A Legacy of Excellence
The Benelli Super 90. The name itself evokes a sense of quality and power. This shotgun, a favorite among hunters, sport shooters, and those seeking a reliable tool for home defense, has earned a reputation for performance that extends far beyond its elegant Italian design. This in-depth review delves into every aspect of the Super 90, from its history to its handling, to help you determine if this legendary shotgun is the right choice for you.
Benelli Armi, an Italian manufacturer, has long been synonymous with innovation and craftsmanship in the world of firearms. Their commitment to quality, combined with a relentless pursuit of performance, has placed their shotguns at the forefront. The Super 90 series, introduced many years ago, embodies this legacy. It quickly established itself as a benchmark in semi-automatic shotgun design. It’s a design that has resonated with shooters for years, a testament to its lasting appeal and robust engineering.
Built for Performance: Features and Design
The Super 90 immediately catches the eye with its streamlined design. The receiver, often crafted from a durable alloy, provides a strong foundation. The barrels are typically made of high-quality steel, built to withstand the rigors of consistent use. The overall look is clean and functional, reflecting Benelli’s philosophy of combining form and function. The stock, often synthetic in modern variants, offers a secure and comfortable grip, promoting better control. The balance of the shotgun is typically excellent, making it feel natural to shoulder and swing.
The heart of the Super 90’s success is its inertia-driven action. This system uses the energy from the recoil of the fired shell to cycle the action, ejecting the spent casing and loading a fresh round. Compared to gas-operated systems, the inertia system is known for its simplicity, reliability, and ease of cleaning. It requires less maintenance and is less susceptible to malfunctions, especially in harsh conditions. It’s a critical factor in why the Super 90 is trusted in various environments.
The shotgun’s feature set is designed for versatility. Barrel length options vary, allowing users to select the best configuration for their intended use. Longer barrels are often preferred for hunting, providing a longer sighting radius and improved shot patterns at longer ranges. Shorter barrels are better suited for close-quarters situations like home defense. The Super 90 is frequently equipped with interchangeable chokes. This allows shooters to fine-tune the spread of their shot pattern. This makes the Super 90 adaptable to a range of applications and ammunition types.
The magazine capacity is often ample, providing a good number of shots before reloading. The loading system is typically straightforward, making it easy to top off the magazine when necessary. Sights vary, but often include a simple bead sight on the front and a ribbed receiver, which aids in quick target acquisition. Safety features are a high priority, ensuring responsible gun handling. The Super 90 typically features a crossbolt safety, located conveniently for both right and left-handed shooters.
Handling the Super 90: Performance in Action
The shooting experience with the Benelli Super 90 is a pleasure. The recoil, while present, is generally well-managed, thanks to the inertia system. This system absorbs some of the recoil energy, making the gun comfortable to shoot, even with heavier loads. Accuracy is typically excellent, with the shotgun producing consistent and tight shot patterns at reasonable distances. The cycle rate is quick, enabling follow-up shots with impressive speed. The pointability of the Super 90 is outstanding. It mounts effortlessly to the shoulder and naturally aligns with the target.
Reliability is a standout characteristic of the Super 90. The inertia-driven system is inherently robust and less prone to failures than some other designs. It functions reliably in various conditions, from dry environments to wet and muddy ones. With proper maintenance, this shotgun can function flawlessly for years, even with heavy use. Loading and unloading are simple and intuitive. Cleaning and maintenance are also relatively straightforward, as the inertia system has fewer moving parts than other designs. Field stripping the shotgun for cleaning is usually easy to perform.
Weighing the Advantages and Disadvantages
The Super 90 offers several compelling advantages. Its outstanding reliability is a key factor for many shooters. The robust inertia system combined with durable construction ensures that the shotgun will perform when it matters most. The quality build and overall design allow for a long lifespan, a great investment for gun owners. The ergonomic design of the Super 90 makes it comfortable to handle and shoot, even for extended periods. The versatility offered by interchangeable chokes and various barrel length options makes it suitable for a wide variety of applications.
There are some potential drawbacks to consider. The recoil, while manageable, can still be significant, especially with heavier loads. The inertia system, while reliable, can sometimes be sensitive to ammunition type. If the shotgun is not properly maintained, or if low-powered loads are used, there is a possibility of malfunction. The price point, while often justifiable, can be higher than some competitors. It’s a significant investment but one that reflects the quality of the gun.
Target Applications and Usage
The Benelli Super 90 excels in several areas. In hunting, it’s a formidable choice for both waterfowl and upland game. The selection of different barrel lengths and choke options allows hunters to tailor their setup to the specific game they are pursuing. The Super 90 is also well-suited for sport shooting, including skeet, trap, and even some 3-gun competitions. The semi-automatic action allows for fast follow-up shots. This is an asset in those activities.
For home defense, the Super 90 offers a powerful and reliable option. The shorter barrel lengths and robust construction make it a formidable tool for protecting your home and family. The capacity of the magazine provides ample firepower, and the easy-to-use controls make it simple to operate in a stressful situation. However, it’s essential to choose the right configuration and practice extensively to become proficient in its use.
Alternative Shotguns: A Comparison
The Super 90 competes with several other popular shotguns in the semi-automatic category. The Beretta A300, for example, is a well-regarded shotgun known for its affordability and reliability. The Remington 870, another classic, offers a different semi-automatic option. And the Mossberg 500, a pump-action workhorse, is a common and reliable competitor. The Benelli Super 90 generally stands out due to its inertia-driven system. The choice of these options depends on specific needs, the user’s experience, and the budget.
Value for Money
The price of the Benelli Super 90 can vary depending on its condition, configuration, and any accessories included. This shotgun is available for purchase and is generally more expensive than many of its competitors. This price reflects the quality of the construction, the reliability, and the overall performance of the shotgun. When evaluating the value, consider its durability, its long lifespan, and the peace of mind that comes with owning a reliable firearm. Over time, the Super 90 can prove to be a wise investment.
Wrapping Up the Review
In conclusion, the Benelli Super 90 is a remarkable shotgun. It delivers excellent performance, reliability, and a level of craftsmanship that sets it apart. Whether you’re an avid hunter, a serious sport shooter, or someone seeking a reliable tool for home defense, the Super 90 is a worthwhile consideration. The advantages, including its robust construction and inertia-driven system, clearly outweigh the potential disadvantages. This shotgun is likely to continue being a favorite among its users for years.
For those seeking a semi-automatic shotgun that combines power, precision, and unwavering reliability, the Benelli Super 90 comes highly recommended. It’s a classic that continues to impress.
(Note: I am an AI and cannot provide advice about firearms. It is essential to always follow all local, state, and federal laws regarding the purchase, ownership, and use of firearms. Always prioritize safety and practice responsible gun handling.)
