Odessa, Ukraine – October 28, 2019. Benelli 12 gauge Raffaello

Description

The Odessa, Ukraine – October 28, 2019. Benelli 12 gauge Raffaello is a semi-automatic shotgun designed for shooters who value precision engineering and refined aesthetics. For the U.S. market, this model offers a reliable platform for clay target sports, upland bird hunting, and recreational range use, where consistent cycling and a comfortable point of aim are essential. It represents a specific point in Benelli’s production history, combining the Raffaello action with the Accademia stock geometry, making it a functional choice for the discerning shooter.

What This Product Is and Who It’s For

This is a Benelli Raffaello Accademia semi-automatic shotgun chambered in 12 gauge, with a 28-inch barrel. It is built for the shooter who appreciates a semi-auto that handles a wide range of target loads and field loads without adjustment. The Raffaello action is a proven inertia-driven system, known for its reliability in diverse conditions, from dusty dove fields to damp duck blinds. This model is suited for target shooters looking for a dedicated competition or practice gun, upland hunters who cover ground and need quick follow-up shots, and collectors who recognize the value of a shotgun with a distinctive stock design and engraved receiver.

Key Specifications

• Caliber/Gauge: 12 Gauge (2 ¾-inch and 3-inch shells)
• Action: Semi-automatic, inertia-driven system
• Barrel Length: 28 inches
• Overall Length: Approximately 49.5 inches
• Capacity: 4+1 rounds (4 in magazine tube, 1 in chamber)
• Stock: AAA-grade walnut, Accademia design with adjustable comb
• Receiver: Engraved alloy receiver
• Finish: Blued barrel and receiver
• Weight: Approximately 7.2 pounds (unloaded)
• Sights: Red bar front sight
• Chokes: Crio system with interchangeable choke tubes (C, IC, M, IM, F typically included)
• Length of Pull: Adjustable via spacers (around 14.5 inches standard)

Feature Deep-Dive

The Benelli Raffaello Accademia stands out for its inertia-driven operating system, which uses the shotgun’s recoil to cycle the action. This design eliminates the need for gas pistons or complex tubing, resulting in a cleaner, more reliable action that functions well with a variety of ammunition, from light target loads to heavy field loads. The system is also less sensitive to temperature extremes and fouling buildup, making it a dependable choice for long days at the range or in the field.

The Accademia stock is a defining feature of this model. It is crafted from AAA-grade walnut, selected for its straight grain and consistent color. The stock includes an adjustable comb that allows the shooter to customize the cheek weld height for different shooting positions and sight planes. This adjustability is particularly beneficial for shooters who switch between clay targets and hunting, as it helps maintain a consistent point of impact. The stock also features a semi-pistol grip design that promotes a natural hand position and reduces felt recoil transfer.

The engraved receiver adds a layer of craftsmanship to the shotgun. The engraving pattern is typically a floral or scroll motif, applied to the alloy receiver to reduce overall weight without sacrificing structural integrity. While the engraving is decorative, it also provides a non-reflective surface that can reduce glare in bright conditions. The receiver is designed with a low profile, which contributes to the shotgun’s balanced feel and quick handling characteristics.

The 28-inch barrel is fitted with Benelli’s Crio system, which cryogenically treats the barrel and choke tubes to relieve stress in the metal. This process is intended to improve consistency in shot patterns by reducing barrel harmonics and choke deformation. The barrel is also back-bored, which can reduce felt recoil and improve pattern density. The red bar front sight is simple and effective for fast target acquisition, particularly in low-light conditions.

The magazine tube holds four 2 ¾-inch shells, with the ability to chamber a fifth round. This capacity is standard for many target and field shotguns, and it complies with regulations in most states for hunting migratory birds. The magazine tube is equipped with a spring and follower designed for reliable feeding, and the shell release button is positioned for easy access without accidental engagement. The overall weight of 7.2 pounds makes the shotgun easy to carry for extended periods while still providing enough mass to manage recoil.

Maintenance is straightforward due to the inertia-driven design. The bolt assembly and barrel can be removed for cleaning without the need for special tools. The receiver’s alloy construction resists corrosion, and the blued finish on the barrel provides a durable surface that withstands normal wear. The choke tubes are interchangeable, allowing the shooter to adjust pattern density for different target presentations or game species.

Ideal Use Cases

• Target Shooting: The Accademia stock’s adjustability and the inertia system’s reliability make this shotgun a solid choice for trap, skeet, and sporting clays. The 28-inch barrel provides a good balance of swing speed and sight radius.
• Upland Bird Hunting: The lightweight design and quick handling are suitable for walking up pheasants, quail, or grouse. The inertia system cycles reliably with field loads, and the 4-round capacity is adequate for most upland scenarios.
• Waterfowl Hunting: With 3-inch chamber capability and a durable finish, this shotgun can be used for ducks and geese, provided the shooter selects appropriate choke tubes and non-toxic shot. The inertia system functions well in cold, wet conditions.
• Recreational Range Use: For shooters who enjoy running drills or simply spending time at the range, the Raffaello Accademia offers consistent performance and easy maintenance. The adjustable stock helps accommodate different shooters sharing the same gun.

Compatibility Notes

• Ammunition: This shotgun cycles reliably with 2 ¾-inch and 3-inch shells. It functions best with loads of 1 ⅛ ounces or heavier for target use, and 1 ¼ ounces or heavier for field loads. Light target loads under 1 ounce may not cycle the action consistently in all conditions.
• Chokes: The barrel uses Benelli’s Crio choke tube system. Aftermarket chokes from manufacturers like Briley or Muller are compatible, as long as they are specified for Benelli Crio threads. Standard Benelli Mobil choke tubes are not compatible with this system.
• Accessories: The receiver is drilled and tapped for scope mounts or a Picatinny rail, allowing for the addition of a red dot sight if desired. Sling swivel studs are included for attaching a sling. Magazine tube extensions are available from aftermarket sources, but they may require modification to the barrel clamp and spring.
• Holsters and Cases: No specific holsters are made for this shotgun. A soft or hard case with a length of at least 52 inches is recommended for transport. A gun sock or silicone-treated cloth is useful for storage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can this shotgun be shipped to my address in the United States?
A: Yes, we ship this shotgun to all states where it is legal for purchase. We ship to your chosen FFL dealer, not to your home address. Please ensure your FFL dealer is willing to accept the transfer and that the shotgun complies with your state and local laws regarding barrel length, capacity, and stock configuration.

Q: How does the FFL transfer process work?
A: After you place your order, we will contact you for the name and address of your chosen FFL dealer. Your dealer must send us a copy of their current Federal Firearms License. Once we receive and verify the license, we ship the shotgun to them. You then complete the ATF Form 4473 and background check at your dealer’s location before taking possession. We handle the shipping and compliance paperwork.

Q: What type of ammunition does this shotgun require?
A: This shotgun is chambered for 12 gauge shells with a maximum length of 3 inches. It can safely fire 2 ¾-inch and 3-inch shells. For best reliability, use ammunition with a minimum shot weight of 1 ounce for target loads and 1 ⅛ ounces for field loads. Steel shot and other non-toxic shot types are safe to use through the Crio chokes, but avoid using steel shot through full or extra-full choke tubes.

Q: What warranty is provided with this shotgun?
A: Benelli USA provides a limited lifetime warranty to the original owner for defects in materials and workmanship. This warranty covers the shotgun for its service life under normal use. It does not cover damage from misuse, neglect, or unauthorized modifications. We recommend registering your warranty with Benelli USA within 30 days of purchase. We also offer a 30-day return policy for defects that are noted upon inspection, subject to our terms.

Q: What is your return policy for this item?
A: If the shotgun arrives with a manufacturer defect or damage from shipping, we accept returns within 30 days of delivery. The shotgun must be in its original condition, with all accessories and packaging. We do not accept returns for changes of mind or if the shotgun has been fired. Contact our customer service team to initiate a return and receive a return authorization number. We will cover return shipping for defective items.

Closing Call to Action

This Benelli Raffaello Accademia semi-auto 12 gauge shotgun is available for purchase and can be shipped to your FFL dealer anywhere in the United States where legal. It is a functional, well-engineered shotgun with a refined stock and engraved receiver that suits the target shooter and hunter alike. If you have questions about availability or the ordering process, contact our customer service team. To proceed with a purchase, add this item to your cart and complete the checkout process. We will follow up to coordinate your FFL transfer details.