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Benelli Expands Super Black Eagle 3 28-Gauge Model Series

Shotgun Life Staff – January 23, 2025
January 2025, Accokeek, MD – The sub-gauge renaissance has taken a firm hold across the sporting landscape, injecting a new...
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Benelli Adds Advanced Impact Technology to Famed SBE3 Shotgun Line

Shotgun Life Staff – January 22, 2025
News

Franchi Introduces the Next-Generation Affinity 3 and 3.5 Shotguns

Shotgun Life Staff – January 21, 2025
News

Browning® Ammunition Delivers NEW Shotshell for Competitive Shooters

Shotgun Life Staff – January 20, 2025
News

Retay USA Unveils Air Control Extreme (ACE): Redefining Shotgun Performance for Waterfowl Hunters

Shotgun Life Staff – January 17, 2025

News

Benelli Expands Super Black Eagle 3 28-Gauge Model Series

Thursday, January 23, 2025
Written by Shotgun Life Staff
Categories: News
Tags: #benelli28gauge, #benellishotguns, #benellisuperblackeagle3

January 2025, Accokeek, MD – The sub-gauge renaissance has taken a firm hold across the sporting landscape, injecting a new level of fun and participation for many waterfowl and upland hunters while presenting new challenges and tactics for turkey hunters. Benelli is proud to have led the charge in nurturing the growing 28-gauge category with entries represented in the Super Black Eagle 3 and Ethos lines.

For 2025, Benelli adds three more models in this exciting chambering to the Super Black Eagle 3 series.

In a nod to the outstanding performance of 28-gauge TSS loads for turkey hunting and the typical run-and-gun nature of the sport, Benelli has added a 24-inch barrel model to its already extensive roster of 28-gauge SBE3 shotguns. Boasting Mossy Oak® Bottomland Original™ camo paired with a Patriot Brown Cerakote treatment on the barrel and receiver, this shotgun hits all the marks for a hard-use, fast-handling hunting shotgun — whether that hunt takes you after spring gobblers, woodland grouse, timber ducks, or doves.

In addition, Benelli expands the SBE3 28-gauge line with two new color configurations available for 28-inch-barrel shotguns. The new patterns are waterfowl-focused with GORE™ OPTIFADE Marsh furniture combined with Patriot Brown Cerakote and GORE™ OPTIFADE Timber working with a Tungsten Cerakote.

Much of the 28-gauge appeal comes from the soft-shooting nature of these shotshells. Since the SBE3 offers a firm foundation in comfort thanks to its recoil-absorbing ComforTech stock, shim kit for drop and cast adjustment, and ergonomic controls, an SBE3 in this chambering is the easiest-shooting yet most rugged semi-auto shotgun on the market today. 

For more information on Benelli USA’s full line of premium shotguns and centerfire hunting rifles, visit BenelliUSA.com.

Benelli Adds Advanced Impact Technology to Famed SBE3 Shotgun Line

Wednesday, January 22, 2025
Written by Shotgun Life Staff
Categories: News
Tags: #benellisbe, #benellishotguns, #benellisuperblackeagle

January 2025, Accokeek, MD – Benelli’s Super Black Eagle 3 is heralded around the world as the most advanced, most rugged, and most dependable hunting shotgun ever developed. Now, Benelli takes the proven SBE3 platform to even greater heights with the integration of the new Advanced Impact (A.I.) barrel and choke system.

Advanced Impact is the latest in a long list of technological innovations by Benelli engineers to enhance shotgun performance and shooting comfort. The A.I. system is comprised of an innovative barrel bore contour coupled with Benelli’s new Advanced Impact CRIO® chokes. Combined, the A.I. barrel and choke deliver a payload downrange with greater velocity and energy than standard shotgun barrels up to 50% greater on-target penetration. What’s more, the unique design of the barrel and choke enhances pellet density and promotes more uniform spread. This means the shot not only hits harder and penetrates deeper, but also puts more pellets on the target.

Four new SBE3 models featuring the Benelli A.I. system are offered for 2025.

The Super Black Eagle 3 A.I. comes in 12-gauge (3 1/2-inch) or 20-gauge (3-inch) chambers with 28-inch barrels and GORE™ OPTIFADE Timber camo. The gray anodized receiver compliments the gray Benelli Surface Treatment (BE.S.T.) barrel finish, providing industry-leading protection from rust and corrosion.

Rough-weather hunters will also appreciate the new Super Black Eagle 3 A.I. Cerakote models. Offered in 12-gauge (3 1/2-inch) or 20-gauge (3-inch) chambers with 28-inch barrels, these semi-auto shotguns feature a durable Cerakote receiver and barrel finish in either FDE or Patriot Brown, both of which pair with Realtree® Max-7™ or Mossy Oak® Bottomland™ camo furniture, respectively.

All four shotguns boast standard features that have made the SBE3 series to top choice for hunters who demand maximum performance and dependability with no sacrifice in handling or shooting comfort. Each of the SBE3 A.I. models run on Benelli’s Inertia Driven® system for reliable cycling in the worst conditions and include Benelli’s ComforTech™ 3 stock for all-day shooting ease, plus an upsized bolt handle and bolt release for effortless operation when wearing gloves.

If you thought the Benelli SBE3 series shotguns couldn’t get any better, you’re in for a surprise the moment you pull the trigger on any of the new-for-2025 SBE3 Advanced Impact models. MSRP: $2999 – $3199 depending on model.

For more information on Benelli USA’s full line of premium shotguns and centerfire hunting rifles, visit BenelliUSA.com.

Franchi Introduces the Next-Generation Affinity 3 and 3.5 Shotguns

Tuesday, January 21, 2025
Written by Shotgun Life Staff
Categories: News
Tags: #franchiaffinity, #franchishotguns

January 2025, Accokeek, MD – Since its introduction, Franchi’s Affinity 3 and Affinity 3.5 semi-auto shotguns have served as steady companions in duck blinds, upland fields, and competitive venues across the country and around the world. For 2025, Franchi proudly unveils the next generation of this sporting arm as the brand’s first all-new semi-auto platform in over a decade.

The new-generation Affinity 3 and 3.5 semi-auto Inertia Driven® shotguns are constructed around a fresh stock design that not only highlights the brand’s Italian artistry DNA but also boosts ergonomics for faster, more positive handling in all shooting conditions. A thinner forend with increased checkering offers a better hold and snappier swings. This concept extends to the grip, where the checkering is distributed higher and farther back on the grip to enhance control.

Aesthetics have not been overlooked in the new stock design. Clean lines flow gracefully from the grip, across the receiver, and into the forend, creating a visual continuity that reflects the shotgun’s exquisite ergonomics and precision construction. This design is also supported by a new trigger guard that subtly blends with the overall profile.

This trigger guard is part of the new-generation Affinity’s functional upgrades. By expanding the guard to a more rectangular profile, Franchi designers created more room for the trigger finger — particularly when wearing gloves. The new Affinity also features an updated magazine cap, and the bolt release button is now oblong (versus circular) with raised edging for more positive manipulation.

Another significant improvement is the addition of a two-piece shell latch. By shifting to a two-piece construction, shooters can load the shotgun faster and with less effort than with a conventional one-piece shell latch design.

Lastly, the new Affinity semi-auto addresses ergonomics with a new adjustable recoil pad system that mitigates perceived recoil by up to 50%. The standard length of pull can be shortened, providing an optimal setup for most body types. This system delivers performance that hunters and competitors have come to expect.

The Affinity 3.5 comes in 12-gauge, 2 3/4-, 3-, and 3 1/2-inch chambering with a 28-inch barrel. Consumers can choose between three finishes: black synthetic/matte blue, Realtree® Max-7™, and Mossy Oak® Bottomland™.

The Affinity 3 is available in 28- and 26-inch barrel lengths chambered in 12-gauge 2 3/4- and 3-inch with three finish options: black synthetic/matte blue, Realtree® Max-7™, and Mossy Oak® Bottomland™. Hunters with a lean toward the traditional can opt for the new Affinity 3 with a 28-inch barrel. MSRP:  $1079 – $1379 depending on model.

To learn more about Franchi’s shotguns and bolt-action rifles, visit FranchiUSA.com.

Browning® Ammunition Delivers NEW Shotshell for Competitive Shooters

Monday, January 20, 2025
Written by Shotgun Life Staff
Categories: News
Tags: #browningshotgunshells, #clayshooting, #shotgunammunition
Arnold, Mo., (January 20, 2025) – NEW from Browning Ammunition, Golden Clays™ Performance Target is for the competitive shooter looking for premium shotshell ammunition at an exceptional price point.

Available in 12 gauge, 20 gauge, 28 gauge, 16 gauge, and .410 bore, Golden Clays Performance Target utilizes lead shot alloyed with antimony to deliver tight patterns and maximum target-breaking energy. Crush clays like no other with The Best There Is™ in ammunition for clay target shooting. 

Browning Golden Clays Performance Target features: Alloyed Lead Shot – Reduces deformation, for consistent patterns and hard-hitting performance on clay targets Competition Grade Wad – 4-petal one-piece wad gives uniform velocities and consistent shot release.

Browning Golden Clays Performance Target shotshells are now available at an outdoor retailer or dealer near you. Learn more about the full line of Browning Ammunition at www.browningammo.com. 
 

Retay USA Unveils Air Control Extreme (ACE): Redefining Shotgun Performance for Waterfowl Hunters

Friday, January 17, 2025
Written by Shotgun Life Staff
Categories: News
Tags: #retayaceshotguns, #retayshotguns, #waterfowlshotguns
Easton, Md. (January 2025) – RETAY USA, the North American sales and distribution for RETAY ARMS, makers of innovative shotguns, is proud to introduce the Air Control Extreme (ACE), the next generation in Inertia Plus™ shotguns, designed specifically to meet the needs of the most demanding waterfowl hunters.

Built on the legacy of the Masai Mara and enhanced with 16 all-new performance features, the ACE is engineered to deliver reliability, innovation, and value. Available in Summer 2025, this new offering will be on display at the SHOT Show in Las Vegas, Nevada, Jan. 21 – 24, 2024, at RETAY USA’s Booth 70743 in Caesars Forum.  Everyone has different tastes, so RETAY made the ACE in a style to suit the individual shooter’s preference. The ACE lineup includes two distinctive receiver designs – a standard “slope back” receiver and a slight “humpback” version called the TYPE-R – allowing hunters to choose the style that best fits their preference. Both designs share the same premium features and internal parts with only a slight difference in appearance, as the ACE TYPE-R features a slightly raised receiver for enhanced handling.  

“The ACE and ACE TYPE-R were created with our customer’s needs in mind, combining the features they loved about our Masai Mara with significant upgrades that elevate the hunting experience,” commented Christian Handy, CEO of Banshee Brands, Inc. “With the ACE, we’ve delivered a premium shotgun that is not only highly functional but also accessible for hunters of all levels.”  

The improved light load cycling ensures consistent performance across the broadest range of shells of any RETAY shotgun. The cut-out loading port facilitates easy and quick reloading, while the improved Inertia Plus blot design enhances reliability and reduces cycling friction. The ACE is compatible with Benelli extended magazine tubes and Crio Plus chokes, offering greater versatility. The stainless steel recoil buffer spring ensures long-term durability and corrosion resistance.  The recoil-reducing “Airy” Recoil Pad, combined with a soft stock comb pad, reduces felt recoil by 30 percent for a more comfortable shooting experience. The receiver is drilled and tapped to accept Benelli rail mounts, allowing for easy installation of scopes or red dot sights. The redesigned ergonomic stock and forend provide a more comfortable and secure grip. The adjustable length of pull, utilizing the Airy Pad System, allows for customization to fit different shooters. The oversized easy-grip forend cap enhances control and maneuverability. The reversible safety button is easily adaptable for left- or right-handed users. The redesigned oversized charging handle offers improved leverage and ease of operation. The no-snag buffer tail prevents the buffer from snagging on clothing or gear. Finally, the oversized bolt release provides a larger target for quick and positive operation.  

The ACE and ACE TYPE-R are available in 12GA 3.5,” 20GA 3,” and 28GA 3” configurations, with a choice of drilled 28” or 26” barrels featuring optimized forcing cones. The MSRP starts at $1,049, making this advanced shotgun an attainable option for waterfowl enthusiasts everywhere. Both models come with RETAY’s limited lifetime warranty, ensuring peace of mind for years to come.  

ACE and ACE TYPE-R Specifications:   Caliber: 12ga 3.5,” 20ga 3,” 28ga 3” Action: Inertia (Inertia Plus™) Barrel: Drilled 28” or 26” Optimized Forcing Cone Magazine Capacity: 3+1 Sights: Single Fiber Optic Bead Drilled and Tapped: Yes Trigger Group: Push Button Removable LOP: 14.5” includes SHIM Kit MSRP: $1,049   For more information on RETAY USA visit the website, Facebook page, Instagram page, or YouTube page.

Longthorne Guns’ New Peregrine Barrels Shift the Balance of Power

Monday, January 13, 2025
Written by Irwin Greenstein
Categories: News
Tags: #longthorneguns, #longthornegunsperegrinebarrels

At the Dallas Safari Club Convention in Atlanta held January 11-14, we ran into Longthorne Guns’  Managing Director, James Longthorne Stewart. The English gunmaker was showing, for the first time, their new 12-gauge Peregrine barrels.

The barrels’ name pays homage to the Peregrine Falcon because the raptor, as James put it, “is fast, deadly and accurate.”

Longthorne established a reputation for innovation through advanced barrel manufacturing. The company started milling shotgun barrels from a single steel billet in 2006 and by 2010 released their first products to market. Longthorne has since applied that patented process to titanium and Damascus-steel, and beyond that is currently developing a three-pound, 28-gauge all-titanium, over/under.

In their stand at DSC, James explained that through innovative engineering they were able to change the handling dynamics of a Longthorne from a swing to more of a rotation for a smoother and more controllable shotgun.

The 33-inch barrels feature a “reverse mid-rib,” according to James. The top rib, which has the design elements of a competition gun, starts at 8mm at the breach and widens to 10mm “for a better sighting plane.”

The goal of the new design was to shift the balance of the barrels more toward the receiver. “By moving the weight of the barrels closer to the breach, the gun rotates more than swings,” James explained. “We moved the inertia towards the back of the gun.”

He elaborated that peak barrels pressure is now about eight inches from the breach and starts to decrease as the payload moves midway through the barrels. By decreasing the pressure, Longthorne was able to make the barrels thinner toward the middle, but soon returns to the thicker inner bore as the pressure starts to increase again at the muzzle. Overall, the design yields a more balanced field and clays gun.

Longthorne’s Peregrin barrels will be available in both fixed constrictions and multi-choke options.

–Irwin Greenstein

For more details visit https://www.longthorneguns.com

Gear Up for Late-Season Hunts with Dryshod’s Evalusion Hunt Max Gusset Boots

Monday, December 09, 2024
Written by Shotgun Life Staff
Categories: News
Tags: #dryshodboots, #hunting

Conklin, NY — Dryshod, the new benchmark in performance waterproof footwear for outdoor recreation and occupational use, expands its innovative Evalusion hunting boot series with the introduction of the new Evalusion Max Gusset. With the Evalusion Max Gusset, the world’s lightest waterproof hunting boot is even more comfortable and accommodating for the stealthy hunter and outdoor adventurer.

Shifting clothing requirements due to changes in weather or hunting needs means conventional neoprene boot uppers may be too tight and uncomfortable. Those with larger calves also balk at the often too-tight fit of single-size uppers. The Evalusion Max Gusset solves this problem with its rear gusset and buckle system. The rubber gusset easily expands to provide room for extra clothing layers during cold-weather outings and to accommodate outdoor enthusiasts with more sizeable calves. The adjustable strap can then be secured for a just-right fit to provide all-day comfort, whether sitting in a stand or walking the most aggressive terrain.

Adding to the Evalusion Max Gusset’s exceptional comfort is Dryshod’s DUREVA™ outsole. Weighing nearly a full pound lighter than Dryshod’s already lightweight comparable boots, the DUREVA™ outsole employs a fusion compound that eliminates the need for a secondary rubber sole while delivering maximum stability and energy return to reduce fatigue. What’s more, the multi-lug tread design is both tough and pliable, ensuring high traction on challenging ground and quiet flexing over ground elements to enhance stealth.

Temperature control is always a factor with 100-percent waterproof boots, and the Evalusion Max Gusset comes ready for any climate or activity. Layered beneath the 5mm DENSOPRENE® foam bootie is a four-way stretch breathable Airmesh lining that promotes airflow to maximize insulation during cold weather while minimizing moisture build up during warm, high-activity conditions. The integrated polar fleece lining offers a broad comfort range from -50°F to 65°F.

The Evalusion Max Gusset comes with a Hydrokote™ camo upper that ensures water rolls off the calf pipe, eliminating the soggy uppers typical of most neoprene-style waterproof boots. Additional features include a natural rubber shell, roll-down calf pipe, steel shank, and a sturdy tuck board sub-sole.

For more information on the new Evalusion Max Gusset or to see the company’s full line of waterproof footwear, visit DryshodUSA.com.

About Dryshod

The team behind Dryshod was the first to develop the bootie-style neoprene-and-rubber boot category over 20 years ago. Now they have elevated protective footwear performance through the application of advanced materials, field-proven construction techniques, and purpose-built designs—all to ensure Dryshod consumers receive the highest quality, best performing, and most comfortable waterproof boots for any task or adventure. Dryshod’s mission is to provide farmers, hunters, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who works or plays in wet, sloppy, and cold conditions with the most durable, reliable and comfortable 100-percent waterproof footwear available. To learn more about the Dryshod Waterproof Footwear difference, visit DryshodUSA.com.

MidwayUSA Foundation Teams Up with SK Guns for Giving Tuesday

Wednesday, November 27, 2024
Written by Shotgun Life Staff
Categories: News
Tags: #midwayusafoundation, #skguns, #youthshooting

Nov. 6, 2024 – Columbia, MO – MidwayUSA Foundation is preparing for its most substantial fundraising day of the year, Giving Tuesday. This year, the public charity that funds America’s youth shooting teams hopes to raise $500,000 in just one day. Giving Tuesday is December 3, the Tuesday following Thanksgiving and Black Friday. Every tax-deductible donation made to a youth shooting team endowment will be matched, thanks to Larry and Brenda Potterfield.

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Team Krieghoff Delivers at NSCA National Championships

Monday, November 18, 2024
Written by Shotgun Life Staff
Categories: News
Tags: #krieghoff, #krieghoffk80, #nscanationalchampionships

November 18, 2024 — Brandon Powell wins the NSCA National Championship for 2nd Year in a row. Karen Miles wins Lady Champion title.

“The entire shooting team came into Nationals feeling great about the ’24 season, with recent regional wins under their belts both Brandon and Karen were hammering targets to finish the season on the podium again. This was Brandon’s second and consecutive National’s win, while Karen won the Ladies Main HOA, she was the 5-Stand Lady Champion, FITASC Lady Champion, and the 2024 Championship Tour Lady Champion, an awesome event for her. Braxton Oliver won the Team’s title event; The K-Kup, with a top score of 99. A junior team shooter Turner Parcell rocked the old guard by winning the Runner-Up spot in the Main Event following his Runner Up win at the last regional. He also delivered the K-Kup Junior Championship title. The excitement was crazy, it was the largest attendance for a National Sporting Clays event, and the K-Kup had over 1,900 entries. It’s the largest 100-bird event in the country,” said Krieghoff Sporting Team Manager Mike Luongo, who also captured the 28 Gauge Overall award for 3rd Place.

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Bettinsoli USA Supports Youth Shooting Sports Through Multiple Programs Offered by MidwayUSA Foundation

Friday, November 15, 2024
Written by Shotgun Life Staff
Categories: News
Tags: #bettinsoliusa, #midwayusafoundation, #youthshooting, #youthshotguns

Leaders within the outdoor industry continue to step up and support MidwayUSA Foundation and the industry’s future. With a mission to help communities and organizations raise funds for their high school and college youth shooting teams, MidwayUSA Foundation relies on the support of retailers and suppliers in the outdoor space. Bettinsoli USA is a long-time sponsor that has assisted with a variety of programs to ensure youth shooting programs have quality items for their fundraising efforts.

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