The Super Black Eagle 3 stands at the forefront of Benelli’s impressive line of waterfowl-hunting shotguns. Not only does it excel in function, but also in form and design. Boasting the exclusive Crio-treated barrel and effortless disassembly, it is a testament to Benelli’s commitment to quality and innovation.
This firearm is crafted for the discerning sportsman who appreciates high-end features and usability. Its quality resonates clearly once held and mounted. Let’s analyze the Super Black Eagle 3 to determine whether it’s the ultimate trap shooting gear too.
A Look at the Pricing
The Benelli Super Black Eagle 3 retails at $1,999, placing it among the upper echelon of semi-automatic 3.5″ waterfowl shotguns in terms of cost.
Quick Specs:
- Gauge: 12;
- Chamber: 3.5″ (3″ variant available);
- Barrel length: 28″ (26″ and 24″ with a pistol grip also available);
- Weight: 7 lbs;
- Length of Pull: Standard 14 3/8″, adjustable with alternative butt-pads;
- Drop at Comb: 1 3/8″, adjustable with shims and various cheek pieces;
- Drop at Heel: 2 1/8″;
- Crio choke tube system (includes 2 extended chokes);
- Available in 6 distinct color variations.
Ergonomics and Design
The SBE 3’s ergonomics stand out:
- Features a well-fitted pistol grip and forearm;
- The charging handle and bolt release are slightly oversized, accommodating larger controls;
- Unique Benelli chevrons on the stock aid in managing recoil;
- The Comfort tech (3) cheek pad ensures extended comfort;
- Broad trigger guard accommodates gloved hands;
- Rear-mounted cross-bolt safety offers easy accessibility;
- Dual bead sight system with fiber optic front;
- The loading port is subtly milled out for facilitated loading.
Trigger Functionality:
- Weighs approximately 5 lbs 0.3 oz;
- Slight spongy feel to it, but does not deter rapid firing.
Build Quality
The SBE 3 is constructed with meticulous attention to detail. The quality is immediately apparent:
- It sports a slightly rearwards balance, typical of inertia guns, offering more control;
- Incorporates a Crio-treated barrel for increased durability and pattern consistency;
- The Crio treatment mitigates wear and tear, maintaining barrel integrity under heavy usage.
Ease of Disassembly & Cleaning
The SBE 3 is noted for its easy disassembly and cleaning process.
- Full cleaning does not require the removal of the bolt handle or trigger group;
- Forearm cap removal could be made quicker with a half-twist release mechanism, yet it’s a minor detail.
Recoil Management:
- With target loads, recoil is well-managed for an inertia gun;
- The 3 1/2″ loads may require some effort, but the recoil remains manageable overall.
Reliability Assessment
The SBE 3 demonstrates excellent reliability, even with lighter target loads. Few cycling issues are expected when firing from the shoulder.
Speed Shooting Evaluation
The SBE 3 excels in its overall functionality during speed shooting sessions. However, it requires a bit of acclimatization to its unique firing characteristics such as a higher muzzle flip. With practice, it’s possible to achieve quick successive hits.
Feeding Mechanism Analysis:
- A smooth feeding mechanism allows for an uninterrupted shooting experience;
- An efficient and timely loading mechanism ensures speedy action.
Customer Service and Warranty:
- Renowned for its excellent customer service support;
- A comprehensive warranty ensures peace of mind.
Benelli Super Black Eagle 3: Key Takeaways
| Aspect | Key Point |
|---|---|
| Purpose | Ideal for waterfowl hunting and potentially effective for trap shooting |
| Price | Positioned at the higher end of the market with an MSRP of $1,999 |
| Unique Features | Benefiting from Benelli’s unique Crio barrel treatment and effortless disassembly |
| Quality | Superior build quality with meticulous attention to detail |
| Ergonomics | Comfortable handling, rear-mounted cross-bolt safety, larger charging handle, and bolt release |
| Trigger | Satisfactory weight but has a spongy feel, occasionally outpaced in rapid-firing |
| Recoil | Manageable with target loads, heavier with 3 1/2″ loads |
| Speed Shooting | Effective but requires practice and acclimatization to higher muzzle flip |
| Reliability | Excellent, especially with lighter target loads |
| Ease of Cleaning | One of the easiest firearms to disassemble and clean |
| Warranty & Support | Renowned customer service with a comprehensive warranty |
Conclusion
The Benelli Super Black Eagle 3 is a well-rounded firearm with numerous high-end features. Its ergonomic design, superior build quality, and superb performance justify its placement among more expensive semi-automatic waterfowl shotguns. However, it does require some getting used to, particularly during speed shooting sessions due to its slightly higher muzzle flip and trigger characteristics. Despite these minor drawbacks, it still presents excellent value for money and is a worthy companion for any avid sportsman.
In conclusion, the waterfowl shotgun emerges as an impressive firearm that aligns with the discerning requirements of sportsmen and hunters alike. Its superiority in design, build quality, and usability justifies its position in the higher price range. Despite its few shortcomings such as a slightly spongy trigger and a higher muzzle flip, it still offers exceptional value for the investment.
Every aspect of this firearm, from the unique Crio-treated barrel to its comfortable ergonomics and ease of disassembly, resonates with Benelli’s commitment to quality and innovation. Whether you’re an avid waterfowl hunter or a trap shooting enthusiast willing to practice and adapt, the Super Black Eagle 3 could be a worthwhile addition to your collection.