Benelli SBE3 12 Ga, 24″ Barrel, 3.5″, Burris Fast Fire II, Bottomland, 3rd

Description

The Benelli SBE3 12 Gauge with a 24-inch barrel, chambered for 3.5-inch shells, and equipped with a Burris Fast Fire II red dot sight, represents a specific configuration of a proven semi-automatic shotgun platform. For U.S. shooters who require a reliable firearm for waterfowl hunting in tight cover or for navigating dense marsh blinds, the shorter barrel offers maneuverability without sacrificing the ability to handle heavy magnum loads. This model, finished in Bottomland camouflage, is designed to function in the harshest conditions, from the saltwater marshes of the Atlantic coast to the flooded timber of the Mississippi flyway.

What This Product Is and Who It Is For

This is a factory-configured Benelli Super Black Eagle 3 (SBE3) semi-automatic shotgun, built on Benelli’s renowned inertia-driven system. It is chambered for 12-gauge shells with a 3.5-inch chamber, allowing the shooter to use 2.75-inch target loads, 3-inch field loads, and the heaviest 3.5-inch magnum waterfowl loads. The 24-inch barrel is shorter than the standard 26-inch or 28-inch barrels, making this a specialized tool for hunters who prioritize speed and ease of handling in close quarters. This firearm is intended for the experienced waterfowl hunter who understands the trade-offs of a shorter barrel and wants a dedicated gun for jump-shooting, timber hunting, or hunting from a layout blind. It is not a general-purpose range gun or a home defense firearm, though it could be pressed into those roles. This is a field-grade shotgun for the hunter who demands reliability in wet, muddy, and freezing conditions.

Key Specifications Breakdown

• Gauge: 12 Gauge
• Chamber: 3.5 inches (accepts 2.75-inch, 3-inch, and 3.5-inch shells)
• Barrel Length: 24 inches
• Overall Length: Approximately 45.5 inches (with standard stock)
• Weight: Approximately 6.7 to 7.0 pounds (unloaded, varies slightly with optic)
• Action: Inertia-driven semi-automatic
• Finish: Bottomland camouflage (dip on synthetic stock and metal components)
• Sights: Burris Fast Fire II red dot sight mounted on a factory-installed Picatinny rail; also includes a front bead sight
• Stock: Synthetic, with Benelli’s Comfort Tech 3 recoil pad
• Chokes: Benelli Crio system (typically includes IC, M, and F chokes; verify with retailer)
• Capacity: 3+1 (plugged for migratory bird hunting compliance; unplugged capacity is 4+1)
• Receiver: Aluminum alloy with Bottomland finish

Feature Deep-Dive

The Benelli SBE3 platform is known for its inertia-driven operating system, which is a key differentiator from gas-operated shotguns. This system uses the recoil energy from the fired shell to cycle the action, rather than diverting gas from the barrel. For the shooter, this means a cleaner-running gun that does not require the same level of maintenance as gas guns, especially when using heavy 3.5-inch loads. The inertia system is also less sensitive to variations in ammunition power, though it does require a firm shoulder mount to cycle lighter target loads reliably. In the field, this translates to a shotgun that will function after hundreds of rounds without cleaning, which is a real advantage during a long waterfowl season.

The 24-inch barrel on this model is a deliberate choice for specific hunting scenarios. A shorter barrel reduces overall weight and makes the shotgun faster to swing in tight spaces, such as when shooting from a canoe or in thick brush. However, it also reduces sight radius and may produce a slightly different balance point compared to longer barrels. The shooter should expect a faster, more maneuverable feel, but with a slight increase in perceived recoil due to the reduced mass. The included Burris Fast Fire II red dot sight helps mitigate the shorter sight radius by providing a single aiming point that does not require precise alignment of front and rear sights. This is particularly useful for moving targets at close to moderate ranges, where a red dot can speed up target acquisition.

The Bottomland camouflage finish is a multi-color pattern designed to blend into marsh and wetland environments. It covers the synthetic stock, forend, and metal components, reducing glare and helping the shooter remain undetected by waterfowl. Benelli’s synthetic stocks are durable and resistant to moisture, temperature extremes, and impact. The Comfort Tech 3 recoil pad is a significant upgrade from earlier models, using a chevron-shaped design to reduce felt recoil by directing energy downward and away from the shooter’s face. This is especially beneficial when shooting 3.5-inch magnum loads, as it helps keep the shooter on target for follow-up shots.

The Burris Fast Fire II is a compact, open-style reflex sight. It is mounted on a low-profile Picatinny rail that is factory-installed on the receiver. This red dot has a 3 MOA dot, which is a good balance between precision and speed for shotgun use. The sight is powered by a standard CR1632 battery and features automatic brightness adjustment, which is useful in changing light conditions from dawn to midday. While the Fast Fire II is a durable sight, it is not a sealed, waterproof unit like some higher-end optics, so users should be mindful of heavy rain or submersion. The sight does not co-witness with the factory front bead, but it provides a clear, unobstructed view of the target.

The Benelli SBE3 action is built around a rotating bolt head with twin locking lugs, which provides a secure lock-up and contributes to the gun’s ability to handle high-pressure 3.5-inch loads. The bolt handle and bolt release are oversized for easy operation with gloved hands. The cross-bolt safety is located at the rear of the trigger guard and is reversible for left-handed shooters. The trigger is a standard Benelli unit with a crisp break, though it is not adjustable. The gun also features Benelli’s Easy Locking System, which ensures the bolt locks into battery consistently, even when the action is cycled slowly.

Ideal Use Cases

• Waterfowl Hunting (Primary): This is the intended use. The 3.5-inch chamber handles steel, bismuth, and tungsten loads for geese and ducks. The Bottomland camo and short barrel are optimized for marsh, timber, and layout blind hunting.
• Upland Hunting: The 24-inch barrel is fast for walking up pheasants or grouse in heavy cover. The inertia action handles dirt and debris well.
• Turkey Hunting: With the red dot and a turkey choke (not included), this can be a viable turkey gun, though the 24-inch barrel is shorter than typical turkey setups.
• Range Use (Limited): The SBE3 will cycle 2.75-inch target loads, but the shooter should expect it to be picky with light loads until the action is broken in. It is not a dedicated clay gun, but it can be used for practice.

Compatibility Notes

• Ammunition: This shotgun will fire any 12-gauge shell from 2.75-inch to 3.5-inch, but it cycles best with 3-inch and 3.5-inch loads. Light 2.75-inch target loads (1 oz or less) may not generate enough recoil to cycle the inertia system reliably, especially when new. High-brass hunting loads are recommended for break-in.
• Chokes: Uses Benelli Crio (flush-fit) choke tubes. Aftermarket chokes from Carlson’s, Patternmaster, and others are available, provided they are marked for Benelli Crio threads. The barrel is not threaded for standard Beretta/Benelli Mobil chokes.
• Holsters/Slings: This is a shotgun, so holsters are not applicable. Standard 1-inch sling swivels are included for use with a hunting sling.
• Accessories: The Picatinny rail on the receiver accepts standard red dot mounting. The stock does not have a cheek riser, so aftermarket comb raising kits may be needed for shooters who want a perfect cheek weld with the red dot.
• Magazines: Not applicable. The SBE3 has a tubular magazine under the barrel. Magazine extensions are available from Nordic Components and others, but must be verified for compliance with local hunting regulations.

FAQ Section

1. Can this firearm be shipped to my address in the United States?
No. This firearm must be shipped to a Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder in your state. We cannot ship directly to a residential address. After your purchase, we will require the name and contact information of the FFL dealer you choose. We ship to all states where the firearm is legal for sale, subject to state and local laws.

2. What is the FFL transfer process?
After you place your order, you will be prompted to provide the FFL information for your chosen dealer. The dealer must send us a copy of their current FFL license. We verify the license, ship the firearm to the dealer, and notify you when it is dispatched. You then complete the ATF Form 4473 and any required state background check at the dealer’s location before taking possession. Transfer fees are set by the dealer and are not included in our price.

3. Is this shotgun compatible with steel shot and other non-toxic ammunition?
Yes. The Benelli SBE3 with a 3.5-inch chamber and Crio chokes is rated for steel shot, bismuth, tungsten, and other non-toxic shot types. Always use choke tubes that are marked for steel shot (typically Improved Cylinder, Modified, or Full with steel-safe stamps). Do not use full choke with steel shot in older barrels, but this barrel is designed for it.

4. What warranty does Benelli provide on this shotgun?
Benelli USA offers a limited lifetime warranty to the original owner for defects in materials and workmanship. The warranty is not transferable. The Burris Fast Fire II sight carries a separate five-year warranty from Burris. We recommend registering your firearm with Benelli after purchase. For warranty claims, contact Benelli USA directly or return the firearm to an authorized service center.

5. What is your return policy for firearms?
Due to federal regulations and safety concerns, we cannot accept returns on firearms for change of mind. All firearm sales are final. If the firearm arrives damaged or with a manufacturing defect, please contact us within 48 hours of delivery. We will work with the manufacturer to resolve the issue, which may involve a replacement or repair. We do not accept returns