In 1988, the 3½ inch 12 gauge shell made its first appearance, and firearm manufacturers were eager to take advantage of the new load and its intriguing possibilities. One of the first to jump on board the 3½ magnum train was Benelli, with the release of the Super Black Eagle (SBE) 12 gauge semi-automatic shotgun. The original SBE was designed and produced in the late 1980’s, and made available in 1990-1991. It was advertised mainly as a waterfowl gun – one meant to be used for hunting ducks and geese, with its powerful 3½ inch chamber capacity. It is indeed a great duck and turkey gun, but it functions just as well with smaller game, such as squirrels, doves, and pheasants. The larger bore had the option of taking anything from traploads to serious buckshot shells, and it did its job very well.

For many years, the SBE was considered something of a standard Benelli has always strived for excellence, and it is no surprise that the SBE grew ever more popular. Later on, in 2004, came the SBE’s successor: the SBE II.Some quick stats for the SBE II. For the purpose of these stats, we will be looking at the ComforTech stock with Black synthetic finish, which is also one of the less expensive models:

Super Black Eagle II, by Benelli: Specs

• Gauge – 12 gauge
• Action – semi-automatic
• Weight – 7.3 lbs. (unloaded)
• Length of barrel – 28 inch, Crio treated
• Length overall – 49.6 inches
• Chamber – 2¾ inch, 3 inch, 3½ inch
• Magazine capacity – 3+1 (2+1 for 3½ shells, not accounting “ghost loading”)
• Sights – red bar front sight, bead mid sight
• Finish – black synthetic
• Stock – ComforTech with AirTouch technology. Reduces up to 50% of recoil, compared to similar shotguns. Comes with shims for re-adjustment and customization.
• Chokes – cylinder, improved cylinder, modified, improved modified, and full – all cryogenically treated to ensure maximum performance under the harshest of conditions, and an overall reliable and consistent shooting experience.
• Manufacturer suggested retail price – $1,799

The SBE II retained everything which made the original SBE a very popular shotgun, and introduced a few new features.

Differences between Benelli Super Black Eagle I and II

So, what are the main differences between the SBE and the SBE II? Some very important changes were implemented, and it is clear that Benelli definitely did their research before releasing the SBE II.

First off, the ComforTech stock. This is crucial, because it really does reduce a lot of the recoil if you are shouldering it correctly. Heavy duty 3½ inch shells will have to produce some noticeable recoil, no matter how padded your buttstock is, but the ComforTech system does everything to facilitate an improved and easy recovery, and more precise follow up shots. Second, the trigger guard is bigger, and it provides easier access to the trigger, even with gloved hands. The trigger guard is also designed in such a way so there isn’t much snag or pinch on your fingers. At least, it does not happen quite as easily as with the original SBE trigger guard.

Third, a more advanced cycle tube, for quicker consecutive shots. The SBE was fast enough, and the SBE II is even faster. It cycles the shells as quickly as you can pull the trigger. Exhibition shooter Tom Knapp was known to use one on occasion, even though his “go to” Benelli was usually the M2. Tom showed us all what the SBE II is capable of, and even though he is gone, his name lives on. Fourth, the barrel and chokes are Crio treated, which significantly helps to protect those sensitive areas. It improves on anything having to do with the bore of the shotgun, and makes certain that even though the heat becomes intense, the barrel and chokes will remain unharmed. The Crio treatment guarantees these parts a long life and sustained functionality.

Fifth, AirTouch technology checkering on the grip and forearm. Whatever kind of conditions you are in – wet, dry, cold, hot, etc. – your hold on the weapon will remain as secure and strong as it can. The SBE II’s ergonomics are far superior than that of the SBE, and it shows. Last, but not least – the look. The SBE II has a bit of a sleeker look to it, in my opinion. This is especially true to those limited edition 25th anniversary shotguns. Man, would I love to get my hands on one of those…

Maintaining the Benelli Super Black Eagle II

The inertia-driven system is one which greatly helps with maintenance. Unlike the gas-operated actions, Benelli’s system is simpler to take care of. Cleaning and maintenance have their own section in the owner’s manual, so there is no point in repeating what is already written there. The one thing I do want to mention, is a cleaning procedure which is not currently addressed in the manual. Residue (from powder, dust, dirt, and other outdoor-related buildup) can cause the shotgun to jam, even with loads which should not be causing any issues. The normal strip and clean does get a lot of this out, but there is one area – the recoil spring and assembly – which requires more attention than it is usually given, and which is critical to the continued smooth operation of the SBE II. This procedure is typically done once or twice a year, normally after a period of serious shooting (a season, for all intents and purposes).

To be clear – cleaning and oiling the recoil assembly does NOT mean taking out the spring. It means cleaning it, while it is still inside the tube. It is never recommended to remove the spring, since it is under a lot of pressure. Keeping the spring clean and oiled is one of the most important jobs there are, and it could save you a lot of grief and frustration in the future. If you want your SBE II to remain the fastest, easiest, and finest semi-automatic shotgun in your arsenal, you need to keep it happy. That essentially means cleaning it, and feeding it the right kinds of shells.

Benelli Super Black Eagle II Accessories

The SBE II is seriously amazing, even without any accessories. However, some customizing can really help out. Remember, accessories are there to improve functionality. They are there to keep both the firearm and shooter safe. They are there to provide the person looking through those sights, with the best shooting experience possible. Good accessories do all of that,  without compromising the weapon’s operation or the shooter’s needs.

So, here are a few accessories which may be appropriate for the SBE II, but certainly not limited to that particular Benelli model.

Benelli Super Black Eagle II Sling

Even if you don’t get another accessory as long as you and your SBE II both shall live – get a proper sling. It is important to keep your hands free, and to be able to maneuver around. This remains true whether your SBE II is designated as a home defense weapon or a hunting weapon.

Benelli Super Black Eagle II Magazine Extension Tube

The SBE II has a 3+1 factory standard, but many times there will be a need for greater firepower. Magazine extensions need to be used with caution, since different states have separate laws and regulations regarding ammo limit, etc. Make sure you comply with your local rules and obey the law.

Benelli Super Black Eagle II Barrel Clamp

If you are attaching a magazine extension tube to your SBE II, you may want to consider adding a clamp onto the tube. The barrel and extension tube are held firmly in place, with the help of the clamp. Benelli has a relatively cheap, albeit effective, clamp – but, if you are interested in something sturdier (perhaps with a rail option at the bottom of the clamp), go with another company.

Benelli Super Black Eagle II Shell Carrier / Side Saddle

The magazine extension tube mentioned above is a way to make sure you have enough shots inside of your weapon. A saddle or carrier of some kind is a way to guarantee that you are covered on the outside as well. Accessories which carry various numbers of shells are available for Benelli shotguns, and among them the SBE II.

Benelli Super Black Eagle II Recoil Pads

The SBE II has the ability to fire some serious lead. 3½ magnum shell will tear your shoulder apart, especially if you are an inexperienced or younger shooter. Even with the ComforTech stock, a recoil pad can be a very productive and useful idea. If you’d like to sport some black and blue marks on your body, go right ahead, but it may be a good idea to invest in recoil management devices. It’s a judgement call, as always, but the larger shells are known to produce quite a kick, so be prepared.

Benelli Super Black Eagle II External / Internal Parts

These include replacements to factory parts which come standard with the SBE II: things like springs and pins of all kinds, trigger guards, bolt releases, charging handles, levers, safety buttons, and even sights. Whether you are looking to replace old factory parts with new ones, or to replace factory parts with improved versions, there is a whole world of modifications and upgrades to explore, depending on your needs. It’s cool to be tacticool, but not at the expense of the firearm’s normal function.

@Benelli_USA ran 300 plus flawless rounds threw it today! Love my super black eagle 2! pic.twitter.com/kxUy633OAX

— Matt Hicks (@hilljack1991) June 27, 2016

Benelli Super Black Eagle II Warranty and Conclusion

Benelli offers a limited 10-year warranty on all of its firearms. As with most (if not all) firearms warranties, they become void once any modifications have been done to the weapon. If you do decide to mod your SBE II, be aware of what you are undertaking, and do so with caution and care.

Benelli has been designing and producing quality firearms since the 1960’s, and from the way things are looking, it will continue to be a standard, a bar-setter, and a tried and true battle or outdoor companion.

Current Benelli Super Black Eagle II Models and Pricing

• 12 gauge; 2¾ inch, 3 inch, 3½ inch chamber; 28 inch barrel; Black synthetic with ComforTech; 49.6 inches long; MSRP $1,799
• 12 gauge; 2¾ inch, 3 inch, 3½ inch chamber; 26 inch barrel; Black synthetic with ComforTech; 47.6 inches long; MSRP $1,799
• 12 gauge; 2¾ inch, 3 inch, 3½ inch chamber; 24 inch barrel; Black synthetic with ComforTech; 45.6 inches long. MSRP $1,799
• 12 gauge; 2¾ inch, 3 inch, 3½ inch chamber; 28 inch barrel; Realtree max-5 with ComforTech; 49.6 inches long; MSRP $1,899
• 12 gauge; 2¾ inch, 3 inch, 3½ inch chamber; 26 inch barrel; Realtree max-5 with ComforTech; 47.6 inches long; MSRP $1,899
• 12 gauge; 2¾ inch, 3 inch, 3½ inch chamber; 26 inch barrel; Realtree APG with ComforTech; 47.6 inches long; MSRP $1,899
• 12 gauge; 2¾ inch, 3 inch, 3½ inch chamber; 24 inch barrel; Realtree APG with ComforTech; 45.6 inches long; MSRP $1,899
• 12 gauge; 2¾ inch, 3 inch, 3½ inch chamber; 28 inch barrel; Satin walnut; 49.6 inches long; MSRP $1,569
• 12 gauge; 2¾ inch, 3 inch, 3½ inch chamber; 26 inch barrel; Satin walnut; 47.6 inches long; MSRP $1,569
• 12 gauge; 2¾ inch, 3 inch, 3½ inch chamber; 24 inch barrel; Realtree APG with SteadyGrip; 45.6 inches long; MSRP $1,999
• Left-handed 12 gauge; 2¾ inch, 3 inch, 3½ inch chamber; 26 inch barrel; Black synthetic with ComforTech; 47.6 inches long; MSRP $1,899
• Left-handed 12 gauge; 2¾ inch, 3 inch, 3½ inch chamber; 28 inch barrel; Black synthetic with ComforTech; 49.6 inches long; MSRP $1,899
• Left-handed 12 gauge; 2¾ inch, 3 inch, 3½ inch chamber; 28 inch barrel; Realtree Max-5 with ComforTech; 49.6 inches long; MSRP $1,999
• Left-handed 12 gauge; 2¾ inch, 3 inch, 3½ inch chamber; 26 inch barrel; Realtree APG with ComforTech; 47.6 inches long; MSRP $1,999
• 12 gauge; 3½ inch chamber; 28 inch barrel; MossyOak Bottomland; 47.6 inches long; MSRP $1,899
• 12 gauge; 2¾ inch, 3 inch, 3½ inch chamber; 28 inch barrel; Gore Optifade Marsh with ComforTech; 49.6 inches long; MSRP $1,899
• 12 gauge; 2¾ inch, 3 inch, 3½ inch chamber; 28 inch barrel; Gore Optifade Timber with ComforTech; 49.6 inches long; MSRP $1,899
• Rifled Slug 12 Gauge; 3 inch chamber, 24 inch barrel; Black synthetic with ComforTech; 45.6 inches long; MSRP $1,899
• Rifled Slug 12 Gauge; 3 inch chamber, 24 inch barrel; Realtree APG with ComforTech; 45.6 inches long; MSRP $1,999

Looking for more on Benelli? Check out our M4, Nova and SuperNova, and Super Vinci reviews here at Gunivore!

The post Benelli Super Black Eagle 1 and 2 Shotgun Review appeared first on Gunivore.

In 2009, Benelli introduced its brand new Vinci line. At the time, it made a big splash, and rightfully so. The Vinci is not just a rehash of older designs from the 1960’s. It was nothing short of a revolution, and it changed the way semi-auto shotguns were viewed. When the Vinci was launched, it was hailed as being the most lightweight, fastest shooting, most accurately balanced semi-automatic shotgun in the world. Benelli took a lot of pride in their newest achievement, and its simplicity and efficiency were unparalleled. Two years later, Benelli unveiled their newest creation – the Super Vinci.

Benelli Super Vinci Shotgun Review

With the release of their new and improved Super Vinci, Benelli introduced an enlarged safety button, improved checkering, as well as a slimmer design for the trigger guard. This was done because the Super Vinci can shoot 3.5″ shots, which pack one hell of a punch. On the older Vinci models, the trigger guard had the option of getting in the way once that recoil hit. It had the potential to throw the shooter off, and obstruct recovery. With the new design, that problem has been virtually eliminated, and the shotgun handles much better. Another change with the Super Vinci is the slenderer forearm, which unlike the older models does not get wider as it approaches the muzzle. This acts as a better fit for most shooters’ hands, especially when wearing gloves. The Super Vinci has the ComforTech Plus stock, which is a real blessing. When you fire off a 3.5″ shell, you better believe you are going to require some comfortable padding and superior ergonomics. Of course, just because the gun has the ability to fire 3.5″ shells, it doesn’t mean that it must be used for that purpose. I feel that if you are a good enough shot, you could use 2¾ loads and achieve the same results. Regardless of the 3.5″ shooting capabilities, the Super Vinci is a work of art and is definitely befitting of taking the Master’s name.

Both the Vinci and Super Vinci are built the same, overall, and have three main sections – stock, trigger group, and receiver/barrel. They come together and can be taken apart in seconds, and this makes it that much easier to assemble/disassemble the shotgun, maintain it, lube it, clean it, and store or transport it. The Super Vinci is one of the most lightweight, well-balanced, and accurate semi-automatic shotguns available today, and Benelli knew what they were doing when they released it. They gave people the Vinci, and two years later introduced the next generation of Vinci. The Super Vinci is available only in 12 gauge, chambered for 2¾”, 3″, and 3½”. It comes in 2 different barrel lengths (26″, 28″), 4 different finishes (Black Synthetic, Realtree Max-5, Realtree APG, and Gore Optifade Concealment – Marsh), and has a 3+1 magazine capacity. The different models come with 5 choke tubes – cylinder, improved cylinder, modified, improved modified, and full choke – treated with Benelli’s own Crio system. There are also red bar front and beaded mid sights.

The weight of the Super Vinci is approximately 7 lbs., and the manufacturer suggested retail price for the various models is $1,799 or $1,899. Other standard features which the Super Vinci is equipped with are choke tube wrench, shim kit, and a hard case. Optional features include a gun sock, ComforTech recoil pads and inserts, extended Crio chokes in black matte or chrome, and three special purpose extended chokes, designed for specific targets (turkey, waterfowl, long-range waterfowl).

Common Problems with the Benelli Super Vinci

Failure to feed is probably the most common problem reported with the Super Vinci. What some people fail to internalize is that the Super Vinci is a shotgun designed to handle 3½” shells. Using smaller loads (standard skeet or trap) may cause them to not feed as reliably. Benelli reps recommend breaking the gun in with 100 or 200 3″ heavy shells. Using smaller shells, especially in the beginning, means that there may be cycling issues in the firearm, which is meant to handle much larger loads. Once it is broken in, there is usually no trouble with shooting anything which the Super Vinci can chamber. Another common reason for a failure to feed issue is improper shouldering of the weapon.
Another issue which some people encounter isn’t really an issue, per se, but rather a case of inconvenience and adaptation. The safety button of the Super Vinci is located in front of the trigger, and that could take some getting used to. This is true especially for those of us who have been shooting firearms with the safety located at the back or sides. Some people are only content with a thumb-operated safety, which is why the Super Vinci got some heat for its safety location. For those with smaller hands, it can be a bit of a stretch, and sometimes all you have is a few milliseconds before your bird is gone. No time for fumbling with a safety. But again, that is not something which is innately flawed or wrong with the Super Vinci, but rather a case of adjustment. Safety is a vital subject when it comes to shotguns, so it’s not tough to see why the safety button has been such a polarizing issue for the Super Vinci.
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bk0nxsDnZWR/?tagged=benellisupervinci
The third and final common issue is an aesthetic one. Some people love the way it shoots, but cannot get over the way it looks. That is a judgment call, obviously. A shotgun’s beauty is in the eye of the shooter. I happen to think it looks unique, but the most important thing is that it does not stand out in the field. And in that respect, the Super Vinci does a fine job.

Whether you are after turkey, dove, or ducks; whether you are shooting trap, skeet, or sporting clays; the Super Vinci is a shotgun which is perfect for sports and hunting alike. For waterfowlers, it is a dream gun, able to take those heavy 3½ loads that some hunters cannot live without. The recoil recovery and overall balance of the gun make it one of the best semi-auto shotguns out there. It shoots in heat and dryness, cold and wetness, snow, mud, and wind. Watch out for that 3½ magnum kick, though!

Sure, the Super Vinci has a couple of issues, but they are ones which are easily overcome. Altogether, it shoots wonderfully, and if you are careful to follow Benelli’s instructions, the Super Vinci will serve you truthfully and faithfully, season after season after season.

Breaking in the Benelli Super Vinci

Okay, so you got yourself a great shotgun. It is perfect in every way, but it may not fire everything and anything right out of the box. You, the shooter, you will have to get the shotgun to a place where it is, shall we say, comfortable. Breaking in the Super Vinci doesn’t just mean giving it the ability to shoot any round it is chambered for (except for cheap, low brass shells…), but it also gets the inertia-driven system up to par and gets the springs all springy. In other words, once you take that shotgun out of the box, you still need to put some time and effort into getting it to its optimal functionality. If you want it to shoot like a Benelli should, you need to play an active role in its discipline and education.

So, let’s start at the beginning. Before you do anything, you need to clean and lube the shotgun. You never know what happens to the package when it is on its way to you. The best possible way to ensure a high-quality shooting experience, from the get-go, is by treating your new shotgun as a tool that is still unfinished. It is still in the process of becoming ready. It arrives at your doorstep, you unbox it, and then you need to break it in. As I mentioned earlier, what works best (and what the Benelli reps recommend) is finding the heaviest ammo possible – with the Super Vinci it will be 3″ or 3½” shells – and shoot a few boxes of it. Even if you don’t fire 3½” shells again, using them to break in the Super Vinci is what works best. As far as brass goes – the higher and bigger they are, the better.

Avoid using cheap shells when breaking in your Super Vinci, because it may lengthen the process and cause unnecessary frustrations in the future. You should probably avoid using cheap shells anyway, but even more so during that first period of time. The web is full of stories of people who took their newly-unboxed Benelli shotgun (not limited to the Super Vinci, but all Benellis), and immediately attempted to go hunting with it. With the Super Vinci, some of them reported that it jammed 60-80% of the time. Sorry, guys, that is not the way it works. Obviously, it is going to jam.

You want your Super Vinci to handle itself like a Super Vinci? Treat it with respect and get it some heavy shells, instead of the smaller ones. The Super Vinci will thank you. Its springs will thank you. Its inertia-driven system will thank you. The gun will cycle faster, better, and smoother after that initial break-in period, and it will take whatever you throw at it, as long as it is within the shotgun’s chambering specifications. There is a minimum load capacity, same as there is a maximum load capacity. It just makes sense to break it in with the shells it is designed to shoot, even if you don’t end up shooting them again. Give the Super Vinci what it wants and needs. Any high quality 3″ or 3½” will do. The ones which I can recommend are the standard “go to” shells: Federal Premium Black Cloud, Winchester X Steel, Remington HyperSonic, or Hevi-Metal. I don’t have such eclectic taste when it comes to shells. I go with what is tried and true, and things work out just fine.

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Wow! Between the 5 of us, we all tagged out on Canvasbacks and were only 3 buffleheads away from tagging out on everything! 22 birds total (not counting Larry’s goose)! What a morning! #groceries #taggedout #benellisupervinci #cancellingflights

A post shared by @ jamie.laurennn on Jan 13, 2018 at 10:44am PST

Benelli Super Vinci Accessories

Some shotguns and firearms have a ton of factory and aftermarket modifications and accessories. Sometimes, it is justified. Sometimes, it is only tacticool, and serves almost no purpose. When it comes to a shotgun the likes of the Super Vinci, there are a few basic accessories which it helps to have around:

Super Vinci Shotgun Sling

This shotgun is both lightweight and one of the best-balanced shooters out there, but it can also be a pain in the neck to carry, especially for a few days. Do yourself a favor: get a sling for your Benelli. It frees your hands, and it helps you stay as comfortable as you can. You are the one who will be carrying this weapon, so you had better do it right.

Super Vinci Extra Padding

Even if you’re not planning on shooting anything more than 2¾” shells, it is nice to have some extra padding to save your shoulder from any harm which may come to it. Sometimes, bad shouldering technique can cause serious damage to your body. Avoid that by padding yourself a little more. Again, remember comfort, but don’t let it compromise your stance or accuracy. See which recoil pad best fits you, and make sure that your upper body stays healthy and happy.

Super Vinci Shell Carrier

Unfortunately, there is no designated shotgun shell carrier for the Super Vinci. There are many out there, which will fit other Benelli designs, but not one of them is made specifically for the Super Vinci. If you can find one, get it. In lieu of that, perhaps consider purchasing a…

Super Vinci Magazine extension

An extension for the Super Vinci magazine can help you add more firepower to this beast of a shotgun. The higher you go in shell length, the fewer shells you can add. If you plan on shooting high round counts of heavy loads, it is recommended to consult with a gunsmith beforehand, since a barrel clamp may be in order.

So, there you have it – Benelli’s Super Vinci. One of the world’s most powerful, fastest-cycling shotguns ever.

Want to read more about epic shotguns? Check out our Kel-Tec KSG feature, right here at Gunivore!

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