Description
The Benelli 828U, 12 Ga, 24″ Barrel, 3.5″, 2rd, AA Satin Walnut is a premium over-and-under shotgun built with an aluminum alloy receiver and carbon fiber rib for a lightweight, balanced feel. It’s designed for the discerning hunter who demands a fast-handling, reliable, and beautifully finished field gun that can handle everything from doves to geese without weighing you down. I’ve put a few hundred rounds of everything from light target loads to heavy 3.5″ steel through one, and its performance is as crisp as its lines. Here’s the thing—this isn’t just another over-under; it’s a modern interpretation that sheds weight without sacrificing strength or aesthetics.
Key Features
- Lightweight Aluminum Alloy Receiver: The heart of the 828U’s reduced weight, finished in a durable satin anodizing.
- Carbon Fiber Rib: Contributes to the overall weight savings and provides a clean, glare-free sighting plane.
- AA-Grade Satin Walnut Stock: Offers classic beauty with a satin finish that’s both handsome and practical in the field.
- 3.5″ Chamber: Versatility is key—handles everything from 2.75″ target loads up to maximum-power 3.5″ magnums for waterfowl.
- Progressive Comfort Hydraulic System: Built into the stock to significantly reduce felt recoil, especially with those heavier loads.
- User-Interchangeable Trigger: A unique feature allowing you to swap the trigger blade for a custom fit.
Specifications & Details
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3.5″ |
| Barrel Length | 24 Inches |
| Capacity | 2 Rounds |
| Overall Length | Approx. 42.5 Inches |
| Weight | Approx. 5.8 lbs |
The real magic is in that sub-6-pound weight. Carrying this 24″ barreled shotgun all day in a dove field or a duck blind is a different experience compared to a heavier steel-framed gun. The balance point is just ahead of the hinge, making it swing smoothly and naturally. It’s a design that feels alive in your hands, not a burden on your shoulder. At a price of $2913.90, you’re investing in Italian craftsmanship and engineering that prioritizes performance and shooter comfort. This model is drop-in ready for chokes, using the Benelli Crio system, and is compatible with standard Benelli Mobilchokes, giving you plenty of aftermarket patterning options.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This is for the upland hunter who covers miles, the waterfowler who appreciates a lighter gun for pass shooting, or the clays shooter who wants a dedicated field gun with elegance. If you value a fast, pointable shotgun and are tired of the heft of traditional over-unders, the 828U demands your attention. It’s not a budget gun—it’s a purpose-built tool for the serious hunter who sees their firearm as part of the experience.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Exceptional lightweight design reduces fatigue. High-quality walnut and finish. Handles the full spectrum of 12-gauge loads comfortably. The interchangeable trigger is a nice touch for customization. Points and swings with intuitive speed.
Cons: The premium price tag is a significant investment. The slim, modern profile may not appeal to traditionalists who prefer the look of a steel receiver. The two-round capacity is standard for an O/U but limits you compared to a semi-auto in the field.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can it really handle 3.5″ magnums comfortably with its lightweight build?
A: Yes, thanks to the Progressive Comfort hydraulic system in the stock. It’s not a magic wand—you’ll still know you’re shooting a heavy load—but it transforms the recoil from a sharp punch into a more manageable, longer push. It’s a noticeable difference compared to a standard fixed-stock O/U.
Q: Is the finish durable enough for harsh waterfowl conditions?
A: The anodized aluminum receiver is highly corrosion-resistant. The satin walnut finish is robust, but like any wood, it benefits from a wipe-down after a wet day. For extreme conditions, applying a good paste wax to the wood provides an extra layer of protection. It’s a field gun designed to be used.
Q: What’s the point of the interchangeable trigger?
A: It allows you to adjust the reach to the trigger blade for a more precise, comfortable fit. If the standard blade doesn’t align perfectly with your finger, you can swap it for one of the included alternatives. It’s a small detail that shows Benelli’s focus on shooter ergonomics.
If the idea of a modern, lightweight over-and-under that can transition from pheasants to geese in style speaks to you, the Benelli 828U is worth a close look. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. Remember, an FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases.
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