Mossberg 940 Jm Pro vs. Beretta 1301: Which Reigns?
Looking for a top-tier shotgun for competition or home defense? You’ve likely narrowed it down to two titans: the Mossberg 940 JM Pro and the Beretta 1301. Both offer impressive performance and reliability, but which one truly shines?
This in-depth comparison will dissect every aspect of these popular shotguns, from their handling and ergonomics to their features and overall value. We’ll explore the nuances that separate the Mossberg 940 JM Pro from the Beretta 1301, helping you make an informed decision.
Get ready to dive deep into the specifications, performance, and real-world experiences of each shotgun. We will cover everything from the ease of operation and maintenance to the accuracy and felt recoil. By the end, you’ll know exactly which shotgun best suits your needs.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | 940 JM Pro | 1301 |
|---|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Action | Semi-Automatic | Semi-Automatic |
| Capacity | 9+1 | 5+1 |
| Barrel Length | 24 inches | 18.5 inches |
| Choke System | AccuChoke | Optima-Bore HP |
| Stock Material | Synthetic | Synthetic |
| Sights | Fiber Optic Front | Ghost Ring |
| Overall Length | 44.5 inches | 37.75 inches |
| Weight | 7.75 lbs | 6.2 lbs |
| Trigger | Clean, Crisp | Clean, Crisp |
| Operating System | Gas Operated | Gas Operated |
| Receiver Material | Aluminum Alloy | Aluminum Alloy |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Action Type
- Mossberg 940 Jm Pro: Gas-operated semi-automatic. Known for its reliability and ability to cycle a wide range of loads. Some users report a slightly softer recoil impulse compared to inertia-driven systems.
- Beretta 1301: Gas-operated semi-automatic. Uses Beretta’s Blink gas operating system, renowned for its speed and efficiency. Offers very fast cycling times, making it excellent for competitive shooting.
- Winner: Beretta 1301
Ergonomics & Handling
- Mossberg 940 Jm Pro: Designed with competition in mind, featuring an extended magazine tube, oversized controls, and a user-friendly design. Some may find the stock a bit bulky.
- Beretta 1301: Slimmer and more streamlined than the 940 JM Pro. Features aggressive checkering on the forend and pistol grip for superior grip and control. Some users might find the controls slightly smaller.
- Winner: Tie
Weight & Balance
- Mossberg 940 Jm Pro: Generally heavier than the 1301 due to its larger receiver and extended magazine tube. Can affect maneuverability, especially for quicker transitions.
- Beretta 1301: Typically lighter and better balanced, contributing to faster handling and easier target acquisition. The lighter weight can result in slightly more felt recoil.
- Winner: Beretta 1301
Recoil Management
- Mossberg 940 Jm Pro: The gas system helps mitigate recoil, making it comfortable to shoot for extended periods. The weight also contributes to reducing felt recoil.
- Beretta 1301: While gas-operated, the lighter weight can result in slightly more felt recoil compared to the 940 JM Pro. However, the Blink system contributes to a very controllable shooting experience.
- Winner: mossberg 940 jm pro
Magazine Capacity
- Mossberg 940 Jm Pro: Comes standard with an extended magazine tube for a higher capacity, typically around 9+1 or 10+1 depending on the specific model and state laws.
- Beretta 1301: Often comes with a smaller magazine capacity out of the box, though aftermarket magazine extensions are readily available.
- Winner: mossberg 940 jm pro
Aftermarket Support & Customization
- Mossberg 940 Jm Pro: Has a growing aftermarket, but not as extensive as the 1301. However, there are still plenty of options for customization.
- Beretta 1301: Boasts a robust aftermarket with a wide variety of parts and accessories available for customization, including stocks, forends, and sights.
- Winner: beretta 1301
Price
- Mossberg 940 Jm Pro: Generally more affordable, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious shooters.
- Beretta 1301: Typically priced higher, reflecting its premium features, build quality, and brand reputation.
- Winner: mossberg 940 jm pro
Build Quality & Durability
- Mossberg 940 Jm Pro: Known for its robust construction and reliability. The 940 series has improved upon the previous 930 models.
- Beretta 1301: Renowned for its exceptional build quality and durability. Beretta is known for using high-quality materials and precise manufacturing processes.
- Winner: Beretta 1301
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Capacity | mossberg 940 jm pro |
| Maneuverability | beretta 1301 |
| Value | mossberg 940 jm pro |
| Overall Build Quality | beretta 1301 |
| Weight | beretta 1301 |
| Barrel Length Options | mossberg 940 jm pro |
What They Have in Common:
- Action Type: Both shotguns are semi-automatic, providing rapid follow-up shots for competitive shooting or home defense scenarios.
- Gauge: Both are chambered in the versatile 12-gauge, offering a wide range of ammunition choices for different purposes.
- Gas Operation: Both utilize a gas-operated system to cycle rounds, which helps reduce felt recoil and improve shooting comfort.
- Synthetic Stock: Both come with durable synthetic stocks, known for their resistance to weather and wear.
- Targeted Use: Both shotguns are popular choices for competitive shooting sports, such as 3-gun, and for home defense.
- Reliability: Both are generally known for their reliability and smooth operation, making them dependable choices.
Mossberg 940 JM Pro vs Beretta 1301 Buying Guide
Ergonomics and Handling
The Mossberg 940 JM Pro often features a slightly larger feel, which can be advantageous for shooters with larger hands. Its stock design and forend offer a comfortable grip and good control. The Beretta 1301, on the other hand, is known for its sleek design and lighter weight, providing a more nimble feel. The Beretta’s narrower profile and shorter length of pull can be a plus for faster target acquisition and maneuverability, especially in tight spaces. Consider which fits your physique and shooting style better.
Reliability and Durability
Both shotguns are renowned for their reliability, but they use different operating systems. The 940 JM Pro utilizes a gas-operated system, known for its ability to cycle a wide range of ammunition reliably. The Beretta 1301 also uses a gas system that is very reliable. Durability-wise, both are built to withstand rigorous use. The 1301 might have a slight edge due to its more streamlined design, potentially making it less susceptible to debris. Regular cleaning and maintenance are crucial for both.
Performance on the Range
In terms of performance, both shotguns excel. The 940 JM Pro is optimized for speed shooting, with its extended magazine tube and user-friendly controls. It handles recoil well. The Beretta 1301 is also known for its fast cycling speed and smooth action. The Beretta’s balance and reduced muzzle rise can give shooters a noticeable advantage. Both shotguns provide excellent shot patterns, allowing for accurate hits. Consider your needs.
Features and Accessories
The Mossberg 940 JM Pro comes with several features that cater to competition shooters, such as an enlarged charging handle, and fiber-optic front sight. The Beretta 1301 typically offers a more streamlined design, with fewer aftermarket accessories available. Both shotguns support the addition of accessories like optics, shell carriers, and sling attachments. Evaluate which features are essential for your shooting style and desired customizations.
Price and Value
The Mossberg 940 JM Pro often presents a more budget-friendly option compared to the Beretta 1301. The Beretta, with its premium features and brand reputation, usually commands a higher price. Evaluate your budget and consider the long-term value, including factors like durability, resale value, and the availability of parts and service. Both shotguns represent excellent value within their respective price ranges, offering high performance.
Intended Use and Application
The Mossberg 940 JM Pro is designed specifically for competitive shooting, with its focus on speed and ergonomics. The Beretta 1301 is a versatile shotgun that is suitable for a wide range of applications, including home defense, hunting, and tactical use. Consider your primary intended use. The 940 JM Pro would be a great choice for 3-gun competition, while the 1301 is a more all-around performer. Match your needs.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy mossberg 940 jm pro If…
- You prioritize a higher capacity for competitive shooting or extended home defense situations.
- You prefer a longer barrel for potentially improved accuracy and sight radius.
- You are looking for a more affordable option with excellent performance.
- You prefer a shotgun that is easy to customize with aftermarket parts.
Buy beretta 1301 If…
- You want a shorter, more maneuverable shotgun for close-quarters situations.
- You value a slightly lighter weight and a faster cycling action.
- You are willing to invest in a premium shotgun known for its exceptional build quality and performance.
- You want a shotgun with a proven track record in professional shooting competitions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary difference in the operating systems?
The Mossberg 940 JM Pro utilizes a gas-operated system, known for its reliability with various loads and ease of maintenance. The Beretta 1301 also utilizes a gas system, but is known for its speed and sleek design. Both systems efficiently cycle ammunition, but their implementations differ. The 1301’s system is often praised for its smooth operation and minimal recoil.
Which shotgun is typically more affordable?
The Mossberg 940 JM Pro generally offers a more budget-friendly option than the Beretta 1301. While the 1301 often has a higher initial cost, its premium features, build quality, and brand reputation contribute to its price. However, the 940 JM Pro still provides excellent performance and value for its price point. Consider your budget.
What are the common aftermarket accessories available for each?
Both shotguns support a variety of accessories. The Mossberg 940 JM Pro has a wide availability of aftermarket parts for competition shooting. The Beretta 1301, while having some options, might have a smaller range of accessories available due to its design. Both can be customized with optics, shell carriers, and sling attachments.
Which shotgun is considered better for home defense?
Both shotguns are suitable for home defense. The Beretta 1301, with its compact design and fast handling, can be an excellent choice for navigating tight spaces. The 940 JM Pro’s reliability and ease of use also make it a viable option. Consider your personal preferences, experience, and the specific layout of your home when choosing.
How does recoil compare between the two?
Both shotguns manage recoil well due to their gas-operated systems. However, the Beretta 1301, with its lighter weight and optimized design, might have a slightly snappier recoil. The 940 JM Pro’s added weight and ergonomic design can help to mitigate felt recoil. Both shotguns are comfortable to shoot for extended periods.
What is the difference in magazine capacity?
Both shotguns have different magazine capacities depending on the model and any aftermarket modifications. The 940 JM Pro comes with extended magazine tubes for competitive shooting. The Beretta 1301 also has models with extended capacities. Check the specifications of the specific model you’re considering to understand the capacity.
Which is better for competitive shooting?
The Mossberg 940 JM Pro is often considered a top choice for competitive shooting, especially 3-gun. It’s designed with features like an extended magazine tube, enlarged controls, and a focus on speed. The Beretta 1301 is also capable, but the 940 JM Pro’s specific design makes it excel in competitive environments. Consider the specific rules of the competition.
Final Verdict
Both the Mossberg 940 JM Pro and the Beretta 1301 are excellent shotguns, each with strengths. The 940 JM Pro excels in competition shooting with its ergonomic design and high capacity. The Beretta 1301 offers a sleek profile, making it a versatile choice. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget.
Winner: Mossberg 940 JM Pro