Benelli Super Black Eagle II 12 Ga, 26″ Barrel, Black Synthetic Comfortech, Left-Hand, 3rd

Description

The Benelli Super Black Eagle II in 12 gauge, configured with a 26-inch barrel and a left-handed stock, represents a specific solution for a particular group of shooters: those who require a reliable semi-automatic shotgun for waterfowl, upland birds, or clay sports but operate from a left-shoulder stance. For the U.S. hunter or sport shooter, this model eliminates the common frustration of spent shells ejecting across your line of sight or into your cheek, offering a purpose-built platform that cycles a wide range of 2 ¾-inch to 3 ½-inch shells without adjustment. Whether you are working a flooded timber blind in Arkansas, walking a South Dakota cornfield, or running stations at a sporting clays course, this left-hand variant of the SBE II is engineered to perform without the compromises of a right-hand gun.

What This Product Is and Who It Is For

This is a factory-configured, left-handed version of the Benelli Super Black Eagle II, a semi-automatic shotgun chambered in 12 gauge with a 3 ½-inch chamber. It is designed for the left-handed shooter who demands the same ergonomics, ejection pattern, and safety operation as a right-handed shooter enjoys from a standard model. The product is a complete firearm, not a conversion or a parts kit. It is intended for licensed firearm owners in the United States who engage in waterfowl hunting, turkey hunting, upland game, and clay target sports. This is not a home defense or concealed carry firearm; it is a field gun built for extended days in the field and high-volume shooting. Collectors of Benelli shotguns will also note this as a specific, less common variant of the SBE II platform, valued for its left-hand configuration.

Key Specifications

• Caliber/Gauge: 12 Gauge, chambered for 2 ¾-inch, 3-inch, and 3 ½-inch shells
• Action: Semi-automatic, inertia-driven system
• Barrel Length: 26 inches
• Overall Length: 49.5 inches (approximate, with standard stock)
• Finish: Black synthetic (Comfortech stock and forend), matte black barrel
• Stock: Left-hand specific, black synthetic with Benelli Comfortech system (recoil-reducing chevrons)
• Weight: Approximately 7.2 to 7.5 pounds (unloaded, depending on barrel profile)
• Sights: Red bar front sight, metal bead mid-sight
• Choke System: Benelli Crio system (flush-mounted chokes included: C, IC, M, IM, F)
• Capacity: 3+1 (3 in the magazine tube, 1 in the chamber; plug included for migratory bird compliance)
• Length of Pull: 14 3/8 inches (approximate, with standard stock)
• Drop at Comb/Heel: Left-hand cast, specific dimensions for left-eye dominant shooters
• Safety: Reversible (factory set for left-hand operation, located on the trigger guard)
• Hand: Left-hand ejection and bolt release

Feature Deep-Dive

The defining characteristic of this Benelli Super Black Eagle II is its dedicated left-hand configuration. Unlike ambidextrous designs that often compromise on shell ejection or safety placement, this model is built with a left-hand-specific receiver. The ejection port is on the left side, which means spent shells are thrown away from the shooter’s face, not across it. The bolt release, bolt handle, and safety are all positioned for left-hand operation, allowing you to load, unload, and manipulate the firearm without shifting your grip or reaching over the receiver. For a left-handed shooter, this translates to faster follow-up shots and a more natural shooting rhythm.

The inertia-driven operating system is a hallmark of Benelli shotguns and remains a key reason for the SBE II’s reputation for reliability. Unlike gas-operated semi-automatics, this system has no gas piston, o-rings, or complex valves to clean or adjust. The recoil energy from each shot cycles the action, and it handles everything from light 2 ¾-inch target loads to heavy 3 ½-inch magnums without any manual adjustment of a gas regulator. This simplicity means the shotgun functions reliably in cold weather, muddy conditions, and after hundreds of rounds without cleaning. The rotating bolt head locks securely into the barrel extension, providing a robust chamber seal.

The Comfortech stock system is a practical addition for shooters who spend long days firing heavy loads. The stock features a series of flexible chevrons embedded in the comb and buttpad area. These chevrons compress and flex under recoil, spreading the impulse over a longer duration and reducing felt recoil by up to 48% compared to a standard synthetic stock, according to Benelli’s internal testing. This does not eliminate recoil, but it makes shooting 3-inch and 3 ½-inch shells noticeably more comfortable, reducing fatigue and flinching. The stock also features a raised comb design that promotes a consistent cheek weld, which is particularly beneficial for left-handed shooters who need a solid reference point for eye alignment.

The 26-inch barrel length offers a balance between maneuverability and swing dynamics. For a left-handed shooter, this barrel is long enough to provide a smooth, controlled swing for crossing targets in the field or on the clays course, yet short enough to handle in heavy cover or a boat blind. The Crio-treated barrel is cryogenically treated to relieve stress in the steel, resulting in a consistent bore diameter and improved pattern uniformity. The Crio choke tubes are also treated in the same process, ensuring a matched system. The red bar front sight is easy to acquire in low-light conditions, which is common during early morning waterfowl hunts.

Build quality on the SBE II is consistent with Benelli’s manufacturing standards. The receiver is made from an aluminum alloy, keeping weight down, while the barrel and internal components are steel. The synthetic stock and forend are resistant to water, temperature extremes, and rough handling. The left-hand configuration does not add any extra weight or complexity; it is a factory-built variant, not a field modification. The magazine tube holds three 2 ¾-inch shells, and a plug is included to reduce capacity to two shells for migratory bird hunting regulations. The gun also features a drop-out trigger group for easy cleaning and maintenance without tools.

Finally, the left-hand bolt release and shell carrier are positioned for intuitive use by a left-handed shooter. When loading the magazine tube, you can press the carrier release with your left thumb without breaking your grip. The bolt release button is on the left side of the receiver, accessible by your left index finger. These details may seem minor, but they significantly reduce the learning curve and operational friction for a shooter who has spent years adapting to right-hand controls. This is a firearm that works with your natural movements, not against them.

Ideal Use Cases

• Waterfowl Hunting: The 3 ½-inch chamber allows you to use the heaviest steel, bismuth, or tungsten loads for geese and ducks. The inertia system cycles reliably in cold, wet conditions. The 26-inch barrel is ideal for pass shooting and blind work.
• Upland Bird Hunting: The lightweight build and 26-inch barrel make it suitable for walking miles behind bird dogs. The Crio chokes let you fine-tune patterns for pheasants, quail, or grouse.
• Turkey Hunting: With the appropriate full choke and 3-inch or 3 ½-inch turkey loads, this shotgun is effective for spring turkey season. The Comfortech stock helps manage recoil from heavy turkey loads.
• Sporting Clays / Trap / Skeet: The SBE II is a capable clay gun for the left-handed shooter. The inertia system cycles target loads reliably, and the left-hand ejection keeps your face clear. The 26-inch barrel is suitable for sporting clays and skeet, though some trap shooters may prefer a longer barrel.
• Range Practice: This shotgun is suitable for regular practice sessions. The inertia system requires minimal cleaning, and the Comfortech stock reduces fatigue during high-volume shooting.

Compatibility Notes

• Ammunition: This shotgun will cycle 2 ¾-inch, 3-inch, and 3 ½-inch shells from major manufacturers (Remington, Winchester, Federal, Rio, Fiocchi, etc.). Light target loads (1 oz, 1200 fps or higher) typically cycle reliably. Very light sub-sonic or low-recoil loads may not cycle the inertia system. Steel, lead, bismuth, and tungsten shot are all acceptable.
• Chokes: Uses Benelli Crio choke tubes (flush-mount). Aftermarket chokes from Carlson’s, Patternmaster, or Briley are compatible if they are specified for Benelli Crio or Benelli Mobil choke threads (verify thread pattern before purchase).
• Holsters/Slings: This is a long gun; no holster is applicable. Standard 1-inch or 1 ¼-inch sling swivels can be attached to the factory studs. A padded sling is recommended for long walks.
• Magazines: No aftermarket high-capacity magazines are available for this shotgun. The factory magazine tube is fixed. Tube extensions from Nordic Components or Briley may be compatible but require gunsmith installation and may affect balance.
• Accessories: Scope mounts are available for the receiver (drilled and tapped for Benelli-compatible bases). Red dot sights or low-power scopes can be mounted for turkey hunting. Barrel clamps and magazine tube extensions are available but should be installed by a qualified gunsmith.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can this shotgun be shipped directly to my home in the United States?
A: No. This is a firearm and must be shipped to a Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder in your state. You will need to provide us with your chosen FFL dealer’s contact information and a copy of their license. We ship to FFLs in all 50 states, subject to state and local laws. We do not ship to P.O. boxes for firearms.

Q: What is the FFL transfer process for this Benelli SBE II?
A: After you place your order, we will contact you to confirm your chosen FFL dealer. Your dealer must send us a copy of their FFL license. Once we receive and verify the license, we ship the firearm via a common carrier (UPS or FedEx) to that dealer. You will then complete a Form 4473 and pass a NICS background check at the dealer before taking possession. Transfer fees are set by the receiving dealer and are not included in our price.

Q: What ammunition can I use in this left-hand SBE II?