Description
The Benelli Montefeltro Silver 10850 is a semi-automatic shotgun that brings a measured blend of field performance and visual refinement to the U.S. shooter. Whether you’re walking a Nebraska cornfield for pheasants, working a South Carolina dove field, or adding a carefully crafted piece to a collection, this 12-gauge offers a reliable platform with an eye toward tradition. For the upland hunter who values a slim, fast-handling shotgun, or the enthusiast who appreciates select walnut and engraved steel, the Montefeltro Silver delivers a consistent, low-recoil experience without unnecessary frills.
What This Product Is and Who It’s For
The Benelli Montefeltro Silver 10850 is a gas-operated semi-automatic shotgun chambered in 12 gauge, built around a 28-inch barrel and dressed with an AA-grade select walnut stock. It is designed primarily for upland bird hunting, where quick shouldering and reliable cycling across a range of field loads matter. This model also appeals to collectors who value the nickel-blue finish and etched game scenes, as well as shooters who want a lightweight, low-maintenance shotgun for clay sports or informal range use. It is not configured for home defense or concealed carry—this is a field gun built for open spaces and long days afield.
Key Specifications
- Caliber: 12 Gauge (2-3/4″ and 3″ shells)
- Capacity: 4+1 rounds (with included plug; 5+1 without plug where legal)
- Barrel Length: 28 inches
- Overall Length: 49.5 inches
- Weight: Approximately 6.7 to 7.0 pounds (unloaded)
- Finish: Nickel-blue metal finish with etched game scenes on the receiver
- Stock: AA-grade select walnut, satin finish, with checkered pistol grip and forend
- Sights: Red bar front sight with a metal bead
- Choke System: Benelli Crio System with interchangeable choke tubes (C, IC, M, IM, F typically included)
- Action: Inertia-driven gas system (Benelli’s proprietary Inertia Driven system)
- Receiver: Nickel-plated aluminum alloy with engraved game scenes
- Length of Pull: 14-3/8 inches
- Drop at Comb: Approximately 1-1/2 inches
- Drop at Heel: Approximately 2-1/4 inches
Feature Deep-Dive
The Benelli Montefeltro Silver 10850 uses Benelli’s Inertia Driven system, which relies on the shotgun’s recoil to cycle the action rather than gas ports or external springs. This design reduces the number of moving parts and minimizes the need for frequent cleaning, which is a practical advantage for hunters who spend long days in dusty or wet conditions. The system cycles a wide range of 12-gauge loads, from light 2-3/4″ target shells to heavier 3″ magnum field loads, without manual adjustment of gas settings. This consistency is useful when transitioning from dove loads to duck loads in the same outing.
The 28-inch barrel is paired with Benelli’s Crio System, which uses cryogenic treatment of the steel to relieve stress and improve consistency in the bore and choke tubes. The result is a barrel that patterns predictably with a variety of shot sizes and choke constrictions. The included set of Crio choke tubes (cylinder, improved cylinder, modified, improved modified, and full) gives the shooter flexibility for everything from close quail to longer-range pheasant or waterfowl work. The red bar front sight provides a clear, low-glare reference point for fast target acquisition in varying light conditions.
The stock and forend are crafted from AA-grade select walnut, which is a cut above standard walnut in terms of grain density and figure. Benelli applies a satin finish that protects the wood without creating glare, and the checkering at the pistol grip and forend offers a secure hold even with wet or gloved hands. The Montefeltro’s slim forend profile allows the shooter’s hand to index naturally, which helps with swing speed on crossing targets. The comb is shaped to promote a consistent cheek weld, and the length of pull of 14-3/8 inches fits most adult shooters without requiring a spacer or pad change.
The nickel-blue finish on the receiver and barrel is more than a cosmetic choice—it provides corrosion resistance that is beneficial in humid or wet hunting environments. The etched game scenes on the receiver depict upland birds and game in a classic style, adding visual interest without interfering with the shotgun’s function. This level of engraving is typically found on higher-end field guns, and it gives the Montefeltro Silver a presence that separates it from plain black synthetic models. The aluminum alloy receiver keeps the overall weight low, which reduces fatigue during a full day of walking.
Disassembly for cleaning is straightforward: the trigger group is removable via a push pin, and the barrel separates from the receiver by removing the forend cap. The Inertia Driven system has no gas pistons, O-rings, or springs to lose or replace, which simplifies maintenance for the average shooter. Benelli includes a shim kit for adjusting drop and cast, allowing the stock fit to be tuned to the individual’s body dimensions. This adjustability is not always standard on shotguns in this price range, and it can improve shooting consistency over time.
The Montefeltro Silver is also notable for its low felt recoil relative to many other lightweight 12-gauge shotguns. The Inertia system does not rely on heavy reciprocating masses, and the stock’s design helps distribute recoil energy across the shoulder. For shooters who are sensitive to recoil or who plan to shoot several boxes of shells in a session, this shotgun offers a more comfortable experience than many of its peers. The 28-inch barrel also provides a good balance between swing speed and sight radius, making it a versatile choice for both field and range use.
Ideal Use Cases
This shotgun is best suited for upland bird hunting—pheasant, quail, grouse, chukar, and partridge—where its light weight and quick handling are assets. It also works well for waterfowl hunting with 3″ loads and appropriate choke selection, though some hunters may prefer a longer barrel for pass shooting. The Montefeltro Silver is a capable choice for sporting clays, trap, or skeet, particularly for shooters who want a single shotgun that can transition from the field to the range. It is not intended for home defense, concealed carry, or tactical use, as its barrel length and stock design are optimized for stationary or walking hunting scenarios. Collectors will appreciate the AA-grade walnut and etched receiver as a display piece or as part of a working collection of Italian-made shotguns.
Compatibility Notes
- Ammunition: This shotgun cycles 2-3/4″ and 3″ 12-gauge shells. It is compatible with light target loads (1 oz. at 1200 fps) as well as heavy field loads (1-1/4 oz. at 1300+ fps). Steel shot is acceptable with the included Crio chokes, but check choke labeling for steel-rated tubes. Avoid using 3-1/2″ magnum shells, as the chamber is not rated for them.
- Holsters: Not applicable for this long gun.
- Magazines: The shotgun uses a tubular magazine under the barrel. No aftermarket magazines are available for this model.
- Accessories: The Montefeltro Silver accepts standard Benelli choke tubes (Crio system). Aftermarket recoil pads, sling swivels, and barrel clamps are available from third-party manufacturers. The receiver is drilled and tapped for scope mounts or a Picatinny rail, though this is uncommon for a field gun.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can this shotgun be shipped to my address in the United States?
Yes, we ship to all 50 states where the shotgun is legal for purchase. However, we only ship to a licensed Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder in your state. We do not ship directly to residential addresses. You will need to provide the FFL’s contact information at checkout, and we will confirm the transfer with them before shipping.
2. What is the FFL transfer process for this shotgun?
After you place your order, you will receive an email requesting the name and address of your chosen FFL dealer. You can either provide a local FFL’s information, or if you do not have one, we can assist in locating a dealer near you. We ship the shotgun to that FFL, and you complete the required background check (NICS) and any state-specific paperwork at the dealer’s location. The dealer will then release the shotgun to you. There may be a transfer fee charged by the FFL, which is separate from our price.
3. What ammunition is compatible with this shotgun?
The Benelli Montefeltro Silver 10850 is chambered for 2-3/4″ and 3″ 12-gauge shells. It will cycle a wide range of field loads, target loads, and steel shot loads within those lengths. It is not compatible with 3-1/2″ shells. For best reliability, use shells with a minimum velocity of 1200 fps for the first few boxes during break-in, though the gun will typically cycle lighter loads after a short period of use.
4. What is the warranty on this shotgun?
Benelli provides a limited lifetime warranty to the original owner for defects in materials and workmanship. This warranty covers the shotgun’s receiver, barrel, and internal components. The stock and forend are covered for one year from the date of purchase. Warranty service is handled directly through Benelli USA. We recommend registering your shotgun on Benelli’s website after purchase to facilitate any future claims.
5. Can I return this shotgun if I change my mind?
We accept returns within 30 days of delivery for unused, unfired firearms in their original packaging. The shotgun must be returned through your chosen FFL dealer, and a 15% restocking fee applies. Ammunition, accessories, and used firearms are not eligible for return. If the shotgun has a manufacturing defect, it will be covered under the Benelli warranty and should be sent to Benelli for repair rather than returned to us.
Closing Call to Action
The Benelli Montefeltro Silver 10850 is available now for U.S. customers. We ship to licensed FFL dealers in all 50 states, with fast processing and tracking provided. If you have questions about fit, compatibility, or the ordering process, contact our team directly. Add this shotgun to your cart to begin the transfer process.
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