Benelli Ultra Light Satin Walnut / Weathercoat 12 Ga 26″ Barrel 12

Description

The Benelli Ultra Light Satin Walnut / Weathercoat 12 Ga 26″ Barrel is a field-proven shotgun designed for the American hunter who values reduced weight without sacrificing reliability. Whether you are walking the CRP fields of the Midwest for pheasants or navigating the dense thickets of the Southeast for quail, this shotgun offers a balanced platform that keeps fatigue low during long days afield. For the U.S. shooter who demands a firearm that can transition from the dove field to the clay range, this model delivers consistent performance with the durability required for harsh outdoor conditions.

What This Product Is and Who It’s For

The Benelli Ultra Light is a semi-automatic 12-gauge shotgun built for upland hunters and sport shooters who prioritize weight savings and fast handling. This is not a tactical or home-defense configuration; it is a dedicated field gun engineered for walking hunters who cover significant ground. The satin walnut stock and Weathercoat finish provide a classic aesthetic while protecting against moisture and abrasion. This shotgun is suited for experienced shooters looking for a lightweight companion for bird hunting, as well as clay target enthusiasts who prefer a gun that swings quickly and points naturally. It is also a viable option for collectors who appreciate Benelli’s reputation for inertia-driven reliability in a trim package.

Key Specifications

• Caliber: 12 Gauge (2 ¾” and 3″ shells)
• Capacity: 2 rounds (plugged for migratory bird compliance; extended magazine tube not standard)
• Barrel Length: 26 inches
• Overall Length: Approximately 47.5 inches
• Weight: Approximately 5.8 to 6.2 pounds (varies by production run)
• Finish: Weathercoat (matte synthetic protective coating on metal) with satin walnut stock
• Sights: Red bar front sight (fiber optic optional on some variants)
• Choke System: Benelli Crio System (interchangeable chokes; typically includes IC, M, F)
• Action: Inertia-driven semi-automatic
• Receiver: Aluminum alloy with Weathercoat finish

Feature Deep-Dive

The Benelli Ultra Light’s primary advantage lies in its weight reduction, achieved through a combination of a lightweight aluminum alloy receiver and a slim-profile walnut stock. The receiver is machined from a solid block of aluminum and then coated with Benelli’s Weathercoat finish, which provides corrosion resistance without adding bulk. This design allows the shotgun to weigh under six pounds in many configurations, making it one of the lightest 12-gauge semi-automatics on the market. For U.S. hunters who spend eight-hour days in the field, this weight savings reduces shoulder fatigue and allows for quicker target acquisition when a bird flushes unexpectedly.

The inertia-driven action is a hallmark of Benelli shotguns and operates without the gas system found on many competitors. This means the Ultra Light cycles reliably with a wide range of 12-gauge ammunition, from light target loads to heavy 3-inch magnum shells. The system uses recoil energy to cycle the bolt, which reduces fouling buildup and simplifies cleaning. For the American shooter who may not have time for extensive maintenance between hunting trips, this reliability is a practical benefit. The action also allows for a slim forend profile, improving hand placement and control during fast swings.

The 26-inch barrel is a balanced choice for upland hunting, offering a compromise between maneuverability in tight cover and sufficient sight radius for crossing shots. The Crio system barrels are cryogenically treated to relieve stress in the steel, which Benelli claims improves shot pattern consistency. While pattern performance varies by load and choke selection, the barrel’s smooth bore and interchangeable choke tubes give the shooter flexibility to adapt to different hunting scenarios. The red bar front sight is simple but effective for fast alignment in low-light conditions at dawn or dusk.

The satin walnut stock is hand-checkered with a traditional cut pattern that provides a secure grip without being overly aggressive. The stock’s dimensions include a drop at comb and heel that suit a wide range of shooters, though those with longer or shorter arms may need to consider a custom fit. The Weathercoat finish on the metal parts resists rust and scratches, which is valuable when hunting in wet grass or light rain. Overall, the fit and finish reflect Benelli’s manufacturing standards, with tight wood-to-metal fit and smooth action surfaces.

One notable aspect of this model is its limited magazine capacity, which comes factory-plugged to two rounds for compliance with federal migratory bird regulations. While this is standard for field guns, shooters who want a higher capacity for target shooting or non-migratory hunting will need to remove the plug, which is a straightforward process. The shotgun does not include a magazine extension tube, so aftermarket options are available for those who wish to modify the gun. This configuration keeps the gun streamlined and reduces weight, aligning with its intended use as a walking hunter’s tool.

Ideal Use Cases

• Upland Bird Hunting: The lightweight design and 26-inch barrel excel in pheasant, quail, grouse, and chukar hunting where walking and quick mounting are critical.
• Waterfowl Hunting: With 3-inch chamber support and Weathercoat finish, it is suitable for duck and goose hunting in moderate conditions, though the light weight may increase felt recoil with heavy loads.
• Clay Target Shooting: The shotgun’s fast handling and inertia action make it a solid choice for skeet, sporting clays, and trap for shooters who prefer a field-style gun over a dedicated target model.
• Small Game Hunting: Effective for rabbits, squirrels, and other small game where a 12-gauge with appropriate choke and shot size is legal.

Compatibility Notes

• Ammunition: This shotgun cycles 12-gauge shells from 2 ¾” target loads (1 ⅛ oz at 1200 fps) to 3″ magnum loads. Light target loads under 1 oz or low-recoil loads may cause cycling issues due to the inertia system. We recommend testing a box of your preferred load before hunting.
• Chokes: Uses Benelli Crio choke tubes (not MobilChoke or Beretta/Browning patterns). Aftermarket chokes from Carlson’s or Briley are available for steel shot or specialized patterns.
• Holsters/Slings: Standard 1-inch sling swivels are included. For slings, choose a model designed for lightweight shotguns to avoid imbalance. No holster is applicable for this firearm.
• Accessories: Magazine tube extensions (e.g., Nordic Components or Benelli factory) can be added but will increase weight. Replacement recoil pads are available from Kick-eez or Limbsaver for recoil-sensitive shooters.
• Maintenance: Use standard shotgun cleaning kits. The inertia system requires periodic lubrication on the bolt and rotating bolt head, but no gas system parts to disassemble.

FAQ

1. Can this shotgun be shipped directly to my home in the United States?

No. As a licensed FFL retailer, we ship this firearm to a licensed Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer in your state. You must select a receiving FFL during checkout or provide their license information. We do not ship firearms directly to residential addresses.

2. How does the FFL transfer process work?

After your order is placed, we will contact your chosen FFL dealer to confirm they are willing to accept the transfer. Once confirmed, we ship the firearm via a carrier that complies with U.S. firearm shipping regulations. You will then visit the receiving FFL to complete a background check (Form 4473) and any state-specific requirements before taking possession. Transfer fees are set by the receiving dealer and are not included in our price.

3. What ammunition is compatible with this shotgun?

This Benelli Ultra Light accepts 12-gauge shells in 2 ¾-inch and 3-inch lengths. It is designed for lead shot, steel shot, and bismuth loads, provided they meet SAAMI pressure standards. For best reliability, we recommend using ammunition with at least 1,200 fps velocity for target loads. Avoid using non-toxic shot in extra-full chokes unless the choke is specifically rated for steel.

4. What warranty does this product carry?

Benelli USA provides a limited lifetime warranty to the original owner for defects in materials or workmanship. This warranty is transferable only in certain circumstances; we recommend registering your shotgun with Benelli USA after purchase. Warranty service is handled directly through Benelli USA’s service center in Maryland, and we can assist with initial claims if needed.

5. What is your return policy for firearms?

All firearm sales are final due to federal and state regulations. If the firearm arrives with a manufacturer defect or is damaged in transit, please contact us within 48 hours of delivery. We will work with Benelli or the shipping carrier to arrange a replacement or repair. We do not accept returns for change of mind, and we strongly recommend inspecting the shotgun at your FFL dealer before accepting the transfer.

Closing Call to Action

This Benelli Ultra Light Satin Walnut / Weathercoat 12 Ga 26″ Barrel is available now for U.S. customers through our secure online store. We ship to all states where this model is legal, with compliant packaging and tracking provided. Add it to your cart and select your preferred FFL dealer during checkout to begin the transfer process.