Description
You’re looking at the Benelli Performance Shop Ultra Light Burnt Bronze Cerakote Satin Walnut / Weathercoat 12 Ga, 26″ Barrel, Rd 12 Ga, 2 rd, and you’re wondering what it is. Here’s the direct answer: It’s a factory-customized, ultra-lightweight 12-gauge shotgun built by Benelli’s in-house tuning shop. It features a burnt bronze Cerakote finish over a Weathercoat-treated steel receiver, a 26-inch barrel, a satin walnut stock, and a 2+1 capacity. Designed for the mobile hunter, it shaves critical weight without sacrificing Benelli’s legendary inertia-driven reliability. At $1006.45, it’s a purpose-built tool for covering ground.
I’ve put shells through plenty of lightweights that felt like compromises. This one doesn’t. The Performance Shop touch means it’s not just a standard model with a different finish; it’s been assembled and tuned by their specialists. The burnt bronze Cerakote isn’t just for looks—it’s a durable, corrosion-resistant shield, especially when paired with the Weathercoat treatment underneath. That satin walnut stock? It’s classic, provides a solid cheek weld, and keeps the overall aesthetic sharp without the glare of a high-gloss finish. The whole package comes together as a hunting shotgun that feels balanced and ready right out of the box—no gunsmithing required to get it into the field.
The heart of the appeal is the weight, or lack thereof. We’re talking about a 12-gauge that handles like a 20. That 26-inch barrel is the sweet spot for a walking gun, offering a smooth swing without being unwieldy in a blind or thick brush. The inertia-driven system is famously simple and clean-running, cycling everything from light target loads to 3-inch magnums with utter indifference to weather and fouling. It’s a system that just works, and its lightweight construction makes those long treks across Missouri cornfields or up cedar ridges far less punishing. The 2+1 capacity keeps it streamlined and hunting-legal across most jurisdictions.
| Gauge | 12 Gauge (3″ Chamber) |
| Barrel Length | 26 Inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 46.5 Inches |
| Weight | Approx. 5.8 lbs (Ultra Light Core) |
| Capacity | 2+1 Rounds |
| Finish | Burnt Bronze Cerakote / Weathercoat / Satin Walnut |
Pros & Cons
Pros: The weight savings is real and transformative for a full-day hunter. Benelli Performance Shop build adds a layer of fit-and-finish confidence. The Cerakote/Weathercoat combo is seriously tough for field use. The inertia system is low-maintenance and reliable. Cons: The 2+1 capacity is a limitation for some, but it’s a trade-off for the lightweight design. The premium price reflects the custom shop origin. It’s a hunting specialist, not a high-volume clay or tactical tool.
Who It’s For
This shotgun is for the upland hunter who measures miles, not yards. It’s for the waterfowler who hikes into backwater timber holes. If you prioritize carrying comfort over firepower and want a reliable, lightweight companion that looks as good as it carries, this is your gun. It’s also a solid choice for a dedicated turkey hunter who appreciates the corrosion-resistant finish and easy carry. Look, if your season involves more walking than waiting, this Benelli makes sense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What makes this “Ultra Light” compared to a standard Benelli?
A: The core of the receiver and barrel are machined to remove non-essential material, and it uses a lightweight synthetic core inside the walnut stock. The result is a 12-gauge that weighs around 5.8 pounds, over a pound lighter than many standard models.
Q: Is the burnt bronze finish durable?
A: Absolutely. Cerakote is a ceramic-based finish that’s highly resistant to abrasion, chemicals, and corrosion. The additional Weathercoat treatment on the steel provides an extra layer of protection underneath, making this one of the most weather-ready field finishes available.
Q: Will it cycle light target loads reliably?
A: Yes, the Benelli inertia system is known for its wide range of reliability. I’ve found it cycles standard 1-ounce target loads without issue, though as with any semi-auto, always test your chosen ammunition. Its performance is on par with other inertia-driven models like the Benelli Montefeltro or Ethos.
This Benelli Performance Shop Ultra Light is a specific solution for a specific hunter. It blends custom shop credibility with a practical, field-ready configuration. If covering ground with a trustworthy, easy-carrying 12-gauge is the goal, it’s a compelling option. It is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. See the full details on our site.
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