BENELLI SUPER NOVA PUMP ACTION 12GA ORANGE LESS LETHAL SHOTGUN 18.5

Description

When training for defensive scenarios or managing non-lethal situations, the Benelli Super Nova Pump Action 12GA Orange Less Lethal Shotgun 18.5 offers a practical tool for U.S. shooters who need a dedicated platform for less-lethal ammunition. This model, finished in high-visibility orange, is designed to meet the needs of law enforcement training, personal defense practice, or property management where reducing the risk of lethal outcomes is a priority. Its 18.5-inch barrel and pistol grip with ghost ring sights provide a familiar, controllable setup for those who already understand pump-action shotguns.

What This Product Is and Who It’s For

The Benelli Super Nova in orange is a pump-action 12-gauge shotgun chambered for 2¾-inch and 3-inch shells, specifically intended for use with less-lethal rounds such as bean bags, rubber slugs, or pepper projectiles. It is not a hunting firearm nor a concealed carry piece; rather, it serves as a dedicated training or defensive tool for individuals and agencies that require a visible distinction between lethal and non-lethal systems. This model is suited for target shooters who practice low-lethality scenarios, home defense users who want a separate shotgun for less-lethal options, and collectors interested in specialized Benelli variants. Law enforcement or security personnel who need a clearly marked less-lethal shotgun for crowd control or training evolutions will find this model fits that role without ambiguity.

Key Specifications

• Caliber: 12 Gauge (accepts 2¾-inch and 3-inch shells)
• Action: Pump-action with Benelli’s dual-action bars
• Barrel Length: 18.5 inches
• Overall Length: Approximately 39.5 inches
• Capacity: 4+1 rounds (with factory magazine plug; may vary by state)
• Finish: Matte black synthetic stock with bright orange polymer furniture (stock and forend)
• Weight: Approximately 7.2 pounds unloaded
• Sights: Ghost ring rear aperture with red front post
• Stock: Pistol grip with Comfortech recoil pad, fixed stock
• Receiver: Lightweight alloy with anodized matte black finish
• Chamber: Chrome-lined for corrosion resistance

Feature Deep-Dive

The Benelli Super Nova pump action is built around a robust dual-action bar system that cycles smoothly under varied conditions. Unlike some pump shotguns that can bind or stick when operated quickly, the dual bars distribute force evenly across the forend, reducing the chance of malfunctions when running less-lethal ammunition, which sometimes produces lower pressures than standard loads. This reliability matters when the shotgun is used in training drills where split-second cycling is required, or when shooting low-recoil rounds that may not fully cycle a semi-automatic platform. The action also features a rotating bolt head with oversized lugs that lock securely into the barrel extension, providing a solid lockup that contributes to consistent accuracy with ghost ring sights.

The 18.5-inch barrel is threaded for interchangeable choke tubes, though less-lethal rounds typically perform best with cylinder bore or improved cylinder constrictions. The barrel is also equipped with a vented rib and a red front sight post that pairs with the fully adjustable ghost ring rear sight. This sight combination allows for rapid target acquisition at close to moderate ranges, which is the typical engagement distance for less-lethal applications. The rear aperture can be adjusted for windage and elevation, so shooters can zero the shotgun for specific less-lethal loads that may have different trajectories than standard buckshot or slugs. The front sight is protected by sturdy wings that reduce the risk of damage during transport or storage.

The pistol grip stock is made from durable synthetic material with Benelli’s Comfortech system, which uses a chevron-shaped recoil pad and a flexible stock design to reduce felt recoil. While less-lethal rounds generate less recoil than full-power defensive loads, the pistol grip still provides a more vertical wrist angle that many shooters find easier to control during rapid fire or when shooting from unconventional positions. The orange polymer furniture is not merely cosmetic—it serves as a clear visual identifier that this shotgun is designated for less-lethal use, which can be critical in high-stress environments where distinguishing between lethal and non-lethal firearms is essential. The stock also includes sling swivel studs for mounting a two-point sling.

Benelli’s Super Nova receiver is made from lightweight aluminum alloy, which keeps the overall weight manageable for a pump-action shotgun. The receiver features a low-profile design that allows for a comfortable cheek weld, and the top of the receiver is drilled and tapped for mounting a Picatinny rail if the user wishes to add optics. The trigger guard is oversized to accommodate gloved hands, and the cross-bolt safety is located at the rear of the trigger guard for easy access. The magazine tube holds four rounds, with the chamber empty for a total of five rounds on board, though users in jurisdictions with capacity restrictions should verify local laws. The magazine spring is durable and designed to maintain tension over long storage periods.

The pump action itself is smooth out of the box, with a short throw that allows for quick follow-up shots. The forend has aggressive texturing that provides a positive grip even with wet or gloved hands. Disassembly for cleaning is straightforward: the trigger group can be removed as a single unit by drifting out a single pin, and the barrel separates from the receiver after removing the magazine cap. This makes maintenance less time-consuming for users who shoot frequently or train in dusty environments. The chrome-lined chamber and bore resist fouling and corrosion, which is an advantage when shooting less-lethal rounds that may leave different residue than standard lead or copper projectiles.

Ideal Use Cases

This shotgun is primarily designed for training and defensive purposes where less-lethal force is the intended outcome. Law enforcement agencies often use orange-marked shotguns for crowd management or training scenarios to avoid confusion with lethal firearms. For civilian users, this model works well for home defense setups where the owner wants a dedicated less-lethal option stored separately from their primary defensive shotgun. Target shooters who practice with less-lethal ammunition at ranges that allow such rounds will appreciate the ghost ring sights and comfortable stock. This is not a hunting shotgun for game birds or deer, nor is it suitable for concealed carry due to its length and weight. Competition shooters may find it useful for specialized matches that include less-lethal stages, but it is not optimized for 3-gun or tactical shotgun competitions that require high-capacity feeding systems.

Compatibility Notes

This Benelli Super Nova accepts standard 12-gauge shells in 2¾-inch and 3-inch lengths, but is intended for less-lethal ammunition such as bean bag rounds, rubber slugs, and pepper ball projectiles. It is not recommended for use with standard lead shot, buckshot, or slugs, as the orange finish and design are meant to designate a less-lethal platform. The shotgun uses Benelli-specific choke tubes; standard Mobil or Beretta chokes will not fit. Holsters are not applicable for this platform, but it is compatible with many universal shotgun slings and side-saddle shell carriers that attach to the receiver or stock. Magazines are fixed and not interchangeable; the capacity is determined by the magazine tube and plug. Aftermarket pistol grip stocks and forends are available from several manufacturers, but replacing the orange furniture may remove the visual distinction that is a key feature of this model.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can this shotgun be shipped directly to my home?

No. As a licensed FFL retailer, we ship all firearms to a Federal Firearms License (FFL) holder in your state. You must select a local FFL dealer to receive the transfer. We do not ship to residences. After your order is placed, we will contact you to confirm your chosen FFL’s information. You are responsible for any transfer fees charged by the receiving FFL.

2. How does the FFL transfer process work?

After you place your order, we will request a copy of your chosen FFL’s license and verify it is current. Once verified, we ship the shotgun to that dealer. You then visit the dealer, complete the ATF Form 4473, and pass a NICS background check. The dealer will then release the firearm to you. Processing time typically takes 3-7 business days from order to shipment, depending on FFL response time.

3. What types of ammunition can I use in this shotgun?

This shotgun is chambered for 2¾-inch and 3-inch 12-gauge shells. It is specifically designed for less-lethal ammunition, including bean bag rounds, rubber slugs, and pepper-based projectiles. Do not use standard lead shot, buckshot, or slugs, as the orange designation is intended to prevent lethal ammunition from being used. Always verify that your ammunition is marked as less-lethal and is appropriate for use in a pump-action shotgun.

4. What warranty does Benelli provide with this shotgun?

Benelli USA offers a limited lifetime warranty to the original owner against 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, unauthorized modifications, or use of improper ammunition. To file a warranty claim, contact Benelli USA customer service with your proof of purchase. We recommend retaining your sales receipt for this purpose.

5. What is your return policy for firearms?

Due to federal regulations and safety considerations, we do not accept returns on firearms once they have been transferred to your FFL. If a defect is present, the manufacturer’s warranty applies. If the firearm is damaged in transit, we will work with you and the carrier to resolve the issue. Please inspect the shotgun at your FFL before accepting the transfer. If you have questions before purchase, contact our customer service team for clarification.

Closing Call to Action

This Benelli Super Nova Pump Action 12GA Orange Less Lethal Shotgun 18.5 is available now for U.S. customers. We ship to all states where such firearms are legal, subject to compliance with state and local laws. Place your order through our website at csfirearms.com, or contact us if you need assistance selecting a local FFL. We maintain a current inventory and process orders promptly to ensure you receive your firearm without unnecessary delay.