I opted for the Franchi Affinity after looking hard at the A300 to replace my Beretta A302 ( I also own other Berettas). I use mine for pheasant hunting and love it and don't regret buying it for a minute. I feel it is better balanced than the A300 and the raised rib just seems to bring my eye on target faster. Mine is a 12ga. and I usually shoot a 1330 fps heavy load with no issues at all. It is my first composite stock but I warmed up to it quickly as I hunt in about every Fall/Winter weather type and didn't have to worry about getting the moisture off. I know it is not a gas gun and there is a little more recoil, but not that much. It stays cleaner than my A302 ever did. I strongly recommend it to anyone looking in that category of gun, if nothing else, for a comparison!