Technically, the Perazzi High Tech S does not stray far from the well-trodden path of the Perazzi brand. Its 32in barrels are monobloc in construction. The tubes are profiled perfectly and the barrel walls are an even 35 thou, of thickness, throughout.
The choking is fixed and I was struck by the length of the choke taper to the muzzle. This long, gentle taper will reduce pressure and wear on the choke when using steel shot. The choke constriction starts 10cm back from the muzzle to a 20 thou constriction at the muzzle, making it a true half-choke, or modified if you are from the other side of the Atlantic.
On a 12-bore, full choke is 40th constriction from the bore, three-quarter is 30th, half is 20th and a quarter is 10th. Few people have a bore gauge to measure choke but it is worth checking because you get surprising results when measuring some choke tubes against actual bore diameter.
The reverse tapered top rib is novel and gives the illusion of a consistent rib width for the full length of the barrel when mounted. It makes the 32in barrels feel shorter and, when shot, tends to take the eye and make you more aware of the barrels.
Though slightly wider, the action is a classic trigger-plate with bifurcating Boss-style bolt and interlocking barrel and action draws. Essentially, it’s seriously strong. Fixed and removable trigger groups are offered as is the option of a leaf/coil mainspring. The action finish is black with the maker’s branding detail in a banner. Traditional factory engraving options are available. It was fascinating to see this striking action detailing and branding replacing traditional engraving and how this appealed to the younger members of our team.
The finish on the stock brings out the grain in the wood to stunning effect
I love the stock shapes and lines throughout the gun, including the Baikal-style fore-end. The shapes ooze Italian style yet the feel is still familiar in the hand and on the face.
The stocking is superb; it does not have the bulky feel that other thoroughbred Italian competition guns can have. The comb is well positioned and the grip has a slim feel with a modest palm swell that connects with the hand well.
The finish is a silky wax oil type and the wood grain is well sealed, bringing out the contrast in the wood that gives the High Tech S a look of quality.
Itching to shoot the gun and feeling that I would never miss a target again, I stood under the high tower at Oxfordshire Shooting School. It didn’t go well. I struggled with line, then lead, then line again. I put this down to the photographer from Shooting Times standing behind me. He had a look on his face that said, “I thought you could shoot.”