Franchi PA8
Luigi Franchi S.p.A. · Shotgun · Discontinued · 1990
Also known as: Franchi PA-8, Franchi PA8E, Franchi PA8I
Overview
The Franchi PA8 is an Italian pump-action shotgun chambered in 12 gauge, developed by Luigi Franchi as a lighter, lower-cost and less menacing tactical alternative to the company's combat-oriented SPAS-12. Feeding from a tubular magazine and built around a lightweight alloy receiver, it was aimed primarily at police and law-enforcement use. The PA8 added a plastic pistol grip over the wood-stocked PA7, and was offered in 18.5-inch and 24-inch barrel lengths. The PA8E carries a fixed synthetic buttstock, while the PA8I uses an up-and-over folding metal stock for compact storage and transport.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 3100 g (109.3 oz) |
| Overall Length | 1020 mm (40.16") |
| Barrel Length | 610 mm (24.02") |
| Action Type | Pump Action |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Stage |
| Magazine Capacity | 7 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Tubular |
| Muzzle Velocity | 400 m/s (1312 fps) |
| Effective Range | 40 m (44 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Smoothbore |
| Frame Material | Aluminum |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Polymer |
| Finish | Matte Black |
Calibers
- 12 Gauge · primary — also known as 12ga, 12 Bore, 12x70mm
Features
- Firing modes: Repeating
- Feed systems: Tubular Magazine
- Safety mechanisms: Cross Bolt Safety
- Features: Pump Action, Tubular Magazine, Pistol Grip, Folding Stock, Fixed Iron Sights, Law Enforcement Oriented, Lightweight Alloy Receiver
Variants
- Franchi PA8E — Fixed Stock
- Franchi PA8I — Folding Stock
Service history
Operators
- Italian Armed Forces
- Spanish security forces
Production
Production years: 1990-2000s
Marketed primarily for police and law-enforcement use; sold in Italy, Spain and other markets.
Origin
Country of origin: Italy
Notes
Part of Franchi's PA pump-action series (PA3/PA7/PA8) derived from the SPAS-12 program, emphasizing improved compactness, reduced weight and controlled production cost. The PA8I's folding metal stock pivots up and over the top of the receiver.
Background
Franchi built its reputation on the dramatic dual-mode SPAS-12, but many police buyers wanted something cheaper and less intimidating; the PA series, capped by the pistol-gripped PA8, was Franchi's answer: a conventional pump that kept the tactical profile without the SPAS's weight, cost or aggressive looks.