Built at the Pietro Beretta Selection Atelier, the SL3 combines traditional gunmaking with modern engineering solutions. It features the proven locking system derived from the SO10 together with a trigger mechanism inspired by the DT11 clay competition shotgun, bringing together reliability, mechanical refinement and handcrafted quality. Every shotgun is individually assembled using carefully selected materials and extensive hand finishing, maintaining the balance between Italy's centuries-old gunmaking tradition and contemporary manufacturing technology.
The 500 Years Limited Edition retains the technical features of the standard SL3 while introducing a dedicated decorative package. Created by the Bottega di Cesare Giovannelli, the engraving combines English scrollwork with modern game scenes through a sophisticated process that integrates state-of-the-art laser engraving, rolling and meticulous handfinishing by the master engravers of Pietro Beretta Selection.
“The SL3 is a perfect example of how Pietro Beretta Selection excels in combining state-of-the-art technology with the time-honored art and craftsmanship of Italian gunmaking,” said Daniele Piva, Vice President, Commercial Market Business of Fabbrica d’Armi Pietro Beretta S.p.A. “The union of these two worlds allows us to achieve the standard of ‘zero tolerance,’ with fitting, stock making, polishing, and checkering still carried out entirely by hand to deliver the finest level of detail.
As we did from an engineering perspective on the SL3 platform - bringing together the exceptional locking system of the SO10 and the trigger of the DT11 - we applied the same approach to the engravings of the SL3 500 Years Limited Edition. Starting from a digital sketch by our master engraver, a high-tech 5-axis laser machine creates a precise base for the design, which is then brought to life through game and nature motifs by the depth and nuance that only the hand engraving of our masters can achieve. This is how we have always approached the future: we do not allow preconceptions to define what luxury is or should be. Instead, we continue to evolve, harnessing the full potential of both technological innovation and the beauty of manual craftsmanship, to create objects and experiences that go beyond what we once believed possible.”
As we did from an engineering perspective on the SL3 platform - bringing together the exceptional locking system of the SO10 and the trigger of the DT11 - we applied the same approach to the engravings of the SL3 500 Years Limited Edition. Starting from a digital sketch by our master engraver, a high-tech 5-axis laser machine creates a precise base for the design, which is then brought to life through game and nature motifs by the depth and nuance that only the hand engraving of our masters can achieve. This is how we have always approached the future: we do not allow preconceptions to define what luxury is or should be. Instead, we continue to evolve, harnessing the full potential of both technological innovation and the beauty of manual craftsmanship, to create objects and experiences that go beyond what we once believed possible.”
Beretta SL3 500 Years Limited Edition: Details of a Commemorative Shotgun
The SL3 500 Years Limited Edition retains the distinctive architecture of the SL3 platform, characterized by its elegant sliding profile, where the receiver tail and top lever blend seamlessly into the stock through a refined taper. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, this solution naturally promotes fast and instinctive target acquisition.
Mechanically, the shotgun relies on Beretta's proven locking system, with the barrels secured by hinge pins, lower lugs and locking pins. The trigger group features traditional leaf spring hammers, providing crisp trigger pulls while preserving the mechanical characteristics expected from a premium sporting shotgun.
The Steelium Pro barrels are derived from the same geometry developed for the Beretta DT11 competition shotgun. Their extended 450 mm triple progressive forcing cone reaches into the choke section, a design intended to maximize ballistic efficiency while delivering more uniform shot patterns, improved downrange energy and reduced perceived recoil.
Each SL3 500 Years Limited Edition is supplied in an exclusive gun case handcrafted at the Pietro Beretta Selection Atelier in Gardone Val Trompia. Finished externally in deep blue leather with the Beretta 500 Years logo elegantly debossed on the lid, the case features a burgundy wool-lined interior together with hand-finished leather details, precision stitching and a dedicated leather pouch housing the cleaning kit.
Only 150 examples of the Beretta SL3 500 Years Limited Edition will be produced worldwide.
For further information, please visit: https://www.beretta500.com/en/
