Benelli Over/Under Upland Shotguns – Aluminum & Carbon Fiber? – SHOT Show 2015

in Authors, Sam Trisler, SHOT Show 2015, Uncategorized

Updated: January 28, 2015 BY Sam Trisler

Benelli has finally entered the over/under shotgun market with the 828U. They did so in typical Benelli style– a totally new design. It looks like a classic and classy shotgun on the outside. The engraved nickel receiver and high grade walnut stock make it look like a typical Italian double gun. On the inside, though, the 828U is totally different.

Benelli 828U

So what is so different about the new Benelli 828U? Here are the highlights

The forearm is removed with a push button
the whole trigger group comes out for easy cleaning
it recocks from the loading lever, not the barrels’ opening
it has impulse activated ejectors
it weighs 6.5 pounds
its steel locking system and plate keep all of the pressure in the barrels for long action life
the rib is carbon fiber
it has the Progressive Comfort recoil system

The steel locking system is the real highlight. The receiver is aluminum, which would be a major concern for longevity–except Benelli has found a way to keep all of the wear and tear on the steel parts. So the gun should enjoy a long service life, and it is lighter and has a better balance than most all of the competition.

This is not your grandpa’s pheasant gun. But it is a hunting gun. The U stands for upland. This is a light shotgun–6.5 pounds would be great to carry across fields all day long. I know the Progressive Comfort system does a great job softening the recoil, but I have only shot one on a semi auto (which is soaking up some of the energy as well). However, with Benelli’s track record of making great shotguns, I bet the 828U is a dream to shoot.

There are two models. The engraved nickel (MSRP $2,999) and black anodized ($2,499). Both are available with either 26″ or 28″ barrels.

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