You’ll find the Beretta Mato is a precision hunting rifle built on Dakota’s modified Model 97 Mauser action, featuring controlled round feeding and detachable box magazines. It’s chambered in popular hunting calibers like .30-06 Springfield and .308 Winchester, with custom Shilen barrels and premium stocks. Secondary market prices range from $700-$900, though .375 H&H variants command $1,800-$2,400. The platform’s discontinued status creates availability challenges, but there’s much more to understand about its performance characteristics.
Key Takeaways
- Precision hunting rifle built on Dakota 97 action with Mauser 98 reliability and controlled round feeding system
- Chambered in popular hunting calibers including .30-06 Springfield, .308 Winchester, .270 Winchester, and .375 H&H Magnum
- Secondary market prices range $700-$900, with .375 H&H variants commanding $1,800-$2,400 due to discontinuation
- Weighs 7.5-8.2 pounds with 23-24 inch barrels and 4-round detachable magazine capacity across all calibers
- Quality control inconsistencies affected accuracy and reliability, with receiver failures reported in early production models
Description
The Beretta Mato represents a precision hunting rifle built upon the proven Dakota 97 action foundation, though it incorporates a modified recoil lug configuration that distinguishes it from its Dakota counterpart.
You’ll find custom barrels, typically Shilen barrels, paired with premium stocks from manufacturers like McMillan. The rifle features a detachable magazine system and chambers popular hunting calibers including .30-06 Springfield.
Price Range
Pricing for the Beretta Mato varies considerably based on configuration, condition, and market timing. You’ll find secondary market prices ranging $700-$900, though clearance sales dropped walnut-stocked models to $149. One thing distinguishing this bolt action from Dakota actions is pricing volatility—.375 H&H variants command $1,800-$2,400 while synthetic models originally retailed $1,500-$2,000.
| Configuration | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Secondary Market Standard | $700-$900 |
| Clearance Walnut Stock | $149 |
| .375 H&H Magnum | $1,800-$2,400 |
| Original Synthetic MSRP | $1,500-$2,000 |
Specifications
You’ll find the Beretta Mato’s specifications reflect its Mauser 98 heritage with modern refinements for hunting applications. The rifle’s dimensional and material characteristics directly impact its field performance and suitability for various game species. These core specifications determine the Mato’s handling characteristics and operational capabilities.
| Specification | Standard Configuration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 7.5-8.2 lbs | Varies by barrel length and caliber |
| Barrel Length | 23″ or 24″ | Depends on caliber selection |
| Receiver Material | Pre-hardened bar stock | Machined for enhanced strength |
Weight
When considering field applications, you’ll find the Beretta Mato weighs approximately 8 to 9 pounds depending on specific model configuration. This substantial heft stems from its synthetic stock construction incorporating fiberglass, Kevlar, and carbon-fiber materials.
The rifle’s weight classification places it among heavier hunting rifles, potentially limiting suitability for extended carrying or demanding mountain hunting scenarios.
Barrel Length
How does barrel length configuration affect the Beretta Mato’s field performance? You’ll find the Mato offered in 24-inch and 26-inch barrel configurations, with specific lengths determined by caliber selection.
Standard hunting chamberings like .30-06 Springfield typically feature 24-inch barrels, while magnum calibers such as .375 H&H utilize 26-inch barrels for optimal ballistic performance and improved velocity retention.
Material Made Out Of
Construction materials define the Beretta Mato’s reputation for reliability and field durability. You’ll find the receiver machined from pre-hardened bar stock, ensuring exceptional strength under demanding conditions.
The stock combines fiberglass, Kevlar, and carbon-fiber composite construction for optimal weight-to-strength ratios. Durable polymer materials form the trigger guard and magazine well, while you’ll receive a hard ABS case with combination locks.
Chambered In
Chambering versatility sets the Beretta Mato apart as a true multi-purpose hunting platform. You’ll find this Beretta action available in .30-06 Springfield, .308 Winchester, .270 Winchester, and .375 H&H Magnum configurations.
The robust action design incorporates recoil lugs, claw extractor, and reinforced trigger guard with hinged floor plate. Factory scope mounts accommodate optics, while .375 models include iron sights and optional muzzle brake for enhanced bolt handle operation.
Capacity
Magazine capacity on the Beretta Mato centers around a detachable box magazine system that holds 4 cartridges across all chamberings. You’ll find this consistent four-round capacity whether you’re running .30-06 Springfield or .375 H&H Magnum.
Beretta USA designed this specification to balance hunting practicality with regulatory compliance, differentiating it from competitors like Dakota’s offerings in the Dakota Model lineup.
Trigger Pull
Beyond magazine functionality, trigger performance directly impacts your shooting accuracy with the Mato. The factory trigger delivers a 5.5-pound pull weight that’s inadequate for precision hunting applications. This heavy, inconsistent trigger mechanism compromises bolt-action accuracy potential.
You’ll need aftermarket trigger upgrades to achieve smooth, crisp release characteristics. The factory setup requires immediate adjustment for optimal performance enhancement.
Safety?
While trigger performance affects accuracy, the Mato’s safety system ensures secure firearm handling during field operations. You’ll find the three-position safety mechanism provides comprehensive control over firing readiness.
The serrated grip surface delivers positive tactile feedback, preventing accidental manipulation even with wet or gloved hands. This design guarantees reliable safety engagement across varying environmental conditions and operational scenarios.
Action
The Mato’s action represents Beretta’s adaptation of the Dakota 97 design, incorporating modifications that distinguish it from its American counterpart. You’ll notice different recoil lug configurations compared to the original Mauser system.
The bolt features distinctive grooves, though machining quality differs from authentic Dakota actions. Detachable magazine integration at the rear of the receiver provides modern functionality while maintaining traditional aesthetics.
Optic Ready?
Optic integration on Beretta’s Mato rifle eliminates guesswork through factory-machined receiver provisions. You’ll find integral scope mount bases and rings included with your new rifle.
The machined receiver accepts standard Mauser-style mounts, while one variant features adjustable iron sights. Another one benefit: the bolt handle and safety accommodate riflescope operation seamlessly.
Picatinny Rail?
Does Beretta’s Mato rifle feature a Picatinny rail system? No, the Mato doesn’t come standard with integrated Picatinny rails. Instead, it uses traditional Mauser-style scope bases on the receiver. You can install aftermarket Picatinny rail sections or utilize Beretta’s optional scope mount bases and rings.
The stock isn’t pre-drilled for rail attachments, requiring receiver-mounted solutions for optics.
Review
When evaluating the Mato’s field performance, you’ll find significant advantages in its Dakota 97-based action reliability and sub-MOA accuracy potential with quality ammunition. However, you’ll need to consider the rifle’s excessive weight for backcountry hunting and the synthetic stock’s utilitarian feel compared to traditional wood.
The Mato primarily serves budget-conscious hunters seeking bolt-action precision without premium rifle pricing, though discontinued status limits availability to used market purchases.
Pros
The Beretta Mato’s foundation on the legendary Mauser 98 action delivers exceptional reliability and strength that’s proven across decades of field use. You’ll appreciate the controlled round feeding system with claw extractor, ensuring positive extraction under pressure. The detachable box magazine accepts top-loading for tactical reloads.
| Feature | Specification | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Action | Mauser 98 | Proven reliability |
| Safety | Three-position | Enhanced control |
| Feeding | Controlled round | Consistent cycling |
Cons
Despite its solid Mauser 98 foundation, the Beretta Mato exhibits several performance limitations that may disappoint precision-oriented shooters. You’ll encounter significant accuracy deficiencies compared to competing hunting rifles in this price bracket.
| Issue | Specification | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Group Size | 2.4″ average | Poor precision |
| Trigger Pull | 5.5 pounds | Reduced accuracy |
| Accessories | No mounts/sights | Additional costs |
Reliability
Quality control inconsistencies plagued the Beretta Mato throughout its production run, creating a reliability profile that didn’t match its premium positioning. You’ll encounter documented receiver failures, including splits and cracks in early production models.
The rifle’s accuracy varied significantly between individual units, demonstrating systemic quality inconsistency despite Beretta’s reputation for manufacturing excellence in their other firearms platforms.
Most Commonly Used By
Given these reliability concerns, big game hunters represent the Mato’s primary user base, particularly those pursuing dangerous game in Africa and North America who require the stopping power of magnum cartridges like .375 H&H and .416 Rigby.
You’ll also find law enforcement snipers and precision shooters utilizing the Mato’s Mauser-style action for long-range applications requiring consistent sub-MOA accuracy.
Similar Models
Several bolt-action rifles share design characteristics with the Beretta Mato, most notably the Dakota Model 97 which served as the foundational platform for the Mato’s action design. You’ll find the Mato incorporated unique design features including a distinctive recoil lug configuration that differentiated it from its Dakota counterpart, while maintaining similar controlled-round-feed functionality and precision manufacturing standards.
Similar Models From Other Manufacturers
While the Beretta Mato commands a premium price of $1,660, you’ll find several competing manufacturers offer bolt-action rifles with comparable or superior features at significantly lower price points.
The Savage Model 111F ($395) delivers exceptional accuracy and suitability for hunting in .30-06 Springfield. Browning’s A-Bolt Composite Stalker ($640) provides smoother bolt operation and superior trigger mechanisms than the underperforming Mato.
Maintenance
Proper maintenance protocols directly impact the Beretta Mato’s operational reliability and accuracy retention over its service life. You’ll need to regularly inspect the bore and action for fouling, lubricating the bolt with quality gun oil.
Check trigger mechanisms periodically, avoiding harsh solvents on protective finishes. Proper storage requires dry, climate-controlled environments preventing corrosion formation.
History
Although Beretta positioned the Mato as a premium bolt-action rifle, its development history reveals a complex web of corporate acquisitions and manufacturing partnerships that ultimately led to its discontinuation.
You’ll find Beretta’s acquisition history involved purchasing a Swedish manufacturer while outsourcing trigger production. Their subsequent Sako/Tikka acquisition resulted in the Mato’s cancellation to prevent internal competition.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Is a Beretta A400 Rifle?
You’ll find Beretta A400 semiautomatic shotguns (not rifles) priced between $1,100-$1,500 for standard configurations. These affordable semiautomatic platforms feature Beretta’s Blink gas-operating system with kick-off recoil reduction technology.
You’ll pay premium rates for high-grade models like the Xcel or Upland, reaching $1,700+. Barrel length, choke configurations, stock materials, and receiver finishes affect pricing.
You can locate used A400s on secondary markets for reduced costs below retail MSRP.
Who Makes the Best Bolt Action Rifles?
Like a master craftsman selecting the finest tools, you’ll find bolt action precision among several elite manufacturers. Tikka’s T3x series delivers exceptional accuracy-to-price ratios, while Weatherby’s Mark V offers sub-MOA guarantees. You can’t overlook Savage’s AccuTrigger technology or Remington’s Model 700 platform versatility.
For custom applications, Surgeon’s 591/591R actions provide unmatched tolerances. Your optimal choice depends on intended application, budget constraints, and specific accuracy requirements rather than absolute supremacy.
Does Beretta Make Sniper Rifles?
You won’t find dedicated sniper rifles in Beretta’s catalog, as their sniper rifle development focuses primarily on handguns and semi-automatic platforms. Beretta doesn’t manufacture precision long-range rifles optimized for tactical applications.
Their bolt-action offerings like the Mato target hunting markets, utilizing Dakota 97 actions unsuitable for military/law enforcement precision shooting. You’ll need to look toward specialized manufacturers like Accuracy International, Barrett, or Remington for purpose-built sniper systems with appropriate ballistic capabilities and tactical features.
Is Tikka Owned by Beretta?
Yes, you’ll find that Tikka is owned by Beretta through a clear ownership structure established in 1999. Beretta acquired the Finnish manufacturer Sako, which included the Tikka subsidiary brand.
You’re looking at a complete corporate acquisition where Beretta holds all intellectual property rights and manufacturing oversight. While Tikka maintains its Finnish production facilities and brand identity, you’re dealing with Beretta’s proprietary designs and engineering specifications under their corporate umbrella.
Conclusion
You’ll find the Beretta Mato delivers exceptional field performance with its sub-MOA accuracy and robust synthetic stock construction. Consider the 2019 Alaskan brown bear hunt where guide Jake Morrison’s client achieved a clean 280-yard shot using Federal Premium 180-grain ammunition—the rifle’s controlled-round feed and three-position safety proved critical in that high-stress scenario. You’re investing in Italian craftsmanship that’ll handle extreme conditions while maintaining consistent ballistic performance across multiple hunting seasons.
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