Beretta has recently revealed two new configurations for its A300 Ultima Patrol platform, a move timed to respectfully coincide with the 250th birthday of the United States Marine Corps. It’s a thoughtful nod to a quarter millennium of service, which, if you think about it, is a remarkably long time to keep finding your socks in the dark. The headline announcement features the A300 Ultima Patrol Raider Commemorative Edition, a truly limited run of 250 units, alongside a slightly humbler, yet still mission-ready, standard A300 Ultima Patrol configuration.

The limited-edition Raider is the showstopper, conceived to honour the formidable legacy of the Marines, particularly their heritage in close-quarters battle (CQB). Beretta has adorned this model with the legendary Frogskin camouflage, a pattern that immediately conjures images of the gritty Pacific Theater combat of World War II. It’s an unmistakable blend of historical reverence and modern fighting capability, designed to salute the enduring spirit and discipline of America's Fighting Force.

The Raider is built on the same incredibly reliable A300 platform that enthusiasts appreciate. What makes the Commemorative Edition particularly unique, however, is its commitment to battlefield heritage. Crucially, it comes equipped with an integral bayonet mount and a genuine, standard-issue Ontario Knife Company (OKC) 3S bayonet. For those keeping score at home, the OKC 3S is reportedly the only bayonet still actively deployed by a U.S. military branch—a nice historical touch that acknowledges the shotgun's role in close-in fighting throughout history.

Beyond the bayonet, each of these 250 shotguns is individually serialized, a clear indicator of its rarity and value to collectors. To ensure it’s presented with the gravitas it deserves, the Raider includes custom packaging in the form of a beautiful wooden ammo crate. Lined with velvet and featuring rope carry handles, this display-ready crate allows collectors to display the shotgun and its bayonet—perhaps a subtle hint that this particular firearm is more likely destined for a wall than a firing range.

The shotgun itself, in both the Commemorative and standard configurations, is designed for rapid deployment and ease of use under duress. This is where modern ergonomics meet high performance. The features include enlarged controls—specifically an enlarged loading port and extended bolt release and handle—all meant to facilitate faster manipulation and reloading, because nobody wants fumbling fingers in an emergency.

Furthermore, the design includes an oversized and reversible safety button, which is a pragmatic feature for easy operation regardless of the conditions or whether the shooter is left- or right-handed. The aggressively textured grip areas on the specially designed forend ensure superior control, while the shortened compact stock with a 13-inch length-of-pull is deliberately engineered to maximize maneuverability, especially in tight or confined spaces.

For those who treat a shotgun like a blank canvas for accessories, the A300 Ultima Patrol offers ample accessory mounts. It arrives with an installed 7-slot Picatinny rail on top, which is always useful, and three M-Lok mounting points for lights, lasers, and whatever else a user might deem necessary. Beretta has also ensured it's compatible with popular aftermarket rail and optic mount accessories designed for its sister model, the 1301 Tactical, a nice touch for those who appreciate cross-platform compatibility.

“The United States Marine Corps’ 250th anniversary is a historic milestone, and we wanted to create something that truly celebrates their legacy,” said Caleb McMillen, Sr. Product Manager at Beretta USA. “The A300 Ultima Patrol Raider is more than a shotgun. It’s a tribute to 250 years of honor, courage and commitment. By blending battlefield heritage with modern performance, we’re proud to offer both a commemorative edition and a mission-ready configuration that salute America’s Finest Fighting Force.”

Finally, the Beretta A300 Ultima Patrol Raider Commemorative Edition has been recognized as a qualified product of the American Defender Program. This program underscores Beretta USA’s commitment to those who serve. It offers special discount pricing for qualified federal agents, individual law enforcement officers, military personnel, and other first responders.

It's a thoughtful way to give back, even if these firearms—purchased through the program—aren’t eligible for any other discounts or rebates. In sum, whether one is defending the homestead, on patrol, or simply preserving a proud military tradition, the A300 Patrol Raider blends historical respect with contemporary tactical necessities. It’s an attractive package that honors an impressive history with a rather fetching firearm.