Benelli Super Black Eagle II 12 Gauge Shotgun with Realtree APG

When the hunt takes you through dense marshlands or across open agricultural fields, the Benelli Super Black Eagle II 12 Gauge Shotgun with Realtree APG camo offers the concealment and reliability that U.S. hunters and sport shooters depend on. Designed for those who need a semi-automatic platform that cycles everything from light target loads to heavy magnum shells, this 24-inch barreled shotgun is a proven performer from the dove fields of the South to the duck blinds of the Midwest. Whether you are a seasoned waterfowler, a upland game enthusiast, or a recreational shooter looking for a versatile firearm, the Super Black Eagle II delivers consistent function in demanding conditions.

Product Overview and Intended Audience

The Benelli Super Black Eagle II (SBE II) is a gas-operated, semi-automatic shotgun chambered in 12 gauge, built for shooters who prioritize reliability over complexity. This specific model features a 24-inch barrel, a Realtree APG (All-Purpose Green) camouflage finish, and an adjustable rifle sight system, making it suitable for turkey hunting, deer hunting with slugs, and general waterfowl or upland bird hunting. It is also a viable option for sport shooting disciplines like 3-gun or action shooting where a short-barreled shotgun is advantageous. This firearm is not intended for concealed carry or home defense as a primary tool—its length and semi-auto action are better suited for outdoor use. Collectors will appreciate the Benelli heritage and the Realtree APG pattern, which remains a popular, versatile camo choice across multiple hunting environments.

Key Specifications

• Caliber: 12 Gauge (accepts 2¾-inch, 3-inch, and 3½-inch shells)
• Action: Semi-automatic, inertia-operated (Benelli Inertia Driven system)
• Barrel Length: 24 inches
• Overall Length: Approximately 45 inches
• Weight: Approximately 7.1 pounds (unloaded)
• Finish: Realtree APG camouflage pattern over synthetic components; blued barrel
• Sights: Adjustable rifle sight (rear) with a front bead or blade sight
• Stock: Black synthetic with Benelli’s ComforTech recoil-reducing technology
• Choke System: Benelli Crio system (includes flush-mounted chokes: Full, Modified, Improved Cylinder)
• Magazine Capacity: 3+1 (with 3-inch shells; plug may be included for migratory bird compliance)
• Safety: Cross-bolt trigger safety
• Receiver: Aluminum alloy with Realtree APG coating

Feature Deep-Dive

The Benelli Inertia Driven system is the cornerstone of the Super Black Eagle II’s reliability. Unlike gas-operated shotguns that divert propellant gas to cycle the action, the inertia system uses the shotgun’s own recoil to compress a spring, which then drives the bolt carrier. This design minimizes fouling and reduces the need for frequent cleaning, which is a practical advantage when hunting in wet or dusty conditions. The system also ensures consistent cycling across a wide range of ammunition, from low-recoil target loads to heavy 3½-inch magnum shells, without manual adjustment. For the U.S. hunter who may switch between dove loads and goose loads in the same day, this versatility is a genuine asset.

The 24-inch barrel length is a deliberate choice for shooters who value maneuverability in tight cover, such as when hunting turkeys from a ground blind or navigating thick brush for upland birds. While longer barrels (26 or 28 inches) are common for waterfowl swing, the shorter barrel on this model reduces overall weight and improves handling speed. The adjustable rifle sight adds precision for slug shooting, allowing the shooter to zero in for deer or hogs at moderate ranges. This makes the SBE II a dual-purpose firearm—effective for both shot and slug applications without requiring a separate barrel or optic setup. The front sight is a red fiber-optic bead, which provides a clear aiming point in low-light conditions common at dawn and dusk.

Benelli’s ComforTech stock system is engineered to reduce perceived recoil by up to 48% compared to standard synthetic stocks. The stock features a chevron-patterned recoil pad, a flexible buttstock design, and a gel-filled comb that absorbs energy. For a shotgun that can fire 3½-inch shells, this recoil mitigation is significant, allowing the shooter to maintain comfort during extended range sessions or heavy hunting days. The synthetic stock is also weather-resistant, meaning it will not swell or warp when exposed to rain, snow, or humidity—a common concern with wood stocks in the field. The forend is ergonomically contoured with textured grip panels to provide secure handling even with wet or gloved hands.

The Realtree APG camouflage pattern is a versatile, all-purpose green design that blends into a variety of natural backgrounds, including forests, fields, and marshes. Unlike some camo patterns that are optimized for specific seasons or terrains, APG works year-round in most U.S. hunting environments. The coating is applied to the receiver, barrel, and synthetic components, providing a durable, non-reflective surface that resists scratches and wear. This finish is not just cosmetic—it reduces glare that could alert game animals to your presence. The Crio chokes, which are cryogenically treated for consistent patterns, come with the shotgun and allow the shooter to tailor the shot spread for different game and distances.

Maintenance is straightforward due to the inertia system’s lack of gas pistons, O-rings, or complex gas ports. Cleaning primarily involves the barrel and the bolt assembly, and the shotgun can be field-stripped without tools. The cross-bolt safety is positioned at the front of the trigger guard, which is intuitive for most shooters and allows for quick engagement or disengagement. The magazine tube holds three 3-inch shells, but a plug is included to reduce capacity to two shells for migratory bird hunting compliance with federal regulations. This plug can be removed easily for non-migratory use, such as turkey hunting or sport shooting.

Ideal Use Cases

• Waterfowl Hunting: The 3½-inch chamber and Realtree APG finish make this shotgun a strong choice for duck and goose hunting over decoys or in flooded timber. The inertia system cycles reliably in cold, wet conditions.
• Turkey Hunting: The 24-inch barrel offers easy handling in ground blinds, and the adjustable rifle sight allows precise shot placement with turkey loads or slugs. The ComforTech stock helps manage the recoil of heavy magnum shells.
• Deer Hunting (Slugs): With the adjustable rifle sight and ability to shoot sabot slugs, the SBE II is a capable deer gun for states or zones that restrict firearm use to shotguns. The short barrel aids in treestand or still-hunting scenarios.
• Upland Bird Hunting: The lightweight design and quick handling suit pheasant, quail, and grouse hunting. The Crio chokes provide pattern flexibility for flushing or pointing dogs.
• Sport Shooting: Suitable for 3-gun competitions or informal clay target games where a short-barreled shotgun is allowed. The inertia system reduces felt recoil during rapid fire.

Compatibility Notes

This shotgun is compatible with 12-gauge shells ranging from 2¾ inches to 3½ inches in length, including light target loads, field loads, and magnum hunting loads. For optimal reliability, Benelli recommends using shells with at least 1,200 fps velocity for the inertia system to cycle properly. Low-recoil or reduced-velocity loads may not cycle reliably. The shotgun accepts Benelli Crio chokes and most aftermarket 12-gauge chokes designed for the Benelli/Beretta Mobil choke thread pattern. Aftermarket accessories such as extended magazine tubes, side saddles, and sling mounts are available from manufacturers like Nordic Components, Mesa Tactical, and GG&G. Holsters are not applicable for this firearm. Magazines are not detachable; the shotgun uses a tubular magazine. For optics, the receiver is drilled and tapped for scope mounts, and the adjustable rifle sight can be used as a backup or primary sighting system.

FAQ Section

Q: Can this shotgun be shipped directly to my home in the U.S.?
A: No. Federal law requires that all firearms purchased from a licensed retailer like CS Firearms be shipped to a Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder in your state. You will need to provide the name and address of a local FFL dealer who will receive the shotgun and process the transfer. We ship to all 50 states, but you must comply with your state and local laws. Please verify your FFL’s willingness to accept the transfer before placing your order.

Q: How does the FFL transfer process work?
A: After you place your order, we will contact you to confirm your chosen FFL dealer. You must provide their license information, or we can look up a licensed dealer near you. We ship the shotgun to that dealer via a common carrier. Once it arrives, you will complete a federal background check (Form 4473) and any state-specific requirements at the dealer’s location. The dealer may charge a transfer fee, which is separate from our purchase price. You must be at least 18 years old to purchase a shotgun from a licensed retailer, though some states have higher age requirements.

Q: What types of ammunition are recommended for reliable cycling?
A: The Benelli Inertia Driven system functions best with shells that have a velocity of at least 1,200 fps. Standard target loads (2¾-inch, 1⅛ ounce at 1,200 fps) typically cycle well, as do most hunting loads. Low-recoil or reduced-velocity loads (often labeled as “low recoil” or “managed recoil”) may not generate enough force to fully cycle the action. For 3½-inch magnum shells, reliability is excellent. We recommend testing a few different brands and loads to confirm function with your specific shotgun.

Q: What warranty does Benelli provide for this shotgun?
A: Benelli USA offers a limited lifetime warranty to the original purchaser. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship for the life of the firearm. It does not cover normal wear and tear, damage from misuse, or unauthorized modifications. To file a warranty claim, you will need to contact Benelli USA directly with proof of purchase. CS Firearms does not process warranty claims but can assist with verifying your purchase details if needed.

Q: What is your return policy for firearms?
A: Due to federal regulations and the nature of firearm sales, all firearm purchases are final. We do not accept returns or exchanges on firearms once the transfer has been initiated. If there is a manufacturing defect, the issue is covered under the Benelli warranty and must be handled through the manufacturer. If the firearm is damaged in transit, we will work with the