Benelli 50th Anniversary Raffaello Limited Edition 12g 28″ Engraved

Description

Celebrate five decades of Benelli engineering with the 50th Anniversary Raffaello Limited Edition 12g, a semi-auto shotgun that brings Italian craftsmanship to American shooting sports. Whether you’re working a dove field in Texas, stacking clays at a Michigan range, or adding a museum-grade piece to your collection, this limited-run 28″ model delivers reliable cycling and a refined shooting experience. With deep engraved nickel finish and AAA walnut stock, it’s a firearm that performs as well as it displays.

What This Product Is and Who It’s For

The Benelli 50th Anniversary Raffaello Limited Edition is a semi-automatic 12-gauge shotgun built to commemorate Benelli’s 50th year of production. It is not a tactical or home-defense scattergun; rather, it is designed for the shooter who values both functionality and artistry. This firearm is intended for target shooters who appreciate a smooth, fast-handling platform for trap, skeet, or sporting clays. Hunters who pursue upland birds, waterfowl, or small game will find the 28″ barrel and Inertia Driven system well-suited to long days in the field. Collectors will note the limited production run, deep engraved nickel finish, and AAA-grade walnut stock as hallmarks of a piece meant to hold its value and place in a safe. It is also appropriate for sport shooters who want a reliable semi-auto for range sessions without the bulk of a competition-optimized gun.

Key Specifications

• Gauge: 12 Gauge (2-3/4″ and 3″ shells)
• Barrel Length: 28 inches
• Overall Length: Approximately 49 inches
• Weight: Approximately 7.2 lbs (unloaded)
• Capacity: 4+1 (with supplied magazine plug; 5+1 without plug where legal)
• Finish: Deep engraved nickel receiver and barrel components
• Stock: AAA-grade walnut with hand-checkered forend and pistol grip
• Sights: Red bar front sight with metal bead
• Action: Benelli Inertia Driven semi-automatic
• Choke System: Benelli Crio system with multiple choke tubes (C, IC, M, IM, F)
• Safety: Cross-bolt type, reversible for left-handed shooters
• Length of Pull: 14-3/8 inches
• Drop at Comb: 1-1/2 inches
• Drop at Heel: 2-1/4 inches

Feature Deep-Dive

The Benelli 50th Anniversary Raffaello is distinguished by its deep engraved nickel finish, which covers the receiver and barrel components. This is not a simple paint or cerakote; it is a multi-step nickel plating process that provides a durable, corrosion-resistant surface that resists wear from field use and handling. The engraving work is intricate, featuring scrollwork and commemorative markings that celebrate Benelli’s 50-year history. Each receiver is individually numbered as part of the limited edition run, adding to its collectibility. The nickel finish also offers practical benefits, as it sheds moisture and debris more effectively than blued steel, making it a solid choice for humid or wet hunting conditions.

The AAA walnut stock is a standout feature, selected for its tight grain pattern, rich color, and minimal figure. Benelli hand-selects these blanks for the limited edition guns, and the wood is oil-finished to a satin sheen that highlights the natural grain. The stock is fitted with a Pachmayr Decelerator recoil pad, which reduces felt recoil during extended shooting sessions. The hand-checkered forend provides a secure grip even with gloved hands, and the pistol grip geometry supports a natural point of aim. The stock dimensions are standard for a field shotgun, with a length of pull that accommodates most adult shooters without requiring adjustment.

Under the hood, the Raffaello uses Benelli’s Inertia Driven system, which cycles reliably with a wide range of 12-gauge loads. This system has no gas ports, pistons, or o-rings to clean or maintain, which simplifies field stripping and reduces the risk of malfunction in dirty conditions. The rotating bolt head locks into the barrel extension, providing a secure chamber seal. The system handles 2-3/4″ target loads for practice and 3″ magnum shells for hunting without requiring any adjustment. The 28″ barrel is Crio-treated for consistent shot patterns and includes a ventilated rib that reduces mirage on warm days.

The Benelli Crio choke system comes with five interchangeable choke tubes, allowing you to fine-tune the pattern for different game or target presentations. The chokes are marked clearly and can be swapped using the included wrench. The barrel is back-bored to reduce felt recoil and improve pattern density. The red bar front sight is easy to acquire in low light, while the metal bead provides a secondary reference point. The trigger is crisp and breaks around 3.5 to 4 pounds, with minimal creep, which aids in precise shot placement on clays or game.

Every 50th Anniversary Raffaello ships in a custom hard case with a velvet-lined interior and a commemorative medallion. The case includes a sling swivel stud set and a magazine plug for states with capacity restrictions. The serial number and edition number are laser-engraved on the receiver, and a certificate of authenticity is included. This packaging is designed for both safe transport and long-term storage, protecting the nickel finish and walnut stock from scratches or dings. The entire package is a deliberate nod to Benelli’s heritage, combining Italian design with practical American shooting applications.

Ideal Use Cases

This shotgun is best suited for upland bird and waterfowl hunting, where the 28″ barrel provides a good balance of swing speed and reach. The Inertia Driven system cycles reliably in dusty or muddy conditions, and the nickel finish holds up to wet grass, marsh, and rain. Target shooters will appreciate the smooth cycling and consistent patterns for trap, skeet, and sporting clays. It is also an excellent choice for collectors who want a limited-edition firearm with documented provenance and high-grade wood. The Raffaello is not designed for home defense or concealed carry; its length and capacity are optimized for field and range use. For competition shooters, it can serve in hunter class or side-by-side events, but it lacks the extended magazine tubes or adjustable stocks found on dedicated competition guns.

Compatibility Notes

This shotgun accepts standard 12-gauge 2-3/4″ and 3″ shells from all major U.S. manufacturers, including Remington, Winchester, Federal, and Rio. It is not compatible with 3-1/2″ magnum loads. The Benelli Crio chokes are proprietary but widely available, and aftermarket extended chokes from Briley or Carlson’s can be used if they are specified for Benelli Crio barrels. The magazine tube accepts standard Benelli 12-gauge magazine extensions, though the included plug must be removed for increased capacity where legal. Holsters are not applicable; for storage, a standard shotgun case or safe will fit the 49-inch overall length. Replacement parts, such as recoil pads, stock bolts, and firing pins, are available through Benelli parts distributors and many online retailers. The gun uses standard Benelli 12-gauge inertia-driven action bars and bolt assemblies, which are interchangeable with other Benelli 12-gauge models.

FAQ Section

1. Can this shotgun be shipped to my address in the U.S.?
Yes, we ship to all 50 states where the firearm is legal. We require shipment to a Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder for transfer. We do not ship directly to residential addresses. Once your order is placed, we will contact you to confirm your chosen FFL dealer’s license information. Shipping is via UPS or FedEx with adult signature required.

2. How does the FFL transfer process work?
After placing your order, you will need to provide the name and address of a licensed FFL dealer in your area who is willing to accept the transfer. We verify the license with the ATF and ship the firearm to that dealer. You then complete the ATF Form 4473 and undergo a background check at the dealer’s location. Transfer fees vary by dealer and are not included in our price. You must be 18 to purchase a shotgun from a dealer, though some states require 21.

3. What ammunition is compatible with this shotgun?
The Benelli 50th Anniversary Raffaello is chambered for 2-3/4″ and 3″ 12-gauge shells. It cycles reliably with target loads (1-1/8 oz at 1200 fps and above) and all field loads up to 3″ magnum. It is not compatible with 3-1/2″ shells. We recommend using high-brass or steel-shot loads for waterfowl, but the Inertia Driven system handles lead, steel, bismuth, and tungsten loads without issue. Avoid using light-recoil or subsonic loads, as they may not cycle the action.

4. What warranty covers this limited edition shotgun?
Benelli USA provides a limited lifetime warranty to the original purchaser for defects in materials and workmanship. This warranty does not cover normal wear, misuse, or modifications. The nickel finish and walnut stock are covered under the same terms. To file a claim, contact Benelli USA customer service with your proof of purchase and serial number. We also offer a 30-day return policy for defects (see below), after which the manufacturer’s warranty applies.

5. What is your return policy for this firearm?
We accept returns for defects or shipping damage within 30 days of delivery. The firearm must be returned in its original packaging with all accessories. Firearms that have been fired, modified, or show signs of use cannot be returned. We do not accept returns for cosmetic preferences or size fit. If a defect is confirmed, we will issue a full refund or exchange, including return shipping. For all other returns, a 15% restocking fee applies. Contact our customer service team to initiate a return and obtain a return authorization number.

Closing CTA

This Benelli 50th Anniversary Raffaello Limited Edition is available for immediate shipment to your local FFL dealer anywhere in the United States. Each unit is inspected by our certified armorers before shipping to ensure function and fit. To secure your serial number from this limited run, add it to your cart and complete checkout. We ship within one business day of payment verification, and tracking information is provided via email. For questions about your order or FFL transfer, our customer service team is available Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 6 PM EST.