Always wanted a Benelli but thought you could never afford one? Too many Benelli’s to choose from? Got a thing for Italians?
While the selection of Benelli models and configurations does seem endless, the options for the Italian shotgun that gets all the hoopla comes in an affordable, simpler package – the Benelli Nova.
At a sticker price of around $550-$570, you really can’t go wrong with this high-quality Benelli Nova shotgun. Available in 12 or 20 gauge and also a “youth” 20 gauge with a shorter length of pull. The real differences are in the barrel length and overall weight of the gun. The fact that you can shoot any size shell through the 12 gauge models with no need to change barrels is really impressive. Yes, you read that right: you can shoot anything from target loads up to 3.5” magnum shells through this baby with nothing to do other than pull the trigger.
A magazine capacity of 4+1 rounds is pretty standard (unless you hunt in New Jersey where you are limited to three) and all shells are ejected out through the bottom of the shotgun. The Benelli Nova comes standard with a red bar front sight and a bead mid sight. Available accessories are limited, but you can get IC, M and F chokes for the Nova.
One of the very few drawbacks of the Benelli is the fact that it is only available with a polymer stock (which is also be weather resistant, so it could be considered a plus as well) and features grooves instead of checkering in the grip and forend. We trust Benelli to get it right, but a wet gun is still a wet gun and we’re a little on the fence about it. The current available finishes are Realtree APG, Realtree Max-4 and black synthetic.
Another great feature of the Nova is the shell stop button on the bottom of the gun. This button allows a chambered shell to be removed without having to release any rounds from the magazine, which is a very useful and innovative feature.
Overall, Benelli continues to impress, and at this price point, how can you not want one?