They are lovely, they are good quality, they are modern. Given all of this and months and months of back and forth I ended up buying a 75 year old WW Greener. It does standard steel up to half choke. If I went out for game very often, I may have opted for a new sxs, but, I go out 5 or 6 times a year and the romance of an old English sxs makes me smile.
Awesome! Is your Greener an ejector? Mine is and they are giving me trouble. I have had one gunsmith take a look and he couldn’t sort it. I will get it perfect sooner or later!!!!
I have a 1909 Greener my great grandfather bought new. I just love the way it moves and tend to shoot a higher % with it - but I suspect that its not the gun but some weird sub conscious comfort thing because its a family peice. Hard to explain. I just love SxS's and we have 4 of them so far.
Also I love the up close long delve into the details. You guys are getting better and better. I'm very happy as a member. It also gives me an outlet for my love traditional hunting guns in my life, and that matters to me.
I broke my hand last September, yes right at the start of the season. I bought a second hand SxS straight stock from Holts as it was easier to get my paw round. Best shooting I’ve had in a single game season, I love the thing. It cost £25 for a Spanish made 1980’s Denton and Kennel, include all the taxes and delivery to the north of Scotland I got a bargain at £107 all in. It’s now my go to walked up gun. It’s quick, quarter and half fixed choke and in immaculate condition now I’ve given it a bit of TLC. Along with my first gun I’d not sell it for a grand! Cheers Johnny, keep up the good work, love yer content. Well done all involved.
I’ve got a 486 Parallelo in 20 gauge from their initial release in 2014 (in RUclips profile pic). It’s the straight grip “pigeon” version. Makes a great grouse gun here. It’s the only straight grip gun I have. Lite and easy to carry. It’s done alright.
My family bought me the pistol grip version for my 70th last month (April). No idea where they got the idea from… I absolutely love it. Everything about it. The only thing that could have made me wish I’d got the splinter would be if it had a double trigger. My old English double trigger s/s is sorely missed so even if it cost £1k more, that 486 would be an awesome gun. And no need for a selector…
I have used a Beretta 626 12 bore s/s as my main game gun for the last 30 years with not a single issue and it has served me well. After quite some research and seeing your reviews of many guns I was struck by William Powell and the Sovereign s/s. I called Tom and booked a session at Banbury last Friday for a gun fit session with the other Tom and subsequently purchased a new 20 bore fitted. Really pleased with it and future proofed for me. So yes there are still some of us that see the benefit of a new S/S going forward for game shooting especially - but not exclusively. I do have an over under too but hardly use it. Keep up the content it is inspiring and getting expensive!
I bought one back in 2017. Straight grip and split fore end. Fixed 1/2 & 1/4 and shallow scroll. I only bought it because I was invited to my neighbours shoot and I was the only one with an OU. I always think of it as a farmer’s gun. To that end it feels more appropriate for driven game and it’s so light compared to my SL3. However, it rarely comes out of the cabinet these days. A very tactical gun for the modern shooter.
I brought the 486 pistol grip when they first come out and I still got in the back of my head about buying the straight though one as well. Fantastic gun to shoot and a pleasure to own one. 👍
I've owned a 486 since they were introduced because side by sides are what I learned on. I wanted a quality gun but couldn't afford a huge amount of money. I traded in a Beretta Gold E trap gun which made it affordable.
The first center fire firearm I shot was my grandfather’s Darne so I’ve always had a sweet spot for SxS’s. When I was old enough I eventually got a great deal on a cheap South American hammer coach gun because the business was going out of business. To be fair, some 45 years later it still works perfectly. Eventually I found a true Birmingham SxS and I like it a lot. Yes I’d buy a new SxS and I’d pay that asking price, but only if it was configured exactly how I want it. Semi pistol, raised rib, 28” 1/4 and 1/2, double triggers weighing around 6 3/4lbs with great wood that fits me and elegant engraving on a case hardened frame. Side lever would be a bonus. Wish I’d bought a Spanish Garbi when they were pretty reasonable. Basically the price of basic silver pigeon today 👍🏼
I have the Gentleman version in cal. 20, and have had it since 2019 - I am over the moon about it! As much as I have sold my old English s/s in cal. 12. I use it primarily for roughshooting with my spaniels, but have used it in some occasions for high birds as well. It is definitely my go2gun when going hunting and shooting, and I simply can't see that changing any time soon. Really happy about it!
I've had a 486 for 3 years or so now I opted for the straight hand stock snd splinter fore end with 30 inch fixed choke barrels uts git lovely wood abd handles superb, I had it for my 40th birthday present and don't think I will ever part with it ,it throws brilliant patterns with fibre wad carts ,with the 18.4 fixed choke quater and half chokes, and I gota say I'd love another one in 20g or 28 g someday
I've got an old blackpowder side-by-side. Was made in Britain around 1850ish, but unfortunately it needs new breach plugs and some stock work. Appears to be a 10 gauge as well.
First shotgun I ever fired was a SBS and I've alway fancied going back to one; as an occasional clay shooter only, I couldn't justify a 486 (pistol grip & beavertail) so I went for the next best thing and found a 626 (pistol grip & beavertail) and traded my 686; two quarter chokes and I'm loving it.
Got a 50 year old straight grip, two new 12G hammers, steel and multi chokes, a sporterised extended choke wildfowler and a georgeous side plate single trigger new. 5 Side by sides, yup, I'm in :)
I have a few guns in my cabinet from a 8yo 525 to a 30yo so4 and the one I chose to shoot the most is and absolute rat of a spanish SxS straight stock, I guess I'm just a bit weird but I find it the most comfortable (despite the triggers being terrible)🤷♂️
Odly enough, I think I'd go with the pistol grip version if I was in the market for a new Beretta, but I prefer older guns and am once again looking at the Holts catalog for My next one. I'm a casual sporting clays shooter (about 6,000 rds per year) and I use sxs's as my daily drivers. The current count is 8 mostly British SXS's vs 2 Italian O/U's (Guerini's). I'm a tall and skinnier guy, and I found that I like guns that match my stature 😀. I love to think about the handwork that went into the making of them, and the lives they've lived until now. Because of my body shape, they all wear cheek risers and some kind of pads to get the length of pull to about 15".
Comrade Jonny, Your review of the Beretta 486 (DS) SxS was truly delightful. Regarding your query about whether I'd opt for a modern-day SxS, my answer is a resounding YES. I've already taken the plunge with the Beretta (DS) SHS 486 a contemporary masterpiece renowned for its exceptional performance with heavy loads in real-world scenarios. Alongside this, I proudly own a Webley & Scott (1946) Special Edition, a cherished possession with its roots tracing back to post-World War II Birmingham. Both acquisitions were made at Bywell Shooting Ground, Northumberland. While I appreciate both firearms, my heart veers toward the Webley & Scott, undoubtedly due to its ties to my hometown. Moreover, I'm keen to enrich my collection with a Marc Newson edition of the 486 SxS. Warm regards, Andy Lynch
Thanks for doing those two guns, I'm really getting interested in SxS's I have a Holland & Holland copy 25" Churchill rib & El- cheapo Parker hale 28". I'm also trying gun down instinctive shooting & loving it. I took had thought about the Rizzini but don't know enough about it. At some point I would like to buy a new gun fitted for me, so this information is brilliant, thanks again, Robin.
I have bought an old SXS just to try one, however I have seen the 486 and it is beautiful , I defo would have one. My SXS is typically English, straight stock side plate. Can not shoot it for toffee but ha ho it looks good and I love it.
I’m strongly considering a 486 so this video is perfectly timed. I’ve always hunted with a SxS, in the US and now the U.K. Sure, I can kill more birds with an O/U. I took out the Guerini on two drives this year and it was great. But I felt like it was just not sporting for me and finished the day with a hammer gun. I’m struggling in deciding between a 486 and another vintage English gun. My heart says English but my head tells me a Beretta. After my beautiful 1910 Rigby went “click” during an amazing partridge drive in January, I began thinking about a 486. I’m still unsure. Ahhh. This video didn’t make it any easier, but I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Yes, Johnny! Come around to the dark side! (6m37s in) And Yes, my first “driver” is a “modern” 20ga SxS (with a straight stock of course), and the back up is a 70-ish year old German SXS (in 12ga, also straight-stocked).
I purchased a new sxs after owning an O/U for some time. I enjoy both and plan to keep both. I can’t say if I could choose between old and new guns but I’m happy with new right now. Interesting you mention Rizzini in your video because I would greatly appreciate you or lloydyp reviewing the BR550.
I have a deep scroll 486 pistol grip, I love it, I probably shoot it on clays more than my F3 !!! I do like slightly non conventional things and a sxs this pretty what is there not to Love.
I have been waiting for a video on the 486, so thank you. I’m looking to get a nicer pistol grip SxS as i currently have a Winchester model 23 which has seen better days but it is a lot of fun. What do you think of the AYA model 53 and 722 as there isn’t really much about them?
Had a Webley 700, couldn't miss if I tried, Went Browning 525 Shadow because of steel shot, It's a plank! no soul or deft feel in the hands, you have to force it, really takes the joy out of it. Saw a AYA No.4 /53 recently what a difference, not steel fleur de ly but either I get it or give up altogether or win the lotto and buy a 30" Paralello straight stock!!
Recently I bought the Weatherby Orion SxS and really like it, points well, light and easy to carry, really nice wood, very happy with the gun. But I have been a huge fan of the 486 since it came out and with the improvements Berretta has made to it makes me really want one, and if I had $7k play money laying around I'd do it. My question is how does the 486 shoot vs the Orion? Don't want to buy a gun because its pretty in my safe, I want to use it. Little hard to justify the $ when the gun shoots the same as a much cheaper gun. Have you made comparisons with other SxS's.
For the cost, I’d want what I want. 30 years of swinging a hammer means a prince of wale’s grip or the pistol grip. But definitely want the splinter forend! I’d also want double triggers and I raised rib. Luckily I have such a gun, an WWII era Thomas Wild. Unfortunately it has shorter barrels than I’d prefer. But it cost 6 times less so it’s fine. But when I buy the next one with real money, it’s going to be exactly what I want. With today’s manufacturing, no reason not to be able to mix and match. As long as you are willing to wait a little bit on your order. And that doesn’t mean a year or two. Still, it’s a very nice gun and if I could shoot a straight stock, I’d already be saving up. 👍🏼
Quite possibly in my future. 486 pistol grip stock for my everything game gun and leave my DT11 in the cabinet for its winter rest! I struggle transitioning to my game o/u as it’s different, but not different enough from the DT. A sxs would solve that. Or at least scratch that itch 😅
Excellent review Jonny, Yep I use a modern SXS, I’ve got a Fabarm Classic 12, multi choke, steel proof at 1630 Bar, pistol grip and the best thing I love about the Classic 12 it’s got a manual Safety, I am thinking of purchasing the 486 as it’s a beautiful looking piece, Will i Won’t i Decision’s Decisions hey 😂😂 Keeping the Classic though, that ain’t going nowhere
Yes I’d buy a modern SxS but I don’t have the budget for the 486 (which I had a look at in Barbury last week). I like the “old school” aura they have but with the ability to shoot any loads, I do like vintage but obviously they’ll become less usable as lead gets phased out.
Just a quick idea for you Johnny or for a amazing video. Here in the US. There’s a lot of back and forth going on with what gun is better, the A400 xtreme plus or the Benelli platforms like the M2 and SBE3. Please make a video or comment on your thoughts on which is a better Semi Auto. What’s your thoughts and the specs of those guns???
I own a pistol grip, beaver tail Fabarm SxS as my main gun for everything. I like having the multi choke to fit every situation. I also love showing up to Clay competitions and out shooting guys with fully set up clay guns with massive extended chokes. For £1500 I think, while not as beautiful, it is equally functional. The only thing that I would say is they need a recoil pad. The recoil without it is very harsh because the weight is significantly less.
They don't look as hand finished as the oldies at Holt's, but they do look pretty good. And the wood doesn't look like the grain is painted on, so I guessed they'd be well above Silver Pigeon money. Steel proof + choke tubes = practical. I'll bet adding 1.25 inches of Cervellati Microcell before your next test drive would be transformative.
I love how your sitting there remarking about the value of a $5000 gun. Meanwhile I am sitting here looking at my $400 gun that I beat through the brush every year smashing woodcock and pheasants behind my pointer thinking I over paid. I dream of one of these beuties one day. If I hit the lottery maybe.
I bought a 'modern' SxS side for game shooting when I need steel (HP, for ducks), a AYA #1 -- I did look at Rizinni, and Chapuis (and fabarm!) before I did -- not the same budget, altho you CAN find a 1990's s/h gun for reasonable money, and have it re-proofed (and re-opened to min 1/4!). I also do have a few 'vintages' SxS for when I shoot smaller game (with lead) -- but one thing is sure, I wouldn't point a O/U at any game, just feels wrong these days!
Both are very nice. Like you I would prefer the pistol grip. Give the changes in ammo over the years and things to come in the future, I think a modern SxS would be the way to go.
Agree. Glad to see there is still a market for nice SxS! And while I like the look of the straight stock, and the engraving pattern of the pistol grip model... the single trigger would be a deal breaker for me. As I don't think I could teach my thumb/brain to operate the safety AND the selector... by the time I figure it out, the bird would be long gone...
@@michelt4390 Hi, you don't have to worry too much about a single trigger , the trigger mechanism either has an Inertia weight barrel change that responds to the recoil or the more complex mechanical change. Just release the trigger for an instant, then blast away Either way, you will still have an enjoyable day with a SxS. Take care .
@@Bunduki oh, the issue wouldn't be with the trigger... it would be with me! - as in, bird flush, as I mount the gun, disengage the safety. My brain will guess how far is the bird, shoulder the gun, finger will reach the correct trigger to make the shot... teaching my thumb to do two things might be a challenge. Than again, I guess could leave it on for the right barrel and be done with it. Agree, any day in the field with a SxS is a good day!
I love the idea of a side by side. I plan to get one this year. My feeling is that I will go for a straight hand. I wonder if it is better to go for an older gun for the money though? For game shooting, I would use less than 250 cartridges in a year, so the older gun should be fine?
SxS are cool. Very old school cool, that new Weatherby though... I mean I think they understand that side by sides are cool again, and I don't doubt that it's good. It just could look better. The old Orion's looked cool. These are great, honestly... Straight grip, If you're going to do old school, do it old school. That FAIR Iside Vintage is good looking.
Nice review Johnny, both very nice guns,had a soft spot for these when first realised. In my eyes a nice take on a Scottish round action. For me the pistol grip has the edge over the straight hand. 😊
I’ve had both old and modern and I prefer the modern SxS’s. New car vs old. I have a Rizzini BR550 RB with which I’m very happy, but hats off to these new Berettas, they come standard with a nicely engraved long trigger tang. The lack of the long tang is my one nit with the Rizzini.
For the money you can't do better than Beretta. For me, I like the pistol grip if I'm working with a single trigger. The straight grip allows the hand to side going from the front trigger to the rear. The forend I prefer the slim wood because I don't put a hard grip on the weapon.
Wood to metal fit of the forend was not great and the metal to metal fit of the trigger guard to the floor of the frame was poor. But, as you said, it's not an expensive hand made gun. But when I compare it to 100+ yo guns that were relatively inexpensive in their days, their fit is better. So, acceptable standards have changed. Unfortunately for those of us who enjoy old guns, we have to face the reality of steel shot. When the metallurgy is not an issue, the chokes usually are. Well, "change is the law of life", as they say.
There is no factual basis for banning lead shot. Please do not accept the ban as a foregone conclusion; it's bad enough that BASC have capitulated against the wishes of many members.
For side by sides I usually shoot a Churchill imperial xxv (2.5” 12g) and a webley and Scott 700 in 20. If I can find a lefty straight stocked 486 in 20 I’d probably replace the 700. If I could only have one side by side it would be the Churchill. If I could only have one shotgun… probably my 690 series but maybe my a400 just because I don’t mind when it takes a swim while hunting. But even then the Churchill might win out. If I lived in the uk where restocking is an actual option, it would get even more confusing with many more possibilities. Fortunately this is a choice I don’t have to make!
They are lovely, they are good quality, they are modern. Given all of this and months and months of back and forth I ended up buying a 75 year old WW Greener. It does standard steel up to half choke. If I went out for game very often, I may have opted for a new sxs, but, I go out 5 or 6 times a year and the romance of an old English sxs makes me smile.
I have the 486 in straight hand fixed choke , lovely gun, I also have a WW Greener empire from 1948 which I use for clays 🤙👏
Awesome! Is your Greener an ejector? Mine is and they are giving me trouble. I have had one gunsmith take a look and he couldn’t sort it. I will get it perfect sooner or later!!!!
What a coincidence - I just got out my Greener Empire for some clays tomorrow!!
I have a 1909 Greener my great grandfather bought new. I just love the way it moves and tend to shoot a higher % with it - but I suspect that its not the gun but some weird sub conscious comfort thing because its a family peice. Hard to explain. I just love SxS's and we have 4 of them so far.
Walking a wood with an OU feels competitive somehow, when I walk the woods with a sxs it feels like poetry. I will hand my greener down too one day!
Also I love the up close long delve into the details. You guys are getting better and better. I'm very happy as a member. It also gives me an outlet for my love traditional hunting guns in my life, and that matters to me.
I broke my hand last September, yes right at the start of the season. I bought a second hand SxS straight stock from Holts as it was easier to get my paw round. Best shooting I’ve had in a single game season, I love the thing. It cost £25 for a Spanish made 1980’s Denton and Kennel, include all the taxes and delivery to the north of Scotland I got a bargain at £107 all in. It’s now my go to walked up gun. It’s quick, quarter and half fixed choke and in immaculate condition now I’ve given it a bit of TLC. Along with my first gun I’d not sell it for a grand!
Cheers Johnny, keep up the good work, love yer content. Well done all involved.
I’ve got a 486 Parallelo in 20 gauge from their initial release in 2014 (in RUclips profile pic). It’s the straight grip “pigeon” version. Makes a great grouse gun here. It’s the only straight grip gun I have. Lite and easy to carry. It’s done alright.
I purchased one i januar with the english stock and will keep an 686 as backup, but will use the 486 for everything. I Adore it.
My family bought me the pistol grip version for my 70th last month (April). No idea where they got the idea from…
I absolutely love it. Everything about it. The only thing that could have made me wish I’d got the splinter would be if it had a double trigger. My old English double trigger s/s is sorely missed so even if it cost £1k more, that 486 would be an awesome gun.
And no need for a selector…
I have used a Beretta 626 12 bore s/s as my main game gun for the last 30 years with not a single issue and it has served me well. After quite some research and seeing your reviews of many guns I was struck by William Powell and the Sovereign s/s. I called Tom and booked a session at Banbury last Friday for a gun fit session with the other Tom and subsequently purchased a new 20 bore fitted. Really pleased with it and future proofed for me. So yes there are still some of us that see the benefit of a new S/S going forward for game shooting especially - but not exclusively. I do have an over under too but hardly use it. Keep up the content it is inspiring and getting expensive!
I've always been a fan of the sbs. I really do fancy the pistol grip one.
I bought one back in 2017. Straight grip and split fore end. Fixed 1/2 & 1/4 and shallow scroll. I only bought it because I was invited to my neighbours shoot and I was the only one with an OU.
I always think of it as a farmer’s gun. To that end it feels more appropriate for driven game and it’s so light compared to my SL3. However, it rarely comes out of the cabinet these days. A very tactical gun for the modern shooter.
I’d always heard that you will get more birds with an O/U but you get more invitations with a SxS.
I brought the 486 pistol grip when they first come out and I still got in the back of my head about buying the straight though one as well. Fantastic gun to shoot and a pleasure to own one. 👍
Thank you so much Johnny for making this very interesting video. I am trying to decide which to purchase and this is a great help.
Just picked up the pistol grip today! I learnt on an old school side by side, felt right that I own my own!
One day I will have one of these!
I've owned a 486 since they were introduced because side by sides are what I learned on. I wanted a quality gun but couldn't afford a huge amount of money. I traded in a Beretta Gold E trap gun which made it affordable.
Eu tenho uma Beretta 470 Silver Hawk, foi produzida só durante 1 ano e em homenagem dos 470 anos da Pietro Beretta, sem dúvida uma arma fantástica!!
The first center fire firearm I shot was my grandfather’s Darne so I’ve always had a sweet spot for SxS’s. When I was old enough I eventually got a great deal on a cheap South American hammer coach gun because the business was going out of business. To be fair, some 45 years later it still works perfectly. Eventually I found a true Birmingham SxS and I like it a lot. Yes I’d buy a new SxS and I’d pay that asking price, but only if it was configured exactly how I want it. Semi pistol, raised rib, 28” 1/4 and 1/2, double triggers weighing around 6 3/4lbs with great wood that fits me and elegant engraving on a case hardened frame. Side lever would be a bonus. Wish I’d bought a Spanish Garbi when they were pretty reasonable. Basically the price of basic silver pigeon today 👍🏼
I have the Gentleman version in cal. 20, and have had it since 2019 - I am over the moon about it! As much as I have sold my old English s/s in cal. 12.
I use it primarily for roughshooting with my spaniels, but have used it in some occasions for high birds as well. It is definitely my go2gun when going hunting and shooting, and I simply can't see that changing any time soon. Really happy about it!
I've had a 486 for 3 years or so now I opted for the straight hand stock snd splinter fore end with 30 inch fixed choke barrels uts git lovely wood abd handles superb, I had it for my 40th birthday present and don't think I will ever part with it ,it throws brilliant patterns with fibre wad carts ,with the 18.4 fixed choke quater and half chokes, and I gota say I'd love another one in 20g or 28 g someday
I have the exact same gun , absolutely love it , I would also like the twenty bore in the same configuration 🤙😎
I have a Fausti Dea (double triggers) with .410 and 28 gauge barrels. Great gun.
Funny you mention fausti as they make these for beretta
I’d buy both - a modern for cannon shells and HP steel, but an old English gun for partridge days in the Home Counties.
Great show , I love my Berettas, thank you!
With the help of you and a couple of other channels there is a slight resurgence of interest in the good old SxS. Thank you.
I've got an old blackpowder side-by-side. Was made in Britain around 1850ish, but unfortunately it needs new breach plugs and some stock work. Appears to be a 10 gauge as well.
All this talk of selectas took me right back to when Garage was big 😂
First shotgun I ever fired was a SBS and I've alway fancied going back to one; as an occasional clay shooter only, I couldn't justify a 486 (pistol grip & beavertail) so I went for the next best thing and found a 626 (pistol grip & beavertail) and traded my 686; two quarter chokes and I'm loving it.
Very nice video, I do enjoy my Berettas! Nice lazy day watching these videos.
Straight stock for me. Love it.
Got a 50 year old straight grip, two new 12G hammers, steel and multi chokes, a sporterised extended choke wildfowler and a georgeous side plate single trigger new. 5 Side by sides, yup, I'm in :)
I have a few guns in my cabinet from a 8yo 525 to a 30yo so4 and the one I chose to shoot the most is and absolute rat of a spanish SxS straight stock, I guess I'm just a bit weird but I find it the most comfortable (despite the triggers being terrible)🤷♂️
Odly enough, I think I'd go with the pistol grip version if I was in the market for a new Beretta, but I prefer older guns and am once again looking at the Holts catalog for My next one.
I'm a casual sporting clays shooter (about 6,000 rds per year) and I use sxs's as my daily drivers. The current count is 8 mostly British SXS's vs 2 Italian O/U's (Guerini's).
I'm a tall and skinnier guy, and I found that I like guns that match my stature 😀. I love to think about the handwork that went into the making of them, and the lives they've lived until now.
Because of my body shape, they all wear cheek risers and some kind of pads to get the length of pull to about 15".
Comrade Jonny,
Your review of the Beretta 486 (DS) SxS was truly delightful. Regarding your query about whether I'd opt for a modern-day SxS, my answer is a resounding YES. I've already taken the plunge with the Beretta (DS) SHS 486 a contemporary masterpiece renowned for its exceptional performance with heavy loads in real-world scenarios. Alongside this, I proudly own a Webley & Scott (1946) Special Edition, a cherished possession with its roots tracing back to post-World War II Birmingham.
Both acquisitions were made at Bywell Shooting Ground, Northumberland.
While I appreciate both firearms, my heart veers toward the Webley & Scott, undoubtedly due to its ties to my hometown. Moreover, I'm keen to enrich my collection with a Marc Newson edition of the 486 SxS.
Warm regards,
Andy Lynch
Now you have me looking for one. Thanks! :)
Thanks for doing those two guns, I'm really getting interested in SxS's I have a Holland & Holland copy 25" Churchill rib & El- cheapo Parker hale 28".
I'm also trying gun down instinctive shooting & loving it.
I took had thought about the Rizzini but don't know enough about it. At some point I would like to buy a new gun fitted for me, so this information is brilliant, thanks again, Robin.
I have a 120 year old sbs John Wilkes and have ordered a new EJ Churchill. Hopefully that will be amazing too. Great video
I have bought an old SXS just to try one, however I have seen the 486 and it is beautiful , I defo would have one.
My SXS is typically English, straight stock side plate. Can not shoot it for toffee but ha ho it looks good and I love it.
I went from Ethos (silver, field) to 686 SP I Sporting. This video solidified that my game gun is gonna be the 486
I’m strongly considering a 486 so this video is perfectly timed. I’ve always hunted with a SxS, in the US and now the U.K. Sure, I can kill more birds with an O/U. I took out the Guerini on two drives this year and it was great. But I felt like it was just not sporting for me and finished the day with a hammer gun. I’m struggling in deciding between a 486 and another vintage English gun. My heart says English but my head tells me a Beretta. After my beautiful 1910 Rigby went “click” during an amazing partridge drive in January, I began thinking about a 486. I’m still unsure. Ahhh. This video didn’t make it any easier, but I thoroughly enjoyed it.
This is a gun I have been considering for a long time. I wonder how it compares to the Fabarm Autumn? Perhaps a comparison video would be in order?
Yes, Johnny! Come around to the dark side! (6m37s in) And Yes, my first “driver” is a “modern” 20ga SxS (with a straight stock of course), and the back up is a 70-ish year old German SXS (in 12ga, also straight-stocked).
I purchased a new sxs after owning an O/U for some time. I enjoy both and plan to keep both. I can’t say if I could choose between old and new guns but I’m happy with new right now. Interesting you mention Rizzini in your video because I would greatly appreciate you or lloydyp reviewing the BR550.
I look forward to your content as every time I watch it takes one step closer to FAC application
Nice comparison. Thanks for sharing
I have a deep scroll 486 pistol grip, I love it, I probably shoot it on clays more than my F3 !!!
I do like slightly non conventional things and a sxs this pretty what is there not to Love.
I have been waiting for a video on the 486, so thank you. I’m looking to get a nicer pistol grip SxS as i currently have a Winchester model 23 which has seen better days but it is a lot of fun. What do you think of the AYA model 53 and 722 as there isn’t really much about them?
Had a Webley 700, couldn't miss if I tried, Went Browning 525 Shadow because of steel shot, It's a plank! no soul or deft feel in the hands, you have to force it, really takes the joy out of it. Saw a AYA No.4 /53 recently what a difference, not steel fleur de ly but either I get it or give up altogether or win the lotto and buy a 30" Paralello straight stock!!
Recently I bought the Weatherby Orion SxS and really like it, points well, light and easy to carry, really nice wood, very happy with the gun. But I have been a huge fan of the 486 since it came out and with the improvements Berretta has made to it makes me really want one, and if I had $7k play money laying around I'd do it. My question is how does the 486 shoot vs the Orion? Don't want to buy a gun because its pretty in my safe, I want to use it. Little hard to justify the $ when the gun shoots the same as a much cheaper gun. Have you made comparisons with other SxS's.
For the cost, I’d want what I want. 30 years of swinging a hammer means a prince of wale’s grip or the pistol grip. But definitely want the splinter forend! I’d also want double triggers and I raised rib. Luckily I have such a gun, an WWII era Thomas Wild. Unfortunately it has shorter barrels than I’d prefer. But it cost 6 times less so it’s fine. But when I buy the next one with real money, it’s going to be exactly what I want. With today’s manufacturing, no reason not to be able to mix and match. As long as you are willing to wait a little bit on your order. And that doesn’t mean a year or two. Still, it’s a very nice gun and if I could shoot a straight stock, I’d already be saving up. 👍🏼
Quite possibly in my future. 486 pistol grip stock for my everything game gun and leave my DT11 in the cabinet for its winter rest!
I struggle transitioning to my game o/u as it’s different, but not different enough from the DT. A sxs would solve that. Or at least scratch that itch 😅
Excellent review Jonny,
Yep I use a modern SXS, I’ve got a Fabarm Classic 12, multi choke, steel proof at 1630 Bar, pistol grip and the best thing I love about the Classic 12 it’s got a manual Safety,
I am thinking of purchasing the 486 as it’s a beautiful looking piece,
Will i
Won’t i
Decision’s Decisions hey 😂😂
Keeping the Classic though, that ain’t going nowhere
I've recently gotten way more into sxs. Purchased an RFM, and interested in others, like the Rizzini.
Chapuis RGP as a daily driver for me, considered a 486 but the Chapuis just felt more like a real side by side
Yes I would buy a new made S&S and I think I would have one of each thank you! :) Perfect combo!
Yes I’d buy a modern SxS but I don’t have the budget for the 486 (which I had a look at in Barbury last week). I like the “old school” aura they have but with the ability to shoot any loads, I do like vintage but obviously they’ll become less usable as lead gets phased out.
Great review !!
I have heard Fausti make the 486, is that correct.?
Have you ever filmed a review on the Beretta 471 Silver Hawk? I recently purchased a 20 bore and wondered what the popular opinion on them was
Just a quick idea for you Johnny or for a amazing video. Here in the US. There’s a lot of back and forth going on with what gun is better, the A400 xtreme plus or the Benelli platforms like the M2 and SBE3. Please make a video or comment on your thoughts on which is a better Semi Auto. What’s your thoughts and the specs of those guns???
That a hard choice!
Great review TGS 👍
I own a pistol grip, beaver tail Fabarm SxS as my main gun for everything. I like having the multi choke to fit every situation. I also love showing up to Clay competitions and out shooting guys with fully set up clay guns with massive extended chokes. For £1500 I think, while not as beautiful, it is equally functional. The only thing that I would say is they need a recoil pad. The recoil without it is very harsh because the weight is significantly less.
You guys are getting really good at showing clays break. It must be hard as most people don't manage it.
They don't look as hand finished as the oldies at Holt's, but they do look pretty good. And the wood doesn't look like the grain is painted on, so I guessed they'd be well above Silver Pigeon money.
Steel proof + choke tubes = practical.
I'll bet adding 1.25 inches of Cervellati Microcell before your next test drive would be transformative.
I love how your sitting there remarking about the value of a $5000 gun. Meanwhile I am sitting here looking at my $400 gun that I beat through the brush every year smashing woodcock and pheasants behind my pointer thinking I over paid. I dream of one of these beuties one day. If I hit the lottery maybe.
Life's to short to exclusively use cheap guns.... there, I said it
Cheap and Bad, or Expensive and Good are NOT Synonyms.
I love my Savage 311@SnoopReddogg
Traditional for me, and after watching this, seriously thinking about trading in the DT10EELL for one, just wish the wood grade was higher.
Nice review, those are both nice looking guns. I would love to see you review a Winchester model 21
I bought a 'modern' SxS side for game shooting when I need steel (HP, for ducks), a AYA #1 -- I did look at Rizinni, and Chapuis (and fabarm!) before I did -- not the same budget, altho you CAN find a 1990's s/h gun for reasonable money, and have it re-proofed (and re-opened to min 1/4!). I also do have a few 'vintages' SxS for when I shoot smaller game (with lead) -- but one thing is sure, I wouldn't point a O/U at any game, just feels wrong these days!
Both are very nice. Like you I would prefer the pistol grip. Give the changes in ammo over the years and things to come in the future, I think a modern SxS would be the way to go.
Being a SxS enthusiast, they are both lovely, well made guns at a reasonable price , that will last a lifetime.
Agree. Glad to see there is still a market for nice SxS!
And while I like the look of the straight stock, and the engraving pattern of the pistol grip model... the single trigger would be a deal breaker for me. As I don't think I could teach my thumb/brain to operate the safety AND the selector... by the time I figure it out, the bird would be long gone...
@@michelt4390 Hi, you don't have to worry too much about a single trigger , the trigger mechanism either has an Inertia weight barrel change that responds to the recoil or the more complex mechanical change. Just release the trigger for an instant, then blast away
Either way, you will still have an enjoyable day with a SxS.
Take care .
@@Bunduki oh, the issue wouldn't be with the trigger... it would be with me!
- as in, bird flush, as I mount the gun, disengage the safety. My brain will guess how far is the bird, shoulder the gun, finger will reach the correct trigger to make the shot... teaching my thumb to do two things might be a challenge.
Than again, I guess could leave it on for the right barrel and be done with it.
Agree, any day in the field with a SxS is a good day!
I've always preferred the Gentleman's stock but ever since I broke my wrist I can't angle my wrist properly to work the gun smoothly, what a shame.
I prefer an older side by side ! Great show !
Not sure if i would use it every day. But would certainly look into buying a new SxS
Recently purchased a 20ga 486 anniversary edition. Trying to find a way to remove ejectors so only the extract is functioning. Any recommendation ?
My only knock on the gun is no double triggers , I can even learn to live with the choke tubes but the single trigger is a deal breaker
I love the idea of a side by side. I plan to get one this year. My feeling is that I will go for a straight hand. I wonder if it is better to go for an older gun for the money though?
For game shooting, I would use less than 250 cartridges in a year, so the older gun should be fine?
Bismuth is another option for older guns.
@@ericc3327 but not at current prices
@@ericc3327 but super costly
Can Double Barrel come with slings for ease of carry?
I would buy a modern side by side with pistol grip, Both guns look very nice though.
beautiful guns but would prefer double triggers
First view and comment 🤘
Legend!
Nice gun made by FAUSTI for BERETTA i love it
Very Nice '' Another Great Video 💯💥💥💥💥💥💥💥
SxS are cool. Very old school cool, that new Weatherby though... I mean I think they understand that side by sides are cool again, and I don't doubt that it's good. It just could look better. The old Orion's looked cool. These are great, honestly... Straight grip, If you're going to do old school, do it old school. That FAIR Iside Vintage is good looking.
Funny, I was sat here watching thinking "That looks just like Barbury", then you said "Its getting cold here at Barbury" lol.
Nice review Johnny, both very nice guns,had a soft spot for these when first realised. In my eyes a nice take on a Scottish round action. For me the pistol grip has the edge over the straight hand. 😊
I love a SxS; I bought a 1945 Army & Navy from the last Holts sealed auction; would definitely buy a modern version, once I could convince the wife…
@@rh1259 next time, buy a matched pair?
- his and hers SxS :-)
What is your shooting jacket?
Beautiful
I’ve had both old and modern and I prefer the modern SxS’s. New car vs old. I have a Rizzini BR550 RB with which I’m very happy, but hats off to these new Berettas, they come standard with a nicely engraved long trigger tang. The lack of the long tang is my one nit with the Rizzini.
Next video, do a comparison between Rizzini BR 550 and Beretta Parallelo, show me the money!!
Do they make them in Sub-gauges?
For the money you can't do better than Beretta.
For me, I like the pistol grip if I'm working with a single trigger. The straight grip allows the hand to side going from the front trigger to the rear.
The forend I prefer the slim wood because I don't put a hard grip on the weapon.
I'm a newbie. Why a side by side vs. a over-under?
Side by Side VS Over Under Shotgun
ruclips.net/video/segDY3Vv6RY/видео.html
was it cold?
Yes
Some colour case hardening and you can pack one for me 😉
Wood to metal fit of the forend was not great and the metal to metal fit of the trigger guard to the floor of the frame was poor. But, as you said, it's not an expensive hand made gun. But when I compare it to 100+ yo guns that were relatively inexpensive in their days, their fit is better. So, acceptable standards have changed. Unfortunately for those of us who enjoy old guns, we have to face the reality of steel shot. When the metallurgy is not an issue, the chokes usually are. Well, "change is the law of life", as they say.
There is no factual basis for banning lead shot. Please do not accept the ban as a foregone conclusion; it's bad enough that BASC have capitulated against the wishes of many members.
For side by sides I usually shoot a Churchill imperial xxv (2.5” 12g) and a webley and Scott 700 in 20. If I can find a lefty straight stocked 486 in 20 I’d probably replace the 700. If I could only have one side by side it would be the Churchill. If I could only have one shotgun… probably my 690 series but maybe my a400 just because I don’t mind when it takes a swim while hunting. But even then the Churchill might win out. If I lived in the uk where restocking is an actual option, it would get even more confusing with many more possibilities. Fortunately this is a choice I don’t have to make!
does anyone have any idea on what gloves he always wears at all ?
Beretta, either mesh or pro mesh, is my guess
I love them both , i love side by side but finances dont stretch that far .
I would be honored to be the first recipient of your yearly gun give away. A 20 bore 486 please. Thank you
Double triggers or it’s not a proper SxS.
I prefer the 64 bit version
Beretta 486
I'll stick with my AH Fox