Beretta 694 vs DT11: Which Beretta Competition Shotgun Is Right for You?

1 August 2026

If you've been researching the Beretta 694 vs DT11, you're certainly not alone. It's one of the most searched-for shotgun comparisons among clay shooters looking to invest in a serious competition gun.

Both models come from Beretta’s renowned competition pedigree, both have won favour with shooters worldwide, and both offer outstanding performance on the sporting layout.

To gain some real-world insight into the Beretta 694 vs DT11 debate, members of our Gunroom team, Katherine and Molly, recently spent time shooting both guns side-by-side on our sporting layout. Using a selection of Hull cartridges throughout the test, they focused on the areas that matter most to shooters: balance, recoil, handling and overall shooting experience. Their feedback forms the basis of this review.

Beretta 694 vs DT11 at a Glance

Both guns come supplied with Beretta's extended Optima HP choke system and are purpose-built competition shotguns designed to excel across Sporting, FITASC and other clay shooting disciplines.

Beretta DT11 Sporting

30″ barrels tested (31″ & 32″ also available)
14½” stock
Approx. 8lb 10oz
Multi chokes
High Performance Steel Proofed
Steelium Pro barrels
Detachable trigger group

Beretta 694 Sporter

30″ barrels tested (31″ & 32″ also available)
14½” stock
8lb
Multi chokes
High Performance Steel Proofed
Steelium Plus barrels

The Biggest Difference: Weight & Handling

The first thing Katherine and Molly noticed during their Beretta 694 vs DT11 comparison was the difference in overall weight and balance.

At approximately 8lb 10oz, the DT11 immediately feels like the heavier and more substantial of the two guns. Whilst shooting a combination of crossing and driven-style targets, both commented on how naturally the gun balanced between the hands. The additional weight created a smooth, deliberate swing that inspired confidence and encouraged consistency through the target.

The 694, however, offered a noticeably different experience. At around 8lb, it felt livelier and more responsive. Moving between targets required less effort and the gun felt particularly nimble on sporting presentations that demanded quicker reactions.

This isn’t a case of one approach being better than the other. Instead, the choice comes down to what characteristics you value most in a competition shotgun.

DT11 Handling Characteristics

Heavier overall feel
Exceptional stability through the shot
Smooth, controlled swing
Encourages consistent gun movement

694 Handling Characteristics

Lighter overall weight
Quicker to move between targets
More agile feel
Ideal for shooters who prefer a responsive gun

Recoil: DT11 Takes the Honours

One of the clearest differences identified during testing was recoil.

Both Katherine and Molly felt that the DT11 produced noticeably less perceived recoil than the 694. This softer shooting experience was apparent throughout the session and contributed to the gun’s refined feel.

Several factors are likely responsible.

Firstly, the DT11’s additional weight naturally helps absorb recoil energy. Secondly, Beretta’s premium Steelium Pro barrel technology has been specifically designed to deliver a smoother shooting experience. The 694 was by no means uncomfortable to shoot. In fact, recoil remained perfectly manageable throughout the review. However, when firing the two guns back-to-back, the DT11 felt noticeably softer. For shooters firing large volumes of cartridges during practice or registered competitions, this reduction in recoil could make a significant difference over the course of a day.

Recoil Verdict

DT11

Softer perceived recoil
Reduced muzzle flip
Comfortable for high-volume shooting

694

Slightly more recoil
Still very manageable
Benefits from lighter overall weight

Competition Features

When discussing the Beretta 694 vs DT11, one feature immediately separates the two guns: the detachable trigger group.

The DT11’s removable trigger unit has become one of its defining competition features. For serious competition shooters, the ability to remove the trigger assembly for maintenance or quickly replace it in the unlikely event of a failure offers considerable peace of mind.

This is a feature more commonly associated with premium competition shotguns and helps explain why the DT11 sits at the top of Beretta’s competition range.

The 694 does not feature a detachable trigger group. However, for many shooters this is unlikely to be a deciding factor. The absence of the system helps keep the gun lighter and contributes to its more attractive price point.

Competition Feature Comparison

DT11

Detachable trigger unit
Built for elite competition use
Easy maintenance and servicing

694

Simpler design
Lower cost of entry
Excellent competition credentials

Steelium Plus vs Steelium Pro Barrels

One of the most significant technical differences in the Beretta 694 vs DT11 comparison lies in the barrels.

The 694 utilises Beretta’s Steelium Plus barrels, whilst the DT11 is fitted with the company’s flagship Steelium Pro barrels.

Both share Beretta’s cold hammer-forged manufacturing process and have earned excellent reputations for pattern quality, durability and consistency. However, the DT11’s Steelium Pro barrels represent the next step in Beretta’s barrel development.

During testing, the softer shooting characteristics of the DT11 were immediately noticeable. Whilst overall weight undoubtedly plays a role, the Steelium Pro barrel design contributes significantly to the gun’s refined behaviour and reduced felt recoil.

The Steelium Plus barrels found on the 694 are far from a compromise. In fact, they are one of the main reasons the model has become such a success. They produce excellent patterns and complement the 694’s lighter, more dynamic handling characteristics.

Barrel Comparison

Beretta DT11

Steelium Pro barrels
Optimised for recoil reduction
Premium competition specification
Smooth shooting characteristics

Beretta 694

Steelium Plus barrels
Excellent pattern performance
Superb balance of performance and value
Responsive handling

Beretta 694 vs DT11 Price Comparison

Price is often where the Beretta 694 vs DT11 conversation becomes most interesting.

The DT11 sits proudly at the top of Beretta’s competition shotgun range and commands a significantly higher price than the 694. Whilst prices vary depending on specification, barrel length and condition, there is typically a substantial gap between the two models.

This raises the question that Gunroom staff hear time and time again – Is the DT11 Worth the Extra Money?

The answer depends entirely on what you want from your shotgun.

If you’re a dedicated competition shooter looking for Beretta’s flagship platform, reduced recoil, premium engineering and features such as the detachable trigger group, the DT11’s higher price may be fully justified.

However, the 694 arguably represents one of the best value competition shotguns currently available. It incorporates many of the lessons learnt during the development of Beretta’s high-end competition guns and packages them into a more accessible platform.For many club, county and registered shooters, the 694 delivers everything they could realistically need.

Value Comparison

Choose the DT11 if:

You want Beretta’s flagship competition shotgun
You value minimum recoil
You want a detachable trigger group
You shoot large cartridge volumes annually
Budget is less of a concern

Choose the 694 if:

You want exceptional value for money
You prefer a lighter, more agile gun
You compete regularly but don’t need flagship features
You are upgrading from an entry-level or mid-range shotgun

Similarities Between the Beretta 694 and DT11

It's easy to focus on differences, but there are plenty of shared strengths in the Beretta 694 vs DT11 comparison.

Both guns:

Are purpose-built for clay shooting
Feature Beretta’s Optima HP choke system
Are High Performance Steel Proofed
Offer outstanding reliability
Deliver premium Beretta build quality
Have proven themselves at every level of competition

Most importantly, Katherine and Molly found both guns capable of consistently breaking targets and performing to a very high standard. Neither shooter felt disadvantaged using either model.

Which Beretta Is Right for You?

Choose the DT11 if:

You shoot registered competitions regularly
You value reduced recoil
You prefer a heavier, more stable shotgun
You want Beretta’s flagship competition gun
You appreciate premium competition features

Choose the 694 if:

You want outstanding performance for the money
You prefer lighter handling
You shoot a mixture of practice, club and competition targets
You want a shotgun capable of growing with your shooting ambitions

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the Beretta DT11 better than the 694?
A: Not necessarily. The DT11 offers lower recoil, a detachable trigger group and a heavier, more stable shooting platform. However, many shooters prefer the lighter handling and lower purchase price of the 694.

Q: Why is the DT11 more expensive than the 694?
A: The DT11 is Beretta's flagship competition shotgun and includes premium features such as Steelium Pro barrels, a detachable trigger group and a higher-end competition specification.

Q: What is the weight difference between the DT11 & 694?
A: The DT11 tested weighed approximately 8lb 10oz, while the 694 weighed approximately 8lb, making this DT11 approixmately 9oz heavier. (30" variant tested in both models).

Q: Does the DT11 recoil less than the 694?
A: Based on feedback from Katherine and Molly's testing session, the DT11 produced noticeably less perceived recoil than the 694.

Q: Is the Beretta 694 suitable for competition shooting?
A: Absolutely. The Beretta 694 was designed specifically for clay shooting competition and has become one of the most popular competition shotguns available.

Q: Which is better for Sporting Clays, the 694 or DT11?
A: Both are excellent choices. Shooters who prefer lighter handling often favour the 694, whilst those who prioritise stability and reduced recoil tend to lean towards the DT11.

Q: Is the Beretta 694 based on the DT11?
A: In many respects, yes. The 694 incorporates lessons learned from Beretta's premium competition platforms and shares many design principles that contributed to the DT11's success.

Q: Is the DT11 worth upgrading to from a 694?
A: For serious competition shooters seeking every possible advantage, the DT11 may justify the upgrade. However, many accomplished competitors continue to shoot the 694 successfully at a very high level.

Final Thoughts

When comparing the Beretta 694 vs DT11, there is no outright winner.

The DT11 offers flagship competition features, excellent recoil management and premium engineering. The 694, meanwhile, provides outstanding value, lighter handling and performance that exceeds the needs of most shooters.

After spending time with both guns, Katherine and Molly came away impressed by each for different reasons. The DT11 felt refined, composed and purpose-built for serious competition. The 694 delivered a responsive, confidence-inspiring shooting experience and showcased exactly why it has become one of Beretta’s most popular competition shotguns.

Ultimately, the best gun is the one that complements your shooting style, physique and ambitions.

If you’re still deciding between the Beretta 694 vs DT11, visit us at Ian Coley Sporting and let our experienced Gunroom team help you find the Beretta that’s right for you.

Shop the complete range of DT11’s HERE
Shop the complete range of 694’s HERE