Sporting clays is often described as “golf with a shotgun” — a test of precision, versatility, and mental focus. The right firearm can make all the difference, turning a challenging course into a rewarding shooting experience. Whether you’re a weekend enthusiast or a competitive shooter, these five shotguns stand out as premier choices for sporting clays, each offering exceptional craftsmanship, balance, and shootability.

1. Beretta A400 Xcel Sporting

Engineered specifically for clay sports, the Beretta A400 Xcel Sporting blends modern technology with Italian precision. Its Blink gas system delivers fast, clean cycling with minimal recoil, making it ideal for extended rounds. The ergonomic design, oversized controls, and adjustable stock ensure a custom fit and superior handling. With its sleek lines and proven performance, the A400 Xcel is a favorite among competitive shooters.

2. Benelli Ethos Supersport

The Benelli Ethos Supersport brings elegance and innovation to the sporting clays field. Its carbon-fiber finish and ported barrel reduce weight and recoil, while the inertia-driven system ensures reliable cycling with minimal maintenance. Light, fast, and smooth, the Ethos Supersport is ideal for shooters who value speed and agility, especially on fast crossers and tricky report pairs.

3. Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon Sporting

A timeless over-under, the Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon Sporting is known for its beautiful aesthetics and impeccable balance. With its low-profile receiver and crisp trigger, this shotgun offers a refined shooting experience that’s ideal for both novice and seasoned clay shooters. It’s a gun that not only performs under pressure but also looks the part — an enduring symbol of Beretta’s legendary craftsmanship.

4. Beretta 688 Performance Sporting

Designed with input from top clay shooters, the Beretta 688 Performance is purpose-built for competitive excellence. It features a redesigned stock for improved pointability, an adjustable trigger, and enhanced weight distribution for better balance and recoil management. This is a shotgun that instills confidence with every mount and shot — a serious tool for serious competitors.

5. Caesar Guerini Summit Sporting

A standout in both form and function, the Caesar Guerini Summit Sporting combines Italian artistry with precision engineering. Its adjustable stock, crisp mechanical trigger, and hand-finished details make it one of the most respected sporting shotguns in its class. Designed for consistency and comfort, the Summit Sporting excels across varied target presentations, offering a luxury feel without compromising performance.

Conclusion:

Each of these shotguns brings its own strengths to the sporting clays course, whether it’s the rapid-fire speed of the A400 Xcel, the classic feel of the 686 Silver Pigeon, or the competition-grade precision of the 688 and Summit Sporting. For those passionate about the sport, investing in one of these shotguns means more than just better scores — it’s about elevating the entire shooting experience.