It’s a big year for Benelli, with the introduction of a new O/U shotgun, the Model 828U Steel in 12- and 20-gauge, plus the company has updated its M2 Field semi-auto and announced Benelli SBE 3 models are now available in Realtree’s all-new Max-7 camo pattern.
The new O/U 828U Steel shotgun features a patented steel lock plate. According to Benelli, the 828U Steel is made with a steel receiver versus aluminum, adding a slight amount of weight to the gun to help mitigate recoil when using heavier loads and offers a subtle balance shift for smoother swings.
Benelli designers added the proprietary Benelli Surface Treatment (BE.S.T.) to the barrels, receiver, and lock plate. This coating offers superior corrosion and abrasion resistance, making the shotgun practically impervious to harsh environments, the company says.
With its AA-Grade satin walnut stock and forend, satin receiver, and gloss barrels, the 828U Steel may look like a safe queen, but it is built for years of service in the field.
The 828U Steel comes chambered for 2 ¾ – and 3-inch shotshells in both 12- and 20-gauge. Barrel lengths offered are 26-, 28-, and 30-inch. Crio®-treated chokes in C, IC, M, IM, and F are also included.
Benelli 828U Steel Specifications
- Chamber: 12- and 20-gauge (2 3/4- and 3-inch)
- Barrel Length: 26, 28, 30 in. (12-gauge); 26, 28 in. (20-gauge)
- Overall Length: 43.25, 45.25, 47.25 in.
- Average Weight: 7.55, 7.65, 7.75 lbs. (12-gauge); 6.85, 6.95 lbs. (20-gauge)
- Sight: fiber-optic front with red insert
- Length of Pull: 14 3/4 in.
- Drop at Heel: 2 1/8 in.
- Drop at Comb: 1 1/2 in.
- Choke Tubes: C, IC, M, IM, F (Crio®)
- Metal /Finish (barrels, receiver, lock plate): BE.S.T.
- Stock: AA-Grade walnut, satin
- MSRP: $3399.00
Also for 2023, Benelli has updated its popular M2 Field shotgun, a workhorse self-loader that has proven itself time and again for reliability and durability. This year, according to Benelli, the M2 Field has an updated stock, forend, and receiver design.
The conventional round-style bolt release button has also been updated to a longer bar shape that is easier find and is quicker to manipulate when wearing gloves, according to a company news release.
The equally new buttstock design offers an extended “AirTouch” surface behind the pistol grip to enhance traction when hands are wet or gloved. This stock also features Benelli’s new Micro Cell recoil pad. This is a one-piece unit that works in conjunction with a corrosion-resistant recoil tube and stainless-steel spring housed inside the stock that significantly reduces felt recoil. Optional Micro Cell recoil pads are also available in varying widths to offer customized length-of-pull adjustment from the standard 14 3/8 inches (13 1/8 inches on the Compact models) to 13 7/8 or 14 ¾ inches.
Benelli also added Realtree’s all-new Max-7 camo pattern to the Super Black Eagle 3 series shotguns. Models include 12-, 20-, and 28-gauge chamberings.
The SBE 3 is feature-heavy with Benelli innovations like the ComfortTech® 3 System and Crio®-treated barrels and choke tubes, the company detailed. The enlarged bolt release and handle along with improved grip-to-trigger geometry boost ergonomics and functionality, Benelli said in a release. Benelli’s Inertia Driven™ System ensures consistent cycling no matter the load and is the cleanest semi-auto system in the industry.
