Description
I’ve put a few hundred rounds through this one, and here’s my take. The Benelli 828U O/U 20 Ga, 26″ Barrel, 3″, AA Grade Satin Walnut, Engraved Receiver, 2rd is a modern, lightweight over/under shotgun built with aerospace-grade aluminum and carbon fiber. It’s designed to be a fast-handling, reliable field gun that doesn’t sacrifice aesthetics, with a price tag of $2631.90 that puts it in the serious shooter’s category. Look, it’s not your grandfather’s clunky side-by-side—it’s a 21st-century upland companion that feels alive in your hands.
Key Features
- Lightweight Construction: The receiver is made from a high-strength aluminum alloy, and the forend uses carbon fiber, keeping the overall weight down for all-day carry.
- AA Grade Satin Walnut: This isn’t just a pretty stock; it’s a functional, well-fitted piece of wood with a satin finish that feels great and resists glare.
- Engraved Steel Receiver: The steel receiver sleeve is laser-engraved with classic scrollwork, adding a touch of tradition to the modern mechanics.
- User-Interchangeable Trigger System: A unique feature where you can swap the entire trigger group yourself—no gunsmithing required—to change the trigger’s characteristics.
- Optimized Bore & Chamber: The 20-gauge bores are specifically designed for modern shotshells, and the 3-inch chambers handle a wide range of loads.
Specifications & Details
| Gauge | 20 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3" |
| Barrel Length | 26 Inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 43.5 Inches |
| Weight | Approx. 5.8 lbs |
| Capacity | 2 Rounds |
| Stock | AA Grade Satin Walnut |
That 5.8-pound weight is a major selling point. After a long day chasing quail or pheasant, you’ll appreciate every ounce saved. The 26-inch barrel is a sweet spot for the 20-gauge, offering a quick swing without feeling whippy. The gun shoulders smoothly, and the point of impact feels natural right out of the box. The action is tight initially but wears in nicely. Here’s the thing—while it’s a 2+1 design, the manual safety and selective ejectors work flawlessly, making reloads second nature. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This is for the upland hunter who covers miles and values a responsive, fast-pointing gun. It’s also a fantastic option for a shooter moving into over/unders from an autoloader, wanting the simplicity and balance without the heft of a 12-gauge. The 20-gauge chambered for 3-inch shells gives you plenty of versatility for everything from light 7/8-ounce target loads to heavier field loads for turkey or waterfowl with non-toxic shot. If you appreciate modern engineering wrapped in classic aesthetics and have a budget that reflects that, this is your gun.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The weight is its biggest advantage—it’s a dream to carry. The fit and finish are excellent for the price point. The interchangeable trigger system is a genuinely innovative feature for fine-tuning your experience. The satin walnut is stunning without being flashy in the field.
Cons: The price is a significant investment. Some traditionalists might find the aluminum receiver feel different than a solid steel frame. The carbon fiber forend, while light, has a distinct modern texture that not everyone loves aesthetically. It’s a dedicated hunting tool, not a high-volume clays gun.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Benelli 828U compatible with standard choke tubes?
A: Yes, it uses Benelli’s own Crio Choke system (Mobilechoke compatible). The gun typically comes with a set of flush-mounted chokes (often IC, M, F). You can use any aftermarket choke tubes designed for the Benelli Mobilechoke pattern, like those from brands like Carlson’s or Briley.
Q: How does the interchangeable trigger system work?
A: Benelli sells optional trigger groups with different geometries. You simply push out two pins, swap the entire unit, and push the pins back in. It’s a 30-second job that requires no special tools, allowing you to adjust trigger reach or pull characteristics to better fit your hand.
Q: Is this a good gun for a beginner?
A: It can be, if the budget allows. Its light weight and low recoil with target loads make it very manageable. The manual safety and break-action design are inherently safe and simple to learn. However, its cost and refined features might be better appreciated by someone with some shooting experience already under their belt.
So, if you’re in the market for a modern over/under that bridges the gap between high-tech performance and timeless style, the Benelli 828U in 20-gauge deserves a long, hard look. Check its availability and handle one if you can.
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