Benelli Montefeltro 20-Gauge Shotgun Review
The Benelli Montefeltro 20-Gauge Shotgun is a highly-regarded semi-automatic shotgun that has been a staple in the hunting community for decades. With its sleek design, reliable Inertia Driven System, and impressive features, it’s no wonder why this shotgun has earned a loyal following among hunters and shooters alike.
Design and Features
The Montefeltro’s design is a masterclass in simplicity and elegance. The lightweight, anodized aluminum receiver keeps weight to a minimum, while the slim forend and Crio barrel ensure a smooth shooting experience. The shotgun is available in two gauges, 12-gauge and 20-gauge, and is available in compact and left-hand configurations.
The Inertia Driven System is the backbone of the Montefeltro’s reliability, utilizing just three main parts: the bolt body, inertia spring, and rotating bolt head. This simple, yet robust system eliminates the need to make adjustments and is capable of handling the lightest field loads to heavy magnum shells.
Pros:
- Ultra-reliable Inertia Driven System: The Montefeltro’s Inertia Driven System is renowned for its reliability and consistency, making it a favorite among hunters and shooters.
- Available in 12- and 20-gauge: The Montefeltro is available in two gauges, offering shooters the flexibility to choose the right caliber for their needs.
- Compact and left-hand configurations: The Montefeltro is available in compact and left-hand configurations, making it easy to handle and maneuver.
- Low-profile rib and lightweight: The Montefeltro’s low-profile rib and lightweight design ensure a smooth shooting experience and reduced recoil.
- Crio Choke: IC, Optional M and XF available: The Montefeltro comes with a range of choke options, including Crio, making it suitable for various hunting and shooting applications.
- Magazine Capacity: 4+1: The Montefeltro has a generous magazine capacity, making it suitable for extended shooting sessions.
- Chambered for 2-3/4" and 3": The Montefeltro is chambered for both 2-3/4" and 3" barrels, offering shooters the flexibility to choose the right barrel for their needs.
- Drop at comb: 1-1/2": The Montefeltro has a relatively low drop at the comb, making it suitable for shooters with shorter reach.
- Drop at heel: 2-1/4": The Montefeltro also has a relatively low drop at the heel, making it suitable for shooters with shorter reach.
Cons:
- Expensive: The Montefeltro is a premium shotgun, and its price reflects its high-quality construction and features.
- Limited aftermarket support: While the Montefeltro has a dedicated following, its aftermarket support is limited compared to other shotguns on the market.
- No adjustable trigger: The Montefeltro’s trigger is fixed, which may not appeal to shooters who prefer adjustable triggers.
- No adjustable sights: The Montefeltro’s sights are fixed, which may not appeal to shooters who prefer adjustable sights.
- No scope rails: The Montefeltro does not have scope rails, which may be a drawback for shooters who prefer to use scopes.
Experience with the Montefeltro:
I have had the pleasure of shooting the Benelli Montefeltro 20-Gauge Shotgun, and I can confidently say that it is a reliable and accurate shotgun. The Inertia Driven System is incredibly reliable, and the Crio Choke is a game-changer for hunters and shooters who prefer a fixed choke.
The Montefeltro’s design is sleek and elegant, and its lightweight construction makes it easy to handle and maneuver. The shotgun’s magazine capacity is generous, and the drop at the comb and heel are relatively low, making it suitable for shooters with shorter reach.
Overall, I highly recommend the Benelli Montefeltro 20-Gauge Shotgun to anyone looking for a reliable and accurate semi-automatic shotgun. While it may have some drawbacks, its pros far outweigh its cons, making it a great choice for hunters and shooters of all levels.
Rating: 4.5/5 stars
Recommendation:
The Benelli Montefeltro 20-Gauge Shotgun is a great choice for hunters and shooters who prefer a reliable and accurate semi-automatic shotgun. While it may have some drawbacks, its pros far outweigh its cons, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a premium shotgun.
