Description
The Benelli Legacy 12g 28″ AA Grade Select Walnut Nickel/Blue Finish, Etched Game Scene is a premium, semi-automatic shotgun built for the discerning shooter who values aesthetics and reliable performance. It’s a field-ready workhorse wrapped in a presentation-grade package, featuring a stunning AA-grade walnut stock, a nickel and blued steel finish, and intricate game scene engraving. I’ve put a few hundred rounds of target loads through one, and here’s my take.
Look, you don’t buy this shotgun just to stash it in a safe. You buy it to be used and admired—a piece that performs as beautifully as it looks. The action is smooth, the balance with that 28-inch barrel is classic and intuitive for swing, and it shoulders like a dream. Here are the key features that make it stand out on the rack and in the field.
- Exquisite AA-Grade Select Walnut Stock: The wood has deep, rich figuring with a hand-rubbed oil finish that feels as good as it looks.
- Nickel & Blued Steel Finish with Etched Game Scene: This isn’t a simple stamp. The detailed upland bird scene etching on the receiver elevates it from a tool to a functional heirloom.
- Benelli’s Inertia-Driven System: The heart of the gun. It’s famously reliable, cycles cleanly with minimal recoil, and requires less maintenance than gas-operated systems.
- 28″ Vent Rib Barrel: Provides a long, clean sight plane for consistent leads on clays or birds. It’s a classic length for a reason.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Barrel Length | 28 Inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 48.5 Inches |
| Weight | Approx. 7.1 lbs |
| Action | Semi-Automatic, Inertia-Driven |
| Chokes | Includes C, IC, M Tubes (Benelli MobileChoke) |
Weighing in at a manageable 7.1 pounds, it carries easily all day without feeling whippy or clumsy. The Benelli Legacy is drop-in ready for the field—no gunsmithing required to get it running. It’s compatible with a wide range of standard 12-gauge loads, from light target 2 ¾” shells up to 3″ magnums, giving you versatility for everything from dove to turkey. That said, it really shines with standard field and target loads where the inertia system works its magic on recoil management.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This is for the upland hunter or sporting clays shooter who has moved past purely utilitarian gear. You appreciate fine wood and metalwork and want a shotgun that reflects your experience level. It’s for the shooter who doesn’t mind a little extra care for a beautiful finish, and who understands that at a price of $1502.96, you’re investing in both performance and craftsmanship. It’s a statement piece that doesn’t compromise on function.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The aesthetics are simply top-tier. The reliability of the inertia system is proven across thousands of rounds. It’s lighter and easier to clean than many gas guns. The balance is perfect for a traditional swing.
Cons: The premium finish means you might be more hesitant to drag it through thick brush—it’s a looker. The inertia system can be a bit more sensitive to extremely light target loads compared to some gas guns, though I’ve had no issues with standard 1-1/8 oz loads. It’s an investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What chokes does it come with?
A: It includes the standard Benelli MobileChoke tubes: Cylinder, Improved Cylinder, and Modified. These cover most field and sporting clays situations right out of the box.
Q: Is the Legacy good for waterfowl hunting?
A: It can handle 3″ steel shot, but the beautiful nickel/blued finish and walnut stock aren’t ideal for the harsh, wet conditions of a duck blind. It’s better suited for upland hunting or clays where you can show it off and keep it drier.
Q: How does it compare to a Benelli M2 or Ethos?
A: The Legacy is the more traditionally styled, elegant cousin. The M2 and Ethos use similar inertia systems but have modern synthetic or less ornate wood stocks. The Legacy is for the shooter who prefers classic lines and premium wood over tactical or ultra-lightweight modern designs.
So, is the Benelli Legacy worth it? If you want a semi-auto that feels special every time you pick it up and delivers Benelli’s legendary reliability, absolutely. It’s a shotgun you’ll be proud to own for decades. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. See the full details on our site.
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