im starting to save up for a semi auto for next year...is the only difference between the xtrema2 and the urika2 the cabality 3.5" shells vs only 3" shells?

and is the Kick Off recoil system really worth that extra $$??

Well the Urika 2 is based off the 391 action and gas system. Even though the Extrema shares the 391 designation it really has little simularity. The Extrema has a rotary bolt head, longer action, and different gas system. Does this make a difference in reliability or durability? No...

The big thing is the shell length capabilities. The Extrema being a 3 1/2" chamber with supporting action length and gas system is still one of the most reliable cycling, long chambered guns with target loads to heavy magnums. The Extrema II also has an internal and external coating that prevents rust and corrosion; not sure on the Urika II. The Extrema is a little simpler to break completely down and clean especially since the return spring is located in the front of the gun on the mag tube; whereas the 391 Urika's is located inside the rear stock.

I've shot Extrema's with KO and they are a pleasure to shoot. It truly makes a significant difference in lengthening out the recoil impulse unlike some of the other "claims" from other manufacturers. You need to find out if it is worth it though. If it helps, Beretta has a promotion going right now where if you buy a non-KO Extrema II they will send you a free KO system.

what he said.

completely different guns.

All good info, I didnt know all that. But on the kick off. I wouldnt spend an extra 400 on it but if they were still offering the free kickoff (which they have been since october of 2009), i'd get it.

If you are a waterfowler...hands down go with the Extrema. The option to use 3.5" shells is all the reason you need even if you don't use them often or really at all.

I have a SBEII and over the years I've gone away from 3.5" shells and am using them less and less...however that's all I use for geese and also use them for turkey. Last year I let a guy borrow a box of 3" shells....he paid me back by giving me some 3.5" shells.

It's a fact that 3.5" shell, while not always needed (actually never really needed), will deliver you a bigger payload, more speed, or a combination of both.

TDK did a great job summing up the differences in the guns. I recently bought a 391. I don't have any reason in the world to shoot 3.5's...to me they are overkill on ducks and geese and the only real reason to have it might be turkey. I don't turkey hunt so I didn't need them.

They definitely give more payload but with some of the new speedy 3" shells you don't really need the 3.5's to even get speed like it used to be. I am going to shoot reloads this year and have picked a recipe that is 1600fps and that is in a 2 3/4 shell w/ 1 oz of shot.

I went with the ko and if I had it to do again I would do the same.

I have the Xtrema without Kick-off and don't think I miss it since I don't shoot 3.5" shells.

If I shot 3.5" shells or had neck, spinal or shoulder problems I would get the kick-off. It may be one of the few guns people with those physical problems could shoot a 3" shell with.

We are waterfowl hunters not cheerleaders. Where's the fun without the kick of a good magnum shell?

Couldn't of said it any better. Makes me wonder how sensitive some people are when it comes to recoil. I don't think I've ever noticed or even thought about recoil when I pulled up on a bird. It's just sad that those recoil systems cost that much $$$. You could buy another gun for what some of those recoil systems costs. Toughen up

I bought one without k/o and wouldnt pay the extra. Do like I did and buy a Limbsaver pad and get rid of the hard gel pad and you cant even feel the kick.

I have a A390 Silver Mallard (prior to 391) and the recoil is hardly anything on a 3" mag. I can't imagine it being any softer. Just for kicks (ha ha) I youtubed the extrema2 and I must say it's pretty impressive. Check it out http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uk2mFcsa7mw

Thats a foolish statement...And there are so many benefits to lower felt recoil I wont even waste my time. Maybe one day I will toughen up...Till then I will stick with trying to get the lowest felt recoil.