Gable Sporting Goods

Description

For the upland hunter who values quick handling and reliable performance in the field, the Benelli 828U Field 20-gauge over/under offers a distinct combination of reduced weight and proven mechanics. Whether you are chasing roosters across a Kansas milo field or walking a grouse thicket in the Upper Peninsula, this shotgun’s 28-inch barrel and nickel-plated receiver provide the balance and corrosion resistance needed for long days afield. Gable Sporting Goods is pleased to offer this specific configuration, which pairs a satin walnut stock with a 2-round capacity, making it a practical choice for hunters who appreciate the classic over/under platform.

What This Product Is and Who It’s For

The Benelli 828U Field is a modern over/under shotgun designed primarily for upland bird hunting and field use. It is not intended for home defense, concealed carry, or tactical applications—its strengths lie in its light weight, quick pointability, and the inherent reliability of a break-action design. This model is well-suited for the hunter who walks miles with a shotgun in hand and wants a 20-gauge that handles like a smaller frame but still delivers effective patterns on game birds. Collectors and shooters who appreciate Italian engineering and the distinctive look of a nickel-plated receiver will also find this model appealing. The 828U series is built for those who demand a shotgun that opens smoothly, locks up tight, and carries easily through varied terrain.

Key Specifications Breakdown

• Gauge: 20-gauge (3-inch chamber)
• Barrel Length: 28 inches
• Overall Length: Approximately 46.5 inches
• Capacity: 2 rounds (standard over/under configuration)
• Receiver Finish: Nickel-plated (satin, corrosion-resistant)
• Stock and Forend: Satin walnut with a field-grade checkering pattern
• Weight: Approximately 6.2 pounds (varies slightly with wood density)
• Choke System: Benelli Crio system (interchangeable chokes; typically includes IC, M, F)
• Sights: Red front bead sight on a ventilated rib
• Action: Over/under with a single selective trigger and automatic ejectors
• Safety: Manual tang-mounted safety/barrel selector

Feature Deep-Dive

The Benelli 828U Field distinguishes itself from traditional over/under designs through its lightweight construction, which is achieved without sacrificing durability. The receiver is machined from a solid block of aluminum alloy and then nickel-plated, reducing overall heft while maintaining structural integrity. This is particularly noticeable when carrying the shotgun for extended periods—the 6.2-pound weight profile allows for faster target acquisition and less fatigue at the end of a day in the field. The nickel plating also provides a smooth, low-glare finish that resists moisture and corrosion, a practical benefit for hunters who encounter wet brush or morning dew.

At the heart of the 828U action is Benelli’s patented “Progressive Action” locking system, which uses a rotating bolt head that engages directly into the barrel extensions. This design eliminates the need for a heavy monobloc, contributing to the shotgun’s reduced weight and faster lock time. When you pull the trigger, the action cycles with a crisp, consistent feel, and the automatic ejectors reliably kick spent shells clear of the chamber. This system has been field-tested across multiple seasons and is known for its resistance to fouling and debris, making it a dependable choice for upland hunting where conditions can be dusty or muddy.

The 28-inch barrels are cold-hammer-forged from steel and feature the Benelli Crio system, which allows for quick choke changes without tools. The ventilated rib is slightly raised and matte-finished to reduce glare, and the red front bead provides a clear aiming reference even in low-light conditions at dawn or dusk. Barrel alignment on this model is precise, and the point of impact is consistent with the point of aim when using factory-loaded 20-gauge ammunition. The forcing cone is lengthened to reduce felt recoil and improve pattern uniformity, a feature that benefits shooters who spend a full day on the range or in the field.

The satin walnut stock is shaped with a classic field-style profile, featuring a pistol grip that offers a natural hand position and a comb that promotes a proper cheek weld. The checkering is cut cleanly and provides a secure grip without being overly aggressive. The stock is fitted with a thin, ventilated recoil pad that helps manage the modest recoil of 20-gauge loads. Length of pull is approximately 14.5 inches, with a drop at comb of about 1.5 inches and a drop at heel of roughly 2.25 inches—dimensions that accommodate a wide range of shooters and clothing layers.

One of the more practical features of the 828U Field is the tang-mounted safety and barrel selector, which is easy to operate with the thumb without shifting your grip. The safety is manual and blocks the trigger, while the selector allows you to choose which barrel fires first (typically the bottom barrel for the first shot). This gives the shooter control over choke selection and shot sequence, a standard but appreciated feature on any serious over/under. The trigger itself is a single, non-adjustable design with a clean break and minimal creep, contributing to consistent shot placement.

Finally, the fit and finish of this shotgun reflect Benelli’s manufacturing standards. The wood-to-metal fit is tight, with no gaps or rough edges. The satin finish on the walnut is smooth to the touch and protects the wood without making it slippery. The nickel-plated receiver is evenly applied and shows no tool marks or uneven spots. While this is a field-grade model, the overall presentation is clean and professional, suitable for a hunter who takes pride in their equipment without needing high-gloss showroom aesthetics.

Ideal Use Cases

This shotgun is purpose-built for upland bird hunting, including pheasant, quail, grouse, woodcock, and partridge. The 20-gauge chambering and 28-inch barrel provide an excellent balance of swing speed and pattern density for birds in open cover or light brush. It is also suitable for casual clay target shooting, such as sporting clays or trap, though the lightweight design may be less ideal for high-volume competition use. The 828U Field is not recommended for waterfowl hunting (where 3-inch 20-gauge loads are legal but the gun’s weight and choke system are better suited for field use) or for home defense. It is a dedicated field gun for the walking hunter.

Compatibility Notes

• Ammunition: This shotgun is chambered for 2.75-inch and 3-inch 20-gauge shells. It functions reliably with standard field loads, target loads, and heavier hunting loads. Steel shot is acceptable when used with appropriate steel-rated chokes (check choke markings). Do not use magnum loads beyond 3-inch length.
• Chokes: Uses Benelli Crio system chokes (flush or extended). Aftermarket chokes from brands like Briley or Carlson’s are compatible if they are designed for the Crio thread pattern.
• Holsters and Slings: No holster compatibility; this is a long gun. A quick-detach sling can be added using a stud on the forend cap (some models include a stud; if not, a barrel clamp or forend adapter may be needed).
• Magazines and Accessories: No magazine compatibility—this is a break-action shotgun. Accessories include choke tubes, choke wrenches, and soft cases. No optics rail is standard, but a few aftermarket companies offer receiver-mounted rails for red dot sights if desired.
• Parts: Replacement parts (firing pins, springs, extractors) are available through Benelli’s parts network or authorized service centers. The stock and forend are specific to the 828U model and not interchangeable with other Benelli shotguns.

FAQ

1. Can this shotgun be shipped directly to my home in the U.S.?
No. Federal law requires all firearms to be shipped to a Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder in your state. After you place your order, we will need a copy of your chosen FFL’s license. Once received, we ship the firearm to them, and you complete the background check and transfer at their location. We ship to all 50 states, subject to state and local laws.

2. How does the FFL transfer process work with Gable Sporting Goods?
After you place your order, we will contact you for the name and contact information of your preferred FFL dealer. You will need to arrange with that dealer to send us a copy of their current FFL license. We verify the license, ship the shotgun via a common carrier, and provide you with tracking information. The dealer then handles the transfer paperwork and any applicable state requirements.

3. What ammunition is safe to use in this Benelli 828U Field?
This shotgun is chambered for 2.75-inch and 3-inch 20-gauge shells. You may use lead, steel, bismuth, or tungsten-based shot as long as the shell length does not exceed 3 inches. Always verify that your choke tubes are rated for the shot type you intend to use—steel shot requires a steel-rated choke (typically marked “Steel” or “S”). Avoid using reloaded or handloaded ammunition that does not meet SAAMI pressure specifications.

4. What is the warranty coverage for this firearm?
Benelli USA provides a limited lifetime warranty to the original owner for defects in materials or workmanship. This covers the receiver, barrels, and action components. The stock and forend are covered for one year. Normal wear items (such as firing pins, springs, and extractors) are not covered after the first year. Warranty service is handled through Benelli USA’s service center in Maryland.

5. What is your return policy for firearms?
Due to federal regulations, we do not accept returns on firearms for change of mind or fitment issues. If your shotgun arrives with a manufacturing defect or damage from shipping, you must contact us within 48 hours of delivery. We will work with you and Benelli to resolve the issue, which may involve a replacement or warranty repair. All returns must be handled through an FFL dealer and comply with applicable laws.

Closing Call to Action

This Benelli 828U Field 20-gauge with nickel-plated receiver and 28-inch barrel is available now through Gable Sporting Goods. We ship to licensed FFL dealers across the United States, with fast processing and tracking provided for every order. If you have questions about compatibility, choke selection, or the transfer process, contact our staff directly. Add this shotgun to your cart to begin the purchase process, and we will guide you through the FFL transfer from start to finish.