Perazzi MX8

Perazzi Armi · Shotgun · In Production · 1968

Also known as: MX-8, Ithaca-Perazzi MX-8

Overview

The Perazzi MX8 is an Italian over/under competition shotgun introduced in 1968. Built on a shallow trigger-plate action with a detachable drop-out trigger group, it is chambered in 12 gauge and configured for trap, skeet, double trap, and sporting clays. It is widely regarded as the most successful competition shotgun in Olympic and international clay-target history.

Specifications

Weight (empty)3400 g (119.9 oz)
Barrel Length750 mm (29.53")
Action TypeBreak Action
Firing MechanismHammer Fired
Trigger TypeSingle Stage
Trigger Pull15 N (3.4 lbf)
Muzzle Velocity410 m/s (1345 fps)
Muzzle Energy2353 J (1735 ft·lbf)
Effective Range40 m (44 yd)
Barrel RiflingNone
Frame MaterialSteel
Barrel MaterialSteel
Stock MaterialWood
FinishBlued

Calibers

Features

Production

Production years: 1968-present

Semi-bespoke production; totals not published

Origin

Country of origin: Italy

Designer: Daniele Perazzi

Notes

The detachable trigger group can be swapped in minutes, with leaf- or coil-spring options and pull/pull, release, or pull/release configurations. Overall length is not published by the maker as competition guns are sold by barrel length with made-to-measure stocks. Early US imports (from 1969) were branded Ithaca-Perazzi MX-8.

Background

The 'MX8' name encodes 'Mexico '68' - the gun was developed by Daniele Perazzi together with Olympic Trap gold medallist Ennio Mattarelli specifically for the 1968 Mexico City Olympics.