difference between Beretta AL391 field and sporting models?

Chris17404 · February 6, 2006, 01:48 PM

Hi all,

I am considerign purchasing a practically new Beretta AL391 for $950. The dealer has it on consignment. He says it's the Sporting model (which is the model I want), but I'm not sure how to verify that. What's the best way to verify that? Thanks.

Chris

swipter · February 7, 2006, 07:43 AM

Look at what it shoots. I believe the field model can shoot a 3.5 inch magnum where the sporting model can not.

Will Fennell · February 13, 2006, 09:38 AM

The only real difference between the 391 field and Sporting models are the rib.....narrow and parallel on the field and tapered front to back on the Sporting. The sporting model will sometimes have nicer wood also, but that varies gun to gun. Both are 3" capable. You should acertain whether it is a newer OPTIMA BORE model or not.....it will have the word OPTIMA in the forend and it would say so on the barrel. They have been made, originally without the Optima BOre Upgrade, then they changed over to OPTIMA a couple of years ago, and now that is standard. The OPTIMA bore treatment is considered a bit better, but not a deal breaker. Basically, if you get an OPTIMA bore gun, you need BERETTA OPTIMA Chokes, or aftermarket chokes for OPTIMA....easily obtained.[This is assuming that you might need additional chokes].
If its not OPTIMA, no worried either, then it takes BERETTA Mobile Chokes, which they, and most all aftermarket companies make also.

Great gun.....very versitile. VERY light recoil.

February 6, 2006, 01:48 PM	#1
Chris17404 Member Join Date: November 29, 2005 Location: York, PA Posts: 77	difference between Beretta AL391 field and sporting models? Hi all, I am considerign purchasing a practically new Beretta AL391 for $950. The dealer has it on consignment. He says it's the Sporting model (which is the model I want), but I'm not sure how to verify that. What's the best way to verify that? Thanks. Chris

February 13, 2006, 09:38 AM	#3
Will Fennell Senior Member Join Date: July 2, 1999 Location: Rock Hill, SC USA Posts: 184	The rib.. The only real difference between the 391 field and Sporting models are the rib.....narrow and parallel on the field and tapered front to back on the Sporting. The sporting model will sometimes have nicer wood also, but that varies gun to gun. Both are 3" capable. You should acertain whether it is a newer OPTIMA BORE model or not.....it will have the word OPTIMA in the forend and it would say so on the barrel. They have been made, originally without the Optima BOre Upgrade, then they changed over to OPTIMA a couple of years ago, and now that is standard. The OPTIMA bore treatment is considered a bit better, but not a deal breaker. Basically, if you get an OPTIMA bore gun, you need BERETTA OPTIMA Chokes, or aftermarket chokes for OPTIMA....easily obtained.[This is assuming that you might need additional chokes]. If its not OPTIMA, no worried either, then it takes BERETTA Mobile Chokes, which they, and most all aftermarket companies make also. Great gun.....very versitile. VERY light recoil. __________________ Will Fennell Member of TEAM BERETTA http://willfennellsportingpursuits.blogspot.com

February 7, 2006, 07:43 AM	#2
swipter Member Join Date: December 22, 2005 Posts: 50	Look at what it shoots. I believe the field model can shoot a 3.5 inch magnum where the sporting model can not.