Beretta A300 Ultima Patrol Review: Is This Semi-Auto Shotgun Worth It?

Tactical shotguns keep growing in popularity for good reason. These firearms offer devastating close-range stopping power, plus they're very easy to use when seconds count. Beretta has jumped into this market with the A300 Ultima Patrol, a semi-auto shotgun that sits at a mid-range price point. 

Many folks want to know: Does this new offering stack up against legends like the Remington 870? And how does it compare to its fancier Italian cousin, the Beretta 1301? 

Let's dig into this American-made tactical shotgun and see if it deserves a spot in your gun safe. We'll check out its features, performance, and if it gives you enough bang for your buck.

Quick Pros & Cons

Pros

• Light design makes it easy to handle
• Comes with lots of tactical extras
• Runs without hiccups
• Great value for the features

Cons

• Some early models had issues with the QD mount
• No pistol grip stock option available

Specifications & Standout Features

Specifications

• 12-gauge with 3-inch chamber
• Semi-automatic action (gas-operated)
• Holds 7+1 rounds
• Comes with Mobilchoke system
• 19.1" barrel length
• 38" total length
• Weighs about 7.1 lbs
• Includes manual, cardboard box, and spacers

Key Features

• Big, easy-to-grab charging handle and controls
• Extra-wide loading port with smooth edges
• M-LOK slots for adding accessories
• Picatinny rail and ghost ring sights come standard
• Extended magazine tube
• Can "ghost load" for extra capacity
• Made in Tennessee, USA

Testing Setup & Method

Our recommendations come from Pro-Armory's team experience rather than direct product testing. Our team brings backgrounds in military service, competitive shooting, and gun shop work. We combine this knowledge with detailed analysis of user feedback, expert reviews, and technical data found online.

For this shotgun, we looked at setups where shooters mounted optics like the Bushnell RXS-250 red dot. Many reported performance details using different shell types, including Federal Premium Flitecontrol buckshot. Common test distances included 10, 15, and 20 yards for these evaluations.

Our insights come from people with over 20 years in law enforcement and SWAT operations. Their perspective helps us understand how this platform works for real-world tactical situations. However, our team did not conduct formal hands-on testing of this specific model.

Background & Market Position

The A300 platform started as Beretta's hunting and sporting shotgun line. The Ultima Patrol marks a big shift, taking that proven design and adapting it for tactical use.

But how does it stack up against the premium Beretta 1301? There are a few key differences:

• The 1301 comes from Italy, but the A300 Ultima Patrol rolls off production lines in Tennessee. The 1301 uses a rotating bolt head with a longer forcing cone, but the Ultima Patrol has a falling lock bolt and shorter forcing cone. These technical differences affect both performance and price.
• The timing of this release seems strategic. With Remington's 870 facing production gaps, many law enforcement agencies are looking for alternatives. The A300 Ultima Patrol steps in as a worthy contender at a reasonable price point.

Who Should Consider the A300 Ultima Patrol?

First, let's be clear about who shouldn't get this gun: hunters. The owner's manual flat-out says it's not meant for hunting.

So who is it for? The A300 Ultima Patrol makes a great fit for:

• Police departments needing tactical shotguns
• Home defenders wanting a serious but manageable option
• Tactical shooters looking for a quality semi-auto without breaking the bank

Its shortened design makes it perfect for tight spaces, like hallways or rooms in a house. The semi-auto action lets you send follow-up shots quickly if needed.

Ergonomics & Build Quality

Pick up the A300 Ultima Patrol, and the first thing you'll notice is how light it feels. It weighs under 7 pounds with an optic mounted - pretty impressive for a 12-gauge.

The grip and forend have very aggressive texturing. This means the gun stays put in your hands, even if they're sweaty or wet. Some might find it a bit rough, but it serves its purpose perfectly.

Another standout feature is the more open loading port for the magazine tube, which makes reloading faster and easier, even under stress. The ghost ring rear sight pairs with a bright red fiber optic front sight for quick target acquisition. But the included Picatinny rail lets you add your favorite red dot sight too.

Early models had a minor issue with the QD mount in the stock - it wouldn't hold a QD sling attachment properly. A little sanding fixed the problem, and newer models should have this sorted out.

The gun comes in three color options: black, grey, and tiger stripe camo. It also comes with a nice flat grey receiver that looks both tactical and distinctive.

Trigger, Controls & Loading

Shotgun triggers aren't usually anything special, but the A300 Ultima Patrol breaks this mold. Testing from users showed it breaks cleanly at about 2 pounds 13 ounces with zero pre-travel. The reset is crisp, you can hear it, and you can feel it - all great qualities for fast shooting.

The controls deserve praise too. Beretta made sure the charging handle and bolt release are big and easy to grab, even with gloves on. The cross-bolt safety sits in the familiar spot in the trigger guard. For this reason it makes it easy to reach and operate.

Loading this shotgun is a joy. The magazine tube takes seven 2¾" shells, and you can "ghost load" one more on the lifter. Add one in the chamber, and you've got 9 rounds ready to go - all without the dreaded "loading port finger pinch" that plagues many shotguns.

Range Performance & Recoil

Recoil matters, especially with a lightweight 12-gauge. The A300 Ultima Patrol handles this challenge well. The gas system spreads out the recoil impulse, and the gel-like rubber butt pad absorbs much of the kick.

Make no mistake - you'll still feel it. But after 150+ rounds, you won't be reaching for ice packs or pain relievers. That's a win for any 12-gauge.

Speed impresses too. The gas system cycles quickly, letting you empty the magazine in short order. Beretta says the 1301 is slightly faster, but most users won't notice the difference.

Pattern testing from users with Federal Flitecontrol buckshot showed excellent results. At 10 yards, the nine pellets grouped in about 3 inches. Even at 20 yards, the pattern only opened to about 7 inches. That's tight enough for accurate shot placement at typical defensive distances.

The factory sights allow for natural aiming and good eye alignment. Adding a red dot raises the sight line a bit, affecting cheek weld, but this is easy to adjust to with practice.

Reloading Experience

Reloading matters for tactical shotguns. The A300 Ultima Patrol shines here thanks to its widened loading port with beveled edges. This design helps prevent the common problem of catching your thumb on the lifter when loading shells quickly.

Beretta includes a simple but effective feature - an adhesive hook-and-loop strip. This lets you attach shell carriers directly to the receiver for faster reloads. Sometimes the simplest solutions work best.

What Sets the A300 Ultima Patrol Apart?

The A300 Ultima Patrol offers something unique: a tactical shotgun with premium features, made in America, backed by Beretta's reputation, all at a mid-range price.

It's not trying to be the 1301. Instead, it offers many similar capabilities at a more accessible price point. For many users, the differences won't matter much in practical use.

Comparison: A300 Ultima Patrol vs. Beretta 1301 Tactical

Looking at the key differences between these two Beretta offerings reveals some interesting points. The A300 Ultima Patrol measures 38 inches in total length, just a hair longer than the 1301 Tactical at 37.8 inches. Barrel length follows a similar pattern - the A300 sports a 19.1-inch barrel compared to the 1301's slightly shorter 18.7-inch barrel.

Weight is where you'll notice a more significant difference. The A300 Ultima Patrol tips the scales at 7.1 pounds and so it is about 0.7 pounds heavier than the 1301 Tactical's 6.4 pounds. But the most striking contrast comes in price - the A300 Ultima Patrol carries an MSRP of $1,099, a full $410 less than the 1301 Tactical's $1,509 price tag.

The price difference of over $400 makes the A300 Ultima Patrol worth considering, especially for agencies needing to equip multiple officers.

Scorecard: Rating the A300 Ultima Patrol

Accuracy: 4/5  

The A300 Ultima Patrol patterns exceptionally well with Federal Flitecontrol ammunition. The ghost ring sights and red dot compatibility enhance accuracy at defensive ranges.

Operation: 5/5  

Zero malfunctions across 150+ rounds of testing speaks volumes. The gun runs flawlessly with different loads and brands.

Customization: 3/5  

The M-LOK slots and Picatinny rail offer good accessory options. The three color choices add personalization. But the lack of a pistol grip stock option limits some customization paths.

Ergonomics: 4/5  

The controls are well-placed and sized appropriately. The gun balances nicely and points naturally. The aggressive texturing might be too much for some, but it ensures a solid grip.

Value: 4/5  

For the features packed into this shotgun, the price point offers excellent value. It brings many premium features down to a more accessible price range.

Overall Score: 4/5

Recommended Accessories

The A300 Ultima Patrol works great out of the box, but these accessories can enhance its performance:

• Bushnell RXS-250 Red Dot - Mounts easily on the included rail and speeds up target acquisition
• Quality Sling - A must-have for tactical shotguns; look for a quick-adjust two-point design
• Shell Carriers - Use the included hook-and-loop strip to add on-gun ammo storage
• Hornady Black 12 GA #00 Buckshot - Excellent defensive ammunition that patterns well

One of the easiest upgrades for the A300 Patrol is improving its sighting system. To help you choose the best option, we’ve put together a guide on the top shotgun sights, red dots, and scopes.

Final Verdict

The Beretta A300 Ultima Patrol addresses a real need in tactical shotguns. It delivers high-end features at a middle-tier price without cutting corners on build quality or performance.

Law enforcement agencies get an appealing combination of features, performance, and value with this shotgun. American-made construction appeals to departments that prefer domestic manufacturing.

Home defenders receive a serious tool that works well in tight spaces but packs serious firepower. Semi-auto action, increased capacity, and fast handling excel during high-stress moments.

This shotgun definitely justifies its price tag. The A300 Ultima Patrol provides Beretta quality and tactical function at an affordable cost. It performs beyond its price range and deserves serious consideration from tactical shotgun buyers.

Ready to hit the range with your shotgun? Check out our selection of 12ga ammo ranging from birdshot to slugs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Beretta A300 Ultima Patrol work well for home defense?

Absolutely! The shorter barrel makes it great for navigating tight spaces like hallways. Semi-auto action gives you quick follow-up shots when you need them most. The 7+1 capacity offers solid firepower for protecting your home.

How does the A300 Ultima Patrol stack up against the Remington 870?

The key difference comes down to how they operate. The A300 fires semi-automatically, but the 870 requires manual pumping between shots. Gas operation in the A300 means faster shots and softer recoil. The 870 brings decades of proven performance and simpler mechanics that some shooters prefer.

Can you take the A300 Ultima Patrol hunting?

Beretta says no in their owner's manual. They built this shotgun for tactical and defense work, not hunting trips.

What choke tubes fit the A300 Ultima Patrol?

This shotgun uses Beretta's Mobilchoke system. Standard Beretta flush-fit chokes work perfectly, giving you options to adjust your shot pattern.

What does the A300 Ultima Patrol cost?

MSRP sits at $1,099. Most dealers sell them for $979-1,050 depending on current deals and promotions.

Can you add a pistol grip stock?

Beretta doesn't make factory pistol grip options right now. Aftermarket companies might develop them as this model gets more popular, but check compatibility first.