The company of engineer Ernesto Breda became famous during the First World War. The talented Breda first organized the production of various equipment (including steam locomotives, agricultural machinery, artillery shells) in Milan. In the postwar period, Ernesto developed machine guns No. 30, 31 and No. 37 jointly with the Fiat company. This weapon was actively used in the Italian army during the Second World War.
After some time, Breda's company began to invent four-wheel drive tractors, military trucks. The cars of this company had a feature - each drive wheel was equipped with a separate drive. This ensured their durability and survivability.
In the second half of the 20th century, the export of semi-automatic shotguns began.
Opinions of experienced users
Among the common characteristics, experts distinguish:
- Ease of performing all operations (charging, reloading, changing cartridges). Users assure that all manipulations can be done with one hand.
- Optimum layout. The absence of unnecessary parts for management makes the Breda hunting rifle convenient and safe to use.
- High speed of operations due to the absence of extra elements on the case.
Among the characteristics of reliability note wedge locking. On any semiautomatic device of Breda (if the locking is installed), a spontaneous or accidental shot will not occur. In such a shutter, there are much fewer moving parts, so it is considered reliable.
Trunks are drilled. Therefore, the channel profile is almost ideal (unlike trunks, which are made broaching or rolling with subsequent brewing). Thanks to the use of cryoprocessing in the muzzle, residual stress is practically not noticed.
Durability is ensured by the special manufacture of the receiver: for this, part of the steel pipe is first crumpled into the desired shape, and then holes are cut (by a laser). Between the trigger body and the cartridge feed window in the receiver there is also steel (most weapons do not have this).
The Breda Xanthos Shotgun is a security leader. When the shutter is opened, any pressing of the buttons becomes impossible. The weapon is also brought into a combat state in a few seconds, for this it is enough to only return the bolt to its original position.
Limited edition "Delirium"
The well-known company continues to develop exclusive styles for its weapons. A distinctive feature is the engraving using the deposition of precious metals. The brand of the company is made of gold, and the place of manufacture (Italy) is made of silver. Even the shutter of a limited edition gun has a feature, namely chrome plating and fine engraving.
Shotgun "Breda Xanthos Gold" made in limited quantities - 150 pieces. Each rifle is accompanied by a special certificate that confirms the use of precious metals and their nominal weight in the design.
The butt of the weapon is also unusual, because it is made of walnut wood and processed with special oil.
For connoisseurs of "Breda" there is the opportunity to choose the desired barrel length - from 61 to 76 cm. The weight of the weapon is 2 kg 900 g.
At present, Xanthos is the most technically advanced inertia machine on the market.
Technical description and characteristics of the gun
The controls are arranged in this order: on the left is the fuse button, on the right is the shutter foot and the fuse button on the trigger guard. The absence of a forced feed cartridge to the feeder is a feature of the gun "Breda Xanthos." Owner reviews about this weapon are only positive, because the entire control system consists of a shutter foot, fuse buttons and a contact switch. Safety is guaranteed by an automatic shutter lag. When the shutter is opened, regardless of the presence of cartridges in the magazine, the gun automatically blocks a possible shot.
The stiffness of the receiver increases due to the fact that the trigger guard housing is spaced with the feeder window.
In Xanthos, the store’s pipe is soldered to the receiver. Due to this, no shock loads occur during firing.
Main technical specifications:
- Total length: 1280 mm.
- Barrel length: 760 mm.
- Caliber: 12 mm.
- The length of the chamber: 76 mm.
- Type of shop: underbarrel tubular.
- Number of triggers: 1.
- Weight: 3 kg 300 g.
The hunting rifle of "Breda", according to users, does not cause inconvenience when outfitting a store. In the process, it is not necessary to heat the feeder each time, because when laying the cartridge in its base, the contactor is pressed, and the feeder rises, thereby freeing the way to the store.
Comfort in shooting is also provided by the presence of a damper. It is made of polyurethane and is located inside the receiver. This device takes the blow of the bolt in the extreme rear position, which facilitates the firing process.
Well-known hunting rifles
Shotguns "Breda Chiron" - quite popular among professionals. This model is more affordable in the price category, but at the same time quite reliable and technically sound.
Trunks are made by deep drilling. Due to this manufacturing feature, it is possible to achieve a perfectly even profile and to avoid residual stresses. The gun has a high level of safety and wear resistance.
For firing, you need to perform only two operations: use the shutter foot and the button for releasing the cartridge.
The “Breda Ai-fest” shotgun has similar characteristics. This model is distinguished by special accuracy, reliability and stability. Charging or recharging operations for experienced users take only a few seconds.
The aesthetic side of the issue also does not leave indifferent hunting lovers: in the design of weapons, classic shades are used, calm and concise. Each model of the gun of the Italian company is a unique design decision.
The gun of “Breda Antares” does not go unnoticed. The single-barrel shotgun is fired at 12 gauge with a chamber under 76 mm charges. The casing is made of special steel, which includes nickel, chrome and molybdenum. A set of these impurities provides increased wear resistance of the mechanism.
The trunks are made of chrome vanadium steel. Such material has a high resistance to damage during the shot. The receiver and moving parts go through the hardening process and are also coated with chrome. All trunks are equipped with a vented bar.
Overview of the "Delirium" models
Fans of extreme hunting allocate guns "Brad Grizzly". This powerful inertial semi-automatic rifle is designed for use in the most adverse conditions. "Grizzly bear" is suitable for various types of hunting: from the approach, on ambush and corral. In addition, a powerful device can fire standard supplies - 70 mm. In addition, it is possible to use powerful 76 mm and super powerful 89 mm ammunition.
On a regular store, which is designed for 4 + 1 cartridge, it is possible to install an extension cord. At the same time, the capacity with the extension cord reaches 9 + 1 ammunition. The weight of the rifle is 3 kg 300 g. Even with such a significant weight, the weapon does not cause inconvenience to use, because it is distributed and balanced along its entire length.
The Breda Echo self-loading automatic shotgun is known for its simplicity, reliability and efficiency. The weapon has a classic simple design and is equipped with an inertial reloading system. Trunk lengths range from 610 to 760 mm, and the mass does not exceed 3 kg. 12/70, 12/76 and 20/76 mm calibers are available.
The gun is loaded with both bullet and shot charges within the caliber. This model is suitable for beginner hunters, as it has good range, lightness and convenient aiming. Among the shortcomings stands out a large return when shooting.
Echo is used in almost all types of hunting, because accuracy is maintained at a distance of up to 100 meters. For running hunting, it is better to use the "Delirium" of the 20th caliber. The weapon is resistant to moisture and dust.
Reviews of beginners and experienced hunters
Shotguns "Breda" earned trust among hunters. On the Internet, you can find reviews about each series of weapons. Below are some of them:
- Users are confident in a good study of the configuration. At the same time, at the first shots there are missed rounds of ammunition. Over time, this phenomenon disappears and the gun works perfectly. This review applies to the Breda Echo T-9 series. Owners note the density of scree: when shot with a shot, the scree at the point of impact is even and without bald spots.
- Popular among professionals is the model of the gun "Breda Ifirst". Owner reviews are mostly positive, and attention is paid to the barrel and the quality of the fire. The receiver tubes, which are made by the method of deep drilling, have an ideal geometry of the longitudinal and transverse sections of the bore. Internal stresses are absent. Muzzle narrowing increased. These parameters ensure perfect alignment of the muzzle nozzles with the chamber. Slight roughness of the barrel reduces the deformation of the fraction. The guns of this series are adapted for many types of bullets. Shoting is always uniform.
- Convenient is the process of firing shotguns "Breda". Hunter reviews report the following: the accuracy and quality of warfare depends largely on the care of weapons. Compliance with care (cleaning, lubrication) and storage rules will ensure sharpness of fire and applicability. If you do not perform maintenance operations, misfires and jamming of the shutter may occur.
Italian guns of the Breda company
Italian firearms are perfect for professionals. For example, the guns of "Delirium Ifirst" embody all the modern trends of weapons business. The Italian company has developed unique processes for the manufacture of individual parts of the gun, due to which high quality and reliability of all series of guns is achieved.
Unique design is the business card of the company. In addition to elegant design solutions, guns are characterized by a high degree of safety.
"Delusions" of any series are ergonomic, because you can bring weapons to combat readiness in a few seconds. Smoothbore guns are ideal for sports training and hunting.
The Italian company is engaged in the manufacture of engines for ships, locomotives, as well as metallurgical production. But the guns of "Delirium" deserve general attention. Reviews of prestigious weapons (some models are made exclusively to order) are positive. In the assortment of the company there are various types of devices for hunting: semi-automatic machines, horizontal planes, bokflinty.
All bokflinty are issued with a vertical arrangement of trunks and the selector (the device allowing to change sequence of work of trunks). The gun is equipped with just one trigger, a non-automatic fuse, ejectors and a single locking with a wedge.
Semiautomatic devices are made taking into account the replacement of trunks. The shutter is easy to disassemble, and the key case is made of alloy. The basic model of such a gun works on the principle of rollback of a movable spring-loaded barrel from a feed when firing.
Both bokflinty and semiautomatic devices have a weight of up to 3500 g, the length of the trunks is from 600 to 750 mm. Each of the guns has its own finish: standard, with a small engraving, luxury and extra-luxury.
Weapon selection tips
Before acquiring weapons, you need to pay attention to the following issues:
- Type of hunting. After determining the further occupation, you can pick up a gun according to the tactical and technical characteristics.
- The physiological parameters of the hunter (height, weight).
- Environmental parameters (humidity, temperature, season).
Based on the answers received, the necessary parameters are determined, and then the brand and type of gun.
For example, when hunting ducks in the transitional season, the Breda First gun will be suitable. Reviews of the smooth-bore inertial semiautomatic device confirm this. The gun of this brand has moisture resistance, and it is this parameter that is important when firing in thickets and swamps. Also, "Breda First" has a relatively low weight, so hunters with a small build will be comfortable moving with the device over long distances.
A difficult choice is left-handed hunters. Due to the inconvenient location of the bed and the fuse, the quality of the hit deteriorates. Therefore, the shooter must choose a weapon with an adjustable bed. Semiautomatic devices, such as the Breda Ai-Fest rifle, have this feature. Reviews about this weapon in most cases are positive. Experienced hunters explain that firing from the left shoulder with a right-handed rifle is ineffective, uncomfortable and dangerous. With the wrong tab, the recoil pad of the gun enters the left pectoral muscle, this is a dangerous factor. Moreover, without fitting the box under the blow of the crest, the left cheekbone falls.
Also, when choosing a gun, it is important to consider the possibility of replacing parts and repair. All "Delusions" are distinguished by the quality of assembly and fitting of parts.
Security Measures for Handling Breda Firearms
Before acquiring weapons of any kind, permission must be obtained from the appropriate authorities. In addition, it is necessary to study the basic rules of use and precautions during its use. The rules of conduct with firearms apply to the guns "Breda". Both a beginner and an amateur should:
- Know the device and mechanisms of weapons, use it only in good condition. First of all, the locking, trigger and safety mechanism is checked.
- Charge the mechanism immediately before firing.
- Engage weapons only before firing.
- Do not point the barrel towards people or pets, regardless of the loading of the gun.
- Carefully check the barrel and mechanisms for clogging and rust.
- Transport weapons in special cases or covers, pay special attention to fixation.
- When shooting, take into account the range and flight path, the damaging effect depending on the type of cartridges.
- Carry the gun with the barrel up (the exception is adverse weather conditions).
- After falling, passing through swamps and thickets, the mechanism should be inspected for damage and clogging.
- Storage is carried out only in disassembled and discharged form in a specially equipped safe.
The safe should be installed in places with permissible humidity and temperature range. Mounting on suspended structures is prohibited. Before placing in a safe, any firearm should be inspected for damage and cleaned. At the end of the event, the gun is placed in a case or case.
Keep in mind that access to weapons is limited. If used by third parties, criminal prosecution is possible.
Rules of conduct with weapons in motion
When transporting guns "Breda" and conducting the battle on the go, you must:
- Check equipment and readiness to use vehicles, clothing, etc.
- Conduct safety procedures for all participants in the shooting.
- Do not go on a route in especially adverse weather conditions.
- When passing fords and frozen ponds, keep a safe distance (at least 5 meters from the front one).
- Observe the location identified by the senior team.
- Collective hunting is not carried out in conditions of limited visibility (in fog, heavy snow, at dusk).
When using firearms in hunting, including Bred’s rifles, it is strictly forbidden:
- Leave the fire sector (with the exception of first aid to the victim).
- To fire a shot for other purposes (to create noise, by fuzzy flickering of a target, etc.).
- Leaving your sector, you should defuse the gun.
- Shoot at an acute angle (less than 45◦).
- Approach the prey from the front (even if there are no signs of life).
- To shoot at an object that passes under a neighboring number.
Before leaving for group hunting (exercises), each participant must undergo safety training, and confirm familiarization with a signature. The chief instructor is responsible for the behavior of the group, as well as for causing harm to the health of the participant in the firing zone.
Do not neglect the annual psychological examination and the issuance of a permit to carry firearms.