Description
The Benelli SBE3 12 Ga, 24″ Barrel, 3.5″, Burris Fast Fire II, Bottomland, 3rd is a premium, optics-ready waterfowl shotgun. It’s a semi-automatic built for harsh conditions, featuring a 24-inch barrel, a 3.5-inch chamber for maximum shell versatility, and comes from the factory with a Burris FastFire II red dot sight mounted on a dedicated rail. The Bottomland camo finish provides excellent concealment in marsh and timber environments. This package represents a significant upfront investment at $2584.90, but it bundles a top-tier shotgun with a proven optic, potentially saving you money versus buying and mounting separately.
Key Features
- Optics-Ready Package: Comes with a Burris FastFire II red dot sight pre-mounted, saving you the cost and hassle of purchase and gunsmithing.
- Versatile Chambering: The 3.5-inch chamber handles everything from light 2.75-inch target loads to heavy 3.5-inch magnum waterfowl shells, giving you one gun for multiple seasons.
- Proven Inertia-Driven System: Benelli’s inertia system is known for reliable cycling with minimal recoil and easy cleaning—no gas pistons to gum up.
- Hunt-Ready Camo: The full Bottomland camo finish on barrel, receiver, and stock offers superior concealment right out of the box.
- Balanced Barrel Length: The 24-inch barrel provides a quick swing in tight blinds and thick cover without sacrificing too much sight plane.
Specifications & Details
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3.5″ |
| Barrel Length | 24 Inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 46.5 Inches |
| Finish/Camo | Bottomland |
| Sight System | Burris FastFire II Red Dot (Included) |
| Action | Semi-Automatic, Inertia Driven |
| Weight | Approx. 7.1 lbs |
Look, the SBE3’s core design is about minimizing fuss. The inertia system means you can run hundreds of rounds between cleanings, a real perk during long seasons. The included Burris FastFire II is a legitimate sight, not a cheap add-on—it’s compatible with many aftermarket mounts if you ever want to switch it to another platform. At just over 7 pounds, it’s light enough for long carries through Missouri public land marshes. The real budget question is whether you need the 3.5-inch capability or if a standard 3-inch model would suffice and save several hundred dollars. That said, having the option is nice, and the gun handles lighter loads surprisingly well thanks to Benelli’s ComfortTech stock system. This specific configuration is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, with an FFL transfer required for firearm purchases.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This is for the serious waterfowler or turkey hunter who views their shotgun as a critical, no-fail tool. It’s for the hunter who has dealt with optic-mounting headaches before and values a ready-to-hunt package from a trusted brand. If you frequently hunt in wet, muddy conditions where reliability is non-negotiable, the SBE3’s reputation is a major part of its value. It’s also a solid pick for the shooter who wants one shotgun to cover waterfowl, turkey, and even deer (with a slug barrel). The price tag puts it in the “investment” category, so it’s best suited for those who hunt enough to justify the cost per outing.
Pros & Cons: The Value Breakdown
Pros: The biggest pro is the turnkey optics setup—no gunsmithing required, you’re zeroed and ready. Benelli’s inertia system is famously reliable and low-maintenance. The 3.5-inch chamber offers maximum shell versatility for geese or long-range turkeys. The Bottomland camo is effective and durable. You’re getting a bundled discount versus buying the gun and optic separately.
Cons: The upfront cost is steep. You’re paying a premium for the Benelli name and the included optic. Some shooters find the inertia system has a sharper recoil impulse than gas-operated competitors like a Beretta A400. The 24-inch barrel is perfect for tight quarters but some pass shooters might prefer a 26 or 28-inch model. The Burris FastFire II is a good sight, but it’s not the latest generation—is that a dealbreaker for you?
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does the Burris FastFire II come mounted and zeroed?
A: The sight comes mounted on the receiver’s integral Picatinny rail, but it will require zeroing with your preferred ammunition. The mount is secure and allows for a proper, repeatable zero—you’ll just need to confirm it at the range.
Q: Can this shotgun reliably cycle light 2.75-inch target loads?
A: Yes, the SBE3’s inertia system is designed to handle a wide range of loads from 2.75-inch light target loads up to 3.5-inch magnums. It may require breaking in with a box of heavier loads first, but it’s known for good versatility once settled.
Q: Is the Bottomland camo pattern effective in Missouri fields and marshes?
A: Absolutely. Bottomland is a classic, broken pattern ideal for the mixed browns, tans, and grays found in Missouri’s timber, corn stubble, and marsh grasses during late season. It provides excellent concealment without being overly dark.
If the blend of proven reliability, a hunt-ready optic package, and the versatility of a 3.5-inch chamber aligns with your needs, this SBE3 configuration represents a solid long-term value. View the full details on our site.
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