Benelli 512

[Sox]

Hey guys, can you Benelli pro's tell me about this 512? I think it preceeded the current M1. Is it basically an M1, any more or less durable? Finally, what's a fair price? Thanks gang.

[hksw]

IIRC, the predecessor to the Super 90 was the 121.

If you mean the Heckler and Koch 512 GSG9 shotgun, it was actually made by Franchi. (Back then, not a part of Beretta/Benelli. Also back then Benelli was not a part of Beretta although they did work closely together.) Essentially a semi-only SPAS-12 or (not totally sure) a LAW-12 with wood furniture. Gas op. Somewhat collectable generally, very collectable for HKers. ~360 imported to the US. As the story goes, the gun was specifically designed for the GSG-9 (anti-terrorist tactical team commissioned after the Munich Olympics hostage incident) in Germany. Production was overrun and the surplus (at least some of it) was sent to the US. Franchi's shot diverter used for the SPAS/LAW/SAS-12,-15,-16 was attached to the muzzled.

They have a couple in Guns America for $1500 used, $1700 new. Back in the early '90s they were $800-$900. IIRC, when they were very first marketed, they were going for as low as $700.

If you do mean the 121, there is one in GA for $400 new. All of the 121's I've ever seen had wood stocks.

Can't really say on reliability, function of the 512. I've only shot mine a very few rounds due to its collectability. 25 rounds no probs, but that's not a good indicator.

[Sox]

Thanks HKSW,
I vaguely remember those limited 512's, I think they had the vertical diverter. This one must be a 121, it has oil finished wood stock, and what appears to be a baked on enamel finish on the receiver, as it is different from the barrel and mag extension.