Guerini Summit Sporting

I’ll be honest and say from the start that when I first tested a Guerini Summit many moons ago I was noticeably under-whelmed especially with the overall quality. But times have changed! Guerini in Italy are now operating from their new, purpose-built facilities and yes, the quality now puts them up there with the best. Likewise, when it comes to a comprehensive package, I doubt if anyone can comes close in terms of value for money.

Luggage Allowance

Presented in a Negrini travelling case, it’s safe to say there isn’t an inch of wasted space. Velveteen slips offer additional protection to the individual components, whilst all other accessories come complete with their own individual small cases, all of which fit neatly into the various compartments.

The two main upgrades that set the new Summit apart are the stock measurements and the variable weighting system, which fits in the stock bolt hole. However, it’s the latter that’s of primary interest. It consists of a short bar with springs and weights. The adjustable weights can be altered, removed or added too, so allowing the user to shift both stock and overall balance fore or aft. The springs will also give an amount of recoil reduction. Equally useful is the fact this system can be retro fitted to any existing Guerini for just £122.50p; no modifications required.

The ‘coffee and cream’ woodwork is of an excellent standard and fit, well grained, finely chequered and with a soft lacquer finish. Interestingly the chequering of the Schnable forend is an enveloping panel giving the user grip irrespective of the angle they choose to hold the gun. This feature is repeated on the semi pistol grip, the two oversized panels expanding as they move downwards to the heel and over the nicely proportioned palm swell.

Gloss Finish

The Summit’s gloss black, 3” chambered, 32” barrels or 32 ¾” with the extended Maxischokes fitted are beautifully struck with vented ribs. The top one is floating and shows a broad 10mm cross-cut with central groove and two beads. Of monobloc construction they are held firmly in battery with an under bolt. They mate into a traditional Italianate, boxlock action, in this case with a colour case-hardened finish with the Guerini and Summit names inlaid in gold. Minimal engraving gives the action its detailing whilst a fully adjustable, gold plated trigger blade allows for further personal adjustment.

Two particular Guerini points that have been maintained are the short top lever with chequering on one side and the extra large barrel selector/ safety catch. Both are easy to locate and their dimensions work extremely well, with the hands falling automatically to them, which promotes useful familiarity.   

Bit of Both

Adjustment of the stock weight system to bring the Summit’s point of balance rearwards to directly beneath the hinges, a selection of Rishton SG’s sporting targets lay ahead, the first peg revealing the gun’s new character. As you mount the Summit you are instantly aware of the fact that this is a substantial gun. Weighing in at 9lbs the measurements of a drop at comb and heel of 1¼” and 2 1/8” combined with a healthy length of pull a tad over of 14¼” give the gun a big, beefy effect especially for those of us with long arms. Equally, with a pull weight of just over 5lbs, the light, crisp release of the trigger eliminates jerk when firing.

Likewise with Guerini’s generous selection of multi-chokes, both barrels can benefit from the exact same restrictions. The proven patterning allowing the user to open up by at least one or even two increments, Skeet and 3/8th more or less ideal for all but the most distant targets when combined with Express World Cup 8’s. Where the overall weight may deter some users in the case of the Summit it works to its advantage. Smooth and controlled to swing, this Guerini promotes a natural rhythm irrespective of the speed or severity of the clays to a degree it almost flatters your abilities.

Time and Tide

The gun now has an aura of build quality up there with some of the best. Equally, the Summit’s shootability is almost tangible the moment you pick it up, a definite sense of purpose having seemingly now been built into the gun. For me, just two things would need to be modified.

Firstly, I’d opt for the slightly shorter 30” barrels - my preferred length on a sporting 12-bore. Secondly, for an extra £270 I’d have the optional adjustable stock fitted. This would allow me to drop the comb just short of a ¼” so allowing the Summit to shoot a 50/50 pattern, once again my favoured shot distribution on sporting targets. As I’ve said, these would be my own individual requirements; the Summit as it stands is actually near perfect for the vast majority of shooters.

On The Road Again

Where Guerini UK differ from many other importers is that they operate an annual road show that allows potential buyers to try before they buy. So if the Summit appeals, log onto their website or give Mike Mansfield a call to find your nearest venue and try the whole range for yourself. You never know, you may actually get your hands on the gun seen here and discover for yourself exactly why I now consider Guerini and their Summit Sporting to be a serious contender and a cracking value for money package.

We Reckon!

With the new Summit, Guerini have come of age
A serious, substantial competition shotgun
Nobody puts a package together like Guerini

PRICE: £1,992 srp (as tested)