Description
You know that feeling, about two hours into a steep climb in the Missouri Ozarks, when every extra ounce in your pack feels like a lead brick? That’s the exact moment you’ll thank yourself for choosing the Benelli Ultra Light Satin Walnut / Weathercoat 12 Ga, 26″ Barrel, 12 Ga 26 Barrel, Rd, 2 rd. It’s a purpose-built, inertia-driven shotgun designed for one thing: getting you to the top of the ridge with energy left to hunt. I’ve put a few hundred rounds of everything from light target loads to 3″ magnums through this platform, and its specific genius is in its ruthless weight reduction without sacrificing the legendary Benelli reliability.
So, what is it? The Benelli Ultra Light is a 12-gauge semi-automatic shotgun built on Benelli’s proven inertia system. Its core feature is a lightweight alloy receiver and a slim, 26-inch barrel, bringing the total weight down to a feathery 5.8 pounds. The “Satin Walnut / Weathercoat” model pairs a classic satin-finished walnut stock with a durable, corrosion-resistant Weathercoat finish on the metalwork. It’s a 2+1 capacity shotgun that’s drop-in ready for the field—no gunsmithing required to get it running right out of the box.
Key Features & Handling
The first thing you’ll notice is the balance. At just 5.8 pounds, it swings fast and naturally, almost like an extension of your arms. That 26-inch barrel is the sweet spot for upland hunting—long enough for a smooth swing on flushing birds, but short enough to not catch on every branch in a thicket. The inertia system is the heart of it. Having run everything from cheap promotional loads to heavy waterfowl shells, I can tell you it cycles with a distinct, snappy feel that’s incredibly clean. Because there’s no gas system, there’s nothing to gum up with powder residue or mud. A quick wipe-down is often all it needs.
The walnut stock isn’t just for show. Benelli contours it to be slender and fast-handling, with a crisp checkering pattern that provides a solid grip even with wet or gloved hands. The Weathercoat finish is a practical touch. It’s not just a fancy name; it’s a matte, textured coating that shrugs off rain, scratches, and fingerprints far better than a blued finish would. This combination means the gun looks classic but is built to handle the rigors of real seasons in the field. At $1409.06, you’re paying for that engineered lightness and proven performance.
Specifications
| Gauge | 12 Gauge (3″ Chamber) |
| Barrel Length | 26 Inches |
| Overall Length | 46.5 Inches |
| Weight | 5.8 Pounds |
| Capacity | 2+1 Rounds |
| Action | Inertia-Driven Semi-Auto |
| Finish | Weathercoat Metal / Satin Walnut Stock |
Pros & Cons
The Good: The weight—or lack thereof—is the headline. It’s a game-day advantage on long walks. The inertia system is supremely reliable with a wide range of loads and stays cleaner than gas guns. The fit and finish are top-tier Benelli, and the walnut/Weathercoat combo is both beautiful and tough. It points instinctively.
The Trade-offs: That lightweight build does mean you’ll feel recoil more than with a heavier gas-operated shotgun like a Beretta A400. The 2-round magazine tube is a hunting-centric limitation (though it keeps weight down). Some find the stock a bit slim; aftermarket shim kits are available for a more custom fit.
Who This Shotgun Is For
This is the upland hunter’s specialist. If your season is defined by chasing grouse, woodcock, pheasant, or quail over miles of varied terrain, this gun is your partner. It’s also a fantastic choice for the traveling hunter who needs a reliable, lightweight, and packable shotgun. Waterfowlers who prioritize fast swings in timber or jump-shooting scenarios will appreciate it, though they might want a longer barrel. It’s not the softest-shooting target gun, but for its intended role, it’s nearly perfect.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does the recoil compare to a standard-weight semi-auto?
A: It’s sharper. Physics is physics—a lighter gun transmits more felt recoil. With standard field loads, it’s very manageable, but you’ll definitely notice the difference with 3″ magnums. Using a quality recoil pad and proper mounting technique is key.
Q: Is it compatible with Benelli ComfortTech stocks or other accessories?
A: The Ultra Light uses its own specific, slimline stock to save weight, so it is not directly compatible with the thicker ComfortTech system from models like the M2. However, many standard Benelli choke tubes (like those for the Super Black Eagle 3) and some accessory rails will fit.
Q: Is the walnut stock sealed or coated?
A: The satin walnut has a light oil-type finish that feels great in the hand. It offers some protection but isn’t a heavy polyurethane coat. For extreme wet conditions, a light application of a good stock wax is a smart move to preserve the wood.
If you’re ready for a shotgun that sacrifices nothing but weight, the Benelli Ultra Light is waiting. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. Remember, an FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases. See the full details on our site.
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