Description
Beretta BL-4 O/U 20 Gauge – 26-Inch Barrels – S 56 E American Version
The Beretta BL-4 over/under 20 gauge is a classic Italian-made sporting shotgun featuring 26-inch barrels and matching serial numbers throughout the firearm. This particular example is marked S 56 E under the barrel, and it has been described as an American version of the S56E configuration. The combination of Beretta’s established over/under design, 20-gauge chambering, and classic Italian manufacture makes this shotgun an interesting example for collectors and enthusiasts researching Beretta’s historical sporting shotguns.
Individual specifications can vary depending on production period and market configuration, so the markings and features present on the actual shotgun should be used when documenting the specific example.
Beretta BL-4 20 Gauge Specifications
- Manufacturer: Beretta
- Model: BL-4
- Action: Over/Under
- Gauge: 20 Gauge
- Barrel Length: 26 inches
- Serial Numbers: All serial numbers match
- Marking: S 56 E under the barrel
- Configuration: American-market version described as an S56E
- Country of Manufacture: Italy
- Condition: Refer to photographs and individual inspection for specific condition details
The matching serial numbers are an important identifying characteristic of this particular shotgun. When documenting a vintage or collectible firearm, matching numbers can help establish that the major serialized components remain together with the original receiver.
Beretta BL-4 Background
Beretta has a long history of manufacturing sporting shotguns in Italy, with over/under models forming an important part of the company’s sporting-gun lineup. The BL series represents one of Beretta’s historical over/under shotgun families.
The BL-4 was produced in several configurations and gauges. As with many Beretta shotguns from different production periods, details such as barrel length, stock configuration, chamber dimensions, choke arrangement, engraving, and proof markings can vary.
The specific markings on this shotgun are therefore particularly useful when researching its production history. The S 56 E marking located under the barrel should be documented exactly as it appears on the firearm.
20 Gauge Over/Under Configuration
The 20 gauge is a widely established shotgun gauge used for sporting and hunting applications. A 20-gauge over/under places two barrels vertically, with each barrel having its own chamber and firing system.
The over/under configuration became particularly prominent in sporting shotguns because of its compact profile and two-barrel arrangement. The specific choke configuration and barrel characteristics of an individual shotgun should be determined from its markings and physical inspection rather than assumed from the model designation.
This Beretta features 26-inch barrels, providing the traditional proportions associated with many sporting and field shotguns.
S 56 E Marking
One of the notable identifying characteristics of this example is the S 56 E marking found under the barrel. The description provided identifies this shotgun as an American version of the S56E.
Historical Beretta firearms can contain numerous proof marks, serial markings, chamber markings, and factory designations. These markings can be useful when determining the manufacturing period and intended market.
Because vintage Beretta model designations and export configurations can differ, the exact interpretation of the S 56 E marking should be confirmed through the firearm’s complete set of markings, proof stamps, serial number, and historical documentation.
For research purposes, photographs of the barrel flats, receiver, proof marks, serial numbers, and other identifying areas can be particularly useful.
Matching Serial Numbers
This shotgun is described as having all matching serial numbers. Matching numbers can be an important consideration when researching the history and originality of a vintage firearm.
When documenting a matching-number shotgun, the receiver, barrels, fore-end, and other components should be checked for their respective markings where applicable. The actual serial-number locations can vary depending on the firearm’s production configuration.
Any serial numbers displayed publicly should be handled with appropriate privacy and security considerations.
Condition and Included Equipment
The condition of this Beretta BL-4 20 gauge should be evaluated from the photographs and through an appropriate inspection. Areas that may be examined include the exterior metal finish, barrels, bores, chamber areas, rib, receiver, stock, fore-end, checkering, buttstock, and mechanical components.
For a vintage shotgun, visible finish wear, stock handling marks, dents, scratches, oxidation, or other age-related characteristics should be documented based on the individual firearm.
Any case, accessories, choke tools, documentation, or other equipment should only be considered included if specifically identified in the listing or photographs.
Beretta Manufacturer Resources
Beretta is one of the world’s oldest continuously operating firearms manufacturers and maintains extensive resources concerning its firearms and sporting products.
For manufacturer information and current company resources, visit:
Beretta USA: https://www.berettausa.com/
The official Beretta website may provide information concerning current products, customer support, owner’s resources, and other manufacturer services.
For a vintage BL-4, historical references and professional evaluation may be necessary to establish exact production details.
Safe Handling and Maintenance
The Beretta BL-4 should always be handled responsibly and in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. Treat every firearm as though it is loaded, keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction, keep fingers outside the trigger guard until ready to fire, and verify that the shotgun is unloaded before handling, cleaning, transporting, or storing it.
Because this is a vintage shotgun, professional inspection by a qualified gunsmith is appropriate before firing if the firearm’s mechanical condition, chamber dimensions, proof status, or suitability for particular ammunition is uncertain.
Additional Resources
Beretta USA: https://www.berettausa.com/
Beretta: https://www.beretta.com/
These official resources can provide manufacturer information and customer-support resources. Historical references or qualified gunsmith evaluation may be appropriate when researching the exact production history of an older Beretta BL-4.
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