Beretta 686 Fit

[Jimmie]

My dad gave me a Beretta S686 Essential. Great gun - doesn't fit me at all. I consistently shoot high with it. The drop is way too small (my cheek is too high). The 686 published numbers are: drop @ comb = 1.3, drop @ heel = 2.17.

My Browning BPS fits perfectly. Its published numbers are: drop @ comb = 1.5, drop @ heel = 2.5.

So... 2 questions.

1. Are there other O/U 12ga shotguns with a drop closer to the BPS? Many O/Us I've shouldered in stores seem to have a drop similar to the 686. It looks like the CZ lines have similar measurements, but I haven't handled one, yet.
   
2. Should I sell the gun and try and find one with a better fit or get it fitted?

 

[45auto]

You can have the stock "taken down" a bit at a time, or buy another stock and "buzz" that one down.

I'd "check" the POI of both guns on paper before you do any alterations to the wood. Generally, "flat" shooting guns pattern 50/50. Higher stocks, not trap stocks, generally might go 60/40. If that's the case, you really shouldn't have noticed much of a "difference" IMO...but possible.

So, IMHO, check it on paper first. Then adjust if needed.

 

[Jimmie]

Thanks. I'll pattern it this week.

If I do decide to sell/trade, would I be taking a large quality hit with a CZ Redhead? When I searched here and TFL, everyone seems to be very pleased with them, and I'm not going to be shooting 1000s of rounds per year with it. Would I be a fool to give up my Beretta for a CZ?

 

[45auto]

I'm not familiar with the CZ, but I do know Beretta makes quality shotguns. I assume if you trade "down", you'll end up with cash and another gun.

But, the bottom line is the gun has to fit and you have to like it.
So, you can "make it fit" or buy something that does fit.

Good luck.

 

[mswestfall]

I'd suggest that you also look at the rib on each gun. I suspect that the rib on the Berretta slopes (from breach to muzzle) more than the BPS.

This is what 45auto is talkin' about.