Description
I remember the first time I shouldered a Benelli semi-auto. It was a soggy Missouri dove field, and the gun just worked—cycle after cycle, while others fumbled with jams. That reliability, that feel, is what Benelli built its name on. Now, for their 50th, they’ve bottled that legacy into something truly special. The Benelli 50th Anniversary Raffaello Limited Edition 20g 26″ Engraved Nickel AAA Walnut isn’t just a shotgun; it’s a commemorative piece of engineering art designed for the upland hunter who demands performance and presence in equal measure.
So, what is it? In short, it’s a limited-production, 20-gauge semi-automatic shotgun built to celebrate Benelli’s five-decade milestone. It features a stunning nickel-plated receiver with deep, intricate scroll engraving, a AAA-grade satin walnut stock, and a 26-inch barrel, all wrapped up in a package that balances classic elegance with modern inertia-driven reliability. It’s the kind of gun you’ll reach for on crisp autumn mornings for pheasant and quail, knowing it’s as much a pleasure to carry as it is to shoot.
Key Features & Handling
Let’s start with what you see. The nickel finish on the receiver isn’t just for show—it’s durable and provides a brilliant, classic contrast to the deep, oil-rubbed AAA walnut. The engraving is the real star here. It’s not laser-etched; it’s proper, hand-executed scrollwork that catches the light and tells you this is a limited piece. I’ve put a few boxes of light 7/8-ounce target loads through it, and the action is buttery smooth. That’s the Benelli inertia system for you—incredibly reliable with a wide range of loads and famously easy to clean. No gunsmithing required to keep it running, just basic maintenance.
The 26-inch barrel is the sweet spot for a 20-gauge field gun. It offers a smooth, consistent swing without feeling unwieldy in a blind or brush. Weighing in at a hair over 6.5 pounds, it carries all day like a dream. The balance point is right at the front of the trigger guard, making it feel lively and responsive, not muzzle-heavy. The stock dimensions are classic European—a bit straighter than some American shooters might be used to, but it promotes a clean, heads-up mount that’s perfect for instinctive shooting on flushing birds. Here’s the thing—it’s a semi-auto that handles with the poise of a fine over-under.
Specifications
| Gauge | 20 Gauge (2 3/4″ & 3″) |
| Barrel Length | 26 Inches |
| Overall Length | 46.5 Inches |
| Weight | Approx. 6.6 lbs |
| Stock | AAA Grade Satin Walnut |
| Receiver Finish | Engraved Nickel Plate |
Pros & Cons
The Good: The inertia-driven system is supremely reliable and low-maintenance. The fit and finish are exceptional for a production gun, with real walnut and deep engraving. It’s lightweight and points naturally. As a limited edition, it holds intrinsic collectible value beyond its utility.
The Considerations: At $2865.77, it’s an investment. The straight stock may require a slight adjustment in mounting technique for some shooters. Like all dedicated commemoratives, you might think twice about dragging it through the thickest, meanest briar patches—though it’s certainly built for it.
Who This Is For
This isn’t your first shotgun. This is for the seasoned hunter or shooter who appreciates heritage, craftsmanship, and performance. It’s for the Missouri wing shooter chasing woodcock in the river bottoms or roosters in CRP fields, who wants a reliable tool that also sparks conversation at the lodge. It’s also a brilliant choice for the clays shooter who wants a dedicated, beautiful 20-gauge for sporting clays or skeet. It’s compatible with Benelli’s Mobilchoke system (tubes included), so you can tune it for any task.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is this just a showpiece, or is it actually meant to be hunted with?
A: It’s 100% built to be hunted. The Benelli inertia system is battle-proven in the field. The engraving and finish are durable. This is a working piece of art, meant to be used and enjoyed, not just displayed.
Q: What chokes does it come with?
A: It uses the Benelli Mobilchoke system (the same threads as many Beretta models) and typically comes with a set of flush-mounted tubes—often Improved Cylinder, Modified, and Full. Always confirm exact inclusions, but it’s ready for the field out of the box.
Q: How limited is this edition?
A: Benelli produces these anniversary models in set, numbered runs. Once they’re gone, they’re gone. This adds to its collectibility but means if you want one, you shouldn’t wait too long. It is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, with an FFL transfer required for firearm purchases.
Look, if you’re in the market for a 20-gauge that blends unimpeachable performance with heirloom-grade aesthetics to mark a special season or milestone, this Benelli Raffaello Limited Edition deserves a long, hard look. It’s a testament to five decades of innovation, wrapped in walnut and steel.
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