Perazzi MR57

The MR57 is Perazzi's first all-new platform in 11 years, going back to the High Tech in 2015. The biggest changes start at the barrels, where Perazzi is now doing its own in-house lengthened forcing cones and thin walls. That means you keep the same dynamic of a factory fixed barrel even when you go to a multi-choke setup, so there's really no downside to choosing multi-chokes over fixed chokes.

The receiver is built off the proven MX, and it runs the same internal locking system Perazzi has used for years. The internal parts all interchange, right down to the springs, hammers, and firing pins, across the MX8, MX12, High Tech, and the new MR57.

• MSRP: Starting around $19,000
• Available Gauges: 12 Gauge
• Barrel Length Options: Custom (you choose)
• Chamber Size: 3"
• Weight: Approximately 8.5 lbs (varies by configuration)
• Length of Pull: Custom, built to fit
• Stock: Fully custom dimensions, built to the shooter
• Trigger: Fixed trigger group on this S model, coil spring triggers, and barrel selector on the safety.
• Chokes: Fixed or interchangeable, with Perazzi's in-house thin-wall barrels
• Extras: Fully custom stock, rib and side rib configuration, bead setup, wood grade, and finish (nickel-plated or blued). Gold and platinum models to follow.

Ergonomics

The checkering on the MR57 is styled a little differently than what you've seen on other Perazzis. It's almost a blend of the curves from the High Tech and the straighter lines of the MX, and the result just feels right in the hands.

Up at the forend is where the MR57 really stands apart. Instead of the rounded forend you see on a lot of guns, this one has a contour to it with some very crisp, sharp lines. We loved the way it felt and how naturally it pointed.

The receiver carries that same theme, a combination of curves and straight lines that reads modern and a little sporty, but still elegant. And of course, the grip and stock can be shaped however you want them with a custom stock.

Recoil and Reliability

Underneath, the MR57 uses the same Boss-style locking system Perazzi has run for years. Each shoulder is hand-fit to the receiver, which spreads the load of every shot across the entire receiver and reduces wear on the breech face. It's a hard, expensive process to get right, but it's the best way to do it according to Perazzi.

That system has a long track record. We've heard of these guns going well over a million rounds, so the reliability is about as proven as it gets.

Recoil-wise, we came away impressed. This gun wasn't built to fit us and we still loved how it handled recoil.

Want even less recoil? We love the FalconStrike recoil reduction systems.

Breakdown / Quality of Build

The hand-fitting is really the heart of a Perazzi. Those hand-fit shoulders and components take time and cost money, but that's what spreads the load and makes these guns last. The in-house barrels, forcing cones, and thin walls are part of that same story.

The other side of the build is the artistry, and it's something to see! The wood vault alone holds grade after grade of walnut, and the engraving is where things really climb. We watched a master engraver who has been at it for over 50 years, treating the receiver like a canvas. However, engraving is not an option on the MR57 at the time of writing this article.

Shooting Experience

The first thing we noticed when picking it up is that it felt lighter than it actually is. It's right around 8.5 lbs, but Perazzi moved some of the weight rearward in the receiver, and that changes everything about how it handles.

Think of a hammer. Hold it by the heavy head and the handle goes anywhere you want. Hold it by the handle and it's tough to be precise. Shifting that weight back makes the MR57 feel livelier and easier to move with intent. On the range, the MR57 moved like a dream. We were impressed, from the smooth moves to the easy recoil and the feel in our hands.

Final Thoughts

Perazzi doesn't reinvent the wheel often, so a brand new platform after 11 years is worth paying attention to. The MR57 takes everything proven about the MX and pushes it forward, from the in-house barrels to the way the weight sits.

We'll be straight with you: this particular gun wasn't built to fit us, and it still moved great. Get one set up to your own dimensions and we think it'll be a real treat. If you already shoot a Perazzi or you've been eyeing one, the MR57 is worthy of consideration.

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