Description
The Benelli Super Black Eagle 3 in Shadow Grass Blades is a purpose-built semi-automatic shotgun designed for the serious U.S. waterfowler and upland hunter who demands reliability in harsh conditions. With a 26-inch barrel and 3.5-inch chamber, this 12-gauge platform is engineered to cycle everything from light target loads to heavy magnum shells without hesitation, making it a strong choice for both marsh blinds and cornfield setups. For the American hunter who values a shotgun that performs consistently season after season, the SBE 3 offers a proven blend of inertia-driven operation and ergonomic refinement.
What This Product Is and Who It’s For
The Benelli Super Black Eagle 3 is a third-generation semi-automatic shotgun built around the company’s proven inertia-driven system. It is intended for hunters who pursue waterfowl, turkey, and upland game, as well as for shooters who participate in clay sports or need a dependable home-defense firearm. This model is not a tactical or competition-focused platform; it is a field shotgun optimized for outdoor use in wet, muddy, or cold conditions. It is suitable for the licensed firearms owner who wants a reliable, low-maintenance firearm that can handle a wide range of 12-gauge ammunition.
Key Specifications
- Caliber/Gauge: 12 Gauge (2.75″, 3″, and 3.5″ chambers)
- Action: Semi-automatic, inertia-driven (Benelli Inertia Driven system)
- Barrel Length: 26 inches
- Overall Length: Approximately 47.75 inches (with standard stock)
- Weight: Approximately 6.8 to 7.1 pounds (varies by configuration)
- Stock: Synthetic with Shadow Grass Blades camo finish
- Receiver: Aluminum alloy with Shadow Grass Blades camo finish
- Choke System: Benelli Crio system (includes C, IC, M, IM, F tubes)
- Magazine Capacity: 3+1 (with 3-inch shells; 2+1 with 3.5-inch shells)
- Sights: Red bar front sight
- Safety: Cross-bolt trigger safety
- Finish: Shadow Grass Blades camouflage (stock, forend, receiver)
- 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 builds on the legacy of its predecessors with several engineering updates that improve handling and reliability. The most notable change is the redesigned stock and forend, which use Benelli’s Progressive Comfort system. This system uses a series of interchangeable comb inserts and a recoil-reducing butt pad to soften felt recoil without adding weight or complexity. For the waterfowler who spends long days in the blind, this means less fatigue and faster follow-up shots on crossing birds.
The inertia-driven system remains the core of the SBE 3’s operation. Unlike gas-operated shotguns, the inertia system uses the shotgun’s own recoil to cycle the action, which reduces fouling and eliminates the need for gas ports that can clog in muddy or icy conditions. This design is particularly beneficial for U.S. hunters who face wet environments, as the action remains clean and functional even after exposure to water, mud, or snow. The system also allows the gun to cycle a wide variety of loads, from light 2.75-inch target shells to heavy 3.5-inch magnums, without manual adjustment.
The 26-inch barrel is fitted with Benelli’s Crio system, which cryogenically treats the steel to improve pattern consistency and reduce barrel stress. This treatment results in more uniform shot patterns, which is valuable for hunters who rely on tight, even spreads at longer ranges. The barrel also features a ventilated rib with a red bar front sight for fast target acquisition in low-light conditions, such as early morning or late evening hunts.
The Shadow Grass Blades camo finish is applied to the stock, forend, and receiver, providing effective concealment in marsh, grass, and agricultural settings. The synthetic stock is durable and resistant to water, scratches, and impact, making it a practical choice for rough field use. The stock also includes a raised cheek comb that aligns the shooter’s eye with the rib for a consistent mount, which is helpful for shooters wearing heavy clothing or a face mask.
Ergonomics have been improved with a more pronounced pistol grip and a textured forend that provides a secure hold in wet hands. The bolt handle and bolt release button have been enlarged for easier operation with gloves, and the cross-bolt safety is positioned for quick access. The magazine tube holds three 3-inch shells or two 3.5-inch shells, with a simple cap for disassembly. These details reflect Benelli’s focus on functionality over flash, making the SBE 3 a tool that works without unnecessary features.
The overall weight of just under seven pounds makes the SBE 3 easy to carry on long walks through fields or marshes, while still providing enough heft to manage recoil from heavy loads. The 26-inch barrel balances well between maneuverability in tight cover and swing speed for passing birds. For the U.S. hunter who needs a shotgun that can perform across multiple seasons and conditions, the SBE 3 offers a reliable, low-maintenance option that does not require frequent cleaning or adjustment.
Ideal Use Cases
This shotgun is primarily designed for waterfowl hunting, including ducks and geese, where the 3.5-inch chamber allows for heavy steel or bismuth loads. It is also well-suited for turkey hunting with a full choke and magnum shells, as the inertia system handles high-pressure loads reliably. Upland hunters targeting pheasants, quail, or grouse will appreciate the lightweight build and fast handling. For clay target shooters, the SBE 3 can be used with light target loads for practice or informal rounds, though it is not optimized for high-volume competition shooting. Home defense is a secondary use case, as the 26-inch barrel and semi-auto action are functional for this role, but the shotgun’s primary design is for field hunting.
Compatibility Notes
The Benelli Super Black Eagle 3 accepts all standard 12-gauge 2.75-inch, 3-inch, and 3.5-inch shells. It is compatible with Benelli Crio choke tubes, as well as aftermarket chokes from brands like Carlson’s or Patternmaster that fit the Crio thread pattern. The shotgun uses Benelli-specific magazines and followers; aftermarket extensions from Nordic Components or Taran Tactical can be added with proper fitting. Holsters are not applicable for this model, but sling swivels are included for use with standard shotgun slings. Accessories such as barrel clamps, rail mounts, and recoil pads are available from Benelli and third-party manufacturers. For parts or service, Benelli maintains a network of U.S.-based authorized service centers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can this shotgun be shipped directly to my home in the U.S.?
A: No. Federal law requires that all firearms be shipped to a Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder in your state. C.S. Firearms will ship the Benelli Super Black Eagle 3 to your chosen FFL dealer after you provide their contact information during checkout. You must be 18 or older to purchase a shotgun from a licensed retailer.
Q: How does the FFL transfer process work?
A: After you place your order, we will contact your selected FFL dealer to confirm they are willing to accept the transfer. You will need to provide the dealer’s name, address, and license number. Once the shotgun arrives at the FFL, you will complete the ATF Form 4473 and pass a background check (NICS) before taking possession. Transfer fees vary by dealer and are not included in the purchase price.
Q: What types of ammunition can this shotgun use?
A: The Super Black Eagle 3 is chambered for 2.75-inch, 3-inch, and 3.5-inch 12-gauge shells. It cycles reliably with most loads, from light target shells (1 oz or less) to heavy magnum loads. Steel, bismuth, lead, and other non-toxic shot types are safe to use. We recommend using quality ammunition from reputable manufacturers for best reliability.
Q: What warranty does Benelli provide for this shotgun?
A: Benelli offers a limited lifetime warranty to the original owner for defects in materials and workmanship. This warranty does not cover normal wear and tear, misuse, or modifications. For warranty service, you can contact Benelli USA directly or work with an authorized service center. C.S. Firearms does not handle warranty claims but can assist with manufacturer contact information.
Q: What is your return policy for firearms?
A: Due to federal regulations, all firearm sales are final. We do not accept returns on firearms once shipped. If there is a defect or issue, we will work with you and the manufacturer to resolve it. Please inspect the shotgun at your FFL dealer before accepting the transfer. If you refuse the transfer, the firearm will be returned to us, and a restocking fee may apply.
Closing Call to Action
The Benelli Super Black Eagle 3 in Shadow Grass Blades is available now for purchase and will ship to your local FFL dealer anywhere in the United States. C.S. Firearms is a licensed FFL retailer with a focus on providing clear, accurate product information and reliable service. Order today to add this field-ready semi-auto to your collection.
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