Description
The Benelli Super Black Eagle (SBE) in 12 gauge, with a 28-inch barrel and finished in Max-7 camo, is a semi-automatic shotgun built for the demands of American waterfowl and turkey hunting. Designed specifically for left-handed shooters, this model provides a natural point of aim and reliable ejection, making it a practical choice for hunters who need a gun that performs in wet, muddy, or cold conditions. Whether you are working a flooded timber in Arkansas or calling birds across a Dakota field, this shotgun offers the inertia-driven reliability that Benelli is known for.
What This Product Is and Who It’s For
The Benelli Super Black Eagle is a semi-automatic shotgun chambered in 12 gauge, featuring a 28-inch barrel and a left-hand stock. It is intended for hunters who pursue waterfowl, turkeys, and upland game, as well as shooters who appreciate a reliable cycling action for clay targets or general range use. This model is not a home defense or concealed carry firearm; its design and barrel length are optimized for field hunting where swing speed and pattern control matter. Collectors may also value the SBE for its place in Benelli’s legacy of inertia-driven shotguns, but its primary audience is the working hunter who needs a gun that cycles consistently with heavy or light loads.
Key Specifications
- Caliber: 12 Gauge (2.75-inch, 3-inch, and 3.5-inch shells)
- Action: Semi-automatic, inertia-driven
- Barrel Length: 28 inches
- Overall Length: 49.5 inches
- Weight: Approximately 7.3 pounds (unloaded)
- Stock: Left-hand configuration, Max-7 camo finish with Comfortech technology
- Receiver: Aluminum alloy with Max-7 camo coating
- Choke System: Benelli Crio system (includes C, IC, M, IM, F choke tubes)
- Magazine Capacity: 3+1 (with 3-inch shells; 2+1 with 3.5-inch shells)
- Sights: Red bar front sight
- Safety: Cross-bolt, reversible for left-hand use
- Finish: Max-7 camo (stock, forend, receiver, barrel)
Feature Deep-Dive
The Benelli SBE’s inertia-driven operating system is a core design element that sets it apart from gas-operated shotguns. Instead of diverting propellant gas to cycle the action, the SBE uses the recoil energy from each shot to compress a spring within the bolt. This system reduces the amount of fouling and carbon buildup inside the receiver, which is a common issue with gas guns when shooting heavy loads or in dusty environments. For a hunter spending long days in the marsh or blind, this means less time cleaning and more time focused on the hunt. The system also allows the shotgun to cycle a wide range of ammunition, from light 2.75-inch target loads to heavy 3.5-inch magnums, without needing to adjust a gas regulator.
The 28-inch barrel is a balanced choice for waterfowl and turkey hunting. It provides sufficient length for smooth swing and follow-through on crossing birds while remaining maneuverable when walking through brush or setting up in a ground blind. The Benelli Crio choke system uses cryogenically treated tubes that are designed to deliver consistent patterns shot after shot. The gun comes with five choke tubes (C, IC, M, IM, F), giving the shooter flexibility to fine-tune pattern density for different ranges and game species. The red bar front sight is simple and effective, offering a clear aiming reference without the clutter of a fiber optic or bead that can catch on clothing or vegetation.
Comfortech stock technology is another feature that benefits the left-handed shooter. The stock is designed with a chevron-shaped recoil pad and a flexible comb that absorbs and distributes recoil forces more evenly than traditional stocks. For a 12 gauge shooting 3.5-inch loads, this reduces felt recoil by a measurable amount, allowing for faster follow-up shots and less fatigue during a long day in the field. The left-hand stock configuration includes a cast-on design and a right-hand ejection port, meaning the shell ejects away from the shooter’s face. This is a critical detail for left-handed users who have experienced hot shells ejecting near their cheek or down their collar with right-handed guns.
The Max-7 camo finish is a multi-pattern camouflage that blends effectively across timber, marsh, and agricultural settings. It covers the barrel, receiver, stock, and forend, reducing glare and helping the gun disappear against typical hunting backgrounds. The finish is applied over a durable coating that resists scratches and corrosion from moisture, mud, and saltwater. Benelli’s anodized aluminum receiver keeps the overall weight manageable, and the synthetic stock is impervious to warping or swelling, even when submerged during a duck hunt. The cross-bolt safety is positioned at the rear of the trigger guard and is reversible, though the left-hand model comes configured for left-hand operation out of the box.
Magazine capacity is limited to 3+1 with 3-inch shells and 2+1 with 3.5-inch shells, which is standard for a hunting shotgun designed to comply with migratory bird regulations. The loading port is beveled for easier reloading with gloved hands, and the carrier release is positioned for quick access. The bolt release button is located on the right side of the receiver, and the bolt handle is oversized for positive manipulation. These details may seem small, but they contribute to the gun’s reliability under the less-than-ideal conditions that hunters often face, such as cold fingers, wet gloves, or low light.
Ideal Use Cases
This shotgun is designed primarily for hunting. Waterfowl hunters will appreciate the 3.5-inch chamber capacity for geese and large ducks, as well as the inertia system’s reliability in wet, muddy conditions. Turkey hunters benefit from the 28-inch barrel’s ability to deliver tight patterns with magnum loads, and the Max-7 camo provides concealment in wooded or field settings. The SBE is also suitable for upland game hunting, such as pheasant or grouse, where quick swings and fast follow-ups are needed. While it can be used for clay target sports like skeet or sporting clays, the 28-inch barrel and hunting-focused stock dimensions make it less ideal than a dedicated target gun. It is not intended for home defense or concealed carry due to its length and weight.
Compatibility Notes
- Ammunition: The SBE cycles 2.75-inch, 3-inch, and 3.5-inch 12 gauge shells. Light target loads (1 oz or less) may require a break-in period of 50-100 rounds of heavier loads to ensure reliable cycling. High-brass hunting loads and steel shot are compatible.
- Chokes: Uses Benelli Crio choke tubes (thread pattern: Benelli/Beretta Mobil choke). Aftermarket chokes from brands like Carlson’s or Patternmaster are available.
- Accessories: Magazine tube extensions are available from Benelli and third-party manufacturers, but check local and migratory bird regulations for capacity limits. Sling swivel studs are pre-installed.
- Holsters: Not applicable; this is not a handgun.
- Parts: Benelli OEM parts and many aftermarket components (e.g., recoil pads, bolt handles, trigger groups) are compatible with the SBE platform.
FAQ
1. How does shipping work for this shotgun?
We ship all firearms to a licensed Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder in your state. After placing your order, we will contact you to confirm your chosen FFL dealer’s information. We do not ship to residential addresses. Standard ground shipping is used, and tracking information is provided once the item ships.
2. What is the FFL transfer process?
Once the shotgun arrives at your chosen FFL dealer, you will need to complete a Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Form 4473 and pass a background check. The dealer may charge a transfer fee, which is separate from the purchase price. You must be 18 years or older to purchase a shotgun from an FFL dealer, and you must comply with all state and local laws.
3. What ammunition is compatible with this shotgun?
The Benelli SBE is chambered for 12 gauge shells from 2.75 inches to 3.5 inches. It will cycle low-brass target loads, high-brass hunting loads, steel shot, and lead shot. For best reliability with light loads, we recommend firing a few boxes of heavy loads (3-inch or 3.5-inch) first to break in the inertia spring. Avoid using non-toxic shot smaller than #7.5 in steel for pattern consistency, but the gun is rated for steel shot.
4. What is the warranty on this product?
Benelli provides a limited lifetime warranty to the original owner against defects in materials and workmanship. This warranty does not cover normal wear and tear, misuse, or modifications. If you encounter a defect, contact Benelli customer service directly with proof of purchase. We also offer a 30-day return policy for unused firearms in original packaging, subject to a restocking fee and shipping costs. Used or fired firearms cannot be returned.
5. Can I return or exchange this shotgun if I don’t like it?
We accept returns on unfired, unaltered firearms within 30 days of delivery. The shotgun must be in its original packaging with all accessories and paperwork. A 15% restocking fee applies, and you are responsible for return shipping and insurance. Firearms cannot be exchanged; you must return the item and place a new order. Please contact us for a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number before shipping.
Closing Call to Action
The Benelli Super Black Eagle 12 Gauge 28-inch Max-7 Camo Left is available now and ships to your FFL dealer anywhere in the United States. If you have questions about compatibility, stock configuration, or the ordering process, contact our team directly. We are a licensed FFL retailer and can assist with transfer arrangements. Order today to secure this left-hand model for your upcoming season.
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