Description
You’re staring at the price tags on new shotguns, and the numbers are climbing faster than a flushed rooster. You need a workhorse—something that can handle a muddy duck blind, a cold turkey woods, and a long day of clays without a second mortgage. Look, the answer isn’t always the fanciest Italian name with a comma in the price. Sometimes, it’s the one built like a tank and priced like a tool. That’s the Benelli Nova.
The Benelli Nova, Pump-Action 12 Ga, 26″ Barrel, 3.5″ Chamber, 3rd, Bottomlands is a purpose-built, value-focused pump-action shotgun designed for harsh conditions and versatile shooting. It features a synthetic stock with a durable Bottomlands camouflage finish, a 26-inch barrel, and a 3.5-inch chamber capable of handling everything from light target loads to heavy magnum waterfowl ammunition. Priced at $469.06, it represents a significant cost savings over many semi-automatic counterparts while maintaining Benelli’s reputation for rugged reliability.
Let’s talk about where your money actually goes. The Nova’s receiver isn’t steel or aluminum—it’s a single, solid piece of polymer. Here’s the thing—that’s not a cost-cutting flaw, it’s a genius feature. This design makes the action incredibly strong and resistant to corrosion from sweat, rain, and marsh muck. The steel barrel and internal components are nested inside this polymer shell, creating a shotgun that’s both lightweight at around 8 pounds and nearly impervious to the elements. The 26-inch barrel length is a sweet spot, offering a smooth swing for wingshooting while remaining manageable in a blind or thick brush.
The 3.5-inch chamber is a major selling point for the budget-conscious waterfowler or turkey hunter. While you’ll pay a premium for those super-magnum shells, having the capability means you’re ready for any season or any game without needing a second gun. For everyday use, it cycles standard 2.75-inch and 3-inch shells flawlessly. The rotary bolt head with dual locking lugs provides a solid lockup, and the pump action itself is famously smooth right out of the box, with no gunsmithing required to achieve reliable function.
Practical features abound. The stock incorporates Benelli’s ComforTech gel recoil pad system, which genuinely takes the bite out of those 3.5-inch loads. The forend is textured for a positive grip with wet or gloved hands. It includes a set of shims for drop and cast adjustment, allowing you to customize the fit—a rare find in this price bracket. The Bottomlands camo isn’t just a dip; it’s integrated throughout the stock and forend for complete concealment.
| Action Type | Pump-Action |
| Gauge | 12 Gauge (3.5″ Chamber) |
| Barrel Length | 26 Inches |
| Overall Length | 47.5 Inches (Approx.) |
| Weight | 8 lbs (Approx.) |
| Capacity | 4+1 Rounds (with plug) |
| Finish | Bottomlands Camo |
Pros & Cons
The pros are clear: legendary durability, versatile 3.5-inch chamber capability, excellent corrosion resistance, and a price that undercuts most competitors. The ComforTech stock is a genuine benefit for managing recoil. The cons? It’s a pump, so follow-up shots depend on your arm. Some find the polymer receiver has a hollow sound when cycling, but that’s purely cosmetic. The loading port can be a bit tight for some fingers compared to more expensive models.
Who It’s For
This is the shotgun for the hunter who views their gear as an investment in seasons, not showpieces. It’s for the Missouri waterfowler who doesn’t want to baby a glossy blue-finish gun in the marsh. It’s for the new shooter wanting a first shotgun that can do it all without breaking the bank. It’s also a perfect backup or foul-weather gun for the hunter with a pricier semi-auto who needs a no-worry option. The Nova is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket chokes (like those from Carlson’s or Trulock) and accessories, letting you build on a solid foundation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I shoot 2.75-inch light target loads in this 3.5-inch chamber gun?
A: Absolutely. The Benelli Nova handles the full spectrum of 12-gauge shells, from light 2.75-inch target loads up to 3.5-inch magnums. You’ll get reliable cycling and ejection across the board, making it a true all-rounder.
Q: Is the Bottomlands camo pattern effective in Missouri?
A: Yes, Bottomlands is an excellent all-season pattern for much of Missouri, particularly in timbered duck holes, creek bottoms, and early-season turkey woods where browns, tans, and grays dominate. It blends well in dormant vegetation and wooded environments.
Q: How does it compare to a Mossberg 500 or Remington 870?
A: It’s a direct competitor. The Nova distinguishes itself with its one-piece polymer receiver for corrosion resistance, the integrated ComforTech recoil system, and the shim-adjustable stock—features often found on more expensive guns. It’s a battle of proven designs, with the Nova offering unique Benelli engineering at a very competitive price point.
If you need a dependable, versatile shotgun that prioritizes performance over polish and leaves room in your budget for ammo and a good case, the Benelli Nova in Bottomlands is ready to work. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. See the full details and availability on our site.
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