Some companies celebrate milestones with cake. Beretta celebrates 500 years by building one of the most elegant shotguns you’ll ever lay eyes on.
The new Beretta SL3 500 Years Limited Edition commemorates half a millennium of continuous gunmaking tradition with a run of just 150 guns worldwide. Combining old-world artistry with modern manufacturing precision, the shotgun serves as a rolling reminder that Beretta has been building firearms since before most countries even existed.
Beretta SL3 500: Where Tradition Meets Technology
Built on the proven SL3 platform, the anniversary edition showcases elaborate engraving that merges classic English scrollwork with contemporary game scenes. The process begins with advanced laser engraving and rolling techniques before master artisans at Pietro Beretta Selection complete the work by hand.
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The result is a receiver that looks more at home in a museum than a gun safe. Though Beretta made sure performance never took a back seat to appearance.
Hand-selected Grade 4 walnut stocks complement the engraving package, while a gold-inlaid Beretta 500 Years logo adorns the receiver bottom. An engraved PB Selection logo on the trigger guard rounds out the premium details.
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Beauty Backed by Performance
Thankfully, the SL3 isn’t just a pretty face.
Available in 12-gauge, 20-gauge, and a 20/28-gauge combo configuration, the shotgun incorporates Beretta’s renowned, derived from technology developed for the legendary DT11 competition platform. The barrels feature an extended triple-progressive forcing cone designed to improve ballistic efficiency, reduce felt recoil, and produce exceptionally consistent patterns.
Underneath the artistry lies a proven locking system utilizing hinge pins, lower lugs, and locking pins for long-term durability. Leaf spring hammers provide crisp trigger pulls and the kind of responsiveness serious shooters appreciate.
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A Fitting Tribute
Each SL3 500 Years Limited Edition arrives in an equally impressive handcrafted presentation case produced at the Pietro Beretta Selection Atelier in Gardone Val Trompia. Finished in deep blue leather with a burgundy wool interior, the case includes hand-finished details and a leather pouch containing the cleaning kit.
For most shooters, this shotgun will remain firmly in the “dream gun” category. But that’s precisely the point. The SL3 500 Years Limited Edition isn’t simply a firearm, it’s a celebration of five centuries of innovation, craftsmanship, and Beretta’s relentless pursuit of perfection.
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After 500 years, it appears Beretta still knows how to make an entrance.
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