Built for the Elements and Built to Last
A Durable Foundation
The Benelli Nova 12 gauge has earned a reputation as a stalwart in the world of pump-action shotguns. Known for its robust construction, dependability, and relatively affordable price point, this firearm has become a favorite among hunters, sport shooters, and those seeking a reliable tool for home defense. This in-depth review will delve into the nuances of the Benelli Nova 12 gauge, examining its features, performance, and overall value proposition. We’ll explore what makes it stand out in a crowded market and whether it’s the right choice for your needs.
Let’s start with a closer look at the physical attributes of the Benelli Nova 12 gauge. Immediately noticeable is its striking all-synthetic construction. The stock and forend are crafted from a high-strength polymer, creating a lightweight yet incredibly durable platform. This synthetic material is a significant advantage, offering excellent resistance to the elements. Rain, snow, mud, and temperature fluctuations have minimal impact on the Nova, making it a reliable companion in challenging conditions.
Configuration and Features
The Benelli Nova 12 gauge is offered in several configurations, typically sporting barrel lengths ranging from those suitable for home defense to longer options ideal for hunting. You’ll find choices like twenty-four, twenty-six, and twenty-eight-inch barrels to accommodate various needs. These different barrel lengths provide versatility and allows shooters to choose the best setup for their specific applications. The overall length and weight will vary based on these barrel lengths, but generally the Nova is a well-balanced shotgun, easy to maneuver and carry. The Benelli Nova 12 gauge comes with options for the size of the chamber, often using a three-and-a-half-inch chamber to load a wide range of shot shells.
Integral to the design is the overmolded rubber grip found on the stock and forend. This feature is critical for comfort and control. The rubber provides a secure and comfortable hold, even in wet or gloved conditions. The forend is ribbed, further enhancing grip and ensuring positive action during pump cycling. Nestled within the synthetic stock is a steel skeletal framework. This internal reinforcement adds significant strength and structural integrity, contributing to the Nova’s durability. The steel framework helps distribute the recoil forces, enhancing the overall shooting experience. The rotating bolt head is another critical design element of the Benelli Nova 12 gauge. This mechanism ensures secure lockup between the bolt and the barrel extension. This helps with a reliable and consistent cycling of ammunition, contributing to the shotgun’s reputation for dependability.
Smooth Operation
The forend action mechanism is smooth and reliable. The pump cycles with minimal effort, ensuring fast and easy follow-up shots. A conveniently positioned safety button at the rear of the trigger guard allows for easy manipulation. In addition to the standard features, the Benelli Nova 12 gauge is often offered with optional accessories such as sling attachments.
Feel, Function, and the Shooting Experience
Ergonomics and Handling
The Benelli Nova 12 gauge immediately feels good in hand. The ergonomics are well-considered, allowing for a natural and comfortable shooting stance. The balance of the shotgun feels right, with the weight distributed in a manner that promotes ease of handling. The synthetic stock and forend offer a secure and comfortable grip. Whether wearing gloves or shooting in the rain, the textured surfaces provide a positive purchase. The pump action mechanism is smooth and intuitive. Cycling the action is effortless, allowing for rapid follow-up shots when needed. The controls are well-placed and easy to access, contributing to the overall user-friendliness of the shotgun.
Accuracy and Reliability
The Benelli Nova 12 gauge demonstrates solid accuracy when used with various types of ammunition. Testing the shotgun with birdshot, buckshot, and slugs show reliable groupings at common hunting and defensive distances. The ability to reliably cycle different shell types is crucial for a versatile shotgun. The Nova excels in this area. The reliability of the Nova is outstanding. During testing, it is rare to encounter malfunctions. Even with demanding firing schedules and challenging ammunition, the shotgun continues to cycle flawlessly.
Recoil Management and Maintenance
Recoil management is a crucial aspect of any shotgun. The Benelli Nova 12 gauge does produce significant recoil, especially when using heavier loads. Factors like the weight of the shotgun, the design of the stock, and the type of ammunition all play a role. However, the overmolded rubber grip and well-designed stock do help to mitigate the felt recoil, making the shotgun more comfortable to shoot for extended periods. Disassembly and cleaning are relatively straightforward. The Benelli Nova 12 gauge can be field-stripped with minimal tools, making it easy to maintain and keep in peak operating condition. Following the manufacturer’s instructions, the process is not complicated.
The Good, the Bad, and a Balanced Perspective
Strengths of the Nova
The Benelli Nova 12 gauge presents a compelling set of advantages that make it a strong contender in its class. The synthetic construction ensures durability and resistance to weather. Reliability is another major strength. The shotgun consistently cycles ammunition, giving confidence in its dependability. Affordability is another significant factor. Compared to some of the more expensive Benelli offerings, the Nova provides excellent value. Ergonomics are well-considered, with a comfortable grip and easy-to-use controls. Its weather resistance makes it an ideal choice for diverse environments.
Points to Consider
Of course, there are aspects to consider. Recoil can be significant, especially with heavier loads. The all-synthetic construction, while practical, might not appeal to everyone’s aesthetic preferences. The Benelli Nova 12 gauge may not have all the premium features found in some higher-end models.
Comparing the Nova to the Competition
When stacked against competitors such as the Mossberg 500 and the Remington 870, the Benelli Nova 12 gauge proves its worth. The Nova stands out for its robust construction, often surpassing the durability of some competitors. Its rotating bolt head and overall design contribute to a higher level of reliability. While the Mossberg 500 and Remington 870 are also excellent pump-action shotguns, the Benelli Nova 12 gauge often provides a superior blend of durability, reliability, and ergonomic design. The choice between these shotguns often comes down to individual preferences and specific needs. However, the Nova certainly holds its own in a competitive market.
Where the Nova Shines: Ideal Applications
The versatility of the Benelli Nova 12 gauge makes it suitable for a wide range of applications. It is an excellent choice for hunting, particularly for waterfowl, upland game birds, and deer. The shotgun’s reliability and accuracy make it well-suited for the demands of the hunting field. Many users choose the Benelli Nova 12 gauge for home defense. Its ease of use and ability to handle various ammunition types make it an effective tool for self-protection. Sport shooters can also appreciate the Nova, using it in skeet, trap, and other shooting disciplines. Its balance, pump action, and reasonable recoil make it a great option for shooting enjoyment. The Benelli Nova 12 gauge’s adaptability makes it suitable for almost any skill level.
Concluding Thoughts: Is the Benelli Nova Right for You?
In conclusion, the Benelli Nova 12 gauge is a pump-action shotgun that delivers on its promises: durability, reliability, and value. It is a robust and dependable firearm, well-suited for hunters, sport shooters, and individuals seeking a reliable home defense option. The shotgun’s strengths lie in its rugged construction, reliable operation, and accessible price point. While the recoil can be substantial with heavier loads, the Nova offers a comfortable shooting experience, given its ergonomic design.
Is the Benelli Nova 12 gauge a good buy? Absolutely. The Nova represents an excellent value for its price. Who is it suitable for? Anyone seeking a durable, reliable, and versatile pump-action shotgun. For hunters, sport shooters, and those focused on home defense, the Nova is a strong contender. The Benelli Nova 12 gauge receives a high rating from this reviewer for its overall performance, value, and reliability. It’s a shotgun that you can depend on.
