Description
I remember the first time I shouldered a Benelli Montefeltro. It wasn’t the 12-gauge everyone fawns over, but the 20-gauge version. The difference was immediate—a sense of agility and balance that felt more like an extension of my intention than a tool. That’s the magic of this specific model. For the hunter or sport shooter who values finesse over brute force, the Benelli Montefeltro 20 Ga, Combo 2 3/4″ and 3″, 26″, Satin Walnut/Blued is a masterclass in refined inertia-driven performance. It’s a lightweight, reliable shotgun built for all-day carry and smooth, fast swings.
Here’s the thing—this isn’t just a scaled-down 12-gauge. Benelli engineered this 20-gauge from the ground up around their legendary inertia-driven system. I’ve put hundreds of target loads and a mix of 3-inch waterfowl shells through it, and the action cycles everything from light 7/8-ounce target loads to heavier 3-inch magnums with utter reliability. The secret is in the simplicity: with fewer moving parts than a gas gun, it runs cleaner and is famously low-maintenance. At just over 6 pounds unloaded, you’ll notice the weight difference by the end of a long day in the field. That 26-inch barrel gives you a quick, manageable swing in tight timber for grouse or a smooth follow-through on clays, making it incredibly versatile.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 20 Gauge (2 3/4″ & 3″ Chamber) |
| Barrel Length | 26 Inches |
| Overall Length | 46.5 Inches |
| Weight | 6.1 lbs |
| Stock | Satin Walnut |
| Finish | Blued |
| Action | Inertia-Driven Semi-Auto |
| Chokes | Includes C, IC, M Tubes (Benelli MobileChoke) |
The satin walnut stock is where this gun earns its ‘Montefeltro’ name. It’s not overly fancy, but it has a classic, understated grain that feels great in the hand and looks even better in the field. The blued steel and walnut combo is timeless. The gun comes with three Benelli MobileChoke tubes (C, IC, M), which are the same system used on their higher-end Ethos and Legacy models, so you have great aftermarket support. A huge plus? It’s drop-in ready. The shims included in the box let you easily adjust the cast and drop for a custom fit without a trip to the gunsmith.
Pros: Incredibly lightweight and pointable. The inertia system is supremely reliable and easy to clean. Handles the full spectrum of 20-gauge loads. The classic walnut and blued steel aesthetics are simply beautiful. The adjustable shim system allows for a personalized fit.
Cons: The inertia-driven action has a bit more perceived recoil than a soft-shooting gas-operated shotgun. At this price point, some may wish for a slightly more elaborate wood grade, but the satin finish is durable and handsome.
So who is this for? It’s for the upland hunter covering miles for pheasant, quail, or woodcock who needs a gun that won’t weigh them down. It’s for the shooter moving from a heavier 12-gauge who wants less fatigue and more speed. It’s also an excellent choice for a younger or smaller-framed shooter getting into the sport, thanks to its manageable heft and reduced recoil with standard loads. Priced at $1080.06, it sits in a sweet spot between entry-level autoloaders and the ultra-premium Italian imports.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Benelli inertia system reliable with light target loads?
A: Absolutely. This is a common question. The Montefeltro 20-gauge is specifically engineered to cycle light 2 3/4-inch, 7/8-ounce target loads right out of the box. I’ve had zero failures with standard velocity ammunition from brands like Federal and Fiocchi.
Q: Can I use this for waterfowl hunting?
A: Yes, its 3-inch chamber allows you to use heavier steel or other non-toxic shot shells designed for ducks and geese. Just make sure you use the appropriate choke tube for steel shot (typically Improved Cylinder or Modified).
Q: What’s the main difference between this and a Benelli M2?
A: The Montefeltro features a more traditional blued finish and satin walnut stock, while the M2 has an anodized aluminum receiver and a synthetic or more matte wood stock. The M2 also has a slightly different recoil pad and stock design. Mechanically, they share the same proven inertia system.
If you’re looking for a lightweight, elegant, and utterly dependable semi-auto shotgun that handles like a dream, the Benelli Montefeltro 20-gauge combo deserves your serious consideration. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
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