Description
For over five decades, Benelli has set the standard for semi-automatic shotguns, and the 50th Anniversary Raffaello Limited Edition honors that legacy with a level of craftsmanship rarely seen in modern firearms. This 20-gauge, 26-inch barreled shotgun is a dedicated field piece for the U.S. sportsman who values both performance and artistry, whether you’re working a dove field in Texas, chasing pheasants in the Midwest, or simply appreciating fine Italian engineering at the range. It is a functional collectible, built to be used and admired in equal measure.
What This Product Is and Who It’s For
The Benelli 50th Anniversary Raffaello is a limited-production, semi-automatic shotgun chambered in 20 gauge, featuring a deeply engraved nickel receiver and a AAA-grade walnut stock. This is not a tactical or home-defense shotgun; rather, it is designed for the upland bird hunter, clay target shooter, and firearms collector who demands a reliable action wrapped in presentation-grade aesthetics. The Raffaello action is based on Benelli’s proven inertia-driven system, making it a lightweight, low-maintenance choice for long days in the field. It is for the shooter who wants a heirloom-quality firearm that cycles quickly and points naturally, without the complexity of gas-operated systems.
Key Specification Breakdown
- Caliber: 20 Gauge (2.75-inch and 3-inch shells)
- Capacity: 3+1 (3 rounds in the magazine tube, 1 in the chamber)
- Barrel Length: 26 inches
- Overall Length: Approximately 46.5 inches
- Finish: Nickel-plated receiver with deep scroll engraving; blued barrel
- Stock: AAA-grade European walnut with a high-gloss oil finish, featuring a Monte Carlo comb and hand-cut checkering
- Weight: Approximately 5.8 pounds (unloaded)
- Sights: Red bar front sight with a white mid-bead
- Choke System: Benelli Crio system (flush-mounted chokes, typically includes IC, M, and F)
- Action: Inertia-driven semi-automatic
- Length of Pull: 14.375 inches
- Drop at Comb: 1.375 inches
- Drop at Heel: 2.125 inches
Feature Deep-Dive
The centerpiece of this limited edition is the engraved nickel receiver. Unlike standard matte or blued receivers, the nickel plating offers a bright, corrosion-resistant surface that resists wear from field use and cleaning solvents. The engraving is executed by Italian master craftsmen, featuring intricate scrollwork and game scenes that reflect the Raffaello line’s heritage. This is not a laser-etched pattern; it is hand-cut, giving each receiver a unique depth and character that improves with age. The nickel finish also provides a subtle contrast against the blued barrel, creating a two-tone look that stands out in a gun safe or at a shooting event.
The AAA-grade walnut stock is selected for its tight, straight grain and minimal figure, with a high-gloss oil finish that highlights the wood’s natural luster. Benelli uses a hand-rubbed oil finish rather than a thick polyurethane coat, which allows the wood to breathe and move with humidity changes. The Monte Carlo comb provides a consistent cheek weld for both low and high shooting positions, while the hand-cut checkering at the grip and forend offers a secure hold even with gloved hands. The stock is also fitted with a ventilated recoil pad, which helps reduce felt recoil from heavier 3-inch loads without adding significant weight.
Under the hood, the Benelli inertia-driven action is a hallmark of reliability. Unlike gas-operated shotguns that require regular cleaning of piston rings and gas ports, the inertia system uses the shotgun’s own recoil to cycle the action. This means fewer moving parts, less fouling accumulation, and consistent function across a wide range of 20-gauge ammunition, from light 7/8-ounce target loads to full-power 3-inch magnums. The system is self-cleaning to a degree, as the bolt’s rearward motion pushes debris out of the action, making it a strong choice for dusty or muddy hunting conditions.
The 26-inch barrel features Benelli’s Crio system, which uses cryogenic treatment to stabilize the steel before machining. This process reduces internal stresses and improves uniformity, resulting in consistent shot patterns with every choke tube. The barrel is also equipped with a ventilated rib that measures 8mm wide, providing a clear sight plane and reducing heat mirage during rapid strings of fire. The red bar front sight and white mid-bead are simple but effective, allowing for fast target acquisition in low-light conditions at dawn or dusk.
Limited to a specific production run commemorating Benelli’s 50th anniversary, this shotgun includes a special serial number prefix and a medallion inlaid into the stock. The packaging includes a hard case and a certificate of authenticity, adding to its value as a collectible. However, Benelli has designed this firearm to be shot regularly, not locked away. The action is smooth out of the box, with a trigger pull that breaks cleanly at around 5 to 6 pounds, suitable for both fast wingshooting and precise target work.
Ideal Use Cases
This shotgun excels in upland bird hunting, particularly for quail, pheasant, grouse, and woodcock, where its light weight and fast handling allow for quick follow-up shots. The 20-gauge chambering provides ample energy for birds out to 40 yards while keeping recoil manageable for all-day carry. It is also well-suited for sporting clays and skeet, especially for shooters who prefer the lower recoil and lighter carry of a 20-gauge over a 12-gauge. The limited edition nature makes it a strong candidate for collectors, but it is fully functional for regular range use. It is not recommended for home defense or concealed carry, as its length and open choke patterns are not optimized for those applications.
Compatibility Notes
- Ammunition: Cycles reliably with 2.75-inch and 3-inch 20-gauge shells, including target loads (7/8 oz to 1 oz) and hunting loads (1 oz to 1.25 oz). Avoid light target loads below 1,150 fps for initial break-in; the inertia system prefers slightly heavier loads for the first 100 rounds.
- Chokes: Uses Benelli Crio flush-mount chokes (IC, M, F included). Extended Crio chokes are also compatible for tighter patterns at longer ranges.
- Holsters/Slings: Standard 1-inch sling swivel studs are installed at the forend and stock. A sling is not included but can be added without modification.
- Accessories: Benelli offers a range of replacement Crio choke tubes, barrel extensions (for non-restricted states), and recoil pads. Stock shims are available to adjust drop and cast.
- Cleaning: Standard shotgun cleaning kits for 20-gauge work well. Avoid abrasive solvents on the nickel receiver; use a mild cleaner and a soft cloth.
FAQ Section
Q: Can this shotgun be shipped directly to my home in the U.S.?
A: No. Federal law requires that all firearms be shipped to a Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder in your state. We ship to your chosen FFL dealer, and you must complete the background check and transfer paperwork there before taking possession. We only ship to FFLs within the U.S., including Alaska and Hawaii, but not to U.S. territories without prior verification.
Q: What is the FFL transfer process for this Benelli shotgun?
A: After placing your order, we will need your chosen FFL dealer to send us a copy of their valid license via email or fax. Once we verify the license, we ship the firearm to that dealer. You then visit the dealer, complete ATF Form 4473, and pass a NICS background check. Transfer fees vary by dealer and are not included in our price. We recommend contacting your dealer before ordering to confirm they accept transfers and understand their fee structure.
Q: What ammunition is compatible with the 50th Anniversary Raffaello?
A: This shotgun is chambered for 2.75-inch and 3-inch 20-gauge shells. It will cycle most factory loads from brands like Remington, Winchester, Federal, and Fiocchi. For best reliability during the first 100 rounds, use 1-ounce loads at 1,200 fps or higher. After break-in, it will cycle lighter target loads down to 1,150 fps. We do not recommend using steel shot through the standard Crio chokes; use steel-compatible chokes if required for waterfowl.
Q: What warranty does Benelli provide, and how do I claim it?
A: Benelli offers a limited lifetime warranty to the original owner against defects in materials and workmanship. This does not cover normal wear, misuse, or unauthorized modifications. To claim warranty service, contact Benelli USA’s customer service at (301) 283-6981 or visit their website. You will need to provide the serial number and proof of purchase. We recommend keeping your invoice from csfirearms.com for this purpose.
Q: What is your return policy for firearms?
A: Due to federal regulations and safety concerns, we do not accept returns on firearms for change of mind or cosmetic preference. If your firearm arrives with a manufacturer defect or is damaged in transit, contact us within 48 hours of delivery. We will work with Benelli to resolve warranty issues or file a carrier claim for shipping damage. All sales are final once the firearm is transferred to your FFL. We encourage you to inspect the firearm thoroughly at your dealer before completing the transfer.
Closing CTA
This Benelli 50th Anniversary Raffaello Limited Edition is a rare opportunity to own a piece of Italian firearms history that is built to perform in American fields and ranges. With its engraved nickel receiver, AAA walnut stock, and proven inertia action, it offers a level of refinement that supports reliable shooting season after season. We ship to licensed FFL dealers across the United States, including all 50 states where shotgun ownership is legal. Check our current inventory at csfirearms.com, or contact our team to verify availability and arrange your transfer.
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