CONCLUSION

The market share that Beretta targets with the 686 Silver Pigeon involves pretty fierce competition. You must have faith in your product to succeed, and over the years Beretta has followed that faith and evolved this gun into what it is today. The engraving does add a new twist and bring it up to date, but the main thing is that this gun has everything you need. You might want more, but as a step on to the Beretta ladder this gun lacks little. It is a workhorse no doubt, but there is blood from the thoroughbreds of the Beretta stable in there too. The stock lacks a little style and quality, but there is a price for everything and this gun holds standards in the action and barrels, which does pay off in your shot and the gun’s lifespan. If you want a better-stocked gun look further up the Beretta range, but for that first toe dip, give the 686 Silver Pigeon I Game Scene a serious look.

This has got to be the 686 Silver Pigeon’s true strength. Beretta’s reputation with this design is worldwide. Chrome lining means that you can fire light clay loads, through game loads to high- performance steel shot for waterfowl. Multi-chokes offer versatility for many disciplines. On the scale the trigger is over-heavy, yet while feeling firm it doesn’t come across as awkward or difficult in use. The auto safety is good on barrel selection, fine to disengage and lovely to re-engage. Not wanting to slam the Silver Pigeon as it fulfils its duties well, but I find the stock very plain and basic — almost misplaced. If I could request any improvement on this gun it would be entirely in the stock, but clearly Beretta has traded quality of stock for precision in the action, and it does show. You get what you pay for. Beretta doesn’t produce a bad gun. Even at this entry level it has worked on balance and composure. I found the Silver Pigeon slightly over-cast in the fit, but on the whole it shoots well and is fast to reload and operate. It feels neutral and stable in the shoulder, an attribute not always found at this level. Different manufacturers take differing views as to where to put the money in a gun. Much as I like a quality stock, I am pleased the Silver Pigeon has the lion’s share directed at the action and barrels. A stock is a handle, but if the action is no good you will never have a decent gun.