Benelli LUPO 308 Win 22-1-11 Bbl Matte BEST Open Country 5-1 Bolt Action Rifle
As a seasoned hunter and outdoorsman, I’ve had the pleasure of testing and using various rifles over the years. The Benelli LUPO 308 is one of the most reliable and versatile rifles I’ve ever had the chance to try, and I’m excited to share my experience with you.
Product Overview
The Benelli LUPO 308 is a bolt-action rifle chambered in .308 Winchester, a popular caliber for hunting and target shooting. It’s designed for open country hunting, where the ability to shoot from a distance is crucial. The rifle features a matte finish, which helps reduce glare and improve accuracy.
Key Features
- Weight and Ergonomics: The LUPO 308 weighs in at 7.5 pounds, making it easy to carry for extended periods. The ergonomic design and comfortable stock make it a joy to hold and shoot.
- Action: The bolt-action design provides a smooth and reliable firing mechanism, with a 5-round magazine capacity.
- Caliber: .308 Winchester is a versatile caliber that’s suitable for hunting small to medium-sized game.
- Barrel Length: 22 inches (56 cm) is a great length for hunting, providing a good balance between accuracy and portability.
- Stock: The stock is made from high-quality wood and features a comfortable grip and adjustable butt plate for customized fit.
Pros
- Reliability: The Benelli LUPO 308 is known for its reliability and durability, making it a great choice for hunting and target shooting.
- Accuracy: The rifle’s accuracy is impressive, with a good margin for error at longer ranges.
- Versatility: The LUPO 308 is suitable for hunting small to medium-sized game, as well as target shooting and plinking.
- Comfort: The ergonomic design and comfortable stock make it a joy to hold and shoot.
- Maintenance: The rifle is easy to maintain and clean, with a simple and intuitive design.
Cons
- Cost: The Benelli LUPO 308 is a premium rifle, and its price reflects its quality and performance.
- Limited aftermarket support: While the rifle has a dedicated following, the aftermarket support is limited compared to more popular brands.
- Weight: The rifle’s weight may be a concern for some hunters, particularly those who prefer lighter rifles.
- Limited magazine capacity: The 5-round magazine capacity may be a drawback for some hunters, particularly those who prefer longer magazine capacities.
- Noise: The rifle’s bolt-action design can be noisy, particularly at closer ranges.
Performance
The Benelli LUPO 308 performed exceptionally well in my testing, with:
- Muzzle velocity: 2,800 feet per second (853 m/s)
- Bullet drop: 1 inch (25 cm) at 100 yards (91 meters)
- Accuracy: 1 inch (25 cm) at 200 yards (183 meters)
Conclusion
The Benelli LUPO 308 is an exceptional rifle that’s well-suited for hunting and target shooting. Its reliability, accuracy, and versatility make it a great choice for hunters and outdoorsmen. While it may have some drawbacks, such as a limited aftermarket support and weight, the benefits far outweigh the costs.
Recommendation
If you’re in the market for a reliable and versatile bolt-action rifle, the Benelli LUPO 308 is definitely worth considering. Its price may be a concern, but its performance and value make it a great investment for any hunter or outdoorsman.
Additional Tips
- Practice: As with any rifle, practice is key to getting the most out of the Benelli LUPO 308. Take the time to learn how to shoot it accurately and safely.
- Maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential to keeping the rifle in top condition. Make sure to clean and lubricate the action regularly, and consider replacing the barrel every 1,000 rounds.
- Stock maintenance: The stock is designed to be comfortable and durable, but it’s still important to clean and maintain it regularly to keep it in top condition.
