Description
The BENELLI 828U SPORT 12 GA 30IN 2RD O/U is a purpose-built over-under shotgun designed for American sport shooters who demand consistent performance on the trap, skeet, or sporting clays range. For hunters who appreciate a reliable field gun that transitions smoothly from the dove field to the duck blind, this model offers a balanced combination of proven Benelli engineering and classic styling. Whether you are working on your break points at the club or putting in miles on public land, the 828U Sport delivers the dependable cycling and durable construction that serious shooters expect from an Italian-made firearm.
What This Product Is and Who It’s For
The BENELLI 828U SPORT 12 GA 30IN 2RD O/U is a break-action, over-under shotgun chambered in 12 gauge with a 30-inch barrel length and a two-round capacity. This model is specifically engineered for the competitive clay shooter and the upland or waterfowl hunter who values a gun that swings naturally and handles fast follow-up shots. The satin walnut stock and blued receiver give it a traditional appearance that appeals to collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate fine wood and metal work, while the modern design elements—such as the monobloc barrel construction—provide the strength and consistency needed for high-volume shooting. This firearm is not intended for home defense or concealed carry; it is a dedicated sporting arm for the range and the field.
Key Specifications Breakdown
- Caliber: 12 Gauge (3-inch chamber, compatible with 2 ¾-inch and 3-inch shells)
- Action: Over-under, break-action
- Barrel Length: 30 inches
- Capacity: 2 rounds (one in each barrel, plus optional magazine limiter)
- Receiver Finish: Blued steel
- Stock Material: Satin walnut with checkered grip and forend
- Overall Length: Approximately 46.5 inches
- Weight: Approximately 7.2 pounds (unloaded)
- Choke System: Benelli Crio chokes (flush-mounted, includes IC, M, and F chokes)
- Sights: Red front bead sight, mid-bead on the rib
- Rib: Ventilated, 10mm wide for improved sight picture
- Trigger: Single selective trigger with barrel selector (top barrel fires first with safety off)
- Safety: Manual tang safety with barrel selector
Feature Deep-Dive
The Benelli 828U Sport uses a monobloc barrel system, where the barrels are joined to a single steel block at the breech. This construction method reduces weight while maintaining the structural integrity needed for repeated high-pressure shots. The monobloc design also allows for precise alignment of the barrels, which directly contributes to consistent point-of-impact from shot to shot. For shooters who fire hundreds of rounds in a single session, this reliability is a practical advantage that minimizes the need for re-zeroing or adjustment.
The 30-inch barrels are paired with Benelli’s Crio chokes, which are cryogenically treated to improve pattern density and reduce pellet deformation. These chokes are interchangeable and come in improved cylinder, modified, and full configurations. The flush-mounted design keeps the barrel profile clean and reduces weight at the muzzle, which helps the gun swing more naturally on crossing targets. The ventilated rib measures 10mm wide, providing a flat sight plane that reduces glare and helps the shooter maintain focus on the target rather than the barrel.
The satin walnut stock is machined from select-grade wood and finished with a low-gloss satin that resists moisture and wear. The pistol grip is checkered for a secure hold, even with wet or gloved hands, and the forend features a rounded profile that fits comfortably in the palm. The stock is equipped with a Benelli Comfort Tech recoil pad, which uses a series of chevron-shaped inserts to absorb up to 48% of felt recoil. This system is particularly beneficial for shooters who spend long hours on the range or who are sensitive to recoil from heavy field loads.
The blued receiver is machined from steel and features a low-profile design that keeps the gun’s center of gravity low and between the hands. The receiver houses a single selective trigger that allows the shooter to choose which barrel fires first by moving the safety selector. By default, the top barrel fires first, which reduces muzzle rise and allows for a quicker second shot. The trigger pull is crisp and breaks cleanly at approximately 4.5 pounds, with minimal overtravel, making it easier to maintain focus on the target during the shot.
Disassembly and cleaning are straightforward thanks to the break-action design. The barrels pivot on a hardened steel hinge pin, and the gun can be taken down into three main components (barrels, receiver, and stock) for transport or storage. The ejectors are mechanical and automatically push spent shells clear of the chambers when the action is opened, which speeds up reloading during competition or when hunting with a partner. The extractors are adjustable for wear, meaning the gun can be maintained over many years of use without requiring major gunsmith work.
Benelli includes a hard plastic carrying case with the 828U Sport, which is lined and padded for safe transport. The case has cutouts for the stock and barrels, as well as a compartment for the choke tubes and choke wrench. This is a practical addition for shooters who travel to different ranges or hunting spots, as it keeps the gun and its accessories organized and protected from impacts. The case is also TSA-compliant for air travel, which is useful for those who attend national shooting events or hunt out of state.
Ideal Use Cases
- Sporting Clays and Skeet: The 30-inch barrels and ventilated rib provide a smooth swing and clear sight picture for crossing and incoming targets. The Crio chokes allow for quick pattern adjustments based on the station and target presentation.
- Trap Shooting: The monobloc construction and steel receiver keep the gun stable during sustained fire. The Comfort Tech recoil pad reduces fatigue during long practice sessions or tournaments.
- Upland Bird Hunting: The 7.2-pound weight is light enough to carry through fields and thick cover, while the 30-inch barrels offer the reach needed for flushing birds at distance. The satin walnut stock resists scratches and weather.
- Waterfowl Hunting: With 3-inch chambers, the 828U Sport can handle high-velocity steel and bismuth loads. The blued finish is durable enough for wet conditions, though regular cleaning is recommended after saltwater use.
- Collectors and Enthusiasts: The traditional styling and Italian craftsmanship make this a desirable addition to any shotgun collection. The satin walnut and blued receiver are classic, understated finishes that age well with proper care.
Compatibility Notes
This shotgun is designed for 12-gauge shells with a maximum length of 3 inches. It will cycle reliably with 2 ¾-inch target loads, 3-inch field loads, and steel or bismuth waterfowl loads. It is not compatible with 3 ½-inch magnum shells. The Benelli Crio chokes are specific to the 828U model and are not interchangeable with other Benelli choke systems. The gun uses a standard ¼-inch x 28 threaded front bead sight, so aftermarket fiber-optic or tritium beads can be installed if desired. Holsters are not applicable for this firearm, but hard cases and slip cases that accommodate a 46.5-inch overall length will fit. There are no aftermarket magazine extensions available for this model, as it is a fixed-capacity over-under.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can this shotgun be shipped directly to my home in the U.S.?
No. Federal law requires that all firearms purchased from a licensed dealer be shipped to a Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder in your state. We will ship the Benelli 828U Sport to the FFL dealer you select during checkout. You must coordinate with that dealer to complete the transfer and any required background check. We do not ship to P.O. boxes for firearms; a physical address is required for the FFL.
2. How does the FFL transfer process work?
After you place your order, we will contact you to confirm your chosen FFL dealer. The dealer must provide us with a copy of their current FFL license. Once we verify the license, we ship the firearm via a carrier that requires an adult signature. You then visit the dealer, complete the ATF Form 4473, and pass the NICS background check. The dealer may charge a transfer fee, which is separate from our purchase price. We recommend contacting your local FFL before ordering to confirm their fees and policies.
3. What ammunition is compatible with this shotgun?
This shotgun is chambered for 2 ¾-inch and 3-inch 12-gauge shells. It will function with lead, steel, bismuth, and tungsten loads, as long as the shell length does not exceed 3 inches. We recommend using factory-loaded ammunition from reputable manufacturers. Reloaded or hand-loaded ammunition is not recommended and may void the warranty. Always check the barrel stamp for the exact chamber length before use.
4. What warranty does Benelli offer on the 828U Sport?
Benelli provides a limited lifetime warranty to the original owner for defects in materials and workmanship. This warranty covers the receiver, barrels, and stock, but does not cover normal wear, misuse, or damage from improper ammunition. The warranty is transferable to subsequent owners only if the original owner registers the firearm with Benelli within 30 days of purchase. For warranty claims, you will need to contact Benelli USA directly and provide proof of purchase and the serial number.
5. What is your return policy for this firearm?
Due to federal regulations and safety concerns, we do not accept returns on firearms for reasons of buyer’s remorse. If the firearm arrives with a manufacturing defect or is damaged in transit, we will work with you and Benelli to arrange a repair or replacement. You must inspect the firearm at your FFL dealer before accepting the transfer. If you notice damage, do not accept the transfer and contact us immediately. We will not accept returns on firearms that have been fired or modified.
The BENELLI 828U SPORT 12 GA 30IN 2RD O/U is a solid choice for the shooter who values consistent performance and classic design over flashy features. It is built to handle the demands of competitive shooting and field hunting without unnecessary complexity. If you have questions about compatibility, FFL transfer, or shipping to your state, our team is available to help. We ship to all states where this firearm is legal, and we work with FFL dealers across the U.S. to ensure a smooth transfer. Order with confidence from a licensed retailer who understands the needs of American shooters.




Reviews
There are no reviews yet.