Description
The Benelli Nova Pump 12g 26 Realtree APG HD Camo is a rugged, reliable, and affordable pump-action shotgun built for harsh conditions. It features a synthetic camo-clad stock and receiver, a 26-inch barrel, and Benelli’s renowned inertia-driven action, making it a top choice for hunters and budget-minded shooters who need a no-fuss, durable firearm that performs in the field.
Key Features
- Realtree APG HD Camo Finish: Full synthetic stock and receiver are dipped in effective all-purpose camouflage for superior concealment in a variety of environments.
- Benelli’s Rotating Bolt Head: This robust, inertia-driven system provides exceptional strength and reliability, known for feeding and ejecting shells smoothly even in dirty or wet conditions.
- Comfortech Stock Design: The contoured stock and textured grip areas enhance control and handling, which helps manage recoil during long days afield.
- Steel-to-Steel Lockup: The bolt locks directly into the barrel extension, a design borrowed from high-end shotguns that enhances accuracy and durability over thousands of rounds.
- Versatile 3″ Chamber: Handles a wide range of 12-gauge loads from light 2 3/4″ target shells to powerful 3″ magnums for waterfowl or turkey.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Action | Pump Action |
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3″ |
| Barrel Length | 26 Inches |
| Overall Length | 47.5 Inches (approx.) |
| Weight | 8.0 lbs (approx.) |
| Capacity | 4+1 Rounds |
| Finish | Realtree APG HD Camo |
Weighing in at a solid 8 pounds, the Nova has enough heft to soak up recoil from heavy hunting loads without being unwieldy. The 26-inch barrel strikes a great balance for swing and maneuverability in blinds or thick brush. Here’s the thing—at this price point, you’re getting a shotgun with a receiver machined from a single block of steel and a polymer trigger guard assembly that’s practically immune to corrosion. That’s a level of construction often reserved for guns costing hundreds more. The price of $469.06 puts it in direct competition with basic Mossberg 500 and Remington 870 Express models, but the Nova’s unique monolithic receiver design gives it a distinct edge in perceived toughness.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This is the workhorse shotgun for the budget-conscious hunter who doesn’t want to baby their gear. It’s built for the Missouri waterfowler sloshing through a marsh, the turkey hunter sitting against a rough oak tree, or the landowner who needs a dependable tool for occasional pest control. If your priority is absolute reliability in adverse weather over fancy engraving or adjustable features, the Nova is your shotgun. It’s also a solid first pump-action for a new shooter, as its simple operation is easy to learn and its durability means it will last for years. FFL transfer required for firearm purchases, a standard and straightforward process we handle regularly.
Pros & Cons: The Practical Tradeoffs
Pros: The standout advantage is incredible durability for the money. The camo finish is factory-applied and durable, saving you the cost and hassle of aftermarket dipping. The action is famously reliable and easy to maintain. The stock is drop-in ready for many aftermarket limbsaver recoil pads if you want to customize fit. It’s also compatible with a wide array of standard 12-gauge chokes, including popular brands like Carlson’s and Trulock, for tuning your pattern.
Cons: The pump stroke is robust but can feel a bit stiff when new—it smooths out with use. Some shooters find the hollow sound when cycling the action to be less satisfying than an all-steel gun. The synthetic stock, while tough, doesn’t have the traditional look or feel of wood. You’re trading some aesthetic and initial slickness for that legendary Benelli toughness and a lower price tag.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can this shotgun shoot steel shot for waterfowl hunting?
A: Absolutely. The Benelli Nova is designed for modern ammunition and handles steel shot without issue. Just ensure you use an appropriate choke tube rated for steel.
Q: Is the camo pattern good for Missouri hunting seasons?
A: Yes, Realtree APG HD is an excellent all-purpose pattern for Missouri’s varied terrain. It blends well in spring green-up, fall browns, and the mixed environments of timber, field edges, and marshes common across the state.
Q: How does it compare to a Remington 870?
A: Both are iconic pumps. The Nova often wins on corrosion resistance due to its extensive polymer use and monolithic receiver. The 870 has a vast aftermarket. The Nova offers a more modern, weatherproof build at a similar price, while the 870 has a more traditional feel. For a worry-free gun in wet conditions, the Nova has a clear advantage.
If you need a shotgun that you can rely on season after season without a second thought, the Benelli Nova in Realtree APG HD Camo represents serious bang-for-your-buck. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. See product details and check availability on our site.
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