Description
You’re looking for a first shotgun for a younger shooter, or maybe a compact, lightweight option for yourself. You want reliability without breaking the bank, and you keep hearing the name Benelli. But can a legendary brand deliver real value in a youth model? Let’s find out.
The Benelli Nova Pump 20g 24 Youth Matte Black is a purpose-built, scaled-down pump-action shotgun designed for smaller-framed shooters. It features a 24-inch barrel chambered in versatile 20-gauge, a shorter length of pull, and Benelli’s renowned rugged polymer receiver construction, all at an accessible price point for a heritage brand. This model brings proven Benelli engineering—think of it as the little sibling to the field-dominating Supernova—into a package that won’t intimidate a new hunter. At $394.70, it sits in a sweet spot between big-box store pumps and premium adult shotguns, offering a tangible step up in durability and smooth operation. It’s a serious tool that fits out of the box for youths or adults seeking a lighter-recoiling, easy-handling firearm.
So, what do you get for your money? The heart of the Nova is its one-piece polymer stock and receiver. This isn’t flimsy plastic; it’s a single, incredibly tough unit that houses the steel-reinforced action. The benefit? It shrugs off moisture, rough handling, and temperature swings that can fog or warp wood. The 24-inch barrel is the right balance for a youth gun—long enough for a clean swing on clays or birds, but short enough to not be cumbersome in a blind or when navigating thick brush. The 20-gauge chambering is the real key here. It delivers plenty of power for small game, upland birds, and home defense, with significantly less recoil than a 12-gauge, which is crucial for building confidence and proper technique in a new shooter.
The “Youth” designation isn’t just marketing. The stock has a shortened 13-inch length of pull, making it much easier for someone with shorter arms to mount and shoulder correctly. That said, many smaller-statured adults find this dimension perfect for them, too. The pump action is famously slick for this price class, with a distinctive dual-action bar system that prevents binding. It feeds from a 3+1 capacity tube magazine, which is standard for hunting compliance in many states. The matte black finish is utilitarian and low-glare, and the gun includes a set of Benelli’s shims, allowing you to adjust the stock’s cast and drop for a better fit—a feature you simply won’t find on most budget pumps.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 20 Gauge (3″ Chamber) |
| Barrel Length | 24 Inches |
| Overall Length | 44.5 Inches |
| Length of Pull | 13 Inches |
| Weight | Approx. 6.8 lbs |
| Capacity | 3+1 Rounds |
| Chokes | Includes C, IC, M Tubes |
Pros: Benelli’s bulletproof reliability and reputation. The reduced-recoil 20-gauge platform is ideal for training. The shorter stock is a genuine ergonomic benefit for its intended user. The polymer construction is incredibly durable and low-maintenance. Includes multiple choke tubes for versatility. The price is competitive for a shotgun with this feature set and lineage.
Cons: The 24″ barrel may feel a bit short for an adult hunting waterfowl over decoys. The 3-round tube is standard but not expandable. The matte finish, while tough, can show handling marks. As a pump action, it’s not as fast for follow-up shots as a semi-auto (though that’s part of the learning process).
Who is this for? Primarily, it’s for parents introducing a teen to hunting or sport shooting who want to invest in a gun that will last for decades, not just a season. It’s also a brilliant choice for a smaller-framed adult hunter, especially one pursuing upland game like grouse or pheasant where a light, quick-handling shotgun is a joy. Finally, it serves as a supremely reliable, low-recoil home defense option that’s easier for many household members to manage than a 12-gauge. Look, if you need a do-everything waterfowl gun, you might look at a 12-gauge with a 28″ barrel. But for the vast majority of introductory and compact shotgun roles, this Benelli Nova Youth model delivers exceptional bang-for-buck.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can an adult comfortably use this youth model shotgun?
A: Absolutely. Many adults, particularly those of smaller stature or who prefer a more compact firearm for hunting in thick cover, find the 13″ length of pull and lighter 20-gauge load very comfortable. The overall weight of just under 7 pounds makes it easy to carry all day.
Q: Is the barrel threaded for choke tubes, and what is it compatible with?
A: Yes, the barrel is threaded for choke tubes. It uses the standard Benelli/Beretta Mobil choke system, which is widely available. The gun comes with three tubes (Cylinder, Improved Cylinder, Modified) right in the box, giving you immediate flexibility for different types of shooting.
Q: What is the process for purchasing this firearm online?
A: All firearm purchases require an FFL transfer. When you order, you’ll need to have it shipped to a licensed FFL dealer in your area, who will then conduct the required background check before transferring the firearm to you. We ship to Missouri and compliant US states.
If the idea of a rugged, name-brand shotgun that’s ready for a new shooter—or a seasoned one wanting a nimble 20-gauge—sounds right, the Benelli Nova Pump 20g 24 Youth is a practical and proven choice. You can find it available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
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