Description
The Benelli Super Black Eagle 3 in 12 GA with a 28-inch barrel delivers reliable semi-auto performance for waterfowl and upland hunters in Realtree Max-5 with Comfortech 3 stock. Whether you are working a flooded timber for mallards or walking CRP ground for pheasants, this shotgun is built to cycle heavy magnum loads and light target shells without adjustment. For the American hunter who demands a gas-free, inertia-driven system that shrugs off mud, ice, and carbon fouling, the SBE 3 is a field-proven tool that has earned its place in duck blinds and dove fields across the country.
What This Product Is and Who It Is For
The Benelli Super Black Eagle 3 is a semi-automatic shotgun chambered in 12 gauge, designed for hunters who need a reliable firearm that cycles a wide range of ammunition. This specific model features a 28-inch barrel and a Realtree Max-5 camouflage finish, making it suitable for waterfowl, turkey, and upland bird hunting. It is also a capable choice for clay target shooters who want a lightweight, low-recoil platform for sporting clays or skeet. While not intended for home defense or concealed carry due to its size, it serves the dedicated hunter and recreational shooter who values consistency in adverse conditions.
Key Specification Breakdown
- Caliber: 12 Gauge (2.75-inch, 3-inch, and 3.5-inch shells)
- Action: Inertia-driven semi-automatic
- Barrel Length: 28 inches
- Overall Length: 49.5 inches
- Weight: Approximately 7.2 pounds (unloaded)
- Stock: Comfortech 3 with Realtree Max-5 camo finish
- Receiver: Aluminum alloy with Realtree Max-5 coating
- Magazine Capacity: 3+1 (with factory plug for migratory birds)
- Choke System: Crio CrioChoke (includes Full, Modified, Improved Cylinder, and IC/Mid cylinder)
- Sights: Red bar front sight
- Length of Pull: 14.375 inches
- Drop at Comb: 1.5 inches
- Drop at Heel: 2.25 inches
Feature Deep-Dive
The Benelli Super Black Eagle 3 is built around the company’s third-generation inertia-driven operating system. Unlike gas-operated shotguns, this system uses the recoil energy from each shot to cycle the action, which means there are no gas pistons, o-rings, or complex tubes to clean. This design reduces the need for frequent maintenance and ensures reliable function even when the gun is dirty, wet, or exposed to extreme cold. For hunters who spend long days in marsh or rain, this is a meaningful advantage that keeps the gun cycling when conditions turn poor.
The 28-inch barrel provides a good balance between swing speed and sight radius for waterfowl and upland hunting. It is long enough to offer a smooth, controlled swing on crossing targets but short enough to handle well in tight cover or a blind. The CrioCryo-treated barrel and choke tubes are designed to deliver consistent patterns shot after shot by reducing internal friction and maintaining a uniform bore surface. This treatment, combined with the CrioChoke system, allows the shooter to fine-tune pattern density for different game species and shooting distances.
The Comfortech 3 stock system is a key upgrade over earlier models. It features a stepped, chevron-pattern recoil pad that reduces felt recoil by directing energy downward and away from the shooter’s face and shoulder. The stock also includes a raised comb design that promotes a consistent cheek weld, which helps maintain a natural point of aim. For shooters who fire heavy 3.5-inch magnum loads, this stock makes a noticeable difference in comfort over a long day in the field.
Another notable feature is the Easy Locking Bolt system, which uses a rotating bolt head with dual locking lugs. This design provides a secure lock-up and contributes to the gun’s ability to handle high-pressure loads safely. The bolt is also designed to remain open after the last round, giving the shooter a clear visual indicator that the magazine is empty. The oversized bolt handle and bolt release button are easy to operate with gloved hands, which is practical for cold-weather hunting.
The receiver is machined from lightweight aluminum alloy and coated with the same Realtree Max-5 pattern as the stock and forend. This finish is applied using a durable, corrosion-resistant process that holds up well to exposure to water, mud, and sunlight. The overall weight of 7.2 pounds keeps the gun manageable for long walks through fields or marshes, while still providing enough heft to absorb recoil from heavy loads. The gun also includes a shim system for adjusting drop and cast, allowing the shooter to customize the fit for their body and shooting style.
Finally, the SBE 3 uses a magazine cutoff system that allows the shooter to manually eject a chambered shell without feeding a new round from the magazine. This is useful for switching loads—for example, going from a steel shot duck load to a bismuth goose load—without unloading the entire magazine. The system is simple to operate with a button located at the front of the trigger guard, and it adds a layer of versatility for hunters who need to adapt to changing conditions.
Ideal Use Cases
- Waterfowl Hunting: The 3.5-inch chamber and Realtree Max-5 camo make this shotgun suited for ducks, geese, and other migratory birds. The inertia system handles steel, bismuth, and tungsten loads without adjustment.
- Upland Bird Hunting: The 28-inch barrel and lightweight build work well for pheasants, quail, and grouse in open fields or light cover. The CrioChoke system allows for pattern optimization.
- Clay Target Shooting: The low felt recoil and consistent swing make the SBE 3 a viable option for sporting clays, trap, and skeet, especially for shooters who use the same gun for hunting and practice.
- Turkey Hunting: With the appropriate choke and camo pattern, this shotgun can be used for turkey hunting, though a shorter barrel may be preferred by some hunters for dense woods.
Compatibility Notes
- Ammunition: This shotgun cycles 2.75-inch, 3-inch, and 3.5-inch 12-gauge shells. It is not rated for 1.75-inch mini shells or 2-inch shells without aftermarket adapters. Steel shot, lead shot, and non-toxic alternatives are all compatible.
- Chokes: The gun accepts Benelli Crio CrioChoke tubes. Standard Benelli Mobil choke tubes are not compatible; only Crio-style tubes should be used.
- Magazine Capacity: The factory magazine holds 3 rounds of 2.75-inch shells. A plug is installed for migratory bird hunting; removal allows for 4+1 capacity with 2.75-inch shells.
- Holsters and Slings: This is not a concealed carry firearm. A sling with swivel studs is recommended for carrying afield. The receiver is drilled and tapped for scope mounts, but most users will rely on the factory red bar sight.
- Accessories: Benelli offers a range of replacement stocks, forends, and recoil pads. Aftermarket extended magazine tubes are available but may require modification for compliance with local laws.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can this shotgun be shipped to my address in the United States?
A: Yes, we can ship this firearm to any licensed Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer in the continental United States. We do not ship directly to residences. Please provide your chosen FFL dealer’s contact information at checkout, and we will coordinate delivery. Shipping is available to all 50 states, though some states or localities may have additional restrictions on magazine capacity or barrel length.
Q: How does the FFL transfer process work?
A: After you place your order, we will contact the FFL dealer you provided to confirm they are willing to accept the transfer. The dealer must send us a copy of their current FFL license. Once we receive and verify the license, we ship the firearm to the dealer. You then visit the dealer in person to complete the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Form 4473 and pass a background check. Transfer fees are set by the dealer and are not included in our price.
Q: What types of ammunition can I use in this shotgun?
A: This firearm is chambered for 12-gauge shells from 2.75 inches to 3.5 inches in length. It is designed to cycle light target loads (1-ounce or 1.125-ounce) as well as heavy magnum loads. We recommend using factory-loaded ammunition from reputable manufacturers. Reloaded or handloaded ammunition is not recommended unless you are certain it meets SAAMI pressure specifications.
Q: Does this shotgun come with a warranty?
A: Yes, the Benelli Super Black Eagle 3 is covered by a limited lifetime warranty for the original purchaser against defects in materials and workmanship. This warranty is provided by Benelli USA and covers repair or replacement of defective parts. It does not cover damage from misuse, improper maintenance, or unauthorized modifications. For warranty service, you would contact Benelli USA directly or return the gun through an authorized dealer.
Q: What is your return policy for firearms?
A: All firearm sales are final due to federal regulations and the nature of the product. We do not accept returns on firearms, including shotguns, once shipped. If your firearm arrives damaged or with a mechanical defect, please contact us within 48 hours of delivery. We will work with the manufacturer to arrange repair or replacement under warranty. We strongly recommend inspecting the firearm at your FFL dealer before accepting the transfer.
Closing Call to Action
This Benelli Super Black Eagle 3 in 12 GA with a 28-inch barrel in Realtree Max-5 is available for purchase and can be shipped to your preferred FFL dealer across the United States. Whether you are gearing up for duck season or looking for a reliable semi-auto for upland birds, this shotgun offers a proven inertia-driven system and a comfortable shooting platform. Order now for shipping to your local FFL, and get ready for your next hunt with a firearm built for the field.


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