The Benelli Ultralight 20 gauge shotgun has earned a reputation as a high-performing, lightweight firearm ideal for upland hunting, sporting clays, and even home defense. This review delves deep into its features, performance, and overall value, helping you decide if it's the right gun for you.
Unmatched Lightweight Design: A Feather in Your Hand
The most striking feature of the Benelli Ultralight 20 gauge is its weight, or rather, its lack thereof. Benelli achieves this featherlight feel through the use of an innovative Ergal alloy receiver. This material is significantly lighter than traditional steel, allowing for extended shooting sessions without fatigue. This is particularly crucial for upland bird hunting where long walks and quick target acquisition are paramount. The reduced weight also contributes to improved maneuverability and swing speed, enhancing your accuracy and overall shooting experience.
Weight Comparison with Competitors:
| Shotgun Model | Gauge | Approximate Weight (lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| Benelli Ultralight | 20 | ~5.5 |
| Browning Citori 725 | 20 | ~6.5 |
| Beretta 686 Ejector | 20 | ~6.8 |
This lighter weight comes with a slight trade-off in perceived durability compared to heavier steel receivers. However, Benelli's reputation for robust construction ensures that this isn't a significant concern for the average user. The alloy receiver is still incredibly strong and capable of withstanding the rigors of regular use.
Performance: Reliability and Soft Recoil
The Benelli Ultralight 20 gauge utilizes the company's renowned Inertia Driven system. This recoil operation provides a remarkably soft shooting experience, especially beneficial for smaller-framed shooters or those sensitive to recoil. The system's reliability is legendary, known for its consistent cycling even with lighter loads. This is essential for maintaining a fast follow-up shot, critical in fast-paced hunting situations.
Inertia Driven System Explained:
The Inertia system operates on the principle of inertia. The bolt remains locked until the recoil of the shot pushes the bolt back, allowing it to cycle. This system is generally more reliable than gas systems, less prone to fouling, and simpler to maintain.
Versatility: From the Field to the Range
The Benelli Ultralight 20 gauge's versatility is a key selling point. Its light weight makes it ideal for long days in the field chasing upland game like quail, pheasant, and dove. However, its accuracy and soft shooting characteristics also make it a surprisingly competent choice for sporting clays and even trap shooting. The adjustability of the stock and its comfortable design contribute to its broad appeal across various shooting disciplines.
Ideal Uses:
- Upland Hunting: The low weight and quick handling make it perfect for hunting birds.
- Sporting Clays: Its accuracy and recoil reduction allow for comfortable, competitive shooting.
- Trap Shooting: While not its primary purpose, it can perform adequately in trap shooting.
- Home Defense: Though not its ideal role, the reliability and ease of handling make it a viable, albeit potentially less powerful, option.
Features and Ergonomics: A Comfortable Shooter
Beyond its weight and performance, the Benelli Ultralight boasts several features that enhance its usability. The stock design is well-considered, offering a comfortable and ergonomic grip. This contributes to proper shooting posture and reduces fatigue during extended shooting sessions.
The gun's overall balance is excellent, contributing to its quick pointing ability and ease of handling. Additionally, many models include adjustable drop and cast, allowing shooters to customize the fit for improved comfort and accuracy. High-quality wood or synthetic stocks are available, providing options to suit various preferences and budgets.
Cons and Considerations:
While the Benelli Ultralight 20 gauge offers many advantages, it's essential to be aware of potential drawbacks:
- Price: It's a premium shotgun, with a price point reflecting its high-quality materials and construction.
- Recoil Sensitivity with Heavy Loads: While generally soft shooting, heavy loads might still produce noticeable recoil for some shooters.
- Limited Capacity: The magazine capacity is typically relatively low compared to some other shotguns.
Conclusion: A Top Contender in its Class
The Benelli Ultralight 20 gauge is a top-tier shotgun that excels in several areas. Its lightweight design, reliable performance, and comfortable ergonomics make it a strong contender for hunters, sporting clay shooters, and anyone seeking a high-quality, versatile shotgun. While the price might be a barrier for some, the overall quality, performance, and long-term value often justify the investment for discerning shooters. If you're in the market for a lightweight and reliable 20-gauge shotgun, the Benelli Ultralight deserves serious consideration.