choice for sporting clays, skeet, and even some trap shooting. Its build quality ensures that it will last for many years, giving you a good return on your investment. However, if you're a beginner on a tight budget, the initial cost might be a bit steep. There are more affordable options out there that could be a better fit. But if you're serious about improving your shooting and are willing to invest in a quality firearm, then the Onyx Sporting is a clear winner. Its combination of performance, handling, and features makes it a top choice for serious shooters. Ultimately, the best way to know if it's right for you is to try it out. If possible, head to a local gun range or shop and see if you can handle one. Try shouldering it, swinging it, and see how it feels. If it feels good, if it feels like an extension of your arm, then you've found a winner. Overall, the Beretta 686 Onyx Sporting is an excellent shotgun that offers a great shooting experience. It's well-built, reliable, and versatile, and it's sure to be a favorite among shooters of all skill levels. If you're in the market for a high-quality over-and-under shotgun, the Onyx Sporting is definitely worth considering. You won't be disappointed.