Beretta, the legendary Italian firearms maker that’s been crafting masterpieces since 1526, is pulling out all the stops for its 500th birthday bash in 2026—and the SHOT Show preview at this year’s Beretta Range Day in Nevada gave us a tantalizing first look at the AX800 Suprema, a 12-gauge semi-auto shotgun that’s redefining polymer receiver innovation for waterfowl hunters. Held at Pro Gun Vegas in Boulder City, the event let us hands-on test this beast alongside Beretta’s latest rimfire pistols and high-end scatterguns, and let me tell you, the AX800 isn’t just another gas-operated semi-auto; it’s a lightweight, durable game-changer with a full-polymer lower receiver that shrugs off mud, water, and brutal field abuse like it’s nothing. Clocking in under 7 pounds with a 28-inch barrel, oversized controls for gloved hands, and Beretta’s reliable inertia-driven system upgraded for the modern era, it cycles everything from light target loads to heavy magnum duck stuffers without a hiccup—proving once again why Beretta dominates the semi-auto shotgun market.
What makes the AX800 a big deal for the 2A community? In an era where anti-gunners demonize assault shotguns and push for costly materials regs that jack up prices, this polymer receiver slashes manufacturing costs without sacrificing strength or Beretta’s hallmark reliability—think AR-15-level modularity meets timeless Italian engineering, potentially dropping street prices below $1,500 while holding up to thousands of rounds of abuse. It’s a direct shot across the bow at competitors like Benelli or Remington, offering waterfowl-specific features like a hydro-treated barrel for corrosion resistance and a supremely soft-recoiling stock that lets you stay on target for follow-ups. For hunters, preppers, and home defenders who demand versatility without the weight penalty, this signals Beretta doubling down on affordable, innovative semi-autos amid rising regulatory threats—perfect timing as states eye more shotgun restrictions. If SHOT 2026 delivers this as promised, expect it to flood gun shops and become the new go-to for anyone serious about exercising their Second Amendment rights in the field or at the range.
The implications ripple wider: Beretta’s quincentenary flex isn’t just nostalgia; it’s a bold statement of resilience against global supply chain woes and political headwinds, reminding us that 500 years of craftsmanship trumps fleeting bans. We’ve seen polymer tech revolutionize rifles—now shotguns get the upgrade, making high-end performance accessible to the everyman shooter. Keep an eye on this one; it’s not hype, it’s the future of semi-auto wingshooting, and a win for every 2A enthusiast pushing back against the nanny state.
