Breda Zenith Sporter

Clay coach Becky McKenzie rates this attractive 12-bore

- Becky McKenzie

Breda is well known for producing semi-auto shotguns and, as with many Italian brands, they are produced in the Val Trompia region in Brescia. Breda uses first-class materials, displays impeccable workmanship, and has state-of-the-art assembly for its shotgun lines. Its over-and-under line-up contains the Zenith Black, and Zenith Nickel, as well as the Zenith L game series, which uses Grade 3-4 wood and has some stunning engraving on the action, signed by master engraver Dario Cortini.

The Zenith Black I tested here in 12bore with 30in barrels has extended ‘Maxi’ multi chokes. It has a decent stock with straight grain, which may not look pretty but ensures the strength of the wood. The walnut is a nice, dark color, with the grain matching the fore-end. The grade of wood is 3-4, and oiled by hand. The chequering had a good ‘feel’ – neither too sharp, nor too soft, which was pretty good as I hate sharp chequering.

Barrels