Beretta Mod A 302 Questions

R

R Merrell

Inactive
Long time lurker, but this is my first post. I've learned a lot from this forum, but I couldn't find much in the searches for the 302.

I have been looking for a short barreled shotgun that is threaded for choke tubes for a while. I found a used one locally. I just wanted someone elses input who has used this shotgun. It is the above mentioned gun chambered for 2 3/4" shells with a few mods. It has been cut down to 20", ported, and threaded for browning choke tubes. What are the pros and cons of this gun. Is there anything specific I should be weary of about this shotgun. It is in great shape. But, my gun shop is asking $599.00. They said they would be willing to come down to $550.00. Seems a bit high for a 1980's weapon.

Any input would be greatly appreciated.

Robert Merrell
 
The 302 started life as the AL2. it was improved and became the 301, then 302, then 303 with each change involving an improvement. They are nice guns. But I think your dealer is considerably high for a cut down barrel. I saw a 303 with 2 barrels and was in pristine condition that sold for $450 on Gunbroker.
 
I did some snooping around today at my local book store. I found the gun listed in about 4 different gun valuation guides. Based on their definitions of condition, I determined the gun to be in good condition. Based on that condition the gun ranged from $250 - $300. I called the gun store back and told them what I found and they said the best price they could do is $550. I asked them if they happened to look in the gun guides at the price. The guy said that those guides only cover standard guns. With all of the "custom" work the gun is worth a lot more. I had a hard time not horse laughing the guy. And, I had an even harder time keeping my mouth shut. But, I managed, and thanked him and said good bye. I can't believe he thinks that cutting 8" off of a shot gun barrel and drilling a bunch of holes in it increases the value of that gun. If I wasn't looking for that particular setup, I would consider that gun irreparably damaged. Thats like cutting the walnut stock off of a shotgun and turning it into a pistol grip shotgun and saying it is now a "custom" gun and jacking the price up $250 because it is "customized". Based on the difference between their $550 asking price and the $300 list price in the gun guide, thats a $250 swing. I can't imagine anyone charging that much to cut down a barrel, port it and thread it for choke tubes. But, I have never done that type of thing so I can't say with any degree of confidence.

I'm really glad I was able to stop myself from a spur of the moment mistake. Live and learn.

Robert Merrell
 
At least you got smart before you got screwed. The 303 is a great gun,, but it is not anything special and certainly not worth his price for "custom work" that will in fact detract from the value if it were left alone. Keep looking and good luck
 
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