Benelli Ultra Light Walnut with WeatherCoat 28 Ga Shotgun, 26″ Barrel

Description

The Benelli Ultra Light Walnut with WeatherCoat 28 Ga shotgun, 26″ barrel, is designed for the hunter or shooter who values a lightweight, fast-handling firearm that doesn’t compromise on reliability. Whether you’re chasing upland birds across open fields or walking the edge of a timber line in the American Midwest, this shotgun delivers a balanced feel that reduces fatigue over long days. For shooters who prefer a reduced recoil profile without sacrificing performance, the 28 gauge chambering offers an effective choice for both small game and clay targets.

What This Product Is and Who It’s For

The Benelli Ultra Light is a semi-automatic shotgun built for those who demand a carry-friendly platform without the bulk of heavier field guns. It is intended for upland bird hunters, small game enthusiasts, and sport shooters who appreciate a firearm that handles like an extension of the body. This model is not designed for tactical or home defense roles; rather, it excels in situations where mobility and quick target acquisition are paramount. Collectors may also find value in its walnut stock and WeatherCoat finish, which combine traditional aesthetics with modern weather resistance.

• Target Shooters: The light weight and smooth cycling make it suitable for informal range sessions or skeet fields.
• Hunters: Ideal for pheasant, quail, grouse, and rabbit hunting where walking miles is common.
• Collectors: The walnut stock and WeatherCoat finish offer a classic look with durable protection.

Key Specifications

• Caliber/Gauge: 28 Gauge
• Action: Semi-automatic, inertia-driven
• Barrel Length: 26 inches
• Overall Length: Approximately 46.5 inches
• Weight: Sub-6 pounds (approx. 5.8 lbs)
• Capacity: 2+1 (includes plug for migratory bird hunting compliance)
• Finish: WeatherCoat (protective coating on metal surfaces)
• Stock: Walnut with checkering, gloss finish
• Sights: Red bar front sight
• Choke System: Benelli Crio System (interchangeable chokes included)
• Receiver: Aluminum alloy with WeatherCoat finish

Feature Deep-Dive

The Benelli Ultra Light’s defining characteristic is its weight—or lack thereof. At under six pounds, this shotgun reduces the strain on your shoulders and arms during extended hunts, allowing you to keep the muzzle up and ready. This is achieved through a combination of a lightweight aluminum receiver and a slim-profile walnut stock, without sacrificing the structural integrity required for reliable operation. The 26-inch barrel strikes a balance between maneuverability in tight cover and sufficient sight radius for swing-through shooting on crossing targets.

The WeatherCoat finish is a key upgrade over standard blued or matte finishes. It provides a corrosion-resistant layer that withstands moisture, humidity, and the occasional rain shower, making it suitable for all-season use in varied U.S. climates. This coating is applied to both the barrel and receiver, ensuring that the metal surfaces remain protected even when the shotgun is stored in a gun safe or vehicle. The walnut stock features a gloss finish and fine checkering at the wrist and forend, offering a secure grip without being overly aggressive on gloved hands.

Benelli’s inertia-driven system is the heart of this shotgun’s reliability. Unlike gas-operated actions, the inertia system uses the recoil energy from the fired shell to cycle the action, which means fewer moving parts and less fouling buildup. This design allows the Ultra Light to function with a wide range of 28 gauge loads, from light target shells to heavier field loads, without requiring adjustment. The system also contributes to the shotgun’s slim profile, as there is no gas piston or cylinder beneath the barrel, keeping the forend trim and easy to grasp.

The Crio choke system enhances pattern consistency by cryogenically treating the choke tubes and barrel to relieve stress in the metal. This process is intended to produce tighter, more uniform shot patterns, which is beneficial for both hunting and clay shooting. The shotgun comes with three choke tubes (IC, M, F), allowing you to tailor the pattern to the specific game or distance. The red bar front sight provides a clear reference point for quick aiming, particularly in low-light conditions at dawn or dusk.

Ergonomics are further improved by the shotgun’s overall balance point. The weight distribution is centered near the hinge pin, which reduces muzzle heaviness and promotes natural pointing. The stock’s drop at comb and heel is designed for a typical field shooter’s mount, with a length of pull that accommodates most adult shooters without feeling cramped. The slim grip profile also benefits shooters with smaller hands, making the Ultra Light accessible to a broader range of users, including youth or women who prefer a lighter firearm.

Finally, the fit and finish of the walnut stock deserve attention. Each stock is selected for grain quality and fitted to the receiver with minimal gaps. The gloss finish is applied to protect the wood from moisture and scratches, while the hand-rubbed appearance adds a level of refinement not always found in lightweight field guns. This attention to detail means the shotgun can serve as a reliable tool in the field and a display piece in the safe, without one aspect compromising the other.

Ideal Use Cases

• Upland Bird Hunting: The 28 gauge and light weight make it a top choice for walking up pheasants, quail, and partridge in open or brushy terrain.
• Small Game Hunting: Effective for rabbits, squirrels, and other small game where minimal meat damage is desired.
• Clay Target Shooting: Suitable for informal skeet or sporting clays, especially for shooters who want to practice with their field gun.
• Youth or Recoil-Sensitive Shooters: The reduced recoil of the 28 gauge, combined with the inertia system, makes it comfortable for newer or smaller shooters.

Compatibility Notes

• Ammunition: This shotgun cycles standard 2.75-inch 28 gauge shells. Use high-brass loads for reliable cycling during break-in; light target loads may require a few rounds to function smoothly. Avoid 3-inch shells as the chamber is not rated for them.
• Holsters/Slings: Standard shotgun slings with swivel studs can be attached; the stock is pre-drilled for sling swivels. No holster is designed for this model.
• Magazines/Mags: This is a tube-fed shotgun; no detachable magazines are available. The tube capacity is 2+1, but a plug is included for compliance with migratory bird regulations.
• Accessories: Benelli Crio choke tubes are interchangeable with other Crio-compatible barrels. Aftermarket recoil pads and stock spacers are available from Benelli and third-party vendors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do you ship this shotgun to any U.S. state?
A: We ship to all U.S. states where Benelli shotguns are legal for sale. Some states and localities have restrictions on magazine capacity or barrel length; please check your local laws before ordering. We do not ship to P.O. boxes; a physical address is required for delivery.

Q: How does the FFL transfer process work?
A: After you place your order, we will contact you to confirm your chosen FFL dealer. Your dealer must send us a signed copy of their FFL license via email or fax. Once we verify the license, we ship the shotgun to your dealer. You then complete the ATF Form 4473 and background check at the dealer’s location. We do not ship to individuals without a valid FFL.

Q: What ammunition is recommended for this shotgun?
A: This shotgun is chambered for 2.75-inch 28 gauge shells. For best results, use factory-loaded ammunition from reputable brands such as Winchester, Remington, or Federal. During the initial break-in period (first 50-100 rounds), we suggest using shells with 1-ounce shot loads or heavier to ensure reliable cycling. Light target loads may require a few rounds to function consistently.

Q: What warranty does Benelli offer on this model?
A: Benelli provides a limited lifetime warranty to the original owner against defects in materials and workmanship. This warranty covers the shotgun’s receiver, barrel, and internal components under normal use. It does not cover damage from misuse, neglect, or unauthorized modifications. For warranty service, contact Benelli USA directly with proof of purchase.

Q: Can I return this shotgun if I change my mind?
A: We accept returns on unfired, new-condition firearms within 30 days of delivery. The shotgun must be returned in its original packaging with all accessories and paperwork. A 15% restocking fee applies. Firearms that have been fired or show signs of use are not eligible for return. Please contact us before shipping any return to obtain an RMA number.

Ordering and Shipping Information

This Benelli Ultra Light Walnut with WeatherCoat 28 Ga shotgun is available for purchase and ships to your licensed FFL dealer within the continental United States. We do not ship to Alaska, Hawaii, or U.S. territories at this time. All orders are processed within one business day, and shipping is via a licensed carrier with signature required upon delivery. If you have questions about availability or FFL requirements, our customer service team is available by phone or email during business hours. Add this shotgun to your cart to begin the purchase process.