SHOT Show New: Benelli Adds Realtree Max-7, Updates M2 Field Shotgun, 828 O/U, New Lupo Rifles

SHOT Show New: Benelli Adds Realtree Max-7, Updates M2 Field Shotgun, 828 O/U, New Lupo Rifles

Benelli Adds Realtree Max-7 to SBE Shotgun Line

Accokeek, MD — Reputations are not given—they are earned. That is why Benelli’s Super Black Eagle 3 (SBE) line of semi-auto shotguns continue to lead the field. No matter how unruly the weather or what ammo is used, the SBE 3 meets the challenge with its second-to-none ergonomics, flawless operation, and reliable shot-to-shot consistency. For 2023, the SBE 3 series further bolsters its field performance with a new camo option.

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This year, multiple Benelli SBE 3 models are available in Realtree’s all-new Max-7 camo pattern, allowing the shotgun to blend seamlessly into any waterfowl environment. Models include 12-, 20-, and 28-gauge chambering.

The SBE 3 is feature-heavy with Benelli innovations like the ComfortTech® 3 System and Crio®-treated barrels and choke tubes. The enlarged bolt release and handle along with improved grip-to-trigger geometry boost ergonomics and functionality. Benelli’s Inertia Driven™ System ensures consistent cycling no matter the load and is the cleanest semi-auto system in the industry.

Benelli’s new-for-2023 SBE 3 shotguns in Max-7 are available in the following models in barrel lengths of 26 and 28 inches:

• Super Black Eagle 3 – 12-Gauge, 3.5”, MSRP: $2199

• Super Black Eagle 3 – 12-Gauge, 3”, MSRP: $1999

• Super Black Eagle 3 – 20-Gauge, 3”, MSRP: $1999

• Super Black Eagle 3 – 28-Gauge, 3”, MSRP: $1999

Benelli Updates M2 Field Shotgun Line for 2023

Accokeek, MD – For nearly two decades, the M2 Field shotgun has been hailed by experienced shooters and hunters as the unfailing workhorse of the Benelli semi-auto shotgun stable. Now, Benelli is billing the M2 Field as “workhorse rugged with thoroughbred speed.” It is an apt description given that, for 2023, the M2 Field is updated to deliver even better performance and to do so, surprisingly, at a slightly lower price point.

To start, all M2 Field shotguns in 12- and 20-gauge benefit from an updated stock, forend, and receiver design. The forend and receiver take on a sleek profile, blending seamlessly together in a way that is both aesthetically pleasing and provides a longer grip surface on the forend so shooters of all sizes can maintain a more comfortable and optimized grip. 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.

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 3/4 inches.­

Another new feature for the M2 Field shotguns is a revised bolt. The new design provides smooth, quiet operation with enhanced strength and efficiency for flawless cycling with any loads courtesy of Benelli’s Inertia Driven System.

As expected, the M2 Field series continues to benefit from Benelli’s standard Crio® treated barrels and choke tubes.

The M2 Field is offered in several models with 24-, 26-, and 28-inch barrel lengths and 2 3/4- and 3-inch chambers. Finish options include black synthetic, Mossy Oak Bottomland, Gore™ Optifade™ Waterfowl Timber, and Realtree Max-7 across the standard and Compact models.­

Finally, the M2 Field redesign provided manufacturing efficiencies that reduced production costs. For 2023, MSRP of the M2 Field is $1,399 for black synthetic models and $1,499 for camo versions, with the turkey guns similarly priced.

Benelli Adds New Model to 828 O/U Shotgun Line

Accokeek, MD – Nothing epitomizes the upland hunting experience like a classically styled over/under shotgun, and none represent the melding of traditional O/U styling with advanced engineering like the famed 828U series from Benelli. For 2023, Benelli moves the 828U series to the next technological level with the introduction of the new 828U Steel model in 12- and 20-gauge.

The 828U series made its mark on the shotgun scene due largely to its innovative and patented steel lock plate. The steel lock plate locks to the back of the barrel to contain shotshell pressure and prevent its transfer to the receiver, eliminating the wear and tear on the receiver and hinge that traditional O/U platforms typically suffer. This has helped make the 828U series the preferred choice of O/U fans.

Now, Benelli presents a fresh model to the 828U line with the 828U Steel. The 828U Steel is made with a steel receiver versus aluminum. This adds 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—even on fast crossing shots.

Another standout feature of the new 828U Steel is the addition of the Benelli Surface Treatment (BE.S.T.) to the barrels, receiver, and lock plate. This is a proprietary coating that offers superior corrosion and abrasion resistance, making the shotgun practically impervious to harsh environments. In short, the 828U, with its exquisite AA-Grade satin walnut stock and forend, satin receiver, and gloss barrels may look like a treasured mantle piece, but this gun is built to withstand hard field use for years to come.

As with all Benelli 828U shotguns, the 828U Steel includes the company’s heralded Progressive Comfort System. Contained within the walnut stock, this system utilizes three-stage recoil buffers that engage under progressively harder recoil to provide comfortable recoil mitigation to match light to magnum shotshell loads. Additional features include impulse-activated ejectors for a stronger and simple ejector system, removable trigger group to aid cleaning, and 40-point drop and cast adjustability for a custom fit.

The 828U Steel comes chambered for 2 3/4- 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

Benelli Introduces New Chamber Offerings to Lupo Rifle Series

Accokeek, MD – Since its introduction in 2020, Benelli’s first bolt-action rifle has earned praise from discerning consumers and the firearms media alike for its innovative engineering and out-of-the-box design features that deliver point-of-aim/point-of-impact performance more akin to a specialty custom rifle than a factory production model. Building on that success, Benelli expands its Lupo lineup for 2023 by offering two new calibers in a walnut stock platform.

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The Lupo in AA-Grade satin walnut has been a hit with shooters who appreciate the classic look and feel of a wood stock rifle. Previously available in .300 Win. Mag. and 6.5 Creedmoor, the walnut stock Lupo is now offered in two more popular hunting calibers—.308 Winchester and .30-06 Springfield. Both rifles are available with 22-inch Crio®-treated barrels and are protected with the same Benelli Surface Treatment (BE.S.T.) as featured on many Benelli long arms, including the award-winning Super Black Eagle series shotguns. BE.S.T. offers superior protection against rust, corrosion, and abrasion and comes with a 25-year warranty.

The Benelli Lupo sets new standards for production bolt rifles. Its ingenious chassis system hosts numerous features that score high marks in both comfort and precision performance. These include a free-floating barrel attached to a hardened steel barrel extension bedded to a steel block in the chassis-style alloy receiver. A sculpted bolt that boasts three large locking lugs and a 60-degree throw offer precision lockup and smooth action. A crisp trigger, adjustable from 2.2 to 4.4 pounds, significantly reduces shooter-induced shot disturbance. Combined, the Lupo system boasts three-shot, sub-MOA accuracy…guaranteed.

On the ergonomic front, the new Lupo delivers. Integrated into the walnut stock is Benelli’s Progressive Comfort®system. Derived from the same system found on select Benelli shotguns, Progressive Comfort® is a combination butt pad and three-stage recoil reduction module that reacts to recoil pulse via multi-stage buffers housed inside the module. The result is maximum recoil absorption across varying cartridge loads. Additional features contributing to comfort and fit include stock spacers to adjust length of pull and trigger reach spacers to customize trigger reach.

Benelli Lupo .308 Win./.30-06 Spr. Walnut Specifications

• Action: bolt

• Calibers: .308 Win., .30-06 Spr.

• Barrel Length: 22 in., free-floating

• Muzzle: 5/8×24 thread

• Twist: 1:11, RH

• Barrel Treatment: Crio®, gloss BE.S.T.

• Trigger: 2.2- to 4.4 lbs. adjustable

• Optic Mounting: two-piece Picatinny rails

• Magazine: detachable box

• Capacity: 5+1

• Overall Length: 44.225 in.; 44.625 in.

• Average Weight: 7.0 lbs.

• Length of Pull: adjustable (13.8 – 14.75 in.)

• Stock: AA-Grade checkered walnut, satin

• Recoil Reduction: Progressive Comfort®

• MSRP: $2,199

About Benelli

Benelli, headquartered in Accokeek, Maryland, offers the largest selection of semi-automatic shotguns in the world, as well as a variety of rifles. Since the company’s inception, Benelli has led the world in innovative firearm technology, including the ground-breaking Benelli Inertia Driven system, effective Comfort Tech recoil-reduction systems, and the BE.S.T. anti-corrosion coatings. Because of this commitment to innovation, they are recognized as the world’s leading manufacturer of premium firearms for competitive shooters, hunters, and defense professionals.

Benelli USA | 17603 Indian Head Highway | Accokeek, MD 20607 | BenelliUSA.com

For more information on Benelli USA premium shotguns and centerfire hunting rifles, visit BenelliUSA.com.

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