Description
You’re looking at a lightweight, reliable 12-gauge shotgun built for the hunter who covers ground. The Benelli Ultra Light Satin Walnut / Weathercoat 12/24 12 Ga 24 Barrel, Rd, 2 rd is a purpose-driven inertia-driven semi-auto that shaves serious weight off your shoulder without sacrificing the Benelli reliability you pay for. It’s a tool for long days in the field where every ounce counts, and it’s priced at a point that makes you consider the real value of a premium name.
Here’s the thing—this isn’t a do-everything tactical gun. It’s a focused upland and waterfowl hunter’s companion. The core answer? It’s a 12-gauge, 24-inch barrel semi-automatic shotgun with a 2+1 capacity, featuring a satin walnut stock and a durable Weathercoat finish on the metal. The entire package weighs just 5.8 pounds, which is a massive difference over a standard 7.5-pound shotgun after five miles. That weight, or lack of it, is the primary selling point you’re investing in for $1480.02.
Key Features & Practical Tradeoffs
The Ultra Light lives up to its name. Benelli achieves the light weight through a slim, trimmed receiver and a specially designed stock—it’s not just a standard model with holes drilled in it. The inertia-driven system is the same proven mechanism from the legendary M2 and Ethos lines, meaning it cycles a wide range of loads reliably. This system is known for running cleaner than gas-operated shotguns, a practical benefit for maintenance. It fits out of the box with no gunsmithing required for most shooters, a major plus for the budget-conscious who want a ready-to-hunt tool.
You get the classic look with the satin walnut stock, but the Weathercoat finish on the barrel and receiver is the real workhorse. It’s a corrosion-resistant matte coating that stands up to rain, sleet, and early morning duck blinds better than a standard blued finish. The 24-inch barrel is a sweet spot for maneuverability in brush and still providing a smooth swing on birds. With a 2+1 capacity, it’s built for hunting regulations, not high-volume shooting. That’s a tradeoff: you’re getting a streamlined hunting instrument, not a clay-busting or home defense platform.
Specifications
| Gauge | 12 Gauge (2 3/4″ & 3″) |
| Barrel Length | 24 Inches |
| Overall Capacity | 2+1 Rounds |
| Action Type | Inertia-Driven Semi-Auto |
| Weight | Approx. 5.8 lbs |
| Finish/Stock | Weathercoat Metal / Satin Walnut |
Pros & Cons
Pros: The obvious pro is the transformative light weight for all-day carry. You’re also getting Benelli’s rugged inertia system that runs clean. The Weathercoat finish adds real-world durability for the price, and the walnut stock offers traditional aesthetics that hold value. It’s a simple, point-and-shoot hunting tool.
Cons: The 2+1 capacity is limiting for some. The light weight increases felt recoil with heavier 3-inch magnum loads—that’s simple physics. At this price, some competitors include more features like adjustable stocks or choke tubes (it comes with fixed chokes, typically Improved Cylinder). You’re paying for the name and the weight reduction engineering.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This is for the active upland hunter chasing pheasants or grouse across Missouri fields, or the waterfowler who hikes into backwater timber spots. If your priority is reducing fatigue over miles traveled, this gun delivers. It’s also a solid choice for a younger or smaller-framed shooter who needs a lighter 12-gauge, provided they can manage the recoil tradeoff. It’s not for the shooter who wants one gun for clays, deer, and turkey—it’s a specialist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What chokes does it use and are they included?
A: The Benelli Ultra Light typically comes with a set of fixed choke tubes (like Crio chokes). You’ll want to confirm the specific chokes included, but they are compatible with the Benelli Crio system used on most of their modern shotguns like the M2 and Ethos.
Q: How does the recoil compare to a heavier shotgun?
A: It’s noticeably sharper with full-power loads. The light weight absorbs less energy, so it transfers more to your shoulder. For mild target or field loads, it’s very manageable. For sustained shooting with heavy waterfowl loads, it’s a factor to consider.
Q: Is it reliable with light target loads?
A: The inertia system generally requires a minimum power level to cycle. It runs great with standard 1 1/8 oz, 2 3/4″ target loads at 1200 fps or higher. Very light 7/8 oz or low-velocity loads may not cycle reliably—stick to standard velocity for clays practice.
If a durable, lightweight hunting shotgun that cuts the weight but not the proven performance fits your needs, this Benelli Ultra Light represents a clear value in its niche. It is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, with an FFL transfer required for firearm purchases. See the full details on our site.
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