BENELLI SUPER BLACK EAGLE III
Posted May 19, 2023
Introduction
Neglect the Benelli Super Black Eagle III? Not a good idea. This shotgun has been on the market for nearly thirty years and is known widely for its dependability, accuracy and ruggedness. At the time of its release in 1988, the Super Black Eagle III (or SBE3) was considered cutting-edge, and for good reason. With its increased capacity, reduced muzzle climb, improved ergonomics and sleek design, the SBE3 has gone on to become one of the most popular semi-automatic shotguns on the market.
Design and Comfort
From its inception, the SBE3 was designed to be a lighter, more ergonomic shotgun than its predecessor, the SBE2. This streamlined design makes the SBE3 easy to wield and comfortable to shoot. At a weight of just 7 lbs, 9.5 oz, the SBE3 is noticeably easier to carry and maneuver than other shotguns in its class. The combination of its lightweight, slim profile and its innovative recoil reducing technologies make the SBE3 a pleasure to shoot.
But there’s more to the design of the SBE3 than just weight. The SBE3 features an Extra-Grain Pattern Finish, an anti-glare matte finish that helps with concealment, and a beveled magazine well that improves reloading times. The stock of the SBE3 has also been faulted for its slenderness, which may not be comfortable for larger shooters. However, with the addition of a recoil pad and a slip-on comb pad on the stock, shooters can adjust the fit of the SBE3 to meet their individual needs.
In addition to its sleek design, the SBE3 also features some of the most advanced recoil reduction technology available in a shotgun. Benelli’s proprietary Progressive Comfort Recoil System (PCRS) drastically reduces felt recoil, making the SBE3 exceptionally comfortable to shoot. The PCRS technology works by gradually compressing the gun’s buttstock, which absorbs the rearward force of recoil. The SBE3 also features an exceptionally low bore axis, which helps to reduce muzzle climb. This combination of sling geometry and recoil reduction technology makes the SBE3 an exceptionally comfortable shotgun to shoot.
Reliability
The SBE3 was designed to be a reliable shotgun, and Benelli has delivered. The SBE3 features a Cold Hammer Forged barrel—a process that ensures durability and consistency—as well as a rotating bolt that locks securely into the chamber, ensuring reliable cycling each and every time.
Benelli also went the extra mile by equipping the SBE3 with an aircraft-grade aluminum receiver that’s nearly as strong as steel. This receiver is also MIG welded, providing additional durability and rigidity. On top of that, the SBE3 is equipped with a steel operating handle and bolt release, which helps to reduce wear and tear on the gun.
Performance
The Super Black Eagle III is a great performer on the range. The SBE3 is capable of firing 2 ¾”, 3” and 3 ½” shells interchangeably, without any additional adjustments. This feature is great for hunters who may be shooting multiple gauge shells from time to time. The SBE3 is also highly accurate, with average groups of about 1.5” at 25 yards. This accuracy is due in part to the SBE3’s lengthened forcing cone and back-bored barrel, which helps to reduce the spread of pellets over time.
The SBE3 is also reliable when it comes to cycling. It feeds, fires and extracts shells with ease and rarely experiences any type of feeding or extraction problems. And thanks to the rotating bolt head, the SBE3 is significantly less likely to experience stuck or broken shells.
Conclusion
The Benelli Super Black Eagle III is an excellent choice for hunters and shooters alike. Its lightweight design, improved ergonomics, recoil reducing technologies and reliable performance make it a great choice for anyone looking for a dependable, accurate and comfortable shotgun. With its thirty-year history of success, it’s no wonder why the SBE3 is still one of the most popular semi-automatic shotguns on the market.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- The Benelli Super Black Eagle III has a reliable action that is smooth and fast.
- The large bolt handle provides a good grip even with gloved hands.
- It is a lightweight gun that is comfortable to carry even when hunting in the field.
- The shotgun’s balance is excellent, providing a steady and non-fatiguing hold.
- The push button safety is easy to use and very reliable.
Cons:
- The pricing is a bit high compared to other shotguns.
- It is not the most suitable option for left-handed shooters due to the placement of the safety.
- Some users have reported problems with misfires and jamming at times.
- It is not the best choice for someone who does not have experience with shotguns.
- The synthetic stock can be a bit slippery when it gets wet.
Who Should Buy
The Benelli Super Black Eagle III is an expensive and high-performance shotgun for serious shooters who value accuracy and reliability. This particular shotgun is recommended for those who plan on using it for hunting, home defense or tactical and competitive shooting. It is not ideal for those who are purchasing their first shotgun and looking for an entry-level model.
Comparisons
| Product | Capacity | Rate of Fire | Stock | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BENELLI SUPER BLACK EAGLE III | 3 + 1 | N/A | Synthetic | $1,739.00 |
| Browning MAXUS Stalker | 4+1 | N/A | Composite | $1,699.99 |
| Remington V3 Field Sport | 4+1 | N/A | Synthetic | $749.99 |
| Beretta A400 Xplor Unico | 4+1 | 36/30/24 | Composite | $1,549.00 |
| Browning A5 Hunter | 4+1 | N/A | Walnut | $1,499.99 |
Features / Specs
• Over-molded Comfort Tek 1 stock
• 3.5" chamber for 12 GA and 3" Magnum
• 24 barrel
• Crio® chamber and bore
• Inertia Driven® system
• Hi-Viz® Pro-Comp fiber-optic sight
• ComforTech® recoil reduction system
• Bolt release button
• Drilled and tapped for scope
• Textured grip panels
• Weight: 7.9 lbs (12 ga)
• Overall length: 49.6"
Popular Accessories
The most popular accessories for the Benelli Super Black Eagle III are:
- A custom stock for improved ergonomics and accuracy.
- Extended or choked barrel for improved accuracy and range.
- An upgraded recoil pad for improved recoil management.
- Optics for improved visibility and target acquisition.
- Magazine extensions for increased capacity.
- A sling for easy carrying.
- A muzzle brake or flash hider for recoil reduction or vibration reduction.
- A grip enhancer for improved texture and control.
- A sound suppressor for reduced noise and recoil.
- A choke tube set for improved accuracy.
Accuracy
The Benelli Super Black Eagle 3 is a reliable, fast-shooting shotgun that is designed to be exceptionally accurate. The gun has a 3-inch chamber, an inertia-driven operating system, and a very reliable barrel and receiver. It also features a vent rib and an extended choke system that are designed to help the shooter have better control and accuracy with each shot. This gun is used for hunting, clay target shooting, and skeet. The gun's accuracy is excellent, and it performs well in any type of shooting environment. The Benelli Super Black Eagle 3 is a great choice for shooters who want an accurate, reliable shotgun for any application.
