Which shotgun (Benelli) is right for me?

[ShawnaDenise]

Hi I would very much value some input! I do not own anything as of yet, have been considering a shotgun for quite awhile now and Benelli is the #1 recommendation i keep getting (I also looked at the Mossburg 500--illegal in Chicago and the Remington 870 -- which I am told jams). When I found two intruders in my home on Monday, I decided I should stop considering a shotgun and actually go buy one. My shortlist is: Supernova (price, after all an intruder doesn't care how much the gun costs and rave reviews), Ultralight (because I am 5'3" 130lbs) and the Cordoba (not that much heavier and damn what a pretty gun!) I figure if I go cheap the gun will just sit in the safe for a bad bad day as opposed to the other two that would push me to go shooting more often, I'd feel guilt buying such a pretty gun and never using it. I will not be shooting anything living (unless they are in my home), I fear recoil (which is one reason I chose Benelli to begin with), and once I leave Chicago (proper) I will probably start collecting so I wouldn't mind a gun that more or less holds its value. I also wouldn't mind a gun that my bf would not be embarrassed borrowing when he does go hunting (he is not a fan of shotguns). Any and all thoughts are appreciated!

 

[BridgeWalker]

Don't get the superlight unless you plan on extensive hunting! A lightweight shotgun is light so that it is easier to carry around all day along with other gear. The lighter a shotgun is, the more punishing the recoil is. I don't buy that smaller people can't handle recoil either, but don't get a lighter gun thinking it will be easier to shoot. The opposite is truer.

The Supernova? Great if all you want is defense or occasional shooting. But I'm not a fan of pumps in general for anything but HD.

Personally, I'd go with the Cordoba because man, what a pretty gun.

I have a Montefeltro and am very happy with it.

 

[okienate]

Ditto on what Delta9 said. Benelli makes many outstanding weapons, I personally own the Supernova Tactical and love it. Pump shotguns are simple, low cost and very appropriate for HD.

The feature that drove me to the Supernova Tactical was the pistol grip. This helps to further spread the recoil force out and lets your grip help your shoulder out (so to speak). It also is easier to keep your hands on it. (initially I hated pistol grips on a shotgun, but this Benelli really changed my mind.

If the extra little bit of price doesn't bother you, the Tactical version is a nice upgrade to the already nice Supernova. The only down side is if you're expecting to get into "customization". It is simpler (and less expensive) to find things to bolt on to an 870, but for HD the less crap you bolt onto it the better.

 

[Striker]

Shawna,

Welcome to THR!

I'm sure that some of the others will chime in shortly, but before you do anything search the shotgun forum and read up on some of the threads here.

I'm going to quote from sm (Steve), one of the members on this topic from a post a few days ago.

Don't. (buy anything)

Not yet anyway.

Get with some seasoned shot gun users. Ideal would be to take a defensive shotgun class and have to borrow a bone stock shotgun to take the class.
Heck, borrow one from the Instructors if could.

Clay Shooters, Skeet, trap, 5 stand, sporting clays...bird hunters even.

Gun Fit to shooter, correct basic fundamentals, are that important.
MORE important is the Brain.

Mental, Lethal use of Force, YOUR laws and interpretations of Lethal force, and what is legal as far as weapons, in the event there are restrictions, on firearm types and the like.

Do a search for Awerbuck , Cain and other defensive shotgun instructors here on THR, read the course reviews.
These folks in a class, will share the pros and cons of every shotgun make, model and accessory.

Many will share what the instructor suggests. Often times the most simple regular shotgun, with a shorter barrel.
Less is more when it comes to accessories, fuzzy dice and curb feelers.

Basic Win Model 12, 1300, 1897, Ithaca 37, Browning A5, Rem 870, 1100 ...
Even 20 gauge shotguns...

Good concise advice.

Also, while the Bennelli is a good shotgun, there are others that may fit your needs. While I'll take you at your word that Mossy's are illegal in Chicago, I think this is proabably the extended secuity type with extended mag versions. I would recommend given your stature, that you look for at Mossy 500 Bantam or Youth shotgun in 20 guage. Also while anything mechanical can fail, I can assure you that the 870 is the gold standard of pump guns, (I own a dozen or so) and that it will do the job if you do yours.

Bottom line is take you time if you can and if at all possible try it before you buy.

Regards,

 

[627PCFan]

M4 if you got the money. Nova for the angry mans noise-

 

[Dan Goodwin]

I recommend the 870. It's cheap and effective, it will last forever, lots of options for customization, does not "jam". I use my 870 for doubles trapshooting and close-range rapid fire, and have never had a problem with it "jamming" even in those fast-pace applications.

An additional thought: the 870 is a PUMP shotgun. There is nothing automatic going on, so there essentially is nothing that will jam. However, as with any pump gun, you need to pump it fully in both directions when using it.

 

[Omaha-BeenGlockin]

Why would a Mossberg pumper be illegal in Chi-town when all the others aren't?

 

[TX1911fan]

My friend's two boys each have 870s, one a 12 ga and one a 20 ga, and BOTH jam frequently. The 12 ga is owned by a 16 year old, so he is plenty strong enough to pump it both ways, but there are times when it takes several pumps to eject a spent shell. The 870 is a great shotgun, but it is not infallible.

I am not recoil sensitive, but have also chosen the Benelli because I have small hands and like the slimmer forend of the Benelli. Brownings, Winchesters, Berettas and Remington auto loaders just seem too big and bulky to me. If you want to spend the money, the Benelli is a great shotgun, both their pump and their autoloaders.

 

[silverlance]

I have two benelli M1 Super 90s. Both are stickered at 1000$ plus but I got them both for less than 500 each - one used, one new. the used was slightly cheaper.

both are EXCELLENT shotguns. they do not jam unless you use wimpy ammo AND hang too much crap on them.

having a pistol grip does NOT reduce recoil. i thought it would too which is why i outfitted both with them. actually, it makes the recoil slightly worse because it screws up your hand instead of your shoulder - and your hand is the more important of the two.

however, you get used to the recoil and pretty soon you become adept at it.

SM's advice is the best. shoot a bunch of shotguns. decide if you even want a shotgun - maybe a rifle or handgun is best.

but if all else fails buy the benelli m1 super 90 =)

 

[The Deer Hunter]

M4 if you got the money. Nova for the angry mans noise-

Apple's and oranges, ma man. For a starter shotgun(and gun in general), I would get a pump, there are not buttons on it and it is much simpler to use, IMO. I find my Benelli M1-S90 would be inappropriate for HD because the button that leaves the bolt open and the one that keeps the shell in the mag confuse me sometimes, even though I shoot it very, very often. But thats just me. On the other hand, I use the 870 for "whatever needs shootin" because I can operate it all with my hands almost in the ready to fire position, and I'm just more comfortable with it.

 

[littlegator]

When I found two intruders in my home on Monday, I decided I should stop considering a shotgun and actually go buy one.

If you already have burglers coming into your abode, you might not have time to shoot all the shotguns and practice first and talk to everyone first before making a decision. Sounds like you are at the wire on this. Sorry it took a bad experience for you to start enjoying shooting sports and getting a gun for HD. In any case, welcome to THR. You can get a decent 20 gauge for less than $400. You might want to start there. Get the gun so you'll have it now in case. Then go out, practice, have fun shootin with the BF, and work you're way up from there. And lastly, this is just my .02 cents, and is worth about the same.

 

[ExSoldier]

IMHO, a semi auto like the Benelli is the best shottie for home defense. I used to recommend the pump as the beginners HD gun, but changed my mind when I discovered that under extreme stress the likelihood of "short stroking" the pump results in a double feed jam that is extremely difficult to clear in any sort of timely fashion. The short stroke usually comes from inexperience and a bit of timidity at working the robust action.

A lot of folks put great store in the intimidation factor of the pump action. I find you get the exact same sound when you rack the bolt on a semi auto. I also find the soft push of the recoil from the Benelli to be a great comfort in rapid fire.

I have the precursor of the Super 90. Mine is the M121. I got it at a gun show about 15 years ago for $400 in cash. There had been a few mods done: Pro Porting, Ghost Ring Sights, nice sling attachment on the side of the butt and side of the barrel. The positioning of the sling makes for a super fast and smooth shoulder mount from the off side with the muzzle down. So called "African Style." I was taught that mount by one of my troops a long time ago who used to work a ranch security job in the former "Rhodesia." One of those Man Among Men types, lol.

This piece has the nicest furniture I've ever seen on any long arm. Like the wood forearm and butt had been carefully sanded, then hand rubbed & sealed. It's just beautiful!

It certainly doesn't look like one of those "EVIL" assault shotguns, yet I can empty my entire tube of eight 0-0 shells before the first hull hits the ground and they'll all be COM at combat ranges. It's good with the slugs too.

 

[BridgeWalker]

I would recommend given your stature, that you look for at Mossy 500 Bantam or Youth shotgun in 20 guage.

I recommend the 870.

Alright, I'm officially recommending a Benelli or Beretta on every single "Mossy or 870?" thread from here on out.

It is actually possible that the OP has done her research and has actually decided that she wants a Benelli. There are good and valid reasons to want a Benelli. I know this because I did the research and reached the same conclusion, bought the Benelli and couldn't be happier. Benellis are fine guns. Further, I can attest that several, quite possibly the majority, of women shooters of my acquaintance prefer Benellis over other guns, *especially* over Mossys/870's. Further, the OP has already expressed her preference for a Benelli.

Yeah, so say what y'all want, but expect me to be recommending Benellis in every single mossy/870 debate thread.

Anyway, yah, I want to agree with the pp who commented on the slimmer forearm and overall more streamlined shape of the Benellis (although I haven't handled a Nova and dunno if it applies there as well). The balance is also a bit different. It is less muzzle-heavy than the Remmy/Mossys/Winchesters. Anyway, yeah, you can't go wrong with a Benelli. Of the three you named, it does sound like you want to go with the Cordoba and you just can't go wrong there.

As for buttons making a gun too complicated. Um. Huh? I think most of us perform some pretty complex mechanical operations on any given day and the idea of pushing a button--*one* more button than on the 870--is not gonna send any of us into sensory overload. It a freakin' button, man! But then I say the same thing to people who think that semiauto handguns are only for the mechanically inclined...

/rant

 

[skidooman]

I've shot a 870, ehh. I've shot a mossy, ehh. They have they're place for some people I suppose. I am benelli all the way, my dad has an M2 and I love it. The point was brought up about a superlight shotgun such as the benelli, will kick the crap out someone. With they're new comfortech system, they dont kick all that much, I believe you have to get the synthetic stock for that. If you want the prettiest (IMO) shotgun out there, get the Benelli Super Sport. 30" barrell, (not for HD I know) brushed receiver, carbon fiber stock. Beautiful shotgun, but its 1600+.
Side note, I hate pump guns, too much goin on, and in a defense issue you want to minimize room for error. I currently can't afford a benelli so I'm shooting my old Ithaca O/U 20 ga. Lovin every second of it.

 

[rodinal220]

The Mossberg 500 and Remington 870 are not prohibited in Chicago.As a retired LEO I can tell you most officers know didly about the law,they frequently misquote and do not keep up on laws.
Here is a copy of Chicago's ordinance from the ISP web site.A shotgun is really the most valid if not only option in the Republic of Daley.
Handguns have been illegally banned since the early eighties by former Mayor Byrne.

Keep your FOID card up to date,do not let it expire.Area 2 gun team and CAGE unit pulling all types of BS stunts.I would register the ONE shotgun and nothing else.Keep your guns locked in a safe(even one of those cheapo Homak styles) and keep it out of view.No warrant NO entry,talk to my mouth piece.

http://www.isp.state.il.us/docs/ordinances/chicago.pdf

 

[Smitty in CT]

Mossberg 930 SPX, but only if it fits, since it is a gas operated gun recoil is very mild.

Plus they can be bought for 1/3 of what Benelli charges, don't get me wrong, Benellis are fantastic shotguns, they just are not worth 3x the price of a comprable shotgun.

 

[okienate]

Smitty,

Where can I get this sweet deal. Bought my SuperNova Tactical pump for $375 new at Sportsman's Warehouse, the semi auto versions were running around $550.

I've got $125 in the piggy bank and would LOVE to pick up that Mossberg after saving up a little more. Please sare your shopping secrets, I couldn't find one of those for less than $400 here in OK.

 

[Smitty in CT]

The lowest price I've seen so far for the 930 SPX is $494.21 at topglock.com:

http://www.topglock.com/Item.aspx?PID=70891

 

[ugaarguy]

When I found two intruders in my home on Monday, I decided I should stop considering a shotgun and actually go buy one.

I agree with the above posts, a gun now, with a good lock for when you aren't home, is a good idea given the circumstances.

My shortlist is: Supernova (price, after all an intruder doesn't care how much the gun costs and rave reviews), Ultralight (because I am 5'3" 130lbs) and the Cordoba (not that much heavier and damn what a pretty gun!)

Benelli semi's are fantastic guns, but I think the domestic made (Remington & Mossberg) pumps offer more for the money.

I figure if I go cheap the gun will just sit in the safe for a bad bad day as opposed to the other two that would push me to go shooting more often, I'd feel guilt buying such a pretty gun and never using it.

If you can afford the Cordoba, plus ammo, clays, and range time then get the Cordoba or similar pretty gun. Having the gun doesn't make you armed - having it and knowing how to use it does. If a pretty gun makes you want to practice with it by all means get a pretty gun.

I will not be shooting anything living (unless they are in my home), I fear recoil (which is one reason I chose Benelli to begin with),

You might look to the company that owns Benelli - Beretta. Berettas are gas operated and will therefor be a bit softer shooting. They are a bit harder to find because of Beretta's rather difficult terms in becoming a direct dealer.

and once I leave Chicago (proper) I will probably start collecting so I wouldn't mind a gun that more or less holds its value.

Benelli (and Beretta) shotguns will hold their value well.

I also wouldn't mind a gun that my bf would not be embarrassed borrowing when he does go hunting (he is not a fan of shotguns).

If he'd be embarrassed to hunt with a Benelli or a Beretta you need a new bf.

 

[Francisco2]

All single shot, double barrel, bolt-action, lever-action, and pump-action shotguns are legal in Chicago. Semiauto shotguns have to fit a certain criteria: No more than a five round magazine capacity. No pistol grips below the stock. If you're deciding on a Benelli semiauto make sure it has a standard stock or if buy one with a pistol grip stock swap it out with a standard stock.

Make sure your FOID is valid, Register your shotgun annually with the CPD at 35th and Michigan, and transport it properly. There is way too much crap in the city to deal with. So stay "chicago legal".

 

[45crittergitter]

At the risk of redundancy, I'll say the 870 ain't at all likely to jam, and a Benelli with the ComforTech system is a good choice. I think that would be the M2 model. Also seriously consider a Beretta 391, as it is of equivalent quality to the Benelli but is gas operated, making it both softer recoiling than a standard Benelli and a bit more reliable with regard to "operator error." Both the Benelli and Beretta are very light in 20 ga.

 

[Trifler]

Keep in mind there's a huge difference between the Remington 870 Express and the Remington 870 Police. The 18" and 20" 870 Police are not for law enforcement only, they're just called Police. The quality is vastly superior on the Police version vs. the Express.