The Benelli Ultra Light 20 gauge shotgun has garnered significant attention among hunters and sport shooters alike. Its reputation precedes it—lightweight, reliable, and surprisingly powerful for its size—but does it live up to the hype? This in-depth review dives into the performance, features, and overall value of this popular firearm.
Performance: A Featherweight Powerhouse
The Benelli Ultra Light's claim to fame is its weight. Clocking in significantly lighter than many comparable shotguns, this translates to reduced fatigue during extended hunting trips or shooting sessions. This lightness doesn't compromise power, however. The 20-gauge delivers a potent punch, suitable for various game birds and small game. While recoil is manageable even for smaller shooters, the Inertia Driven system contributes to a smooth, consistent cycling action. This system, a hallmark of Benelli shotguns, reduces felt recoil, making the gun more pleasant to shoot.
Key Performance Highlights:
- Lightweight Design: Ideal for extended use, minimizing fatigue.
- Powerful 20 Gauge: Offers sufficient stopping power for various game.
- Smooth Recoil: Benelli's Inertia Driven system enhances the shooting experience.
- Reliable Cycling: Consistent performance, even in adverse conditions.
Features: A Closer Look at the Details
Beyond the impressive performance, the Benelli Ultra Light boasts several thoughtful features:
Ergonomics and Handling:
- Adjustable Stock (Certain Models): Allows for customization to fit different body types and shooting styles. This ensures a comfortable and consistent cheek weld.
- Comfortable Grip: The grip's texture provides a secure hold, even in wet conditions.
- Balanced Design: The gun's weight distribution contributes to intuitive handling and quick target acquisition.
Technical Aspects:
- Inertia Driven System: The heart of the shotgun, ensuring reliable cycling and reduced recoil.
- Durable Construction: Constructed from high-quality materials, built to withstand the rigors of field use.
- Interchangeable Chokes: Allows for customization to different ammunition and hunting scenarios.
Who is the Benelli Ultra Light 20 Gauge For?
This shotgun is a versatile option, ideal for a broad range of users:
- Youth Shooters: The lightweight design makes it perfect for introducing younger shooters to shotguns. The reduced recoil is a significant advantage for smaller individuals.
- Bird Hunters: Its manageable weight and powerful 20-gauge capability make it suitable for various bird hunting scenarios.
- Small Game Hunters: Its versatility extends to small game hunting, where precision and accuracy are crucial.
- Experienced Shooters: Even seasoned shooters appreciate the lightweight design and smooth recoil of the Benelli Ultra Light.
Potential Drawbacks
While the Benelli Ultra Light is widely praised, it's essential to acknowledge some potential downsides:
- Price: It's positioned at a higher price point compared to some other 20-gauge shotguns.
- Availability: Demand sometimes outpaces supply, potentially resulting in longer wait times.
Conclusion: A Worthy Investment?
The Benelli Ultra Light 20 gauge is a premium shotgun that delivers on its promise of lightweight performance and reliable operation. While the price point might be a consideration, the exceptional ergonomics, smooth shooting experience, and dependable performance justify the investment for many shooters. If you're seeking a versatile, high-quality 20-gauge shotgun for hunting or sport shooting, the Benelli Ultra Light deserves serious consideration. Its combination of power and lightweight design sets it apart from the competition, making it a top choice for a wide range of users.
