Benelli Expands Super Black Eagle 3 28-Gauge Model Series

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

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.

Bruno Civolani: The Father of Inertia-Driven Shotguns

Bruno Civolani, an Italian engineer born in 1922, revolutionized shotgun design with his inertia-driven action in the 1960s. While not the first to develop an inertia system, as Carl Axel Theodor Sjogren of Sweden had previously worked on a similar concept, Civolani’s design significantly improved upon earlier attempts.Civolani’s fascination with firearms began in his youth, and he was inspired by Axel Sjögren’s recoil-operated shotgun.

After extensive experimentation and refinement, Civolani developed his inertia system, which used a powerful spring in the bolt frame to ensure the full cycle of the gun’s automation .Key features of Civolani’s inertia system include:

  • Simplicity: Only three primary parts – bolt body, inertia spring, and rotating bolt head
  • Cleanliness: No gas system means less carbon buildup and easier maintenance
  • Versatility: Capable of firing various cartridge types without adjustment

Initially, Civolani struggled to find a manufacturer for his design. In 1967, the Benelli brothers, known for their motorcycle company, saw potential in Civolani’s invention and formed Benelli Armi S.p.A.

                  Source: Benelli

In January 1969, Benelli produced the first 150 semi-automatic 12-gauge inertia-mass shotguns. The inertia system gained popularity due to its fast cycling rate and reliability in harsh conditions. In 1986, Beretta (which had acquired Benelli in 1983) added a rotating bolt to the design, further improving its performance. The introduction of the Benelli Super Black Eagle in 1992 solidified the inertia system’s place in the shotgun market. Today, Civolani’s inertia system is widely used in high-quality shotguns produced in Italy by Beretta-owned Benelli, Franchi and Stoeger as well as shotguns manufactured in Italy and Turkey.

https:www.benelliusa.com 

# # #

Shotgun Life Newsletters

Join an elite group of readers who receive their FREE e-letter every week from Shotgun Life. These readers gain a competitive advantage from the valuable advice delivered directly to their inbox. You'll discover ways to improve your shooting, learn about the best new products and how to easily maintain your shotgun so it's always reliable. If you strive to be a better shooter, then our FREE e-letters are for you.