Benelli SuperNova
Posted May 19, 2023
The Benelli Supernova is an impressive pump-action shotgun that combines classic design sensibilities, modern features, and reliability. Originally released in 2004, the Supernova has become an established favorite amongst hunters, sport shooters, and homeowners for its reliable performance and solid design.
The Supernova was designed as a multipurpose gun; while the gun comes as a single shot, it can be easily converted to a double or triple shot format with aftermarket accessories. It has a variety of features making it an unlikely candidate for a modern tactical shotgun. Its recoil-dampening system, reliable receiver, and ergonomic design all make it an excellent choice for shooters looking for a superb gun.
The Supernova features a proven and reliable rotary bolt design that is forged from steel as well as a 3-inch chamber. It’s lockup is tight and smooth ensuring a positive, safe firing when each round is chambered. The pump-action is smooth and fast, cycling rounds with remarkable briskness and efficiency. The extended forearm gives the shooter excellent leverage and control during operation. The shotgun is equipped with a beveled magazine tube that can accept up to eight rounds of 2 3/4 inch or 3-inch magnum shotgun shells. This makes the Supernova ideal for hunting game birds, deer, or wildfowl.
The Supernova comes equipped with a synthetic stock and a recoil-reducing system to contribute to reduced shoulder fatigue. The synthetic stock helps to reduce weight and also absorbs the shock of the recoil making it more comfortable to shoot. The forend features an interchangeable rail adapter, allowing the shooter to easily mount accessories such as slings, lights, or shells holders. Additionally the buttstock has an adjustable shim to adjust stock length for shooters of different sizes as well as a rubber recoil pad for maximum comfort while shooting.
The sights on the Benelli Supernova are crisp and efficient, providing the shooter with faster target-acquisition. The front sight is a bright and easy to pick up red fiber-optic and there is a rear ghost ring adjustable for windage and elevation for precise accruracy. The receiver is drilled and tapped for the mounting of optics. It also has a Picatinny accessory rail for mounting optics, lights, and lasers.
In terms of safety, the Benelli Supernova features a cross-bolt safety switch, which is contoured to keep the shooter’s thumb in the proper position when actuating the safety. It also has a magazine disconnect, which prevents the gun from firing unless it has a round in the chamber. This is an important safety feature, particularly for home defense situations.
Overall, the Benelli Supernova is an extraordinary firearm combining classic design sensibilities, modern features, and reliability. Its four choke tubes, adjustable stock, and sling studs make it an ideal choice for hunters and sport shooters alike. Its ability to quickly and reliably cycle rounds makes it effective for target shooting and personal protection situations. Its lightweight design, comfortable recoil system, and additional features make the Supernova an attractive option for those looking for a versatile, high-quality shotgun.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
-Good performance and reliability make the Benelli SuperNova a great choice for hunting, shooting competitions, and home defense.
-The barrel is chrome-lined, corrosion-resistant, and incredibly durable.
- Features a buttstock that can be easily adjusted to fit each shooter.
- Available in several different configurations, including tactical, field, and field/Tactical.
- Comes with a five-year warranty.
- Its design gives it superior balance and easy carrying.
Cons:
-The Benelli SuperNova is quite expensive.
-Some users may find the stock not as comfortable as they'd like.
-The bare slug barrel may require additional modifications to be fully accurate.
-It may be a little too large for some shooters.
Who Should Buy
The Benelli SuperNova is an excellent choice for those who need a reliable and powerful shotgun for hunting, recreational shooting, home defense, or competitive shooting. It is reliable, powerful, and relatively easy to maintain and operate.
The Benelli SuperNova is not a good choice for those who are looking for a lightweight shotgun, or those who do not require the power and reliability of a semi-automatic shotgun. Additionally, due to its relatively high cost, it is not a good choice for those who are on a tight budget.
Comparisons
| Gun Model | Caliber | Capacity | Barrel Length | Overall Length | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Benelli SuperNova | 12 Gauge | 4 or 7 | 28” | 49.5” | 7.3 lbs. |
| Mossberg 500 | 12 Gauge | 5 or 6 | 28” | 48.5” | 7.5 lbs. |
| Remington 870 | 12 Gauge | 4 or 7 | 28” | 48.5” | 7.25 lbs. |
| Browning BPS | 12 Gauge | 4 or 7 | 28” | 49.5” | 7.3 lbs. |
Features / Specs
• Barrel length: 18.5" (synthetic) or 28" (synthetic or un-camoed wood)
• Gauge: 12
• Choke Tubes: flush-mounted, Benelli choke system
• Capacity: 4 + 1
• Action: inertia-driven operating system
• Sight: red bar front, metal bead mid-sight
• Stock: ComforTech® stock and forend
• Length of Pull: 14.5" or 15.5"
• Length Overall: 44.25" (18.5" barrel), 49.5" (28" barrel)
• Weight: 7.1 lbs (18.5" barrel), 7.6 lbs (28" barrel)
Popular Accessories
Shotgun?
- Sling
- Recoil Pad
- Comb Raiser
- Scope Mount
- Forend Grip
- Tactical Rail
- Stock Extender
- Magazine Extension Tube
- Scope Rings
- Flashlight/Laser Attachment
Accuracy
The Benelli SuperNova is widely regarded as a reliable and accurate shotgun. Its rugged construction makes it ideal for use on marshy ground as well as in extreme weather, and its In-Line Inertia Driven System provides consistent shotshell ignition and velocities, making it highly accurate. Its adjustable stock also helps make the SuperNova comfortable for various shooters, allowing them to improve their accuracy with the shotgun. Furthermore, the SuperNova's ability to cycle both 2 ¾- and 3-inch shells without any modifications allows the gun to be used for a wide range of hunting, sporting, and home defense applications. This is further evidence of its accuracy in various conditions and settings. All in all, the Benelli SuperNova is a reliable and accurate shotgun that is perfect for any outdoor enthusiast.
