I have owned two Franchi pre-Beretta over-and-unders.
One, a 20 and 28 gauge two barrel, was very well made and very light. As I recall it had an aluminum recevier with a steel insert at the the breechwalls and bearing points. The other was a 12 gauge, also with an aluminum receiver and steel inserts. Both were light for their gauge and I didn't have any problems with them. I sold the 20/28 gauge set to a friend and he has been pleased with it.
I also owned two Franchi semiauto 28 gauges, AL48s. They were well made and dependable, if cleaned correctly.
I think highly of the pre-Beretta Franchis. I have never owned the Aspire or any of the guns made after Beretta bought Franchi. I also hold Beretta in high esteem.
Best,
Mike
Edit: As I remember both guns were the Veloce model.
