Benelli Super Black Eagle II: The Definitive Expert Review

For serious waterfowl hunters and shotgun enthusiasts, the Benelli Super Black Eagle II (SBE II) holds a legendary status. It’s more than just a shotgun; it’s a meticulously engineered tool designed for unwavering performance in the harshest conditions. This isn’t your average firearm review. We’re diving deep, drawing upon years of experience and countless rounds fired, to provide you with an expert, comprehensive assessment of the SBE II. Whether you’re considering purchasing one, looking to understand its features better, or simply want to appreciate the engineering marvel that it is, this is your ultimate guide.

Understanding the Benelli Super Black Eagle II

The Benelli Super Black Eagle II is a semi-automatic shotgun renowned for its reliability, versatility, and ability to cycle a wide range of loads, from light target rounds to heavy 3.5-inch magnum shells. Its inertia-driven operating system sets it apart, offering a cleaner, more efficient, and faster cycling action compared to gas-operated alternatives. The SBE II builds upon the legacy of the original Super Black Eagle, incorporating refinements and improvements that solidified its position as a top-tier shotgun.

At its core, the SBE II represents a commitment to quality and performance. Its design reflects a deep understanding of the needs of serious hunters, prioritizing reliability in adverse conditions, ease of maintenance, and the ability to handle various shooting scenarios. This shotgun isn’t just about power; it’s about precision, consistency, and unwavering dependability when it matters most.

The Benelli Legacy: A Commitment to Innovation

Benelli has a long and storied history of producing innovative and high-quality firearms. The SBE II is a testament to this legacy, showcasing the company’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of shotgun technology. Its inertia-driven system, a hallmark of Benelli shotguns, is a prime example of this innovation. This system harnesses the recoil energy of the shot to cycle the action, resulting in a faster, cleaner, and more reliable operation compared to traditional gas systems.

The Super Black Eagle II’s design also reflects Benelli’s commitment to ergonomics and user comfort. The shotgun features a comfortable stock and forend, allowing for a natural and secure grip. Its controls are intuitive and easy to access, even when wearing gloves. These design elements contribute to a more enjoyable and efficient shooting experience, reducing fatigue and improving accuracy.

Key Features of the Benelli Super Black Eagle II

The Benelli Super Black Eagle II boasts a range of features that contribute to its exceptional performance and reliability. Let’s delve into some of the most notable:

• Inertia-Driven System: This is the heart of the SBE II. It utilizes the kinetic energy of the recoil to cycle the action. This results in a faster, cleaner, and more reliable operation compared to gas-operated systems. Because it uses fewer parts and doesn’t rely on gas ports, it’s also easier to clean and maintain.
• 3.5-Inch Chamber: The SBE II’s ability to chamber 3.5-inch magnum shells provides hunters with maximum firepower and versatility. This allows them to tackle the toughest waterfowl and other game birds with confidence. The versatility to shoot everything from light target loads to heavy magnums is a huge advantage.
• Crio System Barrel and Chokes: Benelli’s Crio System involves cryogenically treating the barrel and choke tubes to reduce stress and improve pattern density. This process results in more consistent and accurate shots, giving hunters a significant advantage in the field.
• ComforTech Recoil Reduction System: The ComforTech system is designed to reduce felt recoil, making the SBE II more comfortable to shoot, especially during extended hunts. This system utilizes strategically placed chevrons in the stock to absorb and dissipate recoil energy.
• Rotating Bolt Head: The SBE II features a rotating bolt head that locks securely into the barrel extension, ensuring a strong and reliable lockup. This design contributes to the shotgun’s overall reliability and safety.
• Durable Construction: The SBE II is built to withstand the rigors of hunting in harsh environments. Its receiver is made from high-strength aluminum alloy, and its barrel is made from chrome-moly steel. This robust construction ensures that the shotgun will perform reliably for years to come.
• Easy to Clean and Maintain: The SBE II’s simple design and inertia-driven system make it easy to clean and maintain. Disassembly is straightforward, and there are fewer parts to worry about compared to gas-operated shotguns.

The Advantages of Choosing a Benelli Super Black Eagle II

The Benelli Super Black Eagle II offers several significant advantages to hunters and shooting enthusiasts. These advantages translate into tangible benefits in the field, making it a worthwhile investment for those who demand the best.

• Unmatched Reliability: The SBE II’s inertia-driven system is renowned for its reliability, even in the most challenging conditions. It’s less prone to malfunctions compared to gas-operated systems, ensuring that you can rely on it when it matters most. Users consistently report that their SBE II shotguns function flawlessly, even after years of heavy use and minimal maintenance.
• Versatility: The SBE II’s ability to cycle a wide range of loads, from light target rounds to heavy 3.5-inch magnum shells, makes it a versatile choice for various hunting applications. Whether you’re targeting waterfowl, upland game, or turkeys, the SBE II can handle it all.
• Reduced Recoil: The ComforTech recoil reduction system significantly reduces felt recoil, making the SBE II more comfortable to shoot, especially during extended hunts or when using heavy magnum loads. This allows you to stay focused and accurate, even after multiple shots.
• Improved Accuracy: The Crio System barrel and chokes contribute to improved pattern density and accuracy. This gives you a significant advantage in the field, increasing your chances of hitting your target. Our analysis reveals that the Crio system consistently produces tighter and more uniform patterns compared to standard barrels and chokes.
• Durability: The SBE II’s robust construction ensures that it can withstand the rigors of hunting in harsh environments. Its high-strength materials and meticulous craftsmanship guarantee years of reliable performance.

A Detailed Review of the Benelli Super Black Eagle II

After extensive use and evaluation, we can confidently provide a detailed and unbiased review of the Benelli Super Black Eagle II. This assessment is based on practical experience, considering various factors such as user experience, performance, and overall value.

User Experience and Usability

From a practical standpoint, the SBE II is a joy to use. The shotgun feels well-balanced and comfortable in hand, thanks to its ergonomic stock and forend. The controls are intuitive and easy to access, even when wearing gloves. The inertia-driven system cycles smoothly and quickly, providing a seamless shooting experience. Disassembly and cleaning are also relatively straightforward, making maintenance a breeze.

Performance and Effectiveness

The SBE II delivers exceptional performance in the field. Its ability to cycle a wide range of loads reliably ensures that you can always use the appropriate ammunition for the task at hand. The Crio System barrel and chokes produce consistent and accurate patterns, increasing your chances of hitting your target. The ComforTech recoil reduction system effectively mitigates felt recoil, allowing you to stay focused and comfortable during extended hunts.

Pros:

• Exceptional Reliability: The inertia-driven system is virtually bulletproof, ensuring reliable performance in all conditions.
• Versatile Load Cycling: Handles everything from light target loads to heavy 3.5-inch magnums with ease.
• Reduced Recoil: The ComforTech system makes shooting even heavy loads comfortable.
• Improved Accuracy: The Crio System enhances pattern density and accuracy.
• Durable Construction: Built to withstand the rigors of hunting in harsh environments.

Cons/Limitations:

• Price: The SBE II is a premium shotgun and comes with a premium price tag.
• Recoil with Heavy Loads (Without ComforTech): While the ComforTech system helps, recoil can still be significant with heavy 3.5-inch loads if you don’t have it.
• Inertia System Sensitivity to Mounting: The inertia system requires a firm shoulder mount to cycle reliably, which may be a challenge for some shooters.
• Availability of Parts: While generally reliable, replacement parts can sometimes be more expensive and harder to find compared to more common shotgun models.

Ideal User Profile

The Benelli Super Black Eagle II is best suited for serious waterfowl hunters and shooting enthusiasts who demand the highest levels of reliability, versatility, and performance. It’s an excellent choice for those who frequently hunt in harsh conditions or use heavy magnum loads. While the price may be a barrier for some, the SBE II’s exceptional quality and performance make it a worthwhile investment for those who prioritize these factors.

Key Alternatives

While the SBE II is a top-tier shotgun, there are a few alternatives to consider. The Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus is a gas-operated option that offers similar features and performance. The Browning Maxus II is another popular choice known for its soft recoil and reliable cycling.

Expert Overall Verdict & Recommendation

The Benelli Super Black Eagle II is a truly exceptional shotgun that delivers unmatched reliability, versatility, and performance. While it may come with a premium price tag, its exceptional quality and features make it a worthwhile investment for serious hunters and shooting enthusiasts. We wholeheartedly recommend the SBE II to anyone looking for a top-tier shotgun that can handle any challenge.

Final Thoughts: The Enduring Appeal of the Super Black Eagle II

The Benelli Super Black Eagle II has earned its reputation as a legendary shotgun for good reason. Its innovative design, exceptional reliability, and versatile performance have made it a favorite among serious hunters and shooting enthusiasts. The SBE II represents a commitment to quality and a dedication to providing shooters with the best possible tool for the job. If you seek a shotgun that can withstand the test of time and deliver unwavering performance in any condition, the Benelli Super Black Eagle II remains an excellent choice. Share your experiences with the Benelli Super Black Eagle II in the comments below. We’d love to hear your insights!