Description
The Benelli Super Nova Pump-Action 12 Ga, 24″ Barrel, 3.5″, Blued, Black, 4rd is a purpose-built, no-frills pump-action shotgun designed to handle the toughest 3.5-inch magnum shells without complaint. It’s a workhorse built on a single-piece steel-reinforced polymer receiver for durability, offering serious shooters a reliable platform for hunting and heavy-duty use at a price that undercuts many competitors. For under $500, you get Benelli’s proven inertia-driven rotating bolt system and a famously robust action in a simple, effective package.
Key Features
- 3.5-Inch Chamber: The headline feature. Handles everything from light target loads to the most powerful waterfowl and turkey magnums.
- Steel-Reinforced Polymer Receiver: A one-piece design that’s lighter than aluminum and incredibly strong, with integrated recoil reduction.
- Comfortech Stock System: Benelli’s proprietary stock with cheek piece and gel recoil pad significantly tames the kick of heavy loads.
- Rotating Bolt Head: The same inertia-driven locking system from Benelli’s premium autoloaders, ensuring ultra-reliable extraction.
- Shim-Adjustable Stock: Allows for drop and cast customization to improve fit and accuracy—a rare feature in this price bracket.
Specifications & Details
| Gauge | 12 Gauge |
| Chamber | 3.5″ |
| Barrel Length | 24″ |
| Capacity | 4+1 Rounds |
| Overall Length | Approx. 46.5″ |
| Weight | Approx. 8.0 lbs |
| Finish | Blued Barrel, Black Synthetic Stock |
The 24-inch barrel is a sweet spot for versatility. It’s maneuverable in a blind or thick brush but still provides a smooth swing for pass-shooting or clays. The blued finish is classic and durable, while the synthetic stock shrugs off moisture and rough handling. At 8 pounds unloaded, the weight helps manage recoil, and the 4+1 capacity is standard for many hunting applications. Here’s the thing—this shotgun is drop-in ready. You can take it from the box to the field with zero modifications needed, a testament to its out-of-the-box functionality. It’s also compatible with a wide range of aftermarket chokes using the Benelli Crio System, and the forend accepts standard accessory rails from brands like Nordic Components for adding lights.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This is the shotgun for the budget-conscious hunter who doesn’t want to compromise on toughness. It’s built for the Missouri waterfowler who needs a gun that cycles frozen, muddy 3.5-inch steel shot without a hiccup. It’s for the turkey hunter who wants a reliable, camo-wrap-ready platform. It’s also a solid choice for a homeowner seeking a supremely dependable defensive firearm, though the longer barrel is less ideal for tight quarters. If your priority is bombproof reliability with heavy loads and you view fancy finishes as unnecessary, the Super Nova makes a compelling argument.
Practical Pros & Cons
Pros: The primary advantage is its ability to digest any 12-gauge shell on the market, from 2.75-inch to 3.5-inch magnums, with absolute reliability. The Comfortech stock genuinely works, making a day of shooting heavy loads far more pleasant. The construction is overbuilt in the best way—this is a shotgun you can abuse for decades. At $469.06, it significantly undercuts other 3.5-inch capable pumps from major brands while offering unique features like the shim-adjustable stock.
Cons: The action can feel a bit stiff and gritty when new, requiring a break-in period. Some shooters find the polymer receiver has more flex than traditional metal, which is a matter of personal feel. The 4-round tube capacity is standard but less than some tactical-oriented pumps. The loading port isn’t beveled, which can make quick reloads slightly trickier until you get the technique down.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can it shoot 2.75-inch shells reliably?
A: Absolutely. The Benelli Super Nova cycles lighter 2.75-inch target and field loads without issue. The inertia-driven system is less sensitive to low-power loads than some gas-operated shotguns, making it a versatile choice for clays or small game after a season of waterfowl.
Q: Is the barrel threaded for chokes?
A: Yes, it uses Benelli’s proprietary Crio choke system. The gun typically comes with a set of flush-mounted chokes (Improved Cylinder, Modified, Full). These are high-quality steel-compatible chokes, and aftermarket options are readily available from brands like Carlson’s and Patternmaster.
Q: What’s the real difference between this and a Mossberg 500 or Remington 870?
A: The core difference is the one-piece polymer receiver and the rotating bolt head. It’s built to handle sustained use with punishing 3.5-inch magnums, which can wear out traditional aluminum-receiver pumps faster. The Comfortech stock is also a more advanced recoil solution than standard pads. You’re paying for a design specifically engineered for the heaviest loads.
For the hunter or shooter who demands a pump-action that can serve as a lifetime tool without breaking the bank, the Benelli Super Nova represents a clear value proposition. Its design prioritizes long-term durability over immediate polish, and its performance with heavy loads is difficult to match at this price. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. See the full product page for current availability and to start the simple FFL transfer process.
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