Beretta SO4 12 Ga – 1977, SIDELOCK, SPECIAL ORDER, 30”

In the world of fine shotguns, Beretta is a well-known entity.  From utilitarian guns to some of the finest “BEST GUNS” ever produced on the planet, you can find what you are looking for in the Beretta line up.  Beretta created their low-profile action for their over/under guns and reserved the “S Series” as special-order guns with hand engraved actions, beautifully figured wood with deluxe checkering, hand fitted and balanced to perfection.  Later in production the “S Series” became known as the “SO Series” to designate the “SPECIAL ORDER” nature of these fine shotguns that were built in a separate custom shop in the Beretta plant.  The gun we are presenting for sale here is a SO4 Grade 12ga. “TRAP” series, snA03698B built in 1977, during the time-period when Beretta was still producing flawless guns.  This SO4 is hand engraved in the old-world way with graceful scroll and border engraving and adorned with well-figured European walnut stocks, finely checkered with 28lpi hand-cut checkering.  The full pistol grip stock has a right-hand palm swell and the grip is inlaid with a bronze medallion celebrating the Olympic Trap events held in 1976 in Montreal.  The most desirable 30” Boehler steel barrels with ventilated rib are choked IM/F with perfect bores, no dents, and set up tight on the breech face and trunnions showing no signs of wear.  The barrel blue rates 99% and the gun is sighted with a white mid-bead and bright orange front bead.  The barrel weight is stamped as 1.47 kilograms with the gun weighing 8lbs. 1oz. and balanced on the hinge point.  The action has the Kersten style cross bolt lock up, crisp single trigger that is checkered showing little signs of use.  The near invisible screws are in perfect condition and the mechanics are excellent.  Look closely in the photos and you will see features that make the Beretta SO4 series a true BEST GUN.  The frame is hand filed with beaded fences, rebated frame to hold the head of the stock, gracefully flared bolsters under the breech of the top barrel, frame sculpted on the sides and bottom, stocked to the fences and a finely shaped and engraved trigger guard.  The Beretta SO4 from this time-period is a special gun, and only a few ever come up for sale.  This gun has been fitted with the ISIS recoil reduction system to accommodate high volume shooting with less punishment and fatigue.  It is the best looking, highest functioning system available.  We are offering the gun at a very affordable price just in time for your clay target season that is upon us.  See specifications below.  These guns only go up in value as you enjoy their use.  Don’t let this one get away!  Thanks for looking!