Description
The Benelli Super Black Eagle 3 12 Ga, 26″ Barrel, Realtree Max 5, Comfortech 3 Stock is a 3.5-inch chambered inertia-driven semi-automatic shotgun built for waterfowl and turkey hunters who face punishing conditions. It combines extreme weather reliability with a purpose-built camo pattern and a stock engineered to reduce felt recoil by over 50%, making it a tool for hunters who need their gear to perform when the marsh gets tough.
Key Features
- Inertia-Driven System: The heart of the SBE3. It cycles everything from light 2¾-inch target loads to punishing 3½-inch magnums without adjustment. When it comes to switching loads in the blind, you just load and go.
- Comfortech 3 Stock: This isn’t just a pad; it’s a system of chevron-shaped recoil pads and energy-absorbing materials that direct recoil away from your face and shoulder. You’ll notice the difference on the third box of shells.
- Realtree Max-5 Camo: A full-wrap hydro-dip finish. This pattern breaks up your outline in a mix of timber, marsh grass, and field edges—exactly the kind of versatile cover Missouri waterfowlers encounter.
- 26-Inch Barrel: Offers a fast swing for quick shots in tight timber but maintains a smooth follow-through for longer passes. It’s a balanced length that handles well from a layout boat or a pit blind.
- SteadyGrip Texture: The grip surfaces are aggressively textured. When your hands are wet, cold, and muddy, the gun stays put. It’s a small detail that matters when a flock is working.
Specifications & Details
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3.5″ |
| Barrel Length | 26 Inches |
| Overall Length | 47.5 Inches |
| Weight | 7.3 lbs |
| Finish | Realtree Max-5 |
| Stock | Comfortech 3 Synthetic |
Here’s the thing—the SBE3 is built around simplicity. The inertia system has fewer parts than a gas gun, which means less to foul with powder residue or marsh muck. At 7.3 pounds, it’s light enough to carry all day but has enough mass to soak up recoil. The 3.5-inch chamber gives you the option for maximum payloads on geese, but it will still cycle a light 2¾-inch load for doves or clays without a hiccup. This versatility is a major point for hunters who own one shotgun for multiple seasons. The gun ships with a set of Crio chokes (Improved Cylinder, Modified, Full), so it’s ready for the field right out of the box.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This is a waterfowler’s and turkey hunter’s shotgun first. It’s for the hunter who is in the blind before sunrise in sleet or pushing through cattails in November. The hunter who needs absolute reliability because opportunities are scarce. It’s also a serious choice for the high-volume shooter who wants to minimize recoil fatigue during preseason clay training or a long dove hunt. If your season depends on one gun performing in cold, wet, and dirty conditions, this platform is engineered for you. The price point of $1691.06 reflects its position as a professional-grade tool.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Legendary Benelli inertia reliability with minimal maintenance. The Comfortech 3 stock genuinely reduces perceived recoil. The Realtree Max-5 finish is durable and effective. Handles the full spectrum of 12-gauge loads without manual adjustment. Lightweight for its capabilities.
Cons: The premium price tag is a real consideration. The inertia system can feel more abrupt than a well-tuned gas system. Some shooters may prefer a longer barrel for specific waterfowl or turkey scenarios. That said, its 47.5-inch overall length strikes a great balance for maneuverability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will it cycle light target loads reliably?
A: Yes. The updated inertia system in the SBE3 is specifically designed to cycle light 2¾-inch, 1-ounce target loads up to 3½-inch magnums. Many users run 7/8 oz loads for clays without issue. No gunsmithing required.
Q: Is the camo finish durable?
A: The Realtree Max-5 is applied via a hydro-dip process and is quite tough. It resists scratches from briars, boat decks, and blind material well. Like any finish, it can be marred by hard impacts, but it holds up to typical field use.
Q: What aftermarket chokes are compatible?
A: The SBE3 uses Benelli’s Crio choke system. Any choke tube labeled for Benelli Crio (including many from Carlson’s, Patternmaster, and Indian Creek) will fit. Always ensure the choke is rated for the steel shot you intend to use.
This Benelli Super Black Eagle 3 is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. FFL transfer required for firearm purchases. If you need a shotgun that works when you do, this is a benchmark.
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